Not my first choice, certainly.  However, last November, a group of
intrepid No. Cal. bussers and vangoneers camped at Mt. Madonna south
of San Jose (CA), at the peak of the (very wet) coast range, and we
endured a deluge of rain that lasted all weekend.  As the "tarp city"
grew and we patted ourselves on the back, we realized we were having
a really good time.  We felt worthy of the "wet westy" status of our
northern bretheren.  Since then, everyone has invested in various
rain-repellent gear, canopies and dogwear, so that we may continue to
enjoy the best camping time of the year- after the crowds go home!
One of our group has a Renaissance Faire-sized tent that we put up
over the fire pit!  Very spacious and dry.

Melissa Mourkas
'84 Westy Honey Bee
Sacramento, CA