Are you feeling the call of the “great outdoors?” Spring and summer are right around the corner; the height of camping season. For a nature enthusiast, there’s nothing finer than camping in a national park, state park or designated recreation area. Whether your camping world consists of the mountains, deserts, ocean areas or the rolling prairies, America’s glory truly comes to life when you actually live it! Experienced campers know all the best places and have their favorites when it comes time to pitch their tents. If you’re a novice camper, or have only limited experience in camping, here are some tips to be aware of.
First, if you have friends who are expert campers, ask if you can tag along on their next outing into the world of nature. Ask questions, watch what they do and how they do it, and learn the “do’s and don’ts” of camping. Learn about designated campgrounds, campfire safety, hiking routes to campsites, reading topographical maps, making your campsite bear-proof, and weather safety.
Then, put yourself into the hands of an outfitter’s store or web site who specializes in camping equipment and safety. This is a great time to ask your camper friend to accompany you or browse the web with you. All camping gear is not created equal! You’ll want the best quality and safest gear you can afford that will be with you for many years of outdoor recreation and not fall apart or malfunction when you need it the most.
