It will happen sooner or later, the knock on the RV and a ranger saying you have to evacuate. For us, it happened at Bayou Segnette State Park in Westwego, Louisiana. The area had received almost 10 inches of rain and the park had many areas flooded. No water had reached any RV and was not expected to rise. But out of an abundance of caution, the state decided to close the park and we had to leave immediately. Only problem, this occurred at 5pm one afternoon and all campers had to scramble to find other accommodations. 

For us, those accommodations were two hours away and we do not like to drive after dark. During our RVing experience we have now only had to drive/set up after dark three times since 2007. Being full timers we have the leisure to travel when and how we like. Well, that is except when we are forced to evacuate. 

Before going full time, we lived in south Louisiana and had evacuated for several hurricanes. Therefore we were experienced in packing up and leaving. Even when evacuating for hurricanes we had enough time to plan our leave, meaning not at night. Leaving the park and heading to the Baton Rouge area, we took our time and thankfully the weather cooperated.

We arrived at the park at 8:30pm — after dark. Luckily it was a park we have used before and are familiar with. We unhooked at the office, which was closed for the night, and drove our toad to find the site. Once we were comfortable with the site, we drove the motorhome in and hooked up only the electric for the night.

We gave a thankful sigh, poured a glass of wine and relaxed. Tomorrow is another day…