Summer Camping Basics

Summer is here and that provides the perfect opportunity to go camping! Summer is a great time to get outside, and camping during this season gives you plenty of time to bond with friends and family all while enjoying everything that Nature has to offer. Never gone camping before? Don’t worry, we’ll get you started with the basic guide below.

1. Choose Your Destination: Before you head out on your camping adventure, first you must choose where you’re going to go and how to get there. Make sure to check ahead of time that the park is allowing camping and they have the activities you like offered such as canoeing, fishing, and hiking. Since we have so many wonderful National Parks and National Forests, visit a National Park by day and find a nearby National Forest to camp in at night for free.

2. Check the Weather:The week before and even a couple hours leading up to your trip, be sure to check the weather. Not only will it let you know about unexpected conditions in the area, but will also give you great information on how to dress and what to pack.

3. Pack the Essentials: Your mission is two-fold, bringing the right equipment and protecting yourself and those items from the elements and animals. Below you will find the basics.

• Water Resistant Tent
• Rain Tarp
• Sleeping Pad
• Sleeping Bag
• Mess Kit
• First-Aid Kit
• Wood and/or Kindling
• Waterproof Matches
• Lighting
• Food
• Water & Storage
• Cooler
• Chairs
• Bug Protection
• Sun Protection

4. Setup Your Campsite: Now that you’ve arrived, you must set everything up. All tents are different, so check the instructions on proper setup and you can even practice in your yard before you leave for your trip. When selecting a spot to pitch your tent, look for the ground that is most level, then clean away any rocks and debris. If your site is on an incline, sleep with your feet facing down so the blood doesn’t rush to your head at night. Once your tent is setup, the fun begins. Go for a hike, canoeing, roast marshmallows…the possibilities are endless!

5. Pack it Up & Leave No Trace: It’s up to everyone to keep our parks and our trails clean. Whatever you bring in, bring out. The Leave No Trace 7 Principles are the rules to live by. If you aren’t familiar with them, give them a read before your first hike.

Now that you know the basics, give us a call at one of our locations and our knowledgeable staff will help you get the camping gear you need to get started and will have it ready for curbside pickup.

Gear up for adventure with Ramsey Outdoor!