My Best Cheap Tents For Camping: 2014-02-02

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Sabtu, 08 Februari 2014

Tent Camping on the Beach?

Luo

Has anyone ever camped on the beach?
I am considering taking the kids up to Lake Erie to camp on the beach there.
I don't have a "special" beach tent. I want to use my smaller nylon dome tent.
Will I have trouble with this?

Answer
Do not need any "special tent". We are using a 2 man pop up camping tent(link below) and it work well for beach camping.Wind can and will be a problem. We actuall had one of those canopies get away from us in some high winds at the beach , but that was just a daytime setup. I imagine the wind gets pretty rough there, unless you can get back and out of it somehow. if there{s a lot of night wind the tarps can get pretty noisy. Try to find a sheltered are if there is any. But beach camping is great fun and pretty comfortable. You might need to empty the tent and shake out excess sand every day or two though. Night time may not be so bad though.

Beach camping in Georgia/ Florida/ South Carolina?

Lauren

Hi! My friend and I want to do some beach camping... on the beach. Lots of sights have camping near the beach, but do you know of any places where you can pitch a tent on the beach? I would really appreciate it!

Answer
Camping on beaches can damage natural resources and wildlife nesting areas.

Leave no trace.

1. Key State Park | Long Key

Long Key's campsites are literally right on top of the Atlantic Ocean. This is the only state park where you can leave your campsite, walk 100 feet and catch a permit or bonefish. The park has several nature trails, including one for kayakers that runs through a shallow-water lagoon, and 60 waterfront campsites, each with a picnic table and grill.

Call (305) 664-4815 or go to floridastateparks.org/longkey.

2. Cayo Costa State Park | Boca Grande

Surrounded by water on all sides and only accessible by private boat or public passenger ferry, Cayo Costa boasts splendid isolation. With 9 miles of deserted beach to roam and explore, you won't have to worry about crowds. The warm gulf water is great for swimming, snorkeling, fishing and kayaking. Each tent site can accommodate up to eight people. Showers, toilets and potable water are centrally located. Visitors must bring food and drink, but the extra work is well worth it. This is wild Florida at its best.

Call (941) 964-0375 or go to floridastateparks.org/cayocosta.

3. Fort Clinch State Park | Fernandina Beach

Among Florida's oldest state parks, Fort Clinch has one of the best-preserved 19th century forts in the United States. It never saw any action, but it was occupied by troops during the Civil and Spanish-American wars. Located just north of Fernandina Beach off A1A, this state park has great surf fishing, swimming and a 6-mile trail for hikers and bicyclists. Fort Clinch has two campgrounds, one overlooking the beach and the other in a hardwood hammock overlooking the Amelia River.

Call (904) 277-7274 or go to floridastate parks.org/fortclinch.

4. Grayton Beach State Park | Santa Rosa Beach

Another one of the nation's top beaches, this state park is famous for its sunsets. After you get tired of playing in the emerald-colored water, take off on one of the park's nature trails, which weave through a windswept coastal forest that looks like a set from Lord of the Rings.

Hikers and cyclists have more than 4 miles of trails to explore, and canoeists and kayakers can check out Western Lake, a classic salt marsh. The campground has been called one the finest in Florida, and subsequently, people book 11 months in advance.

Call (850) 231-4210 or go to floridastateparks.org/graytonbeach.

5. Anastasia State Park | St. Augustine

Four miles of unspoiled beach is this state park's top draw. Anastasia hasn't changed much since Spanish explorers made landfall here nearly 500 years ago. Besides great surfing, fishing, canoeing and kayaking, the park has an archaeological site where coquina rock was mined to create the nearby Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest Spanish fortress in America. Explore the dunes and stunted oak hammocks via the nature trail or paddle Salt Run, a tidal salt marsh, in a canoe or kayak. The well-shaded campground is one of the best in the state system.

Call (904) 461-2033 or go to floridastateparks.org/anastasia.

6. Sebastian Inlet State Park | Melbourne Beach

One of the premier surfing and fishing spots on Florida's East Coast, Sebastian Inlet State Park has 3 miles of beachfront real estate. As expected, the park is popular with anglers and wave riders, but the adjacent Indian River Lagoon is also a great place to canoe or kayak. They call this the Treasure Coast because after big storms, beachcombers still find coins washed ashore from the doomed Spanish Treasure Fleet of 1715. The park's tent campground is within easy walking distance of the beach.

Campsites are $23. Call (321) 984-4852 or go to floridastateparks.org/sebastianinlet.

7. Bahia Honda State Park | Big Pine Key

Henry Flagler's railroad from Miami to Key West put this tropical paradise on the map. Twelve miles south of Marathon, this state park has turquoise water, balmy breezes and an endless supply of sunshine that would make Bahia Honda a great location for a five-star resort. Luckily for us, the land has been preserved for the public's use, giving regular folks an easy access point to the Florida Keys' world-famous coral reefs. The park has two boat ramps and three campgrounds, which are a testament to the park's standing as a vacation destination.

Call (305) 872-2353 or go to floridastateparks.org/bahiahonda.

8. T. H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park | St. Joe

Consistently rated as one of the top beaches in the United States, this Panhandle park has some of the finest white sand in Florida. With access to the Gulf of Mexico and St. Joseph Bay, canoeists and kayakers can spend a day paddling and never run out of new territory. This coastal barrier peninsula is also an international destination for bird watchers. To date, more than 240 species have been sighted. The park has 119 sites in two campgrounds: The Gulf Breeze area is open and can accommodate large vehicles; the Shady Pines area is more shaded and secluded.

Call (850) 227-1327 or go to floridastateparks.org/stjoseph.

9. Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area | Flagler Beach

Named after Florida folk singer Gamble Rogers, this recreation area has access to both the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a popular spot for boaters, canoeists and kayakers. Sit and watch the shorebirds as they feed on the beach or take a hike along a winding nature trail through a coastal forest of scrub oak and saw palmetto. The 34-site full-service campground overlooks the Atlantic.

Call (386) 517-2086 or go to floridastateparks.org/gamblerogers.

10. Fort De Soto County Park | Tierra Verde

The only county-owned property to make the list, this Pinellas County park has a 238-site, full-service campground that seems to have been created with families in mind. The amenities include picnic tables, grills, fresh water, electricity, washers, dryers, sanitary disposal stations, modern restrooms, showers, play areas and a camp store. The park has more than 7 miles of waterfront recreation, including two fishing piers, nature trails, paved bike trail and a canoe trail.

Call (727) 582-2267 or go to pinellascounty.org/park.

What do I bring camping?

Livv <3

I am going camping in a trailer for 6 days. Ideas of what to bring?

Answer
with the exception of the tent here is a check list

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/family+camping+checklist.html

What kind of stuff should I bring camping?

Mariah

I'm going camping and I know I'm going to forgot something important. What should I bring?
(I dont eat meat and I wont forget a tent... =p)

Answer
http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/backpacking+checklist.html

Camping by Lake Lanier Georgia recommendation please?

climbingup

I want to camp near Buford/Suwanee Georgia from April 13th to maybe May 1st. (working in the area)
I would like a nice quit campground with hot showers wifi and electricity. I will be tent camping from my SUV so I will have tons of stuff including a power source if needed.
It looks like Lake Lanier camp sites don't open until the 23 of April so they won't work. Any private sites? Cheap cabins? Maybe an RV park since they would likely have wifi.
Thanks for your help. Please include a link to your info if it's hard to find even with Google.

Answer
http://www.trails.com/trail_reviews.asp?trailid=HGD136-001C

Campgrounds in Georgia near Six Flags?

Rappel_Wel

I'm looking for a campground within driving distance to Six Flags. I don't mind driving a bit to get to the park to find a nice tent camping area with amenities. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Those are both great sites, thanks.

What about camprgrounds primarily for tent sites. Are there any local to that area? Thanks

Answer
atlanta south rv park is the cheapest it has a pool ,laundry mat and it takes pets internet is free its 196.00 a week,pretty nice people are freindly

Jumat, 07 Februari 2014

where is a good place to go tent camping near Disneyland?

Ariel

I live in Oregon, and my friend and I want to go to disneyland in September, but we want to camp somewhere nearby. Were just wanting to camp in a tent, not an RV.

Thanks!!

Answer
The closest campground with tent camping is featherly park. It's right on the Santa ana river next to a freeway in Anaheim hills. Not a very good spot.

The next closest is O'Neil park. Its located in the foothills of orange county about 30 minutes from Disneyland. There are also a couple of privately run campgrounds, Irvine lake and Black star, both of these though are surrounded by private property with not many activities to do.

here is a link to O'neil Park
http://www.ocparks.com/oneillpark/

Civil War Prison Camps?

Crys

Why were the prison camps formed in the first place?
Also, why were they built where they were?

Answer
In the very beginning of the Civil War, prisoners of war were exchanged right on the battlefield, a private for a private, a sergeant for a sergeant and a captain for a captain. In 1862 this system broke down and caused the creation of large holding pens for prisoners in both the North and South. On July 18, 1862, Major General John A. Dix of the Union Army met with the Confederate representative, Major General Daniel H. Hill, and a cartel was drafted providing for the parole and exchange of prisoners. This draft was submitted to and approved by their superiors. Four days later, the cartel was formally signed and ratified, and became known as the Dix-Hill Cartel.
The Dix-Hill Cartel failed by midyear, for reasons including the refusal of the Confederate, Government to exchange or parole black prisoners. They threatened to treat black prisoners as slaves and to execute their white officers. There was also the problem of prisoners returning too soon to the battlefield. When Vicksburg surrendered on July 4, most of those Confederate prisoners who were paroled were back in the trenches within weeks.
The discussions on exchange lasted until October 23, 1862, when Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton directed that all commanders of places of confinement be notified that there would be no more exchanges. This decision would greatly affect the large numbers of prisoners in northern and southern prison camps. The so-called "holding pens" now became permanent prisons.
Although more than 150 places were used as prisons on both sides during the war, only a handful are important. Generally they fit into certain types: the fortifications, former jails and penitentiaries, altered buildings, enclosures around barracks, enclosures around tents and open stockades.
Of the first type, the only important example in the Confederacy is Castle Pinckney. The Union had Fort Warren in Boston Harbor, Fort Lafayette in N.Y., Fort McHenry in Baltimore and, most dreaded in the South, Fort Delaware in the Delaware River. The Union used the Alton, Ill., and the Columbus, Ohio, penitentiaries for prisoners, and the Confederate cavalryman, John Morgan, escaped from the latter. The Confederacy's Libby Prison and the Union's Old Capitol and Gratiot Street Prisons were converted buildings. Others, all in the South, where tobacco factories were common and excellent for this purpose, were Ligon's in Richmond and Castle Thunder in Richmond and Petersburg. Buildings were also converted in Danville, Lynchburg, and Shreveport, and Cahaba (Ala.) was one of the more important ones. Union prisons that were enclosures around barracks included Johnson's Island, Camp Morton, Camp Douglas, Camp Chase, Elmira, and Rock Island. The Confederate Belle Isle and the Union Point Lookout prisons were enclosures built around tents. Prisons that were open stockades existed only in the South, and the most infamous was Andersonville. Others of this type were Camp Lawton, Camp, Camp Ford Camp Groce, and stockades at Salisbury (N.C.), Macon (Ga.), Charleston, Florence (S.C.), and Columbia (S.C.).

funny yet embarrassing moments in your lifetime?

NONAME

what's the most funny but embarrassing moment in your life? i need a laugh. Details please! :D

Answer
Girlfriendâs family reunion

http://www.yourembarrassingmoments.com/2010/03/girlfriends-family-reunion/

Iâve had lots of embarrassing things happen to me, but this is the weirdest. When I was in college, I had been dating this girl for a couple of months, and she wanted me to meet her family. They were having a family reunion, which was a good opportunity to meet a lot of her extended family. This was an annual thing, where they all got together for a camping trip, This was at a large lake where there was lots of remote area.

I was going water skiing with my friends that morning, so my girlfriend and I decided that I would go skiing that morning, then they could drop me off where they were camping, and she could take me home that night. So we skiied, and then cruised the shoreline and found the campsite. My friends came with me to make sure we found the right place, and then left.

I was in wet swim trunks, so I asked my girlfriendâs uncle if there was a place I could change. This was out in the middle of nowhere, so there werenât bathrooms or any kind of building other than tents, and a bus that someone had converted into a camper. He tells me to just go behind the bus, and he would make sure that no one came around while I was changing. Stupid me!

He thought this would be a great prank to pull on his niece, so he got another uncle to play along. As soon as I dropped my trunks and was standing there naked, they ran around the corner and grabbed both my arms. These were big guys, so I didnât have a chance. They picked me up and hauled me from behind the bus right out in front of everyone. They drug me around the camp to make sure everyone knew what was going on. By then, everyone (about 30 or 40 people) was gathered up in a big group.

They hauled me over to a tree and tied my hands behind it. Then ran and grabbed my trunks and my bag with my clothes. While my girlfriend was trying to get me untied, her mother came over and told me that the more embarrassed I acted, the longer they would keep this going, so just chill out.

So, I got untied, and then just had to hang out with this large group of people being the only one naked. Everyone had already seen everything anyway, so I did the best I could to not act mortified, which I was. I guess I didnât do a good enough job of not acting embarrassed, because those jerks let this go on for an hour laughing the whole time. When they finally came back with my stuff, they threw my bag up in a tree, so I had to climb up in a tree naked to get my clothes back.

That was quite an introduction to the family!

Post your embarrassing moments anonymously!

http://www.yourembarrassingmoments.com

Most embarrassing moment of the year and whats your sign lol?

dontkno

im a Gemini and my bfs a Virgo

well im 17 and my bfs 16 we began going out a month ago. so we're dismissed from school and we seen eachother and ditched our friends to get a few minutes alone. so we're talking,laughing and cuddling by the stairwell and he attemps to kiss me but with crazy reflexes i moved back accidently lol so i wanted to make that up by kissing him back so he opens his mouth and i just laid a kiss on him but with a little tongue(repeat he had his mouth open) and out of nowhere he burst out laughin and said that came out so wrong because when he opened his mouth he was trying to say something to me but i thought he was trying to kiss me again lmao so it was more like "the jack in the box kiss" he did not see it coming, so we just laughed it off so it wouldnt create that awkward moment..

Year round tent camping in the smokies?

Isaiah

What would I need and how to stay out of site? I have list my job and I need advice on how to camp all year. trying to save $by doing this.

Answer
I've seen the best tents money can buy blown into the night off mountains.
There are rags of those that were torn apart when ground placement held
on some of my uphill climb. I've had a tent in-hand drag me over icy stone.
I suggest a mid-level tent like Coleman, cheap, well-made. Dome with rain
fly, window flaps, with zippered mesh bug protection and portal closures.
You absolutely must apply seam sealant on all exposed interior stitching.
Stand tent turned inside out to seam seal if possible as you can't sleep
with the fire hazard and toxic odor. When dry sealant is your best friend.
Avoid fouling zipper teeth with sealant. Have extra sealer for repair. Duct
tape also for short-term patching; cold isn't duct tape friendly. Two areas are
likely to tear first: 1. Tent floor. Tent should be on a hillside but level, with
tarp under floor, and layers of cardboard inside tent over flooring for insulation.
Expect deterioration of floor cardboard and renew if damp or issues arise.
2. Mesh, it tears easily, and you need to respect that. You want room for
stuff. Higher tents have contain more air to warm (heat rises and bleeds fast),
there's wind resistence, so you need a shed shelter over it with sides facing
an expected weather frontage. Logs in a three side layer work and better hold
exterior tarp. It won't have to be waterproof but it must blunt wind chill / speed.
Digging into hillside requires wall support to avoid untimely burial. Log steps
with hammered pegs work. Double weather walls and roofing need vented air
space to vent moisture. Tents are designed as temporary shelter. You'd better
be filling sandbags to build better. Build around your tent. Work around the
braced exterior of stacked log grid. Focus on foot diameter logs, hand saw,
saw file, file oil, rags, hand winch, nylon sling lengths for log tow and hoist.
Tree nails. Claw hammer. Shovel. You won't have something. Find ruins
you can salvage. Dead cars to strip. You want a location with water that if
frozen you can still access. A USA hermit was arrested in 2013 and he
said that after a half-lifetime of being totally self-sufficient the only thing left
of personal property were prescription eye-glasses. Don't be a hermit. Using
Google Earth it wasn't hard to find a limestone grotto for boys in the UK to
sleep in and they were half-planet distant. Maybe you can do better in a chair.

Ways to give my tent a bit of heat (safely)? while camping?

spcexcel

Living in Arizona, I struggle with a very limited camping season. Given the fact that the summer (May through September, in my opinion) is almost un-liveably hot, you might THINK that October-April (which is very nice, like paradise) would be a great camping season.

Well in a way, it is...the question is, where?

So at regular altitude, Arizona is great starting right now. The problem is that it's no fun camping anywhere that altitude is like that. (i.e. - lakes, waters, rivers, fishing, woods, pine trees........) for the most part the fun places in Arizona start getting cold really fast in October.

Right now I want to go camping in Payson. In my tent it will be questionable as to temperature. Of course we have raised mattresses and good sleeping bags, but I'm starting to want to branch out and get more creative in terms of generating heat. (without buying an RV)

Any suggestions for products I may not know about, that will generate some heat inside my simple, 6-person dome tent.

Of course, I'm looking for something that burns little or no oxygen so that we don't just "die comfortably".
that's good information but man i hate to spend again on a tent, just had bought myself a nice big dome one. however i have also found out there are $50 Coleman Catalytic Heaters - that can be safely run in a tent - yay !!
Hmmm.. definitely would not agree with your assessment of catalytic heaters, Coleman specifically markets ALL of them for use in indoor tents, suggesting you leave a very small opening (6") of air. Yes it burns oxygen, but very little compared to flames ...

and that's the whole point, to have it right next to your body practically. Get the tent good and warm, then turn it off and go to sleep.

Answer
Get yourself a cabin tent that allows the use of a stove in it, these are vented so that smoke and gases exit the tent through the stove chimney and heat is radiated throughout the tent. There are tent furnaces as well but these require electrical power, and if you need electrical power you might as well use an electric heater. Here is a link with winter camping info,
http://www.princeton.edu/~oa/winter/wintcamp.shtml

@added
Wrong on the catalytic heater. Read the owners manual "the fine print" it tells you it produces carbon monoxide gas which can kill you, If you can get your tent ventilation good enough to be safe enough to use the heater than you will have to stand over the heater to get any use out of it. Believe me they are just too dangerous to use in a tent.

Where can I buy a tent in budapest.?

Joe

Hi. Im currently in krakow and moving onto budapest then croatia. We've decided to camp in croatia so need to purchase a tent as cheap as possible.. Say around Â£20-30

I know,theres a tesco in budapest but don't know if it sells tents. could anyone please tell me if they do, or anyother shop you know of.

Yhank you in advance for the answers.

Joe

Answer
There are many shopping malls in Budapest, almost everywhere. A big one is underground at the Nyugati metro station. There are many shops selling everything down there, I remember seeing luggage and backpacks, so a tent is very possible. It's central and easy to get to.

But more specifically, I know there is a camping store on Raday Utca not far from the Kalvin Ter Metro stop. I never went in it, but I know it's there. It's inbetween the Kalvin Metro and Matyas Utca. On the left side. It's small and hidden by resturants and cafes so you have to look.

Nyugati and Kalvin are on the same Metro line only about 5 stops apart, so it easy to go in between.

WHERE CAN I FIND A 5/6 MAN POP UP TENT FROM THE UK?

Ella blu S

In desperate need of a quick pitch/easy erect/pop up tent for 5/6 people in the uk.

Can anyone send me a link? I have tried and failed to find any and desperately need one. Price is not an issue.

THANK YOU! :D

Answer
It would be best to visit a local camping / outdoors shop, preferably a large one with the space to pitch some of the tents. The following chains have shops, and also online sales:

Tiso:
http://www.tiso.com

Blacks:
http://www.blacks.co.uk

Millets:
http://www.millets.co.uk

You can also find tents in general retailers, but you won't see them pitched or get advice.
Tesco:
http://direct.tesco.com/

Argos:
http://www.argos.co.uk

Camping in California?

andrew c

dumb question, I know, but anybody have first-hand experience with some top notch camping spots in california? A couple of my buddies and I (23 yrs old) are looking for a good spot with lots to do such as fishing, kayaking, hiking, etc. Also, is there anything a first-time camper must prepare for or bring along outside of a tent, wood, food, sleeping bags? Thanks alot.

Answer
You really have to be extra careful this time of year to avoid places with emenities. I personally just won't go to an area known for emenities but some brave people do go, though they carry some serious protection and have to take special measures to ensure their safety.

But seriously, consider Pinecrest Lake in Stanislaus NF near Emigrant Wilderness. It has everything you're looking for and more:

"Pinecrest Lake is located 30 miles east of Sonora on State Highway 108. The Lake lies in a timbered setting at an elevation of 5,600 feet. The California Department of Fish and Game regularly stocks Pinecrest Lake with rainbow trout. Groceries and other services are available nearby at the Pinecrest commercial center.

Pinecrest summer visitors enjoy swimming, boating, hiking, camping, fishing, picnicking, interpretive programs and biking.
* http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/summit/biking.shtml
* 300 camp sites to see with tables, grills, flush toilets and piped water in 2 campgrounds (Pinecrest Campground and Meadowview Campground)
* 3 group sites to see with tables, grills, fireplaces, vault toilets and piped water in 1 group campground (Pioneer Trail Group Campground)
* Day Use Sites To See: Pinecrest Boat Launch; 50 picnic sites to see with grills, flush toilets and piped water in 1 picnic area (Pinecrest); Designated swim area. No dogs allowed in Day Use Area (between Pinecrest Lake Road/Pinecrest Avenue and the boat launch and the fishing pier) from May 15 to September 15.
* Fishing (accessible fishing pier)
* Hiking: Pinecrest National Recreation Trail, a 4 mile hiking trail around the lake; Paved pathways connecting points of interest."
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/visitor/pinecrest.shtml

There's also the resort with activities: http://www.pinecrestlakeresort.com/Activities%20in%20Pinecrest.htm

What are good non-expensive tent camping places in Northern California?

LisaLu

My husband and I love to camp, but we are new to the northern California area, and don't know any good places around the Sacramento/Grass Valley area. We are looking for something under $10 a night. We don't mind roughing it, so even if its out in the middle of nowhere, but its a good place to camp near a lake or stream it would be awesome to know of. Thanks!

Answer
Welcome to Kalifornistan! It's a land of many wonders and blunders. the first being that campground fee's have doubled in the last few years mainly at state parks and national parks. There are still a few $10 and less spots and even fewer free ones. Weekends around your area the most popular sites get reserved 6 months in advance. Now don't lose hope of finding a site there are just as many non reservable sites too you just have to be the early bird to catch the site, by early I mean a couple of days early by thursday no later if you want to stay through the Weekend. Popular spots are the lakes and rivers that are around you and tops is Folsom lake and the rivers above and below that. The National forests around you are also great destinations and that's where you will find the most luck of getting a spot for the weekend. They also have what is called dispersed camping where you head out a forest road and find your own spot or what is called a yellow post site.These are free with the cost of an adventure pass $5 a day $30 for the year.

Google map to see what state parks and forests are closest to you and then look up their web page, check for campground listings and you will find which ones are reservable and which are first come. Here is a link to help you find public and private campgrounds in your area,

http://www.totalescape.com/

Kamis, 06 Februari 2014

road trip to canada - banff, what all should I bring?

newchasm

my route im doing with my college buddies will be like this. tn to chicago to minnapolis to rapid city to glacier then to canada (banff in canadian rockies), then back down to salt lake, denver, wichita, then home.

I have a list of my own, im mainly going to be camping. However I wanted the minds of a bunch of people to list off what they would bring then itd help me figure out if im missing anything that would be helpful.

I'll be in a 08 corrolla so whatever ya think can fit in a sudan with 3 people, meaning no canoes on it X-P (and yep im bringing a tent.)

Best answer will be based upon what i may think be the overall best list for this 2 week road trip or whoever makes me add the most things to the current list I have. disregard money.

please throw your opinions, and I wish I could pick more than one best answer for this but you all would be helping out a lot by doing this. a million minds (on yahoo) think better than just 3 of us that are going.

-thanks

Answer
BRING A PAPER MAP your gizmo's do not always work in the mountains from Salt lake to Banff. You can reserve camp-sites ahead both in Canada and the US. When there is not HIGH FIRE DANGER depends on local weather, you are usually permitted a camping and or a cooking fire bring fire starting material matches/lighter a few things to cook with over the fire or wrapped in Aluminium foil shiny side out beside the fire on the hot coals. Clothes hanger wire works great for dogs and marshmallows.Bring sturdy walking/hiking boots.(low rise is fine) Temperature varies greatly during the day. Bring clothing that you can layer.Do not bring too much there are laundromats in most places so you can refresh. JOIN AAA club in your area then get their maps and travel guides. Can get city maps,state maps, guidebooks for accommodation and sightseeing points of interest at NO CHARGE with membership. This also helps if you have car trouble on your journey in Canada and the US..Check your phone plan for ROAMING charges you may want to change plans for when you are out west so you do not get extra fees for Canada.Have minimal food when crossing border in either direction. Tinned and packaged items usually O K fresh uncooked fruits,veggies and meats have various restrictions going in both directions over border. Car insurance for Canada your passports.Various routes North from glacier to Banff (Chief Mountain Border Crossing only open for a few months roads closed by SNOW)
others are open year round.
http://www.youtube.com/user/banfflakelouise2 for some videos of activities in Banff area
http://cs.calgarystampede.com/basics/ A small party for about 1,500,000 people mid July in Calgary
http://getlostmt.com/ A new site for the secret places in Montana.
Enjoy your adventure distances are long so make sure to leave room in the car for people you are riding many hours at a time. You will have access to stores if you forget to pack something you need so do not worry about bringing everything.
Pack a cooler along and keep it stocked with beverages and snacks for travelling
Car supplies a few quarts of motor oil (can buy as you go) windshield washer fluid A scrubber type sponge to clean bugs off the windows. Have your car serviced before you go tires filters wipers oil change and so on.Practise changing a tire to make sure you know you have and can use to required tools.
DUCT tape get item for repairs to many things while camping.
Heavy string or cord to hang clothes from when you have bad weather days.and need to dry it out.
Bring a spirit of adventure and that should complete the list.

Anybody know a good camping spot near banff/ Calgary AB?

We are looking for a good spot to go camping in the woods in tents. we do not want a family campground but something more "friday the 13th" style?

Answer
You can pack into the backpacking trail along 30 mile creek trailhead that starts at a parking lot outside Banff near the downhill ski lifts of Mount Norquay.

Don't quite know what you mean by "Friday the 13th" style but if you are looking for danger, that valley is grizzly bear territory. Last time I backpacked there we found bear scat and trees that had been clawed 8 feet above the ground. And when we got back to our van after 5 days in the backcountry, the guy parked next to us had his car door ripped off by a bear who broke in to get a bag of food he had left inside. That should add a thrill to the outing for you.

The campground at Lake Minnewanka outside Banff is cool -- near the lake, trails for mountain biking, secluded tent sites in the trees but also concrete bathrooms and covered cooking huts with picnic tables and grills. No big RV's or screaming brats. One thing about camping in the Canadian Rockies is you can pretty much count on rain or snow any time you go out so having a place to get out of the occasional rain is a plus.

You could also check out the Climbers Campground across from the Athabasca Glacier tongue along the Icefields Parkway. Had some good times there in my crazy youth. Watch out for the drunken demented climbers with their ice axes.:-)

I've hiked in Kananaskis (near Canmore) but never camped out there -- there are likely some good secluded campsites in that area. The 1997 movie "The Edge" with Anthony Hopkins was filmed there in Kananaskis (it was supposed to look like Alaska). Rent the movie if you want to see what that area looks like. Of course, there's that scary grizzly in that one too.........

Have fun! And bring lots of bandaids...............

Camping in state parks?

cefur d

Are people allowed to camp in a tent in a state park?

Does anyone have any suggestions on where I can go camping around NY/NJ area around October? This is my first time. I'd like somewhere where I can go boating as well.

Answer
There is certainly some tent camping available. I recommend that you check out this website for New York:

http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7825.html

You can see what amenities each campground has.

This site gives similar info for New Jersey:

http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/camping.html

By the way, I have never camped in either state. A good way of finding this kind of information is to go to Google and type the name of the state, "dnr" (department of natural resources) and "camping".

Anyone have good recommendations for tent camping in North Jersey, PA, Southern New York, or Delaware?

dtkdrummer

We are located in North Jersey, near morristown, looking for camping anywhere near it. Rather have more secluded, but as long as its with tents, it's doable.

Answer
High Point State Park; Wawayanda State Park - the AT runs right through there and its like 30 min. from where you primitive campsites (there are less primitive too if thats what you prefer. Abram S. Hewitt State Forest. NY - Harriman State Park about 40 min. from you awesome caves.

Any family tent camping groups in southern California?

ANTHONY

Have a 4 and 5 year old who enjoy camping. I am wondering if there is a family oriented camping group in southern California.

Answer
The YMCA, Boys/girls club, Boy Scouts of America are all active family outdoor organizations at 4-5 that's on the young side for camping related activities with these groups but they do have family camps where the whole family can attend camp together. Calvary Chapel Costa mesa also has a family camping group and also has a family summer camp where they cater to young families such as yours as well. here is the info for that

http://www.calvarychapelcostamesa.com/events/family-camp-1

Tents for family camping?

Does anyone know where I could buy a tent ( online or in store ) that would be fire retardant FREE . ..?
I really need a new tent but I want to get one with no fire retardants.

Answer
I believe most tents have fire retardant. Your best bet would be one of the canvas tent suppliers. They make tepees and period tents from canvas and some are made to order. I'll bet they make a tent and then add the fire retardant. They would probably be the mfg. that has what you require.

Glacier or Yellowstone National Park for Vaction in late July?

sammie76us

My family an I are planing a camping trip in late July. We have 6 children they are 12,10,9,8,3 and 1. We camp in a tent and love to hike. Last year we went to Glacier and we all loved it. We took the kids on a 12.8 mile hike on the high line trail they did awesome. We have been camping and hiking with them since they were very little. Any way my mother-in-law keeps suggesting that we go to Yellowstone this year. So my question is we love to hike and we also don't like tons of people. Which is a better fit for us??? Thanks

Answer
I've been to both parks and have plans to visit both again in late June. Like you I enjoy hiking and dislike crowds. Glacier is one of my favorite parks and I've been to 37 of our 58 national parks so far. In my opinion if you and the kids have seen Yellowstone before and would prefer the solitude of the mountain trails, then skip it and go to Glacier. However, if you haven't been to Yellowstone before, don't knock it until you've seen it. Why not split your time and spend two or three days in Yellowstone before going to Glacier to escape the crowds.

Yellowstone is a one of a kind national park and certainly worth a visit. I'm sure the kids will appreciate seeing the various thermal features (hang on to the little ones when on the boardwalks) and Yellowstone Falls. The crowds will be concentrated around the more accessible sites but you can get away from a lot of that by going to the more remote locations or those that require some effort to get to. As an example, you'll probably find tons of people at the lower Yellowstone Falls viewpoints scattered along the northern rim of the canyon but if you drive over to Artist's Point you'll find it less crowded. And, if you hike down to the lower viewing platform you'll find much, much fewer people there because of the effort required to get there and back. The same can be said of the Geyser Hill trail overlooking the Upper Geyser Basin where Old Faithful is located. To get away from the crowds, hike out to the Lone Star Geyser or up to Mt Washburn. There are ways of escaping the crowds even in a heavily visited park like Yellowstone. Pick up a book on Yellowstone trails and you may decide to spend your entire week there.

If it turns out that you don't enjoy your time in Yellowstone, at least you can tell grandma "been there, done that." Whatever you decide, have fun.

Where to camp in or around yellowstone national park late May? Do we need reservations or just wait til there?

Sam

were going to yellowstone may 21-25. Where are good camp grounds with showers? Were camping in tents. Should we stay in yellowstone or somewhere around Yellowstone? honestly im a little nervous about stayin in yellowstone due to bears! Do we need to reserve a camp ground before we go? we were thinkin about just waiting til we get there so we can see what our options are and location wise decide where we wanna be...? is this a bad idea though?

Answer
Some of the campgrounds in the park may not be open depending on the amount of snow. Some have showers and some don't. That early in the season you probably won't need reservations. There are always some spots left that aren't reserved. Just plan on arriving at about 10 or 11 am when others are checking out. There are also campgrounds outside the park, but I would recommend staying in the park if you can to take advantage of Ranger Interpretive programs and hikes.

Don't worry about the bears. If you follow the park rules like storing all food, cosmetics, toothpaste, etc. in your car or in the bear lockers provided at the campsites and wash and change your clothes after cooking before you go to bed, etc. odds are you'll be just fine. Considering the number of people visiting the park every year and the number of bears you are much more likely to be hit by lightening. You will probably be fortunate to even see a bear in the distance since they are hazed away or trapped and relocated if they come near the campgrounds.

An important tip: Bring binoculars or a spotting scope and as you go through the park, any time you see a group of cars parked or a group of people, stop and ask someone what they are looking at. You will see a lot more that way. Don't miss the Lamar Valley! Get up really early and be there before dawn for your best chance of seeing wolves.

Have a great time!

Can't remember name of lake town in CA!?

I camped at a lake in Northern (but not too far north) CA a few years back and I'm having trouble remembering the name! It was a fairly large campsite, with some RVs and lots of tents. It wasn't secluded at all, and there were bathrooms with showers. I'm pretty sure there was a convenience store as well. I think you could swim in the lake...

They showed outdoor movies at night...don't remember much else. I'm just desperately trying to remember the name! I'd guess that it is a couple hours from SF.

Any ideas???
*Thanks for your idea, ShyAngel, but it's much more obscure/less breathtaking than Tahoe. Much smaller. You can rent cabins/houses around the area, but also camp.

Answer
Well, there are lots of Lakes in Northern California, some natural, some not. Do you remember if it was a "lake" or a "reservoir?" Some of the possible locations are:
Rollins lake, near Colfax
Folsom Lake, near Sacramento
Lake Almanor, near Chester
Lake Shaster, near Mount Shasta
hope you find it.

what are good places in california to go camping?

Answer
Wow...hard question to answer.

It really depends on what other things you want to do, and what type of weather you're expecting.

There's coastal camping, that will be cooler (potentially foggy), but lets you see the beautiful beaches that California offers.

There's lake camping, river camping, and mountain camping, in all different kinds of altitudes and eco-systems.

Not to mention the fact that tent camping and RV camping are totally different.

So, without knowing what you're looking for, here's some of my opinion! I like the weather hot, so I'd have a tendency to go to the central valley, or to the southern part of the state.

Lake Shasta is neat...there's a lot of shallow fingers around the coast of the lake, which keeps the water warm and very swimmable. It's part of the Trinity National Forest, which includes all kinds of hiking and outdoor activities. While there, I recommend visiting Shasta Caverns!

Not far from Shasta is Lassen, which is an active volcanic site...Lots of bubbling mud pits and stinky sulphur - fun for kids! Lassen is at really high altitude, though, so be cautious not to over-do it...the oxygen can be hard to find!

I have to also bring up the Truckee/Tahoe area. The water in Donner Lake and Lake Tahoe is too cold most of the year for swimming, but if you go in August or September it's not too bad. It's really beautiful there, and there's lots to do, including the Donner Party Museum! Also fun for kids, and can work kinda like the boogey man to keep them in line!

It has been too many years since I've been to Yosemite, but obviously, that's a great place to go...These days it's really hard to get in, so camping at a private campground outside the park is probably easiest...Just south of Yosemite is King's Canyon/Sequoia National Park, which of course has the giant redwood trees that you can drive your car through.

I also love Pismo Beach. It's the only place in California where you can actually drive your car on the beach. Most of the beach has only pit toilets, but if you have the patience to drive or walk up the beach, there is a public restroom that also has cold showers. What's really fun about Pismo is the dunes...You can rent quads there, and fly around (literally!) on miles and miles of sand dunes.

Wherever you go, I hope you have fun!

When camping during summer (in a tent, might be rain), what would you recommend sleeping on?

Mark

I feel like a sleeping bag might be to warm, but a pad and sheet might get soaked in the rain

Answer
In the summer, car camping, with the ability to bring whatever use a cot get your self up off the ground. You will stay dry your gear will stay dry. Also do the following as well.

When you gotta carry the gear in, find a spot with an ever so slight slope and set your tent on a poly sheet foot print of the tent. Set it correctly no sagging and use the rain fly.Trench around the tent just enough to create a "rain gutter" to drain water away from the tent. Inside the tent use a ground insulation barrier like a thermarest pad and keep your self and your gear away from the walls of the tent. keep the ventilation open as best you can to allow moisture to evaporate away.

any tips when going 4 camping, especially in the tropics? what if i get lost?

nuijnoob

what kind of tools should i bring, food... what kind of clothes n shoes should i wear? any other things that i should be aware of... like danger animals, insects, poisonous plants... or something else... more information would be better, as much as possible...

Answer
Tent camping in the jungles of Central America and Mexico may provide one with the freedom to "set up camp" anywhere a whim may lead. This is true to a certain extent. But, there are certain considerations which must be exercised to facilitate an enjoyable experience.
My main motivation for writing this article is the huge volume of mail I receive requesting information on "how to camp in the jungle safely and comefortably." My several years of camping and expeditioning in the jungles of Mexico and Central America, has given me by trial and error, learned practices from the local indians, and invention brought about by need, some invaluable tips on keeping safe, dry and happy, in this environment of highly active microbes, insects, reptiles and tropical precipitation.

Where to set up camp:

Tenting is generaly safe to do in most 'national parks', biosphere reserves, and protected areas -- at most times of the year throughout Latin America. I usually recommend not camping near streams or rivers, which may be prone to flash flooding after a rain - rain which may be falling unknown to you in another valley far from your location. The most common mishap while jungle camping, usually ending in the death of the camping party, is the flash flood. One should endeavor to camp at least 25-feet above rivers and streams -- if possible. Setting up camp along beaches in or near an urban center may be a dangerous idea. Avoid this practice if at all possible. Beach camping near urban centers will make you an easy, high profile, and vulnerable target for the criminal. There are always cheap accommodations to be found at around $2-$5 per night. I've generally found that camping in remote areas of Central America near small villages, to be a much safer practice. When camping outside National Parks and Biosphere Reserves, try and track down the owner of the land you are contemplating setting up camp on - if at all possible. And, ask permission!

Biting insects and snakes:

I've found that poisonous snakes encounters are not that common while camping/tenting in Central America & Mexico. The fer-de-lance is just one of many many pit vipers (poisonous snakes) found on the jungle floor, and, in the trees. The general rule for setting up a jungle camp is: In areas where no clearing is provided for set-up, clear the camping area of low growth with a machete. Always use a hiking staff to probe unseen areas under thick growth for snakes before cutting. The best situation is setting up on a raised platform, off the jungle floor. Remember, many species of poisonous snakes are remarkably small. Some coral snakes are merely a foot long, and, thinner than a small finger; they could indeed slither through a minute opening in the zipper closure of your tent. If platforms are not available, check the forest floor carefully for ant trails and anthills. Avoid camping on or near an ant metropolis. Brushing away ant trails will simply empower these little survivors to bridge the gap again. When planning a camping foray into a protected area reserve, find out where the designated camping areas are before you clear any potentially near-extinct flora.

Do all your bathroom business before getting into your tent for the evening. Avoid drinking fluids in large quantities before sleeping -- which will cause you to exit the tent at night to urinate. Getting bitten by malaria infected mosquitoes is exponentially proportional to the quantity of times you exit your tent at night. And remember, snakes such as the fer-de-lance, or "barba-amarilla" in local lingo, are most active at night. Avoid walking around in the jungle at night if at all possible. Or, if you must work in this situation, purchase "snake chaps" before doing so. When walking in the jungle, watch where you place every footstep. When stopped in the jungle, you may look up into the trees. When walking, concentrate on where you place each footstep, not on looking up into the trees! The most common place for a poisonous snake to bite you is on the foot or ankle. Be careful when climbing over logs blocking the trail. Some species of poisonous snakes may be found in higher numbers living along river banks. Ask the local people if there is a snake problem in the general area. Its also a good idea to hire a local to accompany you into the jungle. It probably won't cost you much and his/her information and guidance may prove to be invaluable.

Antivenon. Yes or no?

One member of your camping group must have at least two "Sawyer venom extraction kits." Learn how to use the kits before venturing into the jungle; especially when you may be many hours or days away from emergency medical facilities. You may be able to purchase the snake antivenon from several sources in Costa Rica (ie. Instituto Picado); just the administration of the "horse syrum" snake antivenon itself may cause the bite victim to fall into shock and die of alergic reaction. You need to be a trained medical specialist to administer snake antivenon. A sheep syrum based antivenon is currently being worked on, which is far less likely to induce shock and death to its recipient. But this is still far from being available commercially.

Keeping your food from being eaten by critters:

The most efficient way to keep your food safe from rodents and insects, is to keep everything edible inside sealed containers -- such as the Nalgene plastic bottle. If you have just a few crumbs inside your pack, (inside your tent) a rat will certainly snif it out and chew through the wall of the tent, and the pack's cloth to get at the crumbs. You can be absolutely certain of that. Practice good housekeeping in the jungle. Keep all food outside your living quarters in sealed bottles. Hang all sealed foods from a tree limb inside a food net. Avoid eating in your tent. Store your washed pots and pans in the hanging food net as well. For cooking and drinking water, you'll have to filter then purify. I use the "Katadyne" filter, because it has proven over the years, to be the most reliable. Period. You can't afford to fool with your health in the jungle. A new Katadyne "Pocket Filter" will clean 50,000 liters of water on one ceramic filter. There are no filters made that will trap the dreaded virus. Only chemical add-on attachments to some water filters will accomplish this. After filtering the water, add one drop of chlorine (or equivalent POLAR-PURE) per liter, to kill the viruses.

Some of the viruses which may be found in the Central American water (fresh and saltwater) include: hepatitis-A, Polio, and worse. These are incurable diseases once they are contracted.

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Recommended equipment:

Tents:
Use a tent which is very well factory seam sealed including the fly - if possible. Make shure there are NO small holes around the zipper closure of your tent. A nasty, vicious biting ant called "sanpopos" crawl out of the ground during heavy rains, and have been known to get inside poorly sealed tents. Getting bitten by one of these ants is like someone putting out a lit cigarette on your skin. Use a sticky "duct tape" to seal the zipper opening if possible after you've crawled in for the night. Your tent should be of a design which promotes air circulation under the fly and is the most water resistant possible given your budget. Four-season tents are not a good idea for jungle use. They have a very restricted "air flow" under the fly and are large and heavy to carry. Use a "summer or biking" tent. Remember to seam seal all sewing/stitching in the corners of your tent if this in not already done. Applying a seam sealant in a high humidity environment is not a good idea as the sealant will take forever to cure! Seam seal before you leave for the humid jungle.

Some light-weight $120-$220 tents I recommend for jungle camping:

Walrus Arch Rival two-man. Has factory sealed heavy duty fly made of tough polyester fabric for extra UV and rain resistance. Has no-see-um netting tight weave over a greater area for super ventilation. Optional very heavy duty footprint to keep those sharp spear-like stems you may have cut away to clear your camp area from puncturing your tent floor. This tent is VERY water resistant under heavy tropical rain (provided you set up on well drained ground). Weight about 4.2 lbs.

Similar tents: Kelty Windfoil

Eureka Apex two-man. Has "high-low" climate control system door design to allow greater control of air flow through the tent. Has greater surface coverage of no-see-um netting in four locations throughout the tent. You need to seam seal this tent but after a good sealant job, its quite water-tight. This tent may be used in locales where you are exposed to possible lightening hits - the use of fiberglass poles over aluminum makes it less conductive/attractive to lightening strike (I said "less conductive" not a guarantee). This tent is a little heavier at about 6 lbs.

Similar tents: Eureka Zephyr

Eureka Summer Breeze is a one-man ultra light tent with fiberglass poles. Total weight is 2.9 lbs. This tent needs to be seam sealed well but, is quite water- tight after. This tent is for technical trekkers who want to travel light. There is not much room inside but one could fit their 80-liter pack inside in a squeeze.

Similar tents: Outbound Clip Corona Plus Bivouac, Outbound Clip Andromeda Bivouac

Sleeping bag/sack under $100:
Archipel 900 Gram extremely small packed size about 14" x 5.5". Has 350gr of Thinsulate Liteloft. Keeps you warm when fill is saturated with humidity. Dries out very quickly in tropical sun. Weight 2 lbs.

Similar sleeping bags: Archipel Bikelite, Kelty Nomad 55 deg

Camping stoves for use in developing countries under $30:
Transporting any type of fuel for your camping stoves such as naphta, methyl hydrate, kerosene, propane/butane etc...aboard a commercial passenger aircraft from the USA and Canada is absolutely not permitted!. This includes the packing in your luggage of a used camp stove (one which has had fuel in its container). You'll have to bring down a new campstove in your check-in luggage which is COMPLETELY factory clean of fuel. Compounding the problem of transporting your used camp stove is the fact that there is no naphta or any fancy propane/butane bottles for ministoves available in most of Central America. The only exceptions are some city centers in Mexico and Costa Rica. Even so, you may not be able to find naphta or white gas even there. Also, virtually ALL the unleaded gasoline in Central America is contaminated with suspended solids and sometimes water. This includes K-1 or kerosene. You will clog your generator on your stoves very quickly if you do not double filter any fuel bought in Central America. Finding "clean" kerosene at a gas station is very difficult at best. Last time I was in Honduras (1997) it took us hours to find any facility with decently clean kerosene at all. If you want to bring your Peak I or equivalent, buy at least three spare generators for each week you plan on camping and using the stove. You'll also need to bring down heating paste to "pre-heat" your generator if burning kerosene. I would have to recommend using "denatured alcohol" or "isoplopyl alcohol" burning stoves - mostly used in Europe. It will take you longer to boil water and heat your food but the fuel is generally available in most pharmacies and hardware stores in developing countries.

Trangia Denatured Alcohol Stove extremely small packed volume with the stand -- about the size of a large electric shaver. Weight about 6.5 ozs. (minus the pot & pan set and wind screen). I would highly recommend you get the aluminum wind screen and pot & pan set with the unit (about 14 ozs). This stove is used by the Swedish army and for good reason. The unit is so small that I would bring a second one (minus the wind screen $25) to heat water with. Remember, never use this stove in your tent. The flame is almost invisible. Because of the clean burning nature of this stove the burned fuel produces absolutely NO smoke and therefore NO sooty black pots to scrub. You can also burn isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) in the Trangia but because isopropyl alcohol has 3-carbons instead of denatured alcohol's 2-carbons, it will produce black smoke and therefore dirty black pots. Trangia products are available from MSR and any MSR dealer. To further decrease the heating/boiling time with your Trangia set, I would recommend you buy a "Hurricane" pot & pan set (sometimes quite difficult to locate a retail store with any stock). This increases the heating efficiency of the Trangia stove by up to 20%. The Hurricane has its own built-in wind screen therefore you don't need the Trangia's pot & pan set or the Trangia wind screen. A similar pot & pan set to the Hurricane is the "MSR XPD Heat Exchanger". The major difference between Hurricane & MSR XPD units are the MSR's lack of a built-in wind screen. XPD prices are around $34.

Similar alcohol stoves:There is another European (German) made "isopropyl alcohol" stove about the size of a coffee mug but I could not find a reseller in North America. The translated price of this unit in US dollars is: $25.

Special "must-have" clothing for tropical trekking:
Avoid any cotton clothing (underwear and socks included) when trekking and camping in the tropics. Though, I broke this rule once and wore a pair of cotton/canvas expedition shorts. Cotton will never dry out completely in the 80-99% constant humidity of the rain forest. Cotton clothing will go mouldy after stored in your pack in as little as 5-days. You'll find it very difficult to bleach out the mould and you can never get rid of the "horrible odour" of some moulds. Cotton will get damp and wet and stay wet during your entire expedition -- even the so-called "tropical light-weight" cotton clothing. Cotton socks and underwear are absolute no-no's. Trekking in the hot tropics with a pair of socks with greater than 10% cotton content will almost certainly ruin and blister your feet. Use a "thin topped" and "dense soled" sock such as the ULTIMAX, THOR-LO, DU-RAY, WIGWAM, etc...brands which are made up of apprx. 38% wool, 45% acrylic, 9% nylon, 6% holofil and 2% spandex (for elasticity). If you wish, you may use a thin polypropylene liner sock to wick away perspiration). The above type of sock will keep your feet relatively dry and with good boots, relatively blister free. The above socks will also dry much quicker than cotton socks. Polypropylene underwear is an absolute must in tropical humidity. Cotton underwear will chafe and irritate you and may render you immobile. The cost of this underwear is about four times that of cotton but it is more than worth it.

Rabu, 05 Februari 2014

Quiet beach spot around Vancouver that you might even be able to set a camping tent just for a day?

mohsen

I'm looking for a beach in Vancouver with minimum traffic that ideally you're the only couple in there. Any suggestion?? Thanks :)

Answer
It's illegal to camp on beaches around Vancouver (for public health reasons, among others). That's true of any densely populated urban area like it anywhere in the US or Canada. If they did not enforce such measures the beaches would be clogged with squatters and the cities would have to maintain toilet facilities and other services to avoid befouling the areas.

Closest place nearby I can think of would be to rent kayaks in Deep Cove, northwest of the city, and paddle up to the end of Indian Arm fiord to camp there.

Or take the ferry to Vancouver Island and find camping areas near the shores there. Most areas restrict camping actually on beaches anyway. You have to be set back a ways from the actual beaches for various reasons including interfering with day use and natural habitats and the fact that most people are clueless about the levels that the tides reach on coastlines.

What is the best area to go camping in B.C?

Whitey

Looking to plan some summer camping trips and would like to go somewhere in BC. We are from Seattle and would like to see some of what BC has to offer.
No RV camping, it would be tent camping with 2 young children.
Open to suggestions! Mountains, Lakes, Rivers, etc..

Answer
So many good places, it's hard to choose. Vancouver Island, if you have time. Miracle Beach, north of Courtenay, is one of the nicest campgrounds I've ever seen. Huge campsites, many very private. Shallow beach and trails right there, shallow sandy beach just north of there at Saratoga Beach. Mini golf and go-kart track nearby, grocery store too. Tofino area has great campgrounds and of course those wonderful beaches but you need to book ahead because they fill up fast in summer and they're on the expensive side for campgrounds. Crystal Cove is a really nice private campground with a small beach right there to walk on even at night. If you go to Tofino, you must stop at the Goats on the Roof store at Coombs along the way. Cool place, good food to buy to stock up on groceries or eat there, busy busy in summer, plan an hour or so for it. Englishman River is nice. Jingle Pot campground, close to Nanaimo, isn't a truly stunning place in many ways but is very convenient and if you're there at the right time, it's got the most incredible collection of lilies I've seen anywhere. The air is filled with the scent.

If you're coming to Vancouver Island and heading for the north end, you can take a ferry from Tsawwassen to Duke Point near Nanaimo which saves a few hours over going through Victoria though Victoria is a good place to visit. You can reserve for the ferry which is always wise in summer.

The Sunshine Coast, north of Vancouver, has Porpoise Bay which is nice. Alice Lake, up towards Whistler, is very popular. The Okanagan around Kelowna/Kamloops has some good places and you can come home again through Washington for some variety. Along Hwy 3 east from Hope, there's Manning Park with a few campgrounds and quite a few trails and there are a lot of campgrounds along Hwy 3, some of them off the highway a bit. Nice area, though, and a nice drive. If you go along that way, there's a pretty little spot at the municipal campground at Midway which is at least good for a lunch stop though it has little privacy because it's really just a long strip of lawn along the Kettle River. Quiet, though, and cheap. Get there early and get the last spot at the end for more privacy.

Highway 1 has some really gorgeous scenery, as does going north through Whistler to Kamloops.

Provincial campgrounds in BC are of much the same standard as state grounds in Washington. Hardly a real dog among them so choose one with confidence. BC Parks website will have info on amenities.

Lichfield Yuchi 8 person Tent?

Jeannette

How easy is this tent to assemble?

Answer
It's fine. It's a tunnel design and all tunnel tents are easy to put up.
Litchfield is a nice company, been going for years. The symbol comes from Litchfield Cathedral, which has three spires.
The Yuchi is quite a popular tent and it's roomy, easy to go up, and a good buy.
However, there is another Litchfield tent, the Mohawk 8-person tent, which although it has more poles is just as easy to put up and it has a better shape.
It's a straight through tunnel with no funny bits so you can put another cover right over it as easy as hanging the washing out.
All tents can benefit from an extra cover because it not only keeps windblown grit off the main fabric it provides more space easily for storing bulky things like chidrens toys and it also makes a porch, all from a plain and simple groundsheet from B&Q, Aldi, or whichever is your local DIY or garden store, or even from supermarkets, plus some washing line for guy lines and a packet of pegs.
A straight tunnel design means the cover will lay straight over it and can be pegged down at the back leaving the front raised on a couple of bamboo or other poles for a porch or pointing downwards a bit using long guy lines without any poles. It's an easy and cheap addition to a tent which makes it 100% waterproof even over an old leaky tent, it's warmer at night, and gives added security if you all want to go for a walk by just pegging the cover down all the way round.
People in festivals often use that ploy to keep their tents safer with thousands of teenage ravers around.
Both tents are easy to put up. Lay a large groundsheet down first to put the tent on. It keeps the tent floor clean underneath and when the tent is up just tuck the edges of the groundsheet under all the way round and all the rain coming off the tent will fall outside it and you keep a nice dry floor.
Unwrap the tent, lay it over the groundsheet and peg the corners out loosely, thread the poles through the lines of loops, get the base pegs adjusted again so the floor is tight all over with no creases, fix the guy lines, and sit down inside for a cup of tea or whatever.
Simple. Errrr.......yeah, OK. Ought to be simple.
Occasionally there will be a problem of wind springing up, or a long pole comes to bits when you're threading it through the loops but you soon pick up how to stop that happening with poles and the basic job is really straightforward.
Sometimes a bit of washing doesn't behave either.
Cor, that wind. ...bloomin' thing....dropped it now...I dunno......
Same with tents whichever model they are, or anything else. They all have the usual odd bits that play up funny sometimes.
Just keep smiling.....we all get those days with tents or anything else.
Here is the Yuchi and below it is the Mohawk. Scroll down for the sleeping plan and you'll see the Mohawk is not bad at all for space, and the Â£10 saving will help to buy a groundsheet to put under it.
http://www.tents-direct.co.uk/show_tents.php?productid=1577 . . . . .
http://www.tents-direct.co.uk/show_tents.php?productid=1558 . . . . . .
Now you'll see that line of poles it's got although the tent itself is actually smaller than the pictured one which has the tunnel extension fitted.
That pole arrangement makes a strong and stable structure which will be more secure than the Yuchi.
It's also got an entrance at both ends so it's easy to keep it aired out and you can use whichever end is least windy for the main coming and going entrance and close the other one off.
And it's so easy to cover...it's a dream that one and I don't work for Litchfield or any outdoor goods company.
I just go camping and I use tunnel tents almost exclusively because of the ease of covering them and the ease of putting them up, plus the benefit of the best space to weight ratio of any design of tent and the stability of the tunnel arangement in a high wind.
The Yuchi is still a good tent and the sloping ends makes it good in a wind if it's pointing the right way. It just not as easy to cover well without getting puddles on the cover if the wet stuff comes down because of the shape it's going over but the tent itself is quite good in heavy rain anyway as the Mohawk is.
A cover though makes it even better and it reduces wear on the tent.
Blinded with science.....well, experience anyway. I camp out on mountains...got caught in a blizzard at 14 000 feet in the Andes but my Vango tunnel tent took it easy. No problems and I stayed warm and dry inside the tent for two days while the blizzard raged outside and cut the pass off with forty feet of snow so I finished up going back where I came from down in the Atacama Desert.
Quite a trip that one to get nowhere...laugh it off. The guys thought I'd be dead when they saw the storm hit the mountain.
Never had such a hero's welcome when I got back nearly a week after I left ...good old tunnel tent.
Vango too....top British quality and Litchfield aren't bad either.
Here's a lady bothered about a tent but I found it's a tunnel so she'll have no big problems at all.
The Yuchi goes up almost exactly the same and the Mohawk is very little different...just all straight-through poles instead of an angled one mixed in with them.
http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100724005430AAtY2Lr
Have a load of fun.

What kind of camping tent is good for 8 people? Hot temperatures and sand at camp site, needs to be light.?

sidulrike

WeÂ´re planning to travel to our camping ground by airplane, so it canÂ´t be too heavy. WeÂ´ll be 5 people so IÂ´m looking for an 8 person tent. Any advise?

Answer
Hi there!

I have a big family and when we do our big leisurely camping trips, we always use our 8-person 2-room camping tent. The best I've found (and the best deal out there in my opinion) is the Columbia Cougar Flats II. It's a 15' x 10' dome tent with two rooms and space for up to eight people - though in my opinion, eight people would be terribly cramped in there. I'd say six max, which sounds perfect for you.

It utilizes the GoBe Dry System to keep all the moisture out in it rains - probably won't be much humidity in the desert, so you're fine there. It has a full seam-taped polyester fly with a waterproof coating as well. The frame is a hybrid steel and fiberglass which I've found to be very durable and long-lasting (this baby's endured the abuse of my family for many many trips now). It is spacious but has lots of storage like pocket pouches, hanging cup holders, lockers and a hanging gear loft.

Make sure you do plenty of research to find the tent that suits you best, but this would definitely be my recommendation. It's worked great for me and my family. If you need any other camping tips or ideas, check out my new camping blog:

http://camping-guru.blogspot.com/

Enjoy your trip and happy camping!

Tent Camping in Colorado?

Doc 13

ok I am huge outdoors-men, and I love camping. However when I say camping I mean Camping NOT parking an RV. does anyone know any good tent campsites that allow open campfires and preferably are secluded from or do not have RV sites. I live in Colorado Springs but distance is not a huge issue but would like to keep it to a couple hours or so

Answer
How about some of the campgrounds along The Cache La Poudre River,west of Fort Colins on highway 14.

Is there a campground along the Colorado River from Parker to Lake Havasu?

Trigger

Am looking for a place to camp on the Colorado River...Right on the water!!!!!!

Answer
Moabi Regional Park, rated 7 (of 10), on the Colorado River. 600 sites, hookups, recreation, etc. Check

www.co.san-bernardino.ca.us/parks/moabi

South of Blythe, try Palo Verde County Park, "near the Colorado River". No other camp around for many miles. Near a bend in the Colorado, near Cibola Nat'l Wildlife Refuge. Free for tents & RVs. No drinking water.

Take I-10 to Hwy. 78. South on 78 twenty miles (S of Palo Verde) to park.

quiet tent camping near Harrisburg/ south PA?

whoknowswh

hi, i am going on a small roadtrip with a friend to Green Ridge State Forest from NJ. We wanted to stop halfway which would be around harrisburg area. Does anyone know of any quiet more secluded tent camping near this area of PA? It does not have to have bathrooms or anything, just more of a place to camp for a night or two and We dont really want to be in a noisy family area and prefer to be more quiet.
I was looking at maybe Fowler's Hollow (but i am having trouble finding out how expensive it is, etc. etc. Thank you!

Answer
I sent you the link to the PA DCNR site for Fowler's Hollow when you asked about this before. Here's a tip: go to the sites for campgrounds and select "make reservation" then go through the steps. Once you have selected a date and campsite it will give you the option to see the price. Fowler's Hollow primitive sites are $19 a night in May. Prices may change based on the dates. Note that they are pretty well already booked up now so if you are planning on staying there you had better check now to see if they will have space for you. Here is the link to sites available for tents on May 23, for example. Click on the green "per night" to see the price per site:

http://www.pa.reserveworld.com/SiteSearch.aspx

In fact, based on the "availability calendar" on the Fowler's site, I think they may be closed for camping until Memorial Day weekend. This may be the case in a lot of parks, especially this year when the state has been cutting back on funds and personnel at the parks.

As I warned, this is a popular area for camping and it is near heavily populated areas. Don't count on cruising in late in the evening and finding a space to camp. Pick your destination now and make reservations or you may have a frustrating time finding the ideal place to rest for the night.

Looking for a semi - secluded tent camping spot in Western PA?

adas

Hi I live in Pittsburgh and want to go camping in a semi-secluded area with some type of water (creek, river, pond, lake) for fishing and to be able to have a camp fire at night drinking a few beers. Most places around me or that I know of all the camping spots are right next to each other, that are run by the state, which means no drinking at night by the fire and your super close to the next camper . I want a place that I can camp and not be near people. Anyone know any within a 2 hour radius? I'd be willing to pay a fare amount of money to have this.
Also, we would like to go 9/2/2011 -9/4/2011.
Any help or suggestions would be much appreciated!
Thanks!!

Answer
yes, plenty of places in Allegheny National Forest but you need to be willing to hike back in a few miles for a secluded area. The John P Saylor Trail about 2 hours east near Johnstown is a nice 13 miles loop with a lot of pretty tent sites along it including some streamside (though I doubt there is much to fish for). No charge to camp there but also no services (like toilets or drinking water.) You'll have to pack in all you need..

Bear in mind this is a holiday weekend and you may not be able to be terribly picky about being "secluded" or snagging the most desirable spots, especially if you plan on a drive-up site. Nearly everyone wants to camp by the water and any site with good fishing is likely to already have people laying claim to it. You might want to consider renting a canoe and going down Tionesta Creek up in the Allegheny Forest. Lots of cool campsites on sandbars along there and no one will bother you.

Another option is about 2 hours south of the 'Burgh in Coopers Rock state park in West Virginia. There is camping in the park itself (if you are discreet about your alcohol use, not whooping naked around the fire, you are not likely to be bothered) and also more relaxed camping across the highway from the park (same exit but go the other way) at Chestnut Ridge campground. It's a developed large private camping area with some cabins and a stocked lake, but there are also some wooded primitive areas where you can have a bit of privacy.

Check the PA DCNR website for recommendations on fishing. Since I don't fish I am not an expert on areas that would be best for that.

warped tour 2012(@london uk)?

chelsie lo

i want to go to warped tour at london because botdf are gonna be there, could you awnser these questions please,,

how much its it (i think its Â£40 not sure tho)
whos gonna be there (i heared 3oh!3 and botdf(YAY!!) so far)
do you have to camp there
how long dose it last
what age is it someone told me 14+(i will be 15 in august and the concets in november)
do you get to meet the singers ??

thankyou ,, best awnser will be chosen

Answer
I don't know about the UK but in America, tickets are around $50. You could just look it up.
You can find the bands that are playing online, too.
You don't have to camp...I don't think anyone does, but get there early in the morning if you want. Even if you get there right when doors open, it doesn't really matter since it's a festival.
It lasts from like 11AM-10PM.
It's all ages.
Yeah, they have signings all the time at the tents, and if you're lucky, sometimes you can see them just walking around the venue.

Download Festival 2012?!?

Kallon

Hey Guys, So I want to go to This Year's Download Festival, and I was on the website looking at the line-ups.
I was really happy when I saw that Metallica are head-lining, but I was wondering something.
Its written like this:

Saturday 9th June
METALLICA performing the legendary black album in all its entirety
BIFFY CLYRO
TENACIOUS D
Steel Panther
Trivium
Black Veil Brides
Saxon
As I Lay Dying

And, the ones I seriously want to see are Metallica and Black Veil Brides, so I want to know if I bought the 3 Night Camping Ticket to see Metallica, would I also be able to go and see Black Veil Brides and the other listed artists without question?

Other Minor Stuff I was Wondering:
Is Download safe?
Is there an Age Limit?
Do the listed Artists play every day?

Answer
That list you've just written is the Saturday lineup for the Main Stage. You could save lots of money and just get a day ticket for saturday instead of going for the whole three days (unless of course you want to go for three days). When you get there you just get given a wrist band that you show each time you go into the arena to prove you're allowed to be there. If you just got a day ticket your wristband would just be a different colour and so you could only get into the arena on the *saturday* if you had a saturday wristband.

Safe? There's security everywhere, but obviously there's a lot of drink and drugs in circulation, and the crowds can get rowdy so most people go home with a few bruises. You can pay to rent a locker to keep your valuables in if you don;t trust people not to rob your tent.

The age limit is six years old. You probably have to be 16+ to go without an adult.

Like I said, those artists are the saturday lineup, different bands play on friday and sunday. If you look at the lineup, he first list is friday, the one in the middle is saturday (the one you listed) and the one on the right is sunday. http://www.downloadfestival.co.uk/line-up/

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