Choosing a Campsite

If you are camping at a well traveled camping ground, there may be plenty of cleared out camping areas and amenities galore. Much of the heavy work you won't have to do in choosing a campsite. There might even be a clothes line hung or a fire pit, nearby water, picnic tables and even a bathroom facility nearby. That's fine. But perhaps you are braving it a bit this year and going off the beaten track, perhaps to a forest, mountain or field. In this circumstance, you will find and build a nature campsite.

There are several important considerations when choosing a new camping area. First, choose a flat and relatively high area as much as possible. Avoid low lying areas as they tend to become muddy and even dangerous water traps during heavy storms. Avoid setting your site in the middle of a natural path. These tend to be well traveled by not only hikers but possibly animals too and you might not want to be in their way.

Look above you and avoid large overhanging branches. Rotting branches could fall at anytime especially during a storm. If it's a mountainous area, avoid sites with overhanging rocks. Don't set up camp near swampy stagnant waters. These are breeding grounds for mosquitos and other pests. These streams could become a flash flood area during a heavy storm.

Watch out for the shiny three leaf poison ivy, oak or sumac plants. Avoid at all costs. They could turn your camping experience into an itch filled nightmare. If you are prone to pick it up, make sure to pack the calamine lotion.

Before setting up camp, inspect the area for debris such as branches, vines, the aforementioned poison ivy, broken glass, cans or whatever you find. Avoid traipsing or clearing seedings or wildflowers.

If you are going to build a cooking fire, make sure you clear a wide circle. Leave absolutely no twigs or branches in the area. It just takes one flying spark to set a forest fire. We recommend using a propane portable stove for fire free cooking.

Respect your environment and leave the campsite much as you found it. Take along all refuse. And above all, take the time to truly appreciate your camping or hiking experience. It's the best way to get close to nature and enjoy all the satisfaction that the great outdoors can give.

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