New Camper Shower Coming Soon at Ka-Hoon Campground**
We’re getting closer to having a working shower available for campers here at Ka-Hoon Campground! Like most off-grid projects, it’s taken some trial and error to figure out what works best.
One of our biggest challenges has been the **water pump**. We initially tried using a **small well pump** designed to run an entire household, but it turned out to be *too powerful* for our setup. It required priming every time, didn’t work well with flexible hoses, and created pressure issues. While we still plan to use it in future builds, it’s not the right fit for a simple shower system.
After some research, we chose a **diaphragm pump**, which is much more efficient and easier to operate. It’ll allow us to provide on-demand water for showers without the hassle of setting up and tearing down each time. Campers can just flip a switch and enjoy a hot rinse (once we finish setting up the privacy area — that’s coming soon!).
### Why There Will Be a Shower Fee
The shower won’t be included in the nightly camping fee because not everyone will need it. Instead, we’ll charge **\$10 for a 15-minute shower**, which helps cover:
* **Water hauling costs** – including fuel for the truck **and the cost of the water itself**
* **Propane** for heating water
* **System upkeep** and maintenance
Currently, it costs us about **\$30 to haul 150 gallons** of water, and to avoid excessive wear on the trailer and truck, we limit loads to that amount.
Like everything else out here, we’re building it slowly and sustainably. We appreciate everyone’s patience and support as we keep improving the off-grid experience at Ka-Hoon!
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#offgridliving, #desertlife, #kahooncampground, #offgridshower, #diaphragmpump, #waterhaul, #tinyhome, #offgridcamping, #newmexicodesert, #camplife, #propaneheat, #offgridcommunity, #diyshower, #offgridwater, #rvlife
Tag: Sustainable living
Desert Shower Upgrade Hits a Snag — But We’re Not Giving Up! 💪🌵
Desert Life Update: Shower Progress, Greywater Plans & Desert Heat Challenges**
The desert heat has been relentless lately, and it’s definitely slowed down our momentum — but progress is still happening here at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun!
We recently installed the **on-demand water heater** in the outdoor shower. It was a quicker project than expected, thanks to Brent gaining back his strength. What would’ve taken Anne and me a full day was done in just about an hour with Brent handling the drilling and planning.
That said, we hit a small snag — we’re still missing the proper parts to connect the water hoses to the IBC tote. We’ve got plenty of fittings, but of course, the threads don’t match. So now we’re waiting on our next trip into town to grab the right ones.
### Next Step: Fixing the Shower Drain
Our next focus is the shower **drain system**. What we had originally planned — and even have all the parts for — isn’t working quite the way we hoped. The drain cap currently sticks up about half an inch above the floor. Not only will that cause drainage issues, but it’s also a perfect toe-stubber in the making.
So, the new plan is to use a **larger hole saw** to widen the existing drain hole. We’ll take apart the pre-assembled drain, and (fingers crossed) get it installed flush with the floor. Building something from scratch — especially when it’s not based on traditional blueprints — comes with a fair amount of trial and error. But we’re figuring it out as we go, and we *will* prevail.
### Looking Ahead: Greywater & Future Plans
Once the water is flowing and the on-demand heater is fully functional, we’ll move on to the **greywater system**. The plan is for the shower water to drain into a buried IBC tote, where we’ll **reuse it for plants** around the camp.
Eventually, I’d love to create a more advanced setup — routing the greywater through a **worm bed**, into a **hydro garden**, and finally into a **recycled water container** for later use. But we’re not quite ready for that yet. A system like that needs sun protection to keep the worms alive, and we’ve got other priorities first.
### What’s Next on the Build List:
* Construct **walls around the shower** to create a private dressing area
* Use **pallets and garden posts** to build the dressing area structure
* Create space nearby for a **washing machine hookup**
* Finish building out our **solar system** — we *hopefully* have everything we need for it, we just need a stretch of good weather, good health, and available time to get it done
Out here, building off-grid isn’t always easy — but it’s rewarding. The process may be slower than we’d like (especially under this sun), but each step gets us closer to a self-sustaining desert homestead.
Thanks for following along — more updates coming soon!
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#offgridliving, #desertlife, #sustainableliving, #diyprojects, #homesteadlife, #waterrecycling, #ecofriendlybuild, #solarsetup, #showerrenovation, #greywatersystem, #campgroundlife, #tinyhomeprogress, #resilientliving, #deserthomestead, #plateauhamedecolquhoun
Rainy Days, Movie Nights & Shower Builds – What’s New at Ka-Hoon Campground This Week!
Spring Storms, Movie Night & Shower Build Progress at Ka-Hoon Plateau Hame De Colquhoun
It’s been a cloudy, chilly, and rainy week out here in the desert, but that doesn’t stop us from planning some fun! **This Saturday**, weather permitting, we’re hosting another cozy **Movie Night** under the stars—bring a blanket and a chair! Then on **Sunday, May 25th**, we’re holding an **Open Mic Night**. Whether you sing, read poetry, or just want to hang out, we welcome everyone to take the mic and share.
**Shower House Update**
Building the new shower has proven to be more of a challenge than expected. If Brent were fully capable, he’d probably have it knocked out in a day. But this time, Anne and I are doing the building ourselves with Brent’s guidance. While we’ve helped with builds before, this is our first time truly taking the lead. Let’s just say—we’ve learned we’re much better assistants than lead builders!
We’ve been working around weather delays, high winds, and rainy weekends—not to mention juggling schedules. Progress is slower than we hoped, but it’s still moving forward and will be worth it when it’s done!
**Don’t Miss Our Membership Program!**
If you haven’t already, make sure to check out our **Membership Program**. Members enjoy:
* Free and discounted camping
* Discounts at our general store
* Free entry to special events like Movie Nights, Talent Shows, and more
* Priority access to campsites
* Member-only activities and gatherings
Our community is about freedom, creativity, and respect. Whether you’re a regular visitor or just passing through, our membership helps support continued improvements like the new shower, as well as all the events we love to host.
**Stay connected, stay cozy, and stay kind.**
Visit http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com learn more or sign up!
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#OffGridLiving, #CampgroundLife, #DesertCamping, #MovieNightUnderTheStars, #OpenMicNight, #CreativeCommunity, #CampgroundEvents, #RainyDayProjects, #BuildingOffGrid, #TinyHomeLife, #DIYShowerBuild, #SupportLocalCampgrounds, #SustainableLiving, #CampgroundMembership, #CommunityVibes
Surviving the Harsh Desert: Off-Grid Life, Wind Battles & Starry Nights in New Mexico!
**Embracing the Off-Grid Life in the New Mexico Desert**
Living off-grid in the New Mexico desert is a journey of resilience, adaptation, and appreciation for nature’s raw beauty. The challenges are real—relentless winds, shifting sands, and scorching sun test even the most determined. Yet, the rewards far outweigh the struggles.
The vast, open landscape offers a sense of freedom few places can match. Towering mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop, while the night sky, untouched by city lights, becomes a canvas of endless stars. Every evening, the desert transforms, revealing a peaceful, almost mystical energy that makes all the hardships worth enduring.
Each season brings its own battles—spring winds carry dust that seeps into everything, summer heat pushes limits, and winter nights can be bitterly cold. Yet, overcoming these obstacles fosters strength and self-reliance. It’s a lifestyle that demands perseverance but rewards with unmatched tranquility, deeper connections to nature, and a life free from the constraints of modern convenience.
For those seeking a simpler, more intentional way of living, the desert calls. It may not be easy, but the beauty, solitude, and self-sufficiency make it an experience like no other.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #SustainableLiving, #SelfSufficiency, #NewMexico, #StarryNights, #WindyDesert, #MountainViews, #OffGridAdventure, #SimpleLife, #Homesteading, #NatureLover, #LivingWild, #EcoLiving, #Freedom
Life at Ka-Hoon: Off-Grid Living, Music, and Community Updates
**Life at Ka-Hoon: Off-Grid Living, Music, and Community Updates**
**Daily Life and Projects**
We try to post daily videos, but there’s only so much we can show without becoming repetitive. As the weather warms up, we’re able to tackle more outdoor projects—but deciding which one to start with is always a challenge.
One big project we keep putting off is the **new solar setup**. The delays come down to a few things:
– We need several consecutive good weather days to build it.
– We’re unsure if we have all the necessary materials.
– We still haven’t settled on the perfect location.
Right now, our existing solar setup works fine, but expanding it would provide **more power for the studio**—something we definitely want. It’s not an urgent need, but it’s a project we’re excited to complete when the time is right.
**Advocatus Diaboli & Shamshini: Music & Rehearsals**
On the music side, **Advocatus Diaboli and Shamshini** continue live rehearsals, hanging out, and singing on **TikTok and Clapper**. Sound quality for live streams has been a challenge, but after lots of testing, we think we’ve finally found the right setup!
If you haven’t yet, follow us on **TikTok and Clapper** to catch our live sessions, interact, and be part of the experience!
**Camping & Membership at Ka-Hoon**
Camping at **Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center** is more than just an overnight stay—it’s about **community, freedom, and off-grid living**. Our **Membership Program** has been growing, and it’s proving to be a **valuable addition** to what we offer.
**Why Is Membership Important?**
Our **Membership Program** was created in response to camper requests for **longer-term stays** and has grown into a **thriving off-grid community**. It provides:
✅ **Security & Stability** – Members have a **safe place** to camp, homestead, or use as a basecamp for their travels.
✅ **Learning & Teaching** – Members can **attend or host classes** on topics like **homesteading, off-grid living, and art**.
✅ **Community & Support** – A **like-minded community** that helps each other with projects, advice, and skills.
✅ **Financial & Business Opportunities** – Members can **sell their goods in our general store or set up a vendor booth** at events.
✅ **Exclusive Discounts** – Members receive **discounts on all Ka-Hoon hosted events** and other perks.
✅ **Voting Rights** – Members **help shape the community** by voting on rules, events, and regulations.
**Camping at Ka-Hoon**
If you’re looking for a **safe, private place to camp**, Ka-Hoon offers a **unique off-grid experience**. Whether you want to:
– Experience **off-grid living and homesteading** before committing to land ownership
– Find a **basecamp for travel and adventure**
– Stay long-term in a **community-oriented environment**
We have **daily, weekly, and monthly camping options**, with **membership benefits** available for those who want a deeper connection to the community.
### **Important Notice for Visitors & Campers**
Please **contact us before visiting** to help us maintain a **safe and private** environment for everyone. While members and campers are free to **come and go as they please**, we ask that you inform us about any guests for security reasons.
If you’re interested in **camping, homesteading, or just experiencing off-grid life**, reach out to learn more about what we offer at Ka-Hoon!
Plateau hame de Colquhoun aka Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #CampingLife, #Homesteading, #DesertCamping, #CommunityLiving, #SustainableLiving, #RVLife, #SelfSufficiency, #EcoFriendly, #VanLife, #SolarPower, #MusicCommunity, #AlternativeLiving, #NatureLovers, #KaHoonCampground
Why We Don’t Ask for Donations & How You Can Support Ka-Hoon Campground in Other Ways!
Supporting Ka-Hoon Campground: Ways to Help
Lately, we’ve received a few emails asking if we would set up a CashApp, Venmo, or even an Amazon Wishlist for donations. While we truly appreciate the thought, we’ve always been independent and prefer to earn our way. However, we understand that some of you genuinely want to support us, so we’ve been brainstorming ways to make that possible while staying true to our values.
We know times are tough for many, and uncertainty is everywhere. If you’d like to support us but can’t camp, attend an event, or visit in person, we suggest sponsoring a membership. This not only helps us but also provides an opportunity for someone else—a family or individual—to have a safe place to set up their homestead or simply enjoy a space where they can be themselves.
As for the Amazon Wishlist, we’re not sure what we’d include. Would campers and members benefit from extra tents, cooking supplies, or maybe some essentials for the dogs? Our storage space is limited, so we’d love input on what might actually be useful.
We’re not wealthy—funds are always tight—but we’ve built everything we have through hard work and determination. We’ve occasionally received small donations from campers, which we see as tips for the experience we provide, and we’re completely okay with that. However, we don’t feel comfortable simply accepting money or gifts without giving something in return.
If you truly want to help but can’t visit, the best ways to support us are:
✔️ Sponsor a membership to help others access our space.
✔️ Share our website and videos to help more people find us.
If you think we should create an Amazon Wishlist, let us know what items would be most useful! One camper donated some ready-to-eat meals (REMs), which we’ve shared with campers and community members—and, admittedly, enjoyed ourselves!
Your support, in any form, means the world to us. Thank you for being part of our journey!
🌵 **Visit our website:** http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
**Ka-Hoon Membership Program**
https://plateauhamedecolquhoun.com/membership/
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#KaHoonCampground #OffGridLiving #SupportSmallBusiness #CommunityMatters #SustainableLiving #CampingLife #LiveYourDream #SelfSufficiency #DesertVibes #HelpWithoutMoney #MembershipMatters #OutdoorAdventure #MinimalistLife #IndependentLiving #ShareTheJourney
Off-Grid Challenges, Campground Life, and a Unique Animatronic Band You Don’t Want to Miss!
**Balancing Off-Grid Living, Campground Life, and the Band**
As winter lingers, each day brings a touch more daylight, but our lives remain packed with activity. Between managing the campground, handling the weather’s unpredictable nature, and juggling personal commitments, things have been anything but quiet.
Our campground has been bustling with campers, weather preparations, and engaging with our growing membership community. The off-grid lifestyle demands constant attention to ensure everything runs smoothly, from solar maintenance to accommodating guests in changing conditions.
Meanwhile, the spotlight is on **Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band**, as we gear up for an exciting performance this Sunday at **Juno Brewery in Albuquerque**. With the band’s unique blend of music, humor, and animatronic theatrics, this show promises to be unforgettable. Preparing for a performance like this involves countless hours of rehearsals, refining timing, and ensuring every detail aligns for an exceptional experience.
As we juggle these aspects of life, we are reminded of why we chose this path—living authentically, embracing challenges, and sharing creativity with our community. If you’re in Albuquerque this weekend, come out and join us for an evening of boundary-pushing entertainment!
**Stay tuned for updates and insights from our off-grid adventures and band performances.**
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
Www.advocatusdiaboliandthegrimleaferband.com
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#OffGridLiving, #CampgroundLife, #DesertAdventures, #AnimatronicBand, #LiveMusic, #SolarPower, #SustainableLiving, #RVLife, #JunoBrewery, #AdvocatusDiaboli, #GrimLeaferBand, #UniqueEntertainment, #CreativeLifestyle, #BandPerformance, #DesertLiving
Off-Grid Solar Power Struggles: RV Repairs, Sandstorms & Solar!”
**Off-Grid Living: Repairs, Sandstorms, and Solar Power Adjustments**
It’s Sunday, and after battling high winds and a **red flag warning** yesterday, we’re finally ready to repair the RV—assuming the winds calm down as predicted. Yesterday’s **sandstorm** made it impossible to work outside, but today looks more promising for getting the **new parts installed** and fixing the **shore power connection**.
### **Temporary Adjustments While Waiting on Repairs**
With no power in the RV, we’ve been spending our evenings in the **Greenroom**. It’s been a cozy alternative, giving us access to power for **watching TV, charging devices**, and staying comfortable without needing to run the **generator** in the RV.
Interestingly, we’ve also confirmed that **staying up later** and running electronics in the RV was a major factor in draining the **solar power system**. Thankfully, our system shuts down at **50% battery capacity**, which prevents a complete drain. Still, it’s a reminder of how easy it is to **overload off-grid systems** when schedules or habits change.
### **Battling Dust and Wind Challenges**
Today’s repairs depend heavily on the **wind conditions**. If the winds stay calm, we’ll tackle the repairs and hopefully restore the RV’s power connection. I’d love to capture some **videos or photos** during the process—if the dust isn’t too bad. Unfortunately, high winds and **dust storms** don’t agree with me. They cause **swelling and allergies**, which means I probably **should wear a mask** (even though I hate them!).
### **A Glimpse of Off-Grid Living**
Yesterday’s trip back from **Albuquerque** was a classic example of **desert living**—enough wind to send **sand and tumbleweeds** tumbling across the interstate. It’s moments like this that remind us of both the beauty and challenges of living off-grid in the **New Mexico desert**.
### **Final Thoughts**
Living off-grid comes with unexpected twists—from **solar system hiccups** to **weather delays**—but it also builds resilience and resourcefulness. We’ll share updates once the RV repairs are done and let you know how everything is working afterward.
Stay tuned for **videos and photos** (wind permitting) as we continue navigating the ups and downs of **off-grid life**!
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #RVLife, #SolarPower, #SustainableLiving, #OffGridChallenges, #DIYRepairs, #GreenEnergy, #TinyHouseLiving, #RVRepairs, #SolarEnergy, #DesertLife, #EcoFriendlyLiving, #SelfSufficientLiving, #AlternativeEnergy, #LivingOffGrid
How We Live Off-Grid in the Desert: Water, Showers, and Staying Warm Explained in 30 Seconds!
**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
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
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 