**Living Off-Grid: Answering Common Questions About Water, Showers, and Life in the Desert**
One of the most common questions we receive is, *”How do you get water?”* The answer is simple: we haul it. Typically, we fill up four 5-gallon water jugs at Twice the Ice in town. In the winter, this lasts us about four days; in the summer, we refill every other day, depending on usage and the season.
During summer, water usage increases due to higher temperatures and more outdoor activities. While we’ve hauled up to 300 gallons at a time before, it’s tough on our 1984 F250 truck. With its 7.0L diesel engine, the truck can handle the weight, but the wear and tear on suspension over rugged roads make it impractical. The cost of repairs would outweigh the convenience, especially since most of that water would go toward showers.
### Why Not Install a Well?
Drilling a well is far beyond our budget. Wells in this area are incredibly expensive due to the depth required. One neighbor drilled 1,000 feet, faced multiple priming issues, and spent a small fortune on the project.
### What About Water Catchment?
In theory, water catchment sounds great. In practice, living in the desert makes it less feasible. Rainfall here is sparse and unreliable. One of our neighbors installed a catchment system on their Earthship but eventually uninstalled and sold it because it wasn’t worth the effort.
Many in the area use cisterns to store hauled water, which is something we’ve considered. We currently have the capacity to store up to 1,000 gallons using IBC totes, which is sufficient for our needs for now.
### How Do We Handle Dishes?
We wash dishes much like anyone else: heating water on the stove, using dish soap, and scrubbing in the sink. Some people in off-grid setups use baking soda for “dry washing,” but that doesn’t feel effective to us. We’ve also tried products like Dawn’s dry wash soap, but it was expensive and didn’t leave the dishes feeling clean. We prefer the tried-and-true method of hot water and soap.
### Why Don’t We Show More of Ourselves in Videos?
While these posts and videos share insights into our life, we try to keep certain aspects of our personal lives private. Our content focuses on the campground, the desert lifestyle, and our experiences. We’ve tried featuring ourselves more, but honestly, we lead a simple life. Like everyone else, we have ups and downs—fighting, laughing, getting sick, and loving. We find the beauty of nature around us to be far more captivating than our day-to-day routines.
### How Do We Shower?
We’ve shared a video about where we shower, which is usually every other day. While some people stretch it to once a week, we find that even every other day is pushing it. As soon as we figure out a better way to haul water, we plan to complete our off-grid shower setup.
### Staying Warm in the Desert Winter
Another frequent question is, *”How do you stay warm?”* We use a large Buddy Heater connected to a 20lb propane tank. For safety reasons, we don’t run it while we sleep. Instead, we use it in the evenings before bed and for a few hours in the morning to cut the chill. At night, we stay cozy under blankets, with the added warmth of our dogs. We’ve also installed smoke and CO2 detectors for safety.
### Have More Questions?
We hope this blog answers some of the most common questions about living off-grid in the desert. If you’re curious about something else, feel free to leave a comment or send us a message. We’re always happy to share more about our unique lifestyle.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #SustainableLiving, #SimpleLiving, #WaterConservation, #LivingOffGrid, #TinyHouseLiving, #NatureLovers, #SelfSufficient, #RuralLife, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #MinimalistLiving, #OffGridLifestyle, #SustainableChoices, #BackToBasics
Author: Ka-Hoon Campground
Discover the Freedom of Off-Grid Living – Join Our Unique Membership Program in the Desert Today!
**Ka-Hoon Membership Program: Build, Belong, and Be Yourself**
At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we’re proud to offer a membership program that arose from the requests of our campers who sought longer-term stays and a sense of community.
### A Vision for Community and Growth
Our membership program is still in its early stages, but its foundation is built on the idea of creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals to live, grow, and connect. It’s a grassroots initiative with the goal of offering members not just a place to stay, but a place to belong—a home base where individuality is respected, and the beauty of the land is preserved.
We envision this program becoming a collaborative effort, with members forming their own board and having a voice in future developments. Every member will get a vote, ensuring that the program evolves with the input and needs of the community.
### Flexible Membership Options
To make our program accessible, we’ve designed it with flexibility in mind. We currently offer daily, weekly, and monthly membership fees to accommodate various budgets.
### What Membership Offers
As a member, you have the opportunity to:
– **Establish a small homestead:** Grow your own garden, raise animals, or create a space that feels like home.
– **Enjoy a safe and welcoming environment:** Be yourself without fear of judgment, while respecting others, the land, and local laws.
– **Be part of something bigger:** Help shape the future of Ka-Hoon by contributing to the community and its growth.
Whether you’re looking to stay for a short time or set up a permanent base, Ka-Hoon welcomes everyone who values respect—for themselves, others, and nature.
### Join Us
If you’re seeking a place to call home, surrounded by like-minded individuals and the beauty of nature, consider becoming a member. Let’s grow together, protect the land, and create a community where everyone can thrive.
Visit our website to learn more about our membership program and how you can join:
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving #DesertLife #KaHoonCommunity #CampgroundMembership #HomesteadLife #NatureLovers #SustainableLiving #CommunityFirst #DesertCamping #GrowYourOwnFood #RVLiving #EcoFriendlyLifestyle #OutdoorAdventure #SimpleLiving #JoinTheJourney
Discover the Freedom of Off-Grid Living: Membership Open at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun!
**Life at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun: A Busy Season Ahead**
Things have been bustling here at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun, and while progress on building projects has slowed, it’s for good reason. Between running Anne to work, welcoming a few new members to our **off-grid membership program**, and preparing for upcoming gigs with Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band, we’ve had our hands full!
The membership program has been gaining traction, offering people the opportunity to experience off-grid living, set up a base camp, or start a homestead in the serene New Mexico desert. With a few members already settled in and new campers arriving, the community is steadily growing.
Our band has also been keeping us busy. With gigs on the horizon, we’re dedicating much of our time to rehearsing and fine-tuning performances to ensure every show delivers a unique and memorable experience.
### Explore Off-Grid Living and Camping Opportunities
If you’re interested in exploring off-grid living, **our membership program** might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a fantastic way to experience this lifestyle without the commitment of purchasing land. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful camping spot or a chance to join a supportive community, we have options for you.
To learn more about our membership program, camping opportunities, or to keep up with what’s happening at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun, visit our website:
**[www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com](http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com)**
We look forward to welcoming more like-minded adventurers to our off-grid community!
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#OffGridLiving #DesertCamping #VanLifeCommunity #Homesteading #SustainableLiving #NatureEscape #CampgroundLife #SimpleLiving #EcoFriendlyLifestyle #StarryNights #RuralRetreat #FreedomLifestyle #DesertHomestead #CommunityLiving #ReconnectWithNature
Living Off-Grid: Day 1516 – Embracing the True Spirit of the Holiday Season with Kindness and Giving
Living Off-Grid: Day 1516 in New Mexico – The True Spirit of the Holiday Season
As we reach day 1516 of living off-grid in the New Mexico desert, the days grow shorter and the nights longer. The holiday season is upon us, and it’s a time to reflect on what truly matters. For many, the holidays evoke images of gifts and extravagant celebrations. But it’s important to remember that not everyone celebrates the holidays the same way—or even has the means to.
The holidays aren’t about the cost or popularity of a gift. They’re about giving, kindness, and helping those in need. However, giving doesn’t have to mean donating to charities where only a fraction of your contribution goes to the people who need it most. Nor does it mean putting yourself or your family at financial or personal risk.
### Simple Ways to Give
There are countless ways to embrace the spirit of giving this season:
– **Be kind and respectful.** A small act of kindness can make a big difference.
– **Give intentionally.** Instead of buying flashy gifts your children may never use, consider what they genuinely need or will enjoy long-term.
– **Teach lessons of empathy.** Help your children understand that hardship can happen to anyone—regardless of wealth, job stability, or lifestyle. Life is unpredictable, and we are all just one accident, storm, illness, or conflict away from facing adversity.
### Think Beyond Materialism
This year, instead of rushing to buy the most sought-after items, consider giving in ways that truly matter:
– Donate a blanket or warm clothing to someone in need.
– Contribute to food drives that directly help local families.
– Research and support charities that ensure your contributions go directly to those in need.
The holidays are about more than material gifts; they are about showing compassion, building community, and reminding each other of our shared humanity. Let’s make this season one of kindness, connection, and genuine care for those around us.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#HolidayGiving #OffGridLife #NewMexicoLiving #KindnessMatters #HolidayReflection #SimpleLiving #MinimalistHolidays #EmpathyFirst #GivingBack #CommunityCare #OffGridInspiration #HolidayKindness #LifeLessons #DesertLiving #ShareTheSpirit
From Victorian Home to Off-Grid Living: Our Journey to Building a Desert Dream in New Mexico!
Our Journey to New Mexico: From a Victorian Home to Building a New Life Off-Grid**
For many years, we lived in a charming but challenging 2,000-square-foot 1880s Victorian house on a large lot in a small town in Minnesota. Alongside our time there, we spent weekends, holidays, and summers at an 8×16 fish house we converted into a cozy cabin while managing the Environmental Education Center. It was a beautiful dual lifestyle, balancing the history of our home with the serenity of cabin life.
### The Turning Point
The Victorian house, though beautiful, required extensive renovations far beyond our budget: a new roof, windows, insulation, rewiring, and more. When the roof began leaking, we explored loans but quickly realized the house’s value wouldn’t support them. Faced with this reality, we made a family decision to let the house go. Instead, we planned to live in the cabin while saving to purchase land near the Environmental Education Center where we could build our dream life.
Then, an unexpected opportunity arose. A friend from a yearly event at the center invited us to stay at her ranch in New Mexico over the winter to help restore it for future events. Before committing, we asked our kids to try online school for one semester. If they didn’t like it, they could return to in-person school the following year. They were excited about the adventure and agreed to give it a try.
### Falling in Love with New Mexico
We closed down the center for winter and headed to Ruidoso, New Mexico. Our original plan was temporary: spend the winter working, save money, and return to Minnesota to purchase land. But New Mexico changed everything. The ranch’s rich history (I love history!), mild weather, and stunning landscapes captured our hearts. We started looking for our own piece of land nearby—something affordable, remote, and suitable for hosting events and camping.
Despite initial doubts, we found several options within our budget. One piece stood out: it was close to a major city, had breathtaking views, and offered privacy—perfect for our dreams. The only challenge? It was Christmas, and buying the land would leave us with no money for presents or even gas to return to Minnesota. After discussing it as a family, we decided to take the leap. The kids agreed to forgo Christmas gifts for the opportunity to build our future.
### A Christmas Miracle
Just as we finalized the purchase, a little magic happened. Brent and I decided to have a rare date night at Billy the Kid Casino, where they were offering free play. We registered and learned they were drawing one lucky person to play a giant game of blackjack for a chance to win 500 play credits. My name was called (much to my horror—I’m shy and terrible at blackjack). But to my surprise, I won!
Not knowing much about slots, I asked Brent to handle the winnings. After a few tries, we hit $400, then $500, and cashed out $900. The next day, we took the kids shopping in Ruidoso for Christmas presents and used the rest for gas money to return to Minnesota, knowing we’d come back to our land in the fall to start our new lives.
### Building Our Dream
This January 3rd marks five years since we bought the land. Looking back, taking that risk was one of the best decisions we ever made. We’ve worked hard to build a life off-grid, creating a space where nature, community, and individuality thrive. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been deeply rewarding.
### A Note on Education
One of the biggest surprises was how much our kids loved online schooling during this transition. They thrived in the flexible environment, improving from occasional Ds and Fs to consistent As and Bs. Both graduated at the top of their classes, proving that sometimes, stepping outside the norm leads to incredible results.
### Lessons Learned
As we approach this milestone, we’re reminded of the importance of taking risks and trusting in the journey. Whether you call it faith, fate, or the power of nature, sometimes you just have to leap and let life guide you. We’re excited to see what the future holds and grateful for how far we’ve come.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving #NewMexicoLife #FamilyAdventure #HomesteadingJourney
#TinyHouseLiving #SimplifyYourLife
#VictorianHomeStory #LifeInTheDesert
#SustainableLiving #RuidosoNewMexico
#EducationSuccess #DreamChasers
#BuildingCommunity #RiskAndReward #NatureInspiredLiving
From Amigo the Devil to Advocatus Diaboli: Unforgettable Music & Passion You Don’t Want to Miss!
The Passion of Performance: Celebrating Music and Memories
Brent’s birthday is just around the corner, and this year, Anne surprised us with tickets to see Amigo the Devil—a show we always enjoy. Watching Amigo’s passion on stage reminded me so much of Brent’s (aka Advocatus Diaboli) energy when he’s performing. Brent thrives on the joy of connecting with his audience, hearing them sing along, laugh, and share in the love of music.
I’ll admit, I’m not the biggest music person (which might sound odd given that I live in a house filled with it). For me, the magic is in watching the performers and the crowd—their reactions, their passion, the shared moments. Performers who truly love what they do bring an unmatched energy to the stage, and it’s a joy to witness.
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to see some iconic bands live: Rob Zombie, KISS, Judas Priest, Metallica, to name a few. While some of these performances were filled with raw passion, others felt more like just another show. The big-name draw might make the experience worthwhile, but without that spark of genuine love for the craft, it can leave something to be desired.
That’s why I’m always excited about performers like Amigo the Devil—and, of course, Brent and the Grim Leafer Band. Their dedication to their art and their audience is evident in every note, every lyric, and every laugh they share on stage.
If you love music, laughter, and the thrill of a live performance, don’t miss **Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band** on **December 21 at Black Wall Arts and Productions**. Come out and support not only the band but also the venues that make these incredible shows possible.
Let’s make it a night to remember, filled with music, joy, and the kind of passion that makes live performances unforgettable!
http://www.advocatusdiaboliandthegrimleaferband.com
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#LiveMusic #AdvocatusDiaboli #GrimLeaferBand #BlackWallArts #MusicPassion #ConcertNight #AmigoTheDevil #BirthdayVibes #SupportLocalMusic #MusicLovers #RockOn #LivePerformance #AlbuquerqueEvents #MusicCommunity #IndieBands
Off-Grid Morning Chaos: Senior Dog Antics at Ka-Hoon Campground That’ll Make You Smile!
**Morning Routines at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center**
Living off-grid at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center comes with its unique set of challenges and quirks, especially when it involves our furry family members. My mornings are anything but ordinary, thanks to Weillow, our 14-year-old dog with early-stage dementia.
Every day begins the same way: I let the dogs out, then crawl back into the warm bed, delaying the inevitable until I need to start the heat. But Weillow has her own agenda. She paces back and forth, ensuring I don’t stay in bed too long. It’s her way of telling me she needs to go outside immediately—or else!
Once she’s done her business, I make her stay out longer than she’d like, just to be sure. My hope is that she’ll return to her warm bed and settle down for a few more hours until it’s warmer outside. But Weillow has other plans.
Within 15 to 30 minutes, she starts pacing again, convincing me she needs to go out—despite just having been outside. Even when I know she’s fine, I still get up, just in case. The real kicker? Once I’m up, she happily goes back to her bed to sleep. It’s her little morning game to get me moving.
The other dogs have caught on to her antics. As soon as I try to send Weillow back to bed, they decide it’s their turn to shower me with kisses and sit on me, ensuring I stay up for good.
These little routines, while tiring, are part of what makes life here so special. Whether it’s caring for our dogs, managing the campground, or enjoying the peaceful desert mornings, every moment adds to the charm of life at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center.
Weillow may be aging, but her determination to keep me on my toes (or out of bed) reminds me to cherish these moments. It’s a reminder that even in the simplicity of daily routines, there’s love, laughter, and a lot of wet noses to keep things interesting.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#KaHoonCampground #OffGridLife #DesertLiving #MorningRoutines #DogLife #SeniorDogCare #LifeWithDogs #CampingWithDogs #NatureLovers #UniqueLiving #FurryFamily #DogMomLife #CherishedMoments #LifeInTheDesert #KaHoonAdventures
Kitty’s Hilarious Pitch for Our 1984 Ford F250 Diesel’s Warranty – You Can’t Miss This!
When your cat moonlights as a telemarketer: here to sell us an extended warranty for our 1984 Ford F250 Diesel with 300,000 miles. Priorities, right?
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#FunnyPets #CatComedy #ExtendedWarranty #F250Diesel #VintageTrucks #CatHumor #DieselLife #TruckLife #PetShenanigans #CatMemes #F250Owners #ClassicTruck #CatPersonality #OffGridLiving #DesertLife
Experience a Holiday Twist with Advocatus Diaboli & the Grim Leafer Band – Dec 21 at Black Wall Arts!
Greetings, holiday revelers and rockers! Are you weary of the same old jingles and carols? Fear not! Join **Advocatus Diaboli**, **Shamshini**, and the **Grim Leafer Band** for a night of bawdy, twisted holiday parodies that’ll leave you laughing and rocking the season away.
🎄 **Horrordaze Extravaganza** 🎄
📅 December 21
📍 Black Wall Arts and Productions, Albuquerque
🕕 Doors open at 6 PM
https://facebook.com/events/s/holidaze-extravaganza-e/1291269308727183/
Take a break from your holiday shopping frenzy, and let us electrify your spirits. This is not your average Christmas concert—this is **Advocatus Diaboli’s Holidaze Extravaganza**! We’ll be traveling venue to venue, gathering Rock-n-Roll souls… and yours could be next!
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#HorrordazeExtravaganza, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #GrimLeaferBand, #Shamshini, #RockHolidayTwist, #HolidayParodies, #LiveMusicEvent, #AnimatronicBand, #RockAndRollSoul, #ChristmasWithATwist, #BlackWallArts, #AlbuquerqueEvents, #HolidayEntertainment, #UniqueHolidayExperience, #RockTheHolidays
Thanksgiving Fun at Ka-Hoon Campground: Dirty Bingo, White Elephant Gifts, and Delicious Food!
**Thanksgiving at Ka-Hoon Campground: A Celebration of Community and Laughter**
Thanksgiving is a time to come together, share delicious food, and create cherished memories. Here at Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we were thrilled to host a festive celebration in the heart of the New Mexico desert. With our neighbors and friends joining in, the evening was filled with gratitude, laughter, and community spirit.
We enjoyed a mouthwatering feast featuring ham, turkey, and an array of side dishes generously brought by everyone who attended. The collaboration made the meal even more special, reminding us of the joy in sharing and contributing to a collective experience.
A highlight of the evening was our annual tradition—**Dirty Bingo with White Elephant gifts**. This fun and lighthearted game had everyone laughing and enjoying the creative, quirky surprises that came with each gift exchange. It’s always a hit, and this year was no different!
As we reflect on the warmth and joy of this year’s Thanksgiving, we are reminded of the incredible sense of community that makes Ka-Hoon Campground so unique. Whether it’s sharing a meal, playing games, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these moments are what truly matter.
We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and great food. Stay tuned for more events and gatherings as we move into the holiday season. Here’s to creating more memories together in our beautiful desert oasis!
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For more updates on Ka-Hoon Campground’s events, follow us and join our community as we celebrate life off-grid!
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
#ThanksgivingCelebration, #KaHoonCampground, #DesertLife, #CommunityGathering, #HolidayTraditions, #DirtyBingo, #WhiteElephantGifts, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #GrimLeaferBand, #PlateauHameDeColquhoun, #GratefulMoments, #FeastWithFriends, #NewMexicoEvents, #HolidayCheer, #DesertOasis
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 