Thoughts on Hammock Camping

[asabat]

So, did you figure out a way to set up a hammock in chapparal?

I haven't tried a hammock yet (keep thinking about it). I've seen some clever setups using the base of bushes on either side of a draw, using
the trunks of larger shrubs like manzanita, using other objects such as telephone poles, and stretched inside a gazebo. Many cowboy camp and use shelter only when needed, but this seems to defeat the comfort of a hammock and means carrying extra unused weight.

The Hennessey can be pitched on the ground as a tent.

As for the rules, while I agree with your sentiments, it appears that the growing numbers of us with the fewer numbers of them mean it's easier to have a clearcut rule and enforce it without exception than to have to debate the issues with the masses.

[Hikin_Jim]

I haven't tried a hammock yet (keep thinking about it).

Can't advise you much there. Very much an individual choice. I will say that in warm or hot conditions, they are really nice. I remember sweltering in my little Kelty Dart I when camping near Kingman, AZ one Memorial Day weekend. I think it would have been perfect conditions for my hammock.

I've seen some clever setups using the base of bushes on either side of a draw, using the trunks of larger shrubs like manzanita, using other objects such as telephone poles, and stretched inside a gazebo.

lol. Hadn't thought of spanning a ravine.

Many cowboy camp and use shelter only when needed, but this seems to defeat the comfort of a hammock and means carrying extra unused weight.

Yes, and you lose the bug protection too. My hammock is only about 2lbs, but I wouldn't carry it unless I knew I could use it consistently.

The Hennessey can be pitched on the ground as a tent.

Yes, I've seen photos. I'm a little hesitant to try it. The "floor" is just lightweight unreinforced nylon and isn't intended to be used on the ground. If the hammock gets punctured on the "floor," that puncture is liable to tear lengthwise the next time you use it in hammock mode. If the floor tears, you've lost your whole hammock.
I'm also not convinced it would be stable using two trekking poles and the two tie down points. I think I'd knock it down the first time I rolled over in my sleep.

As for the rules, while I agree with your sentiments, it appears that the growing numbers of us with the fewer numbers of them mean it's easier to have a clearcut rule and enforce it without exception than to have to debate the issues with the masses.

Yes, the numbers play a big part. Also, there used to be something called mutual respect in our society. I'm not trying to rant (this time) , but in all seriousness, I meet a much higher percentage of disrespectful, demanding people these day who really don't know how to be respectful and reasonable. In the days where mutual respect was the norm, it was easier for a ranger to be open to discussion. Now, they never know what kind of a loudmouthed narcissist they'll run into. Can't blame 'em for being a little closed.

[asabat]

Also, there used to be something called mutual respect in our society. I'm not trying to rant.

I agree wholeheartedly. I remember when chewing gum was one of the bigger problems in schools. /rant