Is a sleeping mat necessary for a winter camping trip?

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Tracy

I am planning my first winter camping and I heard someone said a sleeping mat is necessary for the trip because this small layer of air between you and the ground will help you stay warm while you sleep. Is the mat really necessary? btw, do I also need a 4-season camping tent?

Answer
Absolutely...

Do I really have to buy a four-season camping tent?

Tracy

I am planning to have my very first winter camping next month. I heard some people said that a four-season camping tent is necessary for a winter camping. I purchased a camping tent this summer and it's a three-season camping tent. I think it's OK because I will use my sleeping bag. Do I really have to buy a four-season camping tent?

Answer
The major differences between a 3 season and a 4 season tent are that the winter rated tents are designed to be able to support or shed a heavy snow load without the frame breaking or the tent collapsing. They also tend to have the rainfly system designed to maintain a more reliable space between the fly and inner tent wall to minimize condensation and having the fly press on the tent due to a build up of snow. Winter rated tents tend to have smaller window and ventilation areas and will more often have an exterior vestibule arrangement to block wind and to give you a place to leave snowy gear outside the sleeping area or to cook on the ground but out of the wind during storms.

Unless you expect heavy snow loads or severe blizzards and extended bivouacs, a good quality (not discount store) 3 season tent can be perfectly adequate for winter camping. I have winter camped many times with 3 season tents, in fact, probably more often than with my 4-season ones (though I own several tents of each type). If your tent pitches tight so that the fly doesn't blow around and snap in the wind and has strong poles and a vestibule or good fly overhang over the door, you will most likely be fine in it.

For winter camping in snow I always carry a microfiber towel to wipe condensation off the inside of the tent walls at night and before I get out of my bag in the morning.

Be certain you have stakes that will work in the ground conditions you will encounter. Fat plastic stakes will not work on frozen ground -- get the thin metal ones that twist in. If you will be camping in deep snowpack, you will want to be able to make "dead man" anchors by attaching the guy lines and corner staking tabs to buried stuff sacks that you fill with snow or rocks or tying your guy lines to buried branches. You will probably need to stake the tent more solidly than in warmer weather due to the higher potential for wind. Nothing is worse than watching your dome tent bounce down the mountain and out of sight over a cliff (hasn't happened to me but I've seen it happen to others).

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Does it cost money to camp on the beach of lake mcconaughy in nebraska?

best tent camping lake mcconaughy image

Tasha

I know you have to pay for a parks pass to get your vehicle in. But if you want to put a tent on the beach do you have to pay nightly for camping there? Even if you are just on the beach?

Answer
I not sure about this particular park. Most parks have designated camping areas and that is the only place they allow tents. There is usually a seperate fee for camping. I'm sure the park has a website that details all the rules and fees, you just have to google it.

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Cheapest Forms Of Accommodation In New Zealand?

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davie

Mid November I would like to go to new Zealand.

However when I went to Oz a few years ago stopping at the YHA's was very expensive over three month period.
I would say it took a good 1/3 of my total budget.

Are the YHA's in New Zealand as expensive as the ones in Australia?

Can anyone suggest any cheaper forms of accomodation?

I did hear about Couchsurfers-but it has not got a very good reputation-apparently.

Any help appreciated.

Answer
Free camping is legal in New Zealand so long as you are far enough away from civilization.... thats not going to cost you anything if you do that!
YHA hostels are expensive in NZ (similar to OZ) but there are some very good independent hostels which are a little cheaper.
Campsites are only about £10 (US$20) for 2 people sharing a tent, and they normally have really good amenities.

Is $3,200 NZD enough to attend Burning Man from NZ?

Anon

I've included flights, food, water+containers, a ticket, a tent, accomodation, car rental, fuel, extra clothes etc. that I have to buy. I've added $500 NZD for unforseen costs. This enough? I've gone through the guide on the BM website and I have everything else.

Answer
So that's about $2000 US? I think that should be enough, although with your needing to get camping gear here, it won't be the most luxurious experience. It really depends on your flight though, as that will be the big expense. I think of Burning Man as costing around $1000; for me that includes a flight from the midwestern US to Reno, rental car, Burning Man ticket, and food, water, cigarettes and alcohol (I've already got camping gear and costumes).

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Does anyone know where we can go camping on the beach?

tents for camping gold coast image

xoxcaitlin

Okay, so me and my friends want to go camping these holidays on the gold coast. We don't want to go to some camping place in the middle of the sticks, we just want to like go camping on the beach. like, randomly set up a tent on a beach somewhere and camp there. Where can we do this, and do we need a permit and stuff? We also want to be able to have a fire.. any suggestions?
thank you

Answer
Go to a state park that is on a beach and ask them. More often enough you will be able to go camping on a beach.

.but BEWARE.

Your going to get sand everywhere in your tent, sleeping bags, food. If you can bring a table and you will save your self a lot of trouble when its time to eat

how was a mexican treated back in the gold rush?

Andrea A

discriminated against?
work day and night in search for gold?
A REAL ANSWER NOT MADE UP PLEASE!

Answer
You can scroll back a couple of articles of this page for information. I chose to start at page five because the story seems to be in the middle not to much in the beginning and it has not past the point of interest in gold.

"Mexicans in the Gold Rush"

"5 of 12"
(quotes in part only)

"Soon after gaining independence from Spain in 1821, Mexico opened its northern coastal region of California to foreign trade. American vessels from the east were soon engaged in lucrative commerce with the Californios, Californians of Spanish or Mexican descent. Offering such necessities as cooking utensils and boots, as well as luxuries such as brandy, the Americans reaped profits of 200 to 300 percent. In exchange, the Californios exported cowhides produced on their vast coastal ranches."

"Manifest Destiny"
"President James Polk During the 1840s, an increasing number of Americans ventured west into Texas, Oregon, and California. They possessed the sense that their destiny was to establish a nation that included both coasts and all that lay in between. In 1835 President Andrew Jackson had attempted to buy California for $3.5 million. Mexico had rejected the offer, but the U.S. would not be thwarted. Ten years later, in his inaugural address President James K. Polk provocatively proposed annexing Texas, and he put remote California high on his list of property to acquire."

"Mexican Miners"
"In the fall of 1848, the first wave of Mexican miners traveled overland to California to join the gold rush. They numbered between two and three thousand and often traveled in entire families. By early 1849, there were an estimated 6,000 Mexicans digging for gold. In California, a region that had so recently been their own, the Mexicans found they were considered foreigners by the legions of Anglo miners from the east."

"Experienced Miners"
"To make matters more difficult, many of the Mexicans were experienced miners which soon made them the target of American animosity and violence. Californio Antonio Franco Coronel wrote, "The reason for most of the antipathy against the Spanish race was that the majority of them were Sonorans who were men used to gold mining and consequently more quickly attained better results."
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/goldrush/peopleevents/p_mexicans.html

This article cover Mexicans, Chinese, and Chilean miners, gold has a speaking to all people.

"Minorities During the Gold Rush"

"In the rough and tumble justice of the mining camps, unpopular minorities invariably suffered under the violent and well-armed majority. Most mining camps sought to forbid certain minorities from competing for claims, in particular Chinese and Mexican miners were chased off claims and driven from mining camps. In 1849, a group of miners calling themselves the "hounds" rampaged through "little Chile," a tent city of Chilean miners outside of San Francisco, killing a woman and beating several men. A group of San Francisco businessmen, uncomfortable with the thought of independent gangs roving the countryside, sought to bring the Hounds to justice, and provided some assistance to the victims.
Chinese were especially despised, embodying to the nativist American the ultimate foreigner. Almost 700 Chinese miners had responded to the earliest rumors of gold in â48, accounting for roughly a seventh of the 48ers. By 1852, there were 25,000 Chinese in California, making them the largest ethnic minority. They were banned from the most current diggings. Many set about working claims that had been abandoned as unprofitable by white miners, patiently sifting out what gold remained. Others opened restaurants, laundries, and dry good stores, sometimes making more money performing services for miners than the average miner could hope to make in the diggings."

"Mexicans, many from the Mexican state of Sonora, formed another major minority groups. They too were banned from many diggings, or were relegated like the Chinese to exhausted diggings. Some worked as day laborers, willing to work for lower wages than white miners did. Yet in some areas, particularly in the Southern Diggings, Mexicans formed a majority. The mining camp of Sonora, for example, was named after the home state of its Mexican inhabitants.
In 1850, the Legislature passed the first law taxing foreign miners, who were required to pay $20 dollars a month for a license to work the gold fields, obstinately to reimburse the state the costs of protecting them and keeping order. While a miner on a prosperous claim (a good claim returned about $16 dollars a day) could easily afford such a tax, foreign miners were already relegated to less prosperous claims, and could ill afford to pay. Some 10,000 Mexicans left the state in disgust. The Legislature repealed the onerous $20 tax in 1851, but instituted a $3 dollar a month foreign miners tax in 1852."
http://www.learncalifornia.org/doc.asp?id=1933

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Good campgrounds near Yellowstone or Glacier Parks in Montana?

best tent camping glacier national park image

skygirl_21

I'm looking to go camping in Montana next year but wondered if anyone could give feedback on any of the campgrounds around the two major parks?

Thanks!

Answer
There are a few campgrounds in Yellowstone. There's a list of them at each entrance stating their availability. Some are operated by Xanterra and you can book through them. Some are run by the National park Service and you can book at the ranger stations located all around the park. If you're planning to go in July/August, please book. campgounds can be fully booked then, believe it or not. Enjoy your time.

Don't freak out if a lost bison greets you in front of your tent in the morning. it happens. but thats all part of the fun, isn't it?

Where should I go camping in Alaska?

MountainMa

Among our experts, I wonder whether anyone has explored Alaska. I am trying to put together a plan for three weeks in July. I will start the first several days in Denali National Park. Then, I will go coastal, Katmai National Park at Brooks Campground. Wildlife photography is my primary objective, though I will be backpacking and hiking a bit to avoid going stir-crazy. Climbing Mount McKinley is too time-consuming. I would enjoy receiving any ideas as I research my trip.

Answer
Hi, I lived and explored Alaska for 4 years. (1978-1982)
Things have probably changed since I was there.

"Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge" might be a fun place to visit for photography.
http://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=74530
http://www.gorp.com/parks-guide/kodiak-national-wildlife-refuge-outdoor-pp2-guide-cid357958.html

http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=mcneilriver.main
"McNeil River Game Sanctuary"
McNeil River is Alaska's most famous bear viewing area. A number of brown bears can be observed every year as they congregate at McNeil River Falls to feed on salmon. There are no commercial outfitters to this site; everyone must apply through a highly competitive State of Alaska lottery system (only about one in ten applicants wins the lottery each year). The bear viewing season runs from mid-June through late August. Applications must be postmarked by March 1 of each year. You may also apply for"standby" slots in April. Lottery fees are $20 per person, and lottery winners will pay an additional $250 user fee. Successful applicants will spend 4 days camping at McNeil River. There is a campground area where visitors sleep (bring your own tent, food and gear) and a cook shed for food preparation and storage.

http://www.ci.valdez.ak.us/
http://www.alaskagold.com/valdez/hiking.html
Valdez, Alaska was one of my favorite places to visit. The beautiful Bridal Veil Falls is located along Richardson Highway outside of Valdez.

http://www.akms.com/spit.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homer_Spit
"Homer Spit", in Homer, Alaska
The Homer Spit is a geographical landmark located in Homer, Alaska on the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula. The spit is a 4.5-mile (7.2 km) long piece of land jutting out into Kachemak Bay. The Spit features the longest road into ocean waters in the entire world, taking up 10â15 minutes to cover by car.

***I almost forgot the "Matanuska Glacier".
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/aspunits/matsu/matsuglsrs.htm
http://www.travelalaska.com/Destinations/Communities/Matanuska%20Glacier.aspx
Matanuska Glacier is one of Alaska's most accessible glaciers.
Access to get up close with the ice is at Glacier Park, a private campground and resort, not a town, at Mile 102 of the Glenn Highway. Visitors follow its private road to a parking lot at the terminal moraine and from there hike a self-guided trail that takes them to the gravel-laced ice itself. Many then decide to go further and sign up with local guides who outfit them with a helmet, crampons and trekking poles and led them on a trek across the glacier. The more adventurous splurge is a guided day of ice climbing.

****And the train to Whittier, Ak.
http://www.alaskatravel.com/alaska-railroad/anchorage-whittier.html
The route between Anchorage and Whittier is very scenic on the Alaska Railroad, the last full-service railroad in the United States.

After traveling through Anchorage you will descend through the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge. This area, also commonly known as Potter's Marsh, is a good place to spot migratory birds, water fowl and moose. Your trip continues along the Turnagain Arm, a body of water featuring the world's second highest tides at over 30 feet. Beluga whales can often be seen following salmon on the incoming tide, and Dall sheep frequent rocky mountain sides. After passing Girdwood and Portage Glacier you will travel through a two mile tunnel before reaching Whittier.

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Does anyone know of a good but cheap or good priced Tent Camping Site in the North East Coast?

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tuki27

Okay, I am a broke college student who is trying to have a good time for spring break but not spend too much money. Me and 3 of my friends are looking to stay at a camp site. We are from NJ and are looking to stay at either Southern Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, or even Virginia (Northern). Can someone help me out with a safe, fun, cool place???
Thank you!

Answer
i don't know much about camp sites around those areas, but the average of what i've seen from the east cost to the west cost, Maine to Alaska, its about $15 a night

Where are some good free or cheap tent camping sites in central Massachusetts?

barscheeze

I just need space for one tent while I spend some time during the day in Worcester. No services required (water, toilets, etc.). What are the rules about camping in state lands, parks, recreational areas, etc.?

Answer
Tully Lake in Royalston is about 30 miles.
http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/30_tully_lake_campground.cfm

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How many Government Officials attend the Bohemian Club.?

best tent camping russian river image

Q.

Answer
All of the former Presidents and many high officials (as stated in Answer #1) have been invited to join The Bohemian Club as Honorary Members, thereby not having to wait the requisite 20 or 25 year 'waiting period' after a 'regular' person has to wait, which includes being nominated by a present member for initiation. One of the reasons for the waiting period is to 'follow' the nominee/applicant's life, making sure that that person has no scandals or other distasteful character flaws which would bring dishonor to The Club. And it will occasionally happen that a member is booted because of a scandal after being initiated, but it is rare.

Originally started as a club populated by writers and artists, the membership roles have expanded to include people of all backgrounds, but one of their commonalities is money: there is a very steep (= $$$) Initiation Fee, as well as ongoing annual fees and User Fees, such as when members and their invited guests attend the Summer Weekend and other events, both at The Grove as well as at The Club in downtown San Francisco.

The Grove itself is a stunningly beautiful large acreage of old-growth redwood trees sited along the Russian River near Guerneville, north of San Francisco. The members have organized themselves into sub-groups called Camps; each Camp is made up of a series of buildings and/or tents. Most of the camps have a building housing a kitchen and bar, as well as buildings (or tents) for sleeping. many of the camps have deck areas where members (and their guests) meet for discussions, cocktails, general schmoozing and meals. Members of a Camp pay for the maintenance, repair, upkeep and any additions to their particular camp, but they are not allowed to do the work themselves. There is an on-site crew which performs all of those functions, and it ain't cheap. I know of one Camp that wanted to expand their deck; what had been, say, a 20' by 20' deck was about tripled in size... for $100,000 .. and all wood used is redwood, harvested from fallen trees on The Property.

The summer weekend fee includes a prepaid breakfast and dinner; members can either reserve a table for lunch, but many Camps have lunches on their deck. There's a LOT of alcohol (usually) and cigar-smoking going on. But some of the salient features of time spent at The Grove includes the prohibition of cell phones, cameras, video recorders, amplified music and NO business talk (although that would be hard to prove that it doesn't take place). There are some pay phones on the grounds for members to use and they are often quite busy.

A few more odd features: women are NOT allowed on the grounds except for waitresses (and only because of a lawsuit), and female guests on Family Day ... no female is allowed to spend the night in The Grove. However, there is rumored to be an active 'liaison' scenario called 'going across the bridge' or 'going to town' in which some male members leave The Grove at night to enjoy some female companionship with eager local women ... but *cough* that's just a rumor ...

One thing that's NOT a rumor is odd, but understandable given the grown-up-boy mentality is this: because women are not allowed, when members feel the need to pee and they're not near a bathroom, it is normal and accepted practice to 'whip it out' and pee against any of the many giant redwoods; after a meal, it is not unusual to see anywhere from one to a dozen men standing at the base of a redwood, whizzing away. Ah, boys and their 'toys.'

I've been to The Grove and I must say that it's beautiful. I can only imagine that local developers have been drooling for years over being able to get their hands on that property. But with the financial heavyweights who are members, the chances of The Bo's leaving or selling that property are nil.

Any good campgrounds in the bay area of California?

Christina

We live in Discovery Bay, on the delta. But we're planning a camping trip for the 18th of this month and are having trouble deciding where to go camping, It is going to be a small family group of about 6 people and a 2 yr old :D My husband and I have only gone camping a lake berryessa and the guerneville national forest near the russian river in Jenner....

Any great ideas for places nearby that are foresty and/or near the coast? Id say inbetween SF and no higher north than Jenner. We are hoping to find a place with a lake or near the coast. With some trails, showers & toilets, and where you can have a campfire...I know there are probably alot of restrictions with fire season and all. But if at all posible we'd like to be able to intruduce a few first time campers to good ol campfire stories and s'mores!

Help!

Thanks:D

Answer
The 2 above answers are great suggestions. Samuel P Taylor has lots of trees, great bicycle and hiking paths and a babbling brook. It really is a nice campground. The other is Doran Beach and I go there often. They have tent sites separate from RV sites or if you have a RV and tents, that's fine too. Nice bathrooms, showers and fire pits right on the beach. West side is also great, but is set up for people with boats. You can camp there is you do not have a boat, it's just that boaters use it a lot. You can book it on line or they also have first come, first serve sites too, but on weekends these fill up early. Call Sonoma county parks at 707-565-2041. For SPTaylor call 415-488-9897

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Does anyone know of a cheap campground in MIami?

cheap tent camping key west image

Taylor J

My boyfriend and I are going to Miami. We're on a budget, and figured that camping would be cheaper than getting a hotel, but every time i look online, they keep taking me to day camp sites for children. does anyone know if there is a nice cheap campground in Miami?

Answer
Larry Penny Thompson park, look it up, its a very nice park with all paved roads , a very nice tent area are R V sites, has 4 shower houses, its a county park and located close to the Miami zoo, and about 15 miles from Miami Beach, can go on a 4 lane road to the beach, think its $38 dollars a night R V and 17 Tent, its located south west of Miami off there Florida turnpike, if you go get on the Florida turnpike north of Palm Beach , that is where I 95 turn,s into about six lanes one way so you will miss that, , take turn pike to Exit 13 turn rt at that exit and park is about two miles and on your right, do not get off turnpike at Miami, take the Key west part then to Exit 13,

where is the cheapest place to camp in the florida keys?

Q. if you are aware of a certain place that is cheaper than others let me know. I plan on going late december or early january

Answer
Camping seems to be extremely popular in the Florida Keys. It sounds like a brink of paradise. Florida Keys also offers various types of camping, ranging from private campsites to RV parks. Camping fees also vary, depending on camping types, on-site amenities and the time of the year (off-season or peak-season).

To find cheap camping, the best option is to choose one of the state park campgrounds. Compared with private campgrounds, like Key Largo Kampground & Marina or Boydâs Key West Campground, campground fees for the state park system are much lower. Several state park campgrounds in Florida Keys are listed as follows:

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Itâs one the best campgrounds in Florida Keys. The park is ideal for boat camping, group camping, youth camping and RV camping. To find more info on camping fees, please visit online or call 800-326-3521.

http://www.floridastateparks.org/pennekamp/activities.cfm

Long Key State Park (Mile Marker 67.5, Overseas Highway, FL)
Bahia Honda State Park (36850 Overseas Hwy, Bahia Honda Key Big Pine Key, FL)

Now, the summer months are not peak-season. I suppose you can get some great deals for camping in these state parks.

If youâre planning tent camping, I know that Everglades National Park is free for tent campers during summer months. If youâre not bothered by the mosquitoes, you can have a free campsite in the park. To learn more park info, the following website can help you a lot.

http://www.miamihotelsadvisor.com/hotels-travel/everglades-national-park.html

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Anyone know a good place to go tent camping in NH or Maine?

best tent camping new england image

cnsconnor8

I have between 4 to 6 Adults and 2 or 3 small children and 2 cars. (not sure yet). We would like running water, but no electricity is not a big deal. We will be using tents and want to avoid the big RV parks and the commercial places. No Pools, golfcourses, clubhouses, arcades etc. We want our children to experience the rustic NH wilderness while still being safe. If anyone has any recommendations or knows a good place to look please help me out ! Thanks.

Answer
Here is the website for Exeter Elms in Exeter, New Hampshire. I have stayed there in the past and it is a top notch operation, Great tent sites on the river, clean showers, and it is close to the beach, Portsmouth, and New England dragway. I was in Ash tenting area #4A . http://www.exeterelms.com/
Happy camping,
Free

what are some supplies to go camping in new england in the winter?

Tgycycy

I am planning on going camping with my buddy, its the middle of winter and i need to know some things that we will need to keep us dry, warm, and hydrated? we will be gone for about to or three days.

Answer
Are you car camping or backpacking? Big difference in what will be needed. If you are car camping, bring a quality tent, sleeping pad, warm sleeping bag rated to 0deg or below. Bring some extra blankets if you sleep cold. You will need a stove and fuel, as well as food and water. Bring plenty of socks and long underwear, as well as a warm coat with a waterproof or water resistant outer to keep it dry. You should have warm insulated waterproof boots as well.

If you are backpacking, that is going to require a lot more gear and experience and you should get plenty of summer experience under your belt before you tackle new england in the winter.

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Picking the right Sleeping bag?

best tent camping mt hood image

Laaaadeeee

where can i buy a light, inexpensive sleeping bag somewhere around Greenwich village Manhattan? i really need this! thx in advance!
sorry about the wrong category

Answer
Hi Maria,

It's hard for anyone to answer your question at the moment because we don't know what you plan on using the sleeping bag for,,, Like if you plan on using it so you can sleep in somebody else's home, while you are visiting, then you can get by with any reasonable-quality cheap bag. But if you are planning on going camping -- like outdoors in a camping tent -- then it is likely to be a whole lot colder, so you will need a better-quality bag. Something thicker with more insulation, and maybe even a hood for your head.

You also asked that the bag be light. Well, the lightest sleeping bags are down bags. These are filled with goose down, the fluffy chest feathers that keep these birds warm even in freezing Arctic climates. But down bags are more expensive, from maybe $150 to $400 and more, like if you're planning to sleep on Mt. Everest.

A cheap sleeping bag can be bought for $40 or so. But it will have synthetic filling, not down. And it will be heavier and bulkier than a down bag suited to the same temperature range.

Rather than limiting yourself to Greenwich Village, you could go to any Kmart or WalMart for a cheap sleeping bag. And it will be fine for a sleepover at some friend's place.

I hope this helps you some. :-)

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What have you found is the most comfortable portable bed for tent camping?

good tents for camping image

flight777

Trying to figure out a comfortable bed solution for tent camping. The best I've found so far is using a Thermarest 1.5" inflatable mattress and a layer of 3" thick open cell foam over that. But I'm not totally happy with it, as I still wake up kinda sore. I guess I'm looking for the best thing short of an actual bed mattress that can fit in the trunk of my vehicle. Thanks for any good tips.

Answer
Those airbeds kill my back and never feel very natural so I personally use a Cabelas's self inflating airbed ...4 inches thick and with a sleeping bag it really gives me a good nights sleep . It also is much warmer than the traditional airbeds from the big box stores in that it insulates so much better and is much more portable and durable . They also have the Alaskan Guide model that comes in a double width .

I am new to tent camping and need help. How do you use an electrical hookup in a campground?

romancegir

I am going to camp in a Yogi Bear campground in a site that says "Water and Electrical Hookup". Does that mean I can use an extension cord with a strip on the end of it that has plugs in it?
I can find lots of info on tent camping on the internet, but nothing that explains electrical hookup. I'm a single mom. I hope I can find a veteran camper who can help me with my camping questions.

Answer
Typically, "Water and Electrical Hookups" are referring to convenient places an RV or trailer can plug in to for power and running water. Chances are, you should be able to plug an extension cord with a power strip for running some electrical items.

I say plan your trip as if the electrical won't be available, but bring a few things that will be helpful in case it is.

A few helpful camping tips:
If there's a firepit, bring a couple Duraflame logs. They last a couple hours, don't take any special gymnastics to ignite, and you can always throw regular wood on after the duraflame is burning. Remember to smother your campfire before you go to bed (Shovel dirt on it, etc).

Bring a stiff rake. Rake out the spot where you're putting your tent(s). This way, you don't end up rolling over onto a rock or acorn.

Please, please, PLEASE, clean up when you're gone. Have your kids walk all over your campsite and pick up every little bit of trash possible. (Also, bring trashbags! Not all campsites have convenient trash receptacles).

Check the temperature ranges in advance, and pack accordingly. It's a very long night when it's freezing cold and you didn't bring the winter sleeping bags. Remember that tents catch fire VERY easily, so don't put the tent next to the campfire, and don't bring electrical or gas heaters into the tent.

Bring fresh drinking water. (Those 2.5 gallon jugs with the convenient spigot are good...)

Bring a medical kit w/ all the usual refinements. Kids will always find a way to get boo-boo's.

I can almost guarantee that you will certainly overpack for your first trip. You'll find that over time you'll be able to whittle it down to the stuff you *really* need, as opposed to the stuff you think you'll need.

If you're with someone who is not a morning person, they will be much worse in the morning. Trust me.

Good luck!

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I'm going to travel the world for three months in the Spring on $20,000, where should I go?

tents for camping south africa image

H

I was thinking of two weeks per country, 6-7 countries. I am gonna bring a tent and sleeping bag in case I can't find a place to stay. I want the countries to be spread out all over the globe and be very different from each other.

Answer
3 months is approx 12 weeks so u need 6 countries?
Well, first, from my xprience, south africa would be a nice place. Its not really hot if ur used to and it has very nice roads. U can pitch ur tent in the savannah outside the city if u want but its quite risky. Bring a mosquito repellant too just in case ya know.
Second, Bali , it has great beaches like Kuta beach. But its too crowded and not a good camping site. But its worth a try.
Third, of course, paris, france, nice views, monuments and great parks, and pretty girls too ;) also have a cafe named la sancere, its nice hangin around that part.
Fourth, ireland. Haha for fishing maniacs lol. But its quiet there. For relaxing.
Fifth, australia. U can travel all the way from perth to sydney, in a caravan, for adventure haha while passing the desert. Lookout for spiders!
Sixth, costa rica! Has lots of unique wildlifes and nice weather ( for me).

Does anybody know if i want to go to an african wildlife safari ?

Phsyclopse

where to go, which country is recomended, for how much is it gonna be ?.. when is the best time of year to go there ?.. etc..

Answer
Kenya and Tanzania this time of year are good. South Africa and Namibia are also good.

Hard to give you a price -- it depends on where you travel from, how long you will be in Africa, where you want to stay (camping or luxury tented camps, etc.)...you should research some popular sites like Trip Advisor, Virtual Tourist, and google safari tours to get a sense of the options and what interests you most.

I found that by flying into Nairobi and spending a day going to local travel agents I got the best deal rather than anything I had seen on-line. I ended up travelling for a week with a guide (only us and the driver/guide) so was like a private tour, stayed at 4 star resorts/camps, and went to Lake Navaisha, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara and one other place who's name I've forgotten at the moment. I think that came to $1000-1200 if I remember. (I got a cheap flight to Nairobi for $700 from Europe).

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What are some good places to camp near the Salt Flats in Utah?

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luxyfoxy

I am looking for a canyon/mountain experience but bathrooms would be nice. Tent camping not roughing it or anything. Also, I don't want to be eaten by wolves or bears. Thanks.
I think I would like to camp at a campground but one in the mountains or canyon. Not so sure about camping in a totally primative area and get eaten by wolves and bears. Thanks.

Answer
www.koa.com

KOA rocks, you can get a book with every site in the country and they're all over the place, I used the crap out of them through my 20's travelled all over the states. Good luck!

Where is the best place to tent camp and fish in southwest utah?

Callie M

I would like the area's as southwest as possible. We have children in ages 14 down to 4 so it must be kid friendly and safe.

Answer
http://www.trekshare.com/members/chris89/
my buddy just got back monday from a 3 day trip to Utah. check out his pics from the link they are tabs in the left column they start with Utah Scenic Highway 12 and up.... hope you have fun!!!

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Where is your favorite place to camp in Southern California?

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dreamteam3

Answer
My favorite place to camp is Lake Cachuma. It has everything you need not like some campground that are not secured this place is huge and it a safe place to camp... Not so long ago a heard that a person was killed in one of the local camp grounds. when I'm at lake cachuma I don't worry.
Each Camp site has running water so you can rinse off dishes.
Each camp site is huge with room enough for 3 tents and two cars so that you can bring a bunch of friends along. This place has flushing toilets as well as pay showers that have hot water. The lake also have boats for rent and you can also fish the down side is that you can't go into the lake but they do have two swimming pools.
You can also go exploring they have Indian painted caves... A casino is not too far away, Solvang and wineries are not too far away.
but the best part of this place they do no allow loud music after midnight so for me that cool because to don't have loud druggies that didn't pay for the spot next to you blaring loud music till 4 am.

I need advice on a road trip/camping trip out West.?

Lily Evans

This summer my boyfriend and I are going to be making a drive from the Midwest to California. We are looking to see as much as possible while being completely cost effective. We are hoping to hit a lot of the national parks and any other beautiful places and exciting cities along the way. Furthermore, in order to save money, we are looking to camp along the way in designated camp grounds rather than spend every night in a hotel.

I'm looking for any kind of tips or advice you might have to offer... tips on camping every night, any campgrounds you'd recommend, tips on budgeting, national parks or other cool things to check out.

Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated. We're trying to explore this beautiful country we live in without totally going broke (we're two poor college students)

Thanks!

Answer
As far as camping goes think Free as much as possible - Many federal lands like National Forests and BLM lands allow for free camping in non-regulated areas (off the road in areas that are not regular campgrounds).
Some National Parks will also have free camping - for instance there is a primative campground at the west end of Badlands National Park that is free - they have a few picnic tables and toilets, but little else. Except the buffalo which may pass close nearby.
Also some towns will have free public camping areas - Brush, Colorado has such a site and its a good day's drive from where I live which makes it perfect. You just gotta do some research.

A good tent that pops up quickly and closes quickly will be helpful. Pack food and a propane stove so you can get your food done quickly. Check survival stores for rations that can be made adding a little hot water to the package. Some are not bad, but you might want to sample a few.

There's a lot to see out there. I would suggest going out through South Dakota (Badlands, Mt Rushmore, Devils Tower just over the border), Yellowstone is a must and you should take a few days to see it (its a lot more than geysers). Down through Jackson Hole, WY and into Utah - Utah is amazing...the whole state should be just one big National Park.
A lot depends on whre you are headed to in CA, and if you are also making a return trip. You could possibly go down via Zion Natl Park, past Vegas and Death Vally, up through CA and back via I-70 through Colorado (stopping at Arches Natl Park in UT and up along the Colorado River through Vail...
I wish you good luck.

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How hurricane Katrina exactly effected southern Louisiana?

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Q. I need to know exactly how southern Louisiana (mainly Arcadiana) was effected. I'd like to know the time the hurricane hit, damage, death toll. Please. It's for a project.

Answer
I was camping in a tent at the time.

What is the wheather like in colorado springs during July?

tlabrueyer

I would like for my family to go camping in colorado springs this year as our family vacation but I dont know if its too hot for a tent or would we be better off getiing a cabin.We are from Louisiana so camping during July in tents are only for the extremest becasue the humidity and heat are unbareable during the summer.

Answer
In Springs in July, yes it would be to hot in a tent.(Try Cascade, Woodland Park or Lake George all close to Springs)

Springs however is right up against the mountains, and temps less than 10 miles from town may be a lot cooler. (don't forget that temperatures can dip down pretty low at night even in July, one year on the 4th of July I was camping in Leadville and it got down to 23F after leaving Pueblo at 103F)

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Camping in Julian, California??

best tent camping in julian image

jesssiicac

Does anyone know of any good camping sites in Julian, California?
I'd like a tent site which is near an pond/lake for fishing. Also near downtown Julian.
Thanks!

Answer
oh god, oh yes i phucking love that place and i love local spots mentioned on here.

there are numerous campsites along the Sunrise Highway. downtown Julian is only about a 15 minute drive away, and there are breathtaking views along the way. every summer, a bunch of family friends and i rent out a place called "horse heaven," it's somewhere along sunrise highway.

i think you can camp at Lake Cuyamaca (good trout fishing all year round), but it is at least a half hour drive to julian. contact the Cleveland National Forest for more info.

wanna go on a trip to California, USA >> where best to go?

ur105_vulp

Answer
I would start out in San Diego
1)Sea World
2)San Diego Wild Animal Park
3)Lego Land
4)Coronado Hotel
5)Sea Port Village
6)San Diego Mission
7)Drive up to Julian for a Buffalo Burger and fresh homemade Apple Pie
8)Visit the Museums in Balboa Park

Stop in Oceanside and Visit Mission San Luis Rey, Contine up I-5 and stop in San Juan Capistrano and visit the Mission there. Then I would continue up I-5 and stop and Visit Disneyland!!! Then drive over to Buena Park and visit Knotts Berry Farm!!! From Buena Park-Head up I-5 to the East LA Interchange and take the 101 North To Santa Barbara!!!

Get off the 101 at Cabrillo Blvd and turn Left!! You will drive along the beach and I would stop at Stearns Wharf and walk out on the pier and walk through the shops, take the hour boat tour (the tour boat is at the end of the pier). Then I would have a nice lunch at one of the restaurants along the beach or go up on State Street. Along State Street is a shoppers Paradise!! You could shop all day long if you wanted to. Then I would head up 101 to El Capitan State Beach and Campground and camp out for a couple of days or the night. Continue up 101 to I believe the 254 into Solvang!!!! As you are driving up 254 (San Marcos Pass) you will see Lake Cachuma...stop and take the boat tour there and visit the Visitor Center...they are supposed to have some really neat exhibits!!!

Solvang is a little bavarian/Dutch town with lots of neat shops to walk through!!! There is a restaurant called "The Solvang Restaurant". Stop in there and have an Ableskiver (hot pancake ball with jam and powdered sugar)!!! Talk to the owner of the restaurant..his name is Jeff Paske...tell him you saw him on the Road Trip with Huell Howser and he can tell you all about the history of Solvang. I would visit Mission Santa Ines which is right there in town. The Mission there is really pretty!!! Then find your way over to 101 and continue going north!!!

I would go up to Pismo Beach and camp at either Oceano or Monarch Grove campgrounds and camp there for a couple of days!!! Pismo Beach is supposed to be a great little town to visit!!! After being in Pismo Beach for a couple of days, I would continue up 101 till you get to San Francisco!! Take that to I-80 and head up into the mountains and drive into Lake Tahoe!!!!

Lake Tahoe is a beautiful area and you wont want to miss out on it!!! You can take the 2 hour tour on the lake on the Paddle Wheel boat there in town, drive around the lake...which is a beautiful drive!!! Drive up to Squaw Valley...about an hour from Lake Tahoe and take the tram up the mountain and have lunch at the restaurtant/Cafe up at the top of the mountain and look out at Lake Tahoe and the valley below.

Or if you want to visit our mountain areas, you could easily visit Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead in the same day. Walk through the Village shopping areas, have a nice lunch and just enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Or if you wanted to go to Palm Springs, you should take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mt. San Jacinto and hike through the wilderness up there, even take your tents and camping gear and camp out up there somewhere in the forrest. Also not too far from Palm Springs is the Outlet Stores in Cabazon for your shopping pleasure.

That would be my recommendation for your trip to California!!!!
Whatever you decide to do...Have a great time and enjoy your trip to California!!!

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How to stay warm in camping tent in winter?

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Anita

I have never gone winter camping and I will do that next week. I want to know how to stay warm in camping tent in such cold day. Anyone knows that?

Answer
1. Learn about heat loss and you will come to better understand how to stay warm in the backcountry. Heat is primarily lost through conduction, convection, radiation and evaporation. For example heat could be lost from sitting on a cold rock, from wind chill, from not wearing a hat and heat escaping, or respiration. Besides warming up near the camp stove people can only generate heat by keeping up their metabolism, exercising and shivering if need be.

2. Layering properly is the first thing winter backpackers can do to regulate heat. This means non-cotton, moisture wicking base layers and mid-layers, insulated layers such as a down vest and jacket and down pants and weather proof outer layers. A hat and balaclava or neck gaiter is also necessary as are liner socks and socks made with wool. Down camp booties aren't necessary but make your world much more comfortable. Mountaineering or plastic boots with insulated liners are what to hike in through snow and ice and liner gloves and insulated over-mitts are what will keep your fingers moving.

3. Stay dry and pace yourself. The point of all these layers is not to wear them all at once but to control the four primary losses of heat while hiking. Staying dry is crucial. Don't let yourself get too sweaty because as soon as you stop for a break your sweat begins to freeze. Wearing things that dry easily and wick moisture such as polypropylene, capilene, synthetic or wool are the way to go whether you are hiking, snowshoeing or backcountry skiing. Keep yourself properly hydrated too, as loss of heat happens from loss of moist exhalation.

4. Make your camp in such a way that you take advantage of the elements. After anchoring your tents in the snow, dig out a 3 by 2-foot area in front of your tent door at least 12 inches into the snow. This acts as an entryway where you can sit in your tent while hanging your feet out to change out of your boots and camp booties without bringing wet snow inside the tent. One or two-wall nylon tents work fine though one-wall tents are a bit lighter. Using at least one sleeping pad is necessary for winter camping as you need to insulate yourself from the cold ground and snow. More than one sleeping pad is recommended. Either use a shorter foam pad beneath your inflatable one or sleep on your extra layers at night. This also dries them out.

5. Sleep warm. Make sure to eat a bit more than you think you can handle and have plenty of hot drinks before getting into your sleeping bag on a night of winter backpacking. Your metabolism not only has to deal with the workout you've had during the day but also has to keep you warm through the cold night. Before getting into your bag fill up a water bottle with boiling water from the stove, slip a sock or shirt over it so it doesn't burn your skin and sleep with this in your bag, sleep with two of them if necessary.

6.Make sure that you keep your sleeping bag as dry as possible, especially if it is made of down as this material loses its warmth when wet. If you are generally a cold person, get a sleeping bag that is rated at least 10 to 20 degrees colder than you think you might need. Also sleep with boot liners so they aren't frozen when you try to wiggle your toes in there the following morning. Use a small 2 by 2-foot square cut from a role of sleeping pad foam and kneel on it while cooking or taking a break, to insulate from the snow at all times.

Looking for a good quality camping tent?

kamikazest

I am in the market for a camping tent that will fit 2-4 people. I have been looking online for different ones around $150. I was wondering if anyone knew some good brands or has any recommendations. One of my main concerns is to get a tent which will not leak (and obviously a decent quality all around).

Answer
Your answer is a few clicks away for your convince.
http://www.cabela`s.com or http://basspro.com Quality and affordability These tents should come with a rain fly, make sure you get one with (a rain fly) to stay dry .
If you can`t find one with a (rain fly )then make one with a poly tarp lay it over the tent at night and tie it down on the corners to protect you from moisture. Take it off when there is no dew or rain.
Also I lay a sheet of sheeting or two of thin plywood on the floor to protect from ground moisture.even if the tent has a poly floor in a heavy rain water can run in .The plywood gets things off the floor. through a few sheets or pieces of sheets in before you pack the rest of the gear.

Presto- bone dry

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What kind of camping stuff can you rent on a military base?

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Tamera C

My husband is Army and in Korea and where I live there is an Air Force base. I heard you can rent camping equipment and other stuff from there. Is this true and if so what all is there to rent for camping? And are the prices reasonable?

Answer
the out door rec building has a bunch of things. camping. BBQ, bounce houses, chairs, tables. all sorts of things.

i was going to get a bounce house for my son's b-day. they were $50 and normally $65 down town. so a little cheaper.

it will depend on the kind of camping you want to do. if you are talking tents and sleeping bags. them walmart might just be better, then you own them and can go more often. but if you are looking for an RV, the kind you pull with your truck. then they are good priced. different areas have different prices. i think the RV's were $85-175 a day depending on size.

since your hubby is in NK. you will need your POA.. since he is army and not actually assigned to the AF base near by. so check to make sure they will allow you to do the pick up.

Where can I rent a camping tent for really cheap?

justine

My friends and I want to go to Yosemite for like a trip and we were trying to find a couple tents that we could use. I looked at some places that were pretty steep in price and was wondering if there was a place i could rent for really cheap. I don't need anything too fancy, though it would be nice. I am looking for tents or a tent that can fit four people.

Thanks!

Answer
Renting a quality tent for family camping is a waste of money when you can buy a quality family sized tent from Coleman for less then $75. and Colman tents come with a stay dry guarantee. Besides that you don't have to hassle with bringing it back in to the rental place. A rental agency will tack on charges for damage and run up your charge card limits and when your traveling you need access to your credit for emergencies. To discover out in the middle of nowhere that your over limit is a very big hassle. Here is a link with a good price on colman tents

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Coleman-Sunlight-Ridge-13-x-11-Tent/13848688

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Where is a good place to go tent camping in the southeast?

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T W

We are looking towards memorial day weekend. We are looking for sites with water and electric, showers on site also. Prefer the tennessee area or somewhere in cooler mountain area. Any suggestions or websites would be appreciated.. thanks

Answer
in sarawak.it is in maliaysia.

Looking for suggestions on places to camp in Tennessee?

flybynight

My two sons and I will be traveling through Tennessee in July and we are looking to spend a day or two at a campground. I have done some research online and have found a few state parks that look lovely... Fall River Falls for example. I was just hoping for any more suggestions from people who have more familiarity with the area than I do. Our final destination is going to be Atlanta and we are starting in Wisconsin. We are looking to do some hiking, climbing, swimming and tenting.

Answer
Fall Creek Falls is wonderful. The falls are incredible.

Another one to check out is Tims Ford State Park in Estill Springs/Winchester. It has cabin rentals too, and offers boating, golf, swimming, bicycling, and nature programs. It is only about 15 miles off I-24 (take the Manchester exit to TN-55).

If you want something less up scale, check out Old Stone Fort State Archeaological Park in Manchester. It has tent camping, golf course, archeaological museum, hiking, and is on a river gorge. Just a mile or so off I-24 but very remote.

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