Camping Outdoors

There are many ways to enjoy the outdoors and probably as many different opinions about the best outdoor experience. We will explore just one facet of enjoying the great outdoors – camping in all of it’s many variations. In this process we’ll look at all things of interest to campers; equipment such as tents, snow boots, first aid supplies, and special items needed for the different seasons. How to information for everything from setting up camp to meals and cooking, picking a campsite, staying cool, staying dry, keeping safe and comfortable for whatever mode of camping you choose.

Wilderness and backcountry camping are similar, but there are some important differences to know about before setting out. National and state forests many times have different rules for where a person can camp and, if animals are part of the experience, there are rules about feed and water, etc., that need to be followed. If motorized vehicles are used there are restrictions on where and how they may be used on most public land, and knowing those ahead of time can make the difference between a good experience and a not so good one. There are also guided and/or outfitted camping experiences that give novices and pros alike, an opportunity to experience some different kinds of outdoor activities.

RV and trailer or any kind of vehicle camping usually involves staying at managed campgrounds on state, federal or private property, and there are many things to consider when planning this type of trip. Some campgrounds are very popular, especially on certain holidays, and require reservations ahead of time. Many also charge fees for camping and fees for dump stations, etc. Some are on lakes, or rivers, some are not, so if you want to go fishing you want to consider the proximity to water and if they have boat ramps or not. Many of these campsites will be located at or near historic or very scenic areas and offer various tours which can be a great experience.

Backpacking obviously has a much different set of needs for a camping trip where you have to carry everything you need with you in a pack on your back. Usually there are less stringent rules for backpackers, but planning is just a important because you will mostly be on your own and facing the rigors of a very physical trek. Sometimes a backpack outing can be combined with taking along a pack animal to carry heavy or bulky equipment, but be sure you have someone in the party that knows the animals needs and can be responsible for it’s care on the trip.

Along with your camping needs, a fishing or hunting camping trip can add a whole new dimension of equipment that will need to go along. You may be a fly fisher in the wilderness or a deepsea enthusiast, or maybe a big game hunter or going varmint hunting, and each of these activities will require a certain amount of specialized equipment that you will want along.

So, let’s explore in a little more detail, what it takes to plan and execute a successful camping outing, and maybe we can rake up some of those memories of trips past while we are in the process.

Happy Camping!