For those who know me you know I enjoy the outdoors. A lot of my pictures were taken on camping/hiking/boating trips. My biggest
thing about spending time in the outdoors is leave no trace. Basically don't pollute the area your in ruining it for other
campers or hikers.
When camping or hiking research the area your going to and prepare for the unexpected. Camping in the woods (for example a
state park) is going to require different gear and have different rules than camping in a campground. Don't bring stuff you
don't need. Lugging, packing and unpacking junk you didn't have to bring will make you miserable. On the other hand make sure you have the necessities. If your planning a camping trip and have never camped before, check out my links at
the bottom of the page. They will give you an idea of the basics you should have.
Food: We try not to solely depend on food that needs to be on ice. Instead opting for things like
cheeses and smoked meats (less perishable foods). Try MRE's (military rations) which are easily transported and have an indefinite shelf
life. They are fully prepared meals and snacks that require no special storage. Most of them dont taste bad either. If you
are using ice to chill food, make sure to replace it as needed to avoid food poisoning (block ice will last longer than cubed
ice). To avoid unwanted visits from animals, keep food stored away or hang above ground level. It's also a good idea to keep food on hand that's
portable and a good source of energy. This would include things like nuts, dried fruit, energy bars or even candy.
Sleep: If you have the space do yourself the favor and bring a self inflating sleep pad or air mattress. If you find yourself
outdoors with no bed Dan suggests digging a small trench underneath your tent and filling it with leaves to sleep on (making
sure its not poison ivy/poison oak).
Weather: Nothing will dampen your spirits more than bad weather. You should always carry some sort of rain gear and/or a tarp
when camping. Rope is another good thing to always have on hand, as well as some sort of fire source (preferably waterproof).
First Aid: Never go into the woods alone or without telling someone first. A premade first aid kit is a good start, but not
always enough. Remember to bring any personal medication you take, including emergency allergy pens for those who require them (commonly referred to as "epi pens"). I like to
keep first aid gear in a plastic sealed bag or waterproof container to avoid moisture getting into it. It's good to carry 2
snake bite kits (one will not always cover the whole snake bite if it was a large snake). Be aware of insects like tics. If
I'm in an area I know has a tic problem I will routinely check myself to see if I have any attached to me. Remember to bring
things like sunscreen, sunglasses and bug spray. Bring drinking water, it's also good to have a water purification system with
you. Be careful when swimming or boating, especially in unknown waters. Be careful building fires. Having CPR/First Aid certification is
always a good idea too.
How to Poop in the Woods: You may have to do it, so do it in an eco-friendly manner. Waste is unsightly, can spread disease
and contaminate water. Find out the policy in the place where you will be hiking/camping. If no regulations are in place, use
the following "cat hole" technique. Locate an area at least 200 feet (about 70 paces) from any open water source (creek,
lake, etc.) that is well off the path. Dig a "cat hole" 6 to 8 inches deep, and about 6 or so inches wide. Leave your
deposit. Use only a few squares of toilet paper. Add some soil, and mix it with the waste using a small stick.
Fill the rest of the hole with soil, and include the part of the stick that is contaminated (leave the stick poking out if
necessary). Wash your hands (at least 200 feet from an open water source). Bring the water to you. Even though some soaps say
they are biodegradable, they should still not be used in streams or lakes.
Here are some camping websites I like. They have everything from camping tips and supplies to the lyrics to campfire songs.
Great Site For Camping Tips
Cabela's, Camping Supplies
Search For Places To Camp
Camping: