Okay, hear us out—and we swear it’s not just the seasonal gloom talking. What if we traded these gray skies and freezing mornings for sunny beaches and turquoise waters? Not to sound like a travel brochure or anything, but picture this: you pack up the Alaskan camper, grab a couple of friends, and head down to Baja—because winter and early spring, from December to April, are the absolute best months to go. Not too hot, not too humid, just sunny skies and beach-perfect days waiting for you. Imagine lazy camping along the Sea of Cortez, waking up to gentle waves, and maybe even spearfishing for your dinner to whip up some fresh ceviche right on the sand. Sure, that’s straight out of a travel brochure, but let’s be real—who needs a serotonin lamp when Baja is basically nature’s prescription for winter blues?

For some, the idea of road-tripping down the Baja California peninsula might feel intimidating, but Mexico’s easygoing pace and warm hospitality make it the perfect introduction to exploring south of the border. Quiet coastal towns, evenings by the campfire, and the excitement of discovering hidden beaches and unforgettable local flavors—are just a few highlights we heard while chatting with recent Alaskan Camper owner Shannon Moore. For Shannon, Baja has been a long-time escape, a place she’s explored for years in her customized vans. Now, with her new Alaskan Camper, Shannon is ready to redefine the adventure—and frankly, has inspired us to embrace an authentic escape, even if only for a few weeks.

Loreto

First, Let’s Meet Shannon

Shannon Moore has always been a step ahead of the curve. Hailing from Oakland, California, with a background in interior design, she bought her first camper van before the van life craze exploded—and long before the pandemic drove prices sky-high. With a designer’s eye and a DIY spirit, Shannon spent years transforming her vans into a fully customized, functional homes on wheels. Her creativity extended beyond her own vans, as she collaborated with other designers to create layouts and renderings for their projects—all while living on the road and exploring the country. Now shifting gears from interior to graphic design, Shannon has traded full-time van life for part-time adventuring in her new Alaskan Camper. While no longer her primary home, the new rig brings a fresh kind of freedom, and with the same passion and ingenuity that fueled her journey so far, she’s ready to embrace the open road in a whole new way.

 

Camper Specs

After years of exploring the country in custom-built Promaster and Sprinter vans, Shannon decided it was time for a change. Her new setup—a Ford F250 paired with an 8’ Alaskan Camper—brings the perfect mix of practicality and comfort to her travels. Unlike the top-heavy Sprinter, the Alaskan Camper feels steady and grounded—an important upgrade when your 75-pound Weimaraner, Greycie, is riding shotgun and ready to side-eye every sharp turn.

To improve the ride, Shannon installed rear suspension airbags, making uneven terrain much easier to handle. The camper’s overhanging tailgate, which initially seemed like a drawback, has quickly become one of her favorite features—a built-in “porch” that’s perfect for stepping in and out or kicking back at camp. The camper itself is packed with essentials, including a propane stove, solar panels, a roof rack, and an outdoor shower, making it versatile enough for snowy mountains or sunny beaches. Unlike most pop-top campers, which can let in gusts of wind and outside chatter through their thinner walls—Shannon’s Alaskan Camper delivers the quiet and insulation she’s been craving. With her new rig dialed in, she’s not just ready for new adventures; it’s built to handle thick sand and reach spots that might leave other setups spinning their wheels.

Greycie & I 2

The transition wasn’t without its hiccups

Her maiden voyage was a nail-biter. After mounting her new camper at the shop on a rainy November afternoon, Shannon headed to a Harvest Host at a nearby Christmas tree farm for her first night out. Excited to set up, she attempted to raise the camper’s roof—only to find it wasn’t moving. Panic set in when she realized she’d forgotten to release an exterior pin.

“I tried to fix it, and the whole thing went cockeyed. Then the button failed completely. It was my first night, and I was sure I’d already broken it,” she laughs now.

Fortunately, the problem was just a blown fuse, and our shop had her back on the road the next day. The rough start didn’t faze her for long—once she mastered the setup, Shannon quickly grew to love her camper’s thoughtful design and functionality.

What about Baja?

January marks Shannon’s first big adventure in her Alaskan Camper, and she’s heading back to a favorite retreat: Baja, Mexico. Traveling with friends and meeting up with a crew already camped along the coast, she plans to soak up everything Baja has to offer. From camping along the Sea of Cortez and revisiting favorite spots to uncovering new gems, Shannon’s journey inspires us to embrace the authentic Baja experience. Here are a few highlights and tips to get you started—without giving away all of Shannon’s favorite secret spots.

Bahía Concepción

Tranquil Paradise

Bahía Concepción is Baja at its finest—a 20-mile stretch of turquoise waters and sandy beaches nestled right off Highway 1, about 20 miles south of Mulegé. Flanked by desert mountains and with a sneaky little opening at the north end, it’s the kind of spot that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret—if you ignore the other campers who found it first. But hey, there’s room for everyone, and once you set up camp, you’ll understand why this bay is a favorite for those chasing those “how-is-this-even-real” moments.

Camping

  • Primitive Spots with Palapas: Many beaches along Bahía Concepción offer primitive camping with palapas (thatched shelters) for a small fee, typically around 200-300 pesos per night.
  • Limited Amenities: Plan ahead by bringing plenty of water, food, and camping essentials, as services are sparse.
  • Top Beach Picks: Popular camping beaches include Playa Santispac, Playa El Coyote, and Playa El Requesón, each with its own unique vibe.

Activities & Tips

  • Water Adventures: Paddleboard, kayak, or snorkel in the bay’s calm, crystal-clear waters—perfect for spotting marine life up close.
  • Marine Life Encounters: Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and vibrant fish as you explore the Sea of Cortez.
  • Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss the historic charm of Mulegé or the Mission Santa Rosalía de Mulegé, both offering a glimpse into the region’s past.
  • Fishing Rules: Before casting a line, check local regulations and secure the necessary licenses to fish legally.
  • Tidal Awareness: If camping on a sandbar, stay alert to changing tides to avoid getting stranded during high water.

Loreto

Coastal Charm

Another of Shannon’s favorite spots is Loreto, a gem on the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula. Positioned between the Sea of Cortez and the rugged Sierra de la Giganta mountains, Loreto delivers the kind of activities you’d expect in Cabo—kayaking, hiking, and fresh seafood—but without the overwhelming crowds. Its laid-back vibe and authentic local charm make it an ideal stop for those looking to soak up stunning coastal views while enjoying a slower pace. Whether you’re paddling through calm, clear waters or savoring the catch of the day at a quiet local spot, Loreto strikes the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.

Camping

  • RV Parks: Loreto has several camper-friendly RV parks with hookups, showers, and Wi-Fi. Rivera del Mar RV Park is a popular choice for amenities and its central location.
  • Remote Camping: If you prefer off-grid camping drive a little south of town to find quieter, undeveloped beaches perfect for boondocking in your Alaskan.
  • Stock Up: Use Loreto as a base to restock supplies. The town has grocery stores and local markets where you can grab fresh produce, tortillas, and seafood to cook in your camper.

Activities & Tips

  • Historical Sites: Visit the Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto Conchó, the first mission in Baja California, established in 1697. The mission is a beautiful architectural landmark and is open to visitors.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Launch a kayak or paddleboard directly from the beach near your camper to explore the calm waters of the Sea of Cortez. Nearby trails offer stunning mountain and coastline views for hiking enthusiasts.
  • Wildlife Watching: Between January and March, embark on whale-watching tours to witness the migration of gray whales. Dolphin sightings are also common in the area.
  • Beach Camping: Stay at Playa El Requesón or Playa Santispac on your way down and enjoy beachfront views near Loreto. Local vendors often stop by with fresh seafood and handmade goods.

Quick Travel Checklist

The Basics

Driving down Baja isn’t complicated, but it’s not your typical weekend getaway either. Whether it’s paperwork or packing essentials, a little prep goes a long way. The payoff? Unforgettable adventures, incredible food, cold cervezas, and the unmatched hospitality of the locals who make every stop along the way feel like home. Here’s what you need to keep things smooth south of the border.

Documentation

  • Passport: Ensure it’s valid and within easy reach; you’ll need it for border crossings.
  • Mexican Tourist Card (FMM): Obtain this online or at the border for stays over seven days.
  • Mexican Auto Insurance: Your U.S. policy won’t cut it; secure coverage valid in Mexico.
  • Pet Vaccinations: Have proof of up-to-date vaccinations handy if you’re bringing your pet along.

Vehicle Prep

  • Maintenance Check: Inspect tires, brakes, and fluids; Baja’s roads can be unforgiving.
  • Spare Tire & Tools: Carry a functional spare and the necessary tools for unexpected repairs.
  • Fuel Planning: Gas stations can be sparse; fill up when you can and consider carrying extra fuel.
  • Water & Food Supplies: Stock up, especially if you plan to camp in remote areas with limited services.
  • First Aid Kit: Accidents happen; be prepared with a well-stocked kit.
Greycie & I

Adiós por ahora

Whether you’re a Baja regular or just figuring out how to pronounce “Mulegé,” the appeal of heading south this time of year is obvious. Shannon Moore knows it better than most—her love for Baja and her new Alaskan Camper is all the inspiration you need. Sure, there’s a bit of paperwork and prep involved, but it’s all worth it for the stories you’ll bring home—and the satisfaction of knowing your rig can handle the sand and even help out a stuck camper or two. So pack your gear, prep your rig, and see for yourself why Baja keeps calling adventurers back.

We’ll keep y’all posted with more pics when Shannon updates us after her trip, but until then if you have stories from your travels with an Alaskan Camper, we’d love to hear them! Please contact [email protected] to be featured in Alaskan Life. We enjoy hearing how our customers are making the most of their campers and exploring new places.