My Best Cheap Tents For Camping: 2014-02-09

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Sabtu, 15 Februari 2014

What are the better quality family camping tents?

TCMJim

We would like to purchase a camping tent for the family. I am not too keen on dome tents as I am 6' tall and do not want to crawl around inside the tent. There are three of us but a fourth, mother in-law, may join us from time to time. We are not hard core backpackers so will be mostly staying in campsites for now. I want something easy to assemble. We are on somewhat of a budget so nothing over $500. However, we do not want to buy a cheap piece of junk either. Your help would be greatly appreciated

Answer
Big Agnes, Marmot, Kelty, Sierra Designs and Eureka are great brands that make excellent family tents for under $500. You can do so much better with that kind of money than a Coleman. Coleman is OK if you have a smaller budget, but if you can afford quality by having aluminum poles, better material and water proofing, vestibules, and all that, go for it. You'll have it a long time as long as it is cared for and stored properly.

camping tents?

rosemary j

what are some good quality camping tents

Answer
The best are made by a company called The North Face, but can be quite expensive. We camp all the time, and have a Coleman family tent, an Ozark Trail tent (from Wal-mart, I think made by Coleman), and an REI back-packer's 2-man tent. If you have any sporting goods store nearby (Bass Pro Shop has an excellent assortment), go in and talk to a sales person. Keep in mind that the size of the tent (how many people it sleeps) is a very crowded fit. For 4 people to be comfy, with duffelbags inside, you really need an 8-person tent. Keep in mind, too, seasonality, the type of material the floor is made of (you don't want it to tear if you have to put it up on a gravel or rocky area), and weight.

Is it safe to camp in the wilderness?

Austin

I know this sounds like a stupid question but I've grown up in a family where we don't camp or do anything outdoorsy and I would like to start learning to live and survive outdoors. I live in the country where there is an area way behinde my house that is a good spot to start learning however I know in my area there are bears, coyotes and other wildlife in the area back there and I am wondering how safe it would be to camp out there in a tent. Carrying anything more than a bb gun or a knife is out of the question so with that in mind is it safe. Thanks!
I can't carry more than that because I live in a house hold where guns are not allowed and I do not have a firearms license

Answer
It's not a stupid question. If you want to learn how to do wilderness camping, I suggest that you go with a group of people that have experience and can teach you skills. If you live somewhere where there is an REI, LL Bean or EMS outdoor store, they often have backpacking seminars and classes. You can also look on Meetup.com and see if there is a camping group in your area. You don't state how old you are, but if you are a teen there are groups like the Scouts where you can learn wilderness skills.

I've camped my whole life (more than 50 years) in areas where there are coyotes and bears and have never been bothered by them. As long as you don't leave food or garbage lying around your campsite they will have no reason to come near you. The people on here who claim you need a weapon to camp are silly and delusional. In fact, people who carry weapons camping are statistically more likely to hurt themselves or another person than to defend themselves from an animal. Most Black bears and coyotes don't bother people -- you have a million in one chance of anything happening to you camping out near where you live. We have black bears on our property (there are 100 acres of woods behind us) that come up on our porch to steel cat food. We chase them away by banging on a pan. The biggest danger in the woods is tick bites -- be sure to use bug repellent and check yourself all over each day to make sure none are stuck to you. You can get Lymes disease from tick bites, a nasty illness.

Besides a clean campsite, one way to deter animals is to pee around the edge of the area you are camped in, by the way.

Backpackers! Tent decision help?

rdsgbbftgc

Short version:
Tent 1- 5lbs, size is 95% of my perfect size
Tent 2 -6lbs11oz and is 125% of my perfect size

Do I buy the smaller one that is a nice weight and I just have to be conscious about not touching the walls at night? Or get the bigger one and carry unnecessary weight? This tent is for me alone and maybe a medium size dog.

Long version:
So, I've always been a car-camper, and am slowly building a different system so I can hike a few miles and then camp. Maybe 5 miles, maybe 10, not sure. I'm interested in the Marmot Limelight 2p(2-person)(http://www.rei.com/product/828149/marmot-limelight-2p-tent), but am concerned about the size. I bought it and when I'm in it diagonally with my sleeping bag I fit pretty much perfectly, my feet are right at the walls, but I tend to toss and turn at night and am not sure if it's worth it to get the 3-person version(http://www.rei.com/product/828150/marmot-limelight-3p-tent) which is pretty much only wider, but laying diagonally will get me more room. Also, I want to bring my future dog. We could cram in the 2-person decently enough I think.

For the purposes of this question, lets assume these tents are the only options. I know there's other tents that can work as an in-between option for me, but please let's leave those options for a different question.

So, I'm hoping to learn from other's mistakes. Is it generally better to get lighter weight stuff, but "rough-it" a bit more since I'm not going to be living in it for months at a time, or get something bigger and more comfortable but 2 lbs heavier since I'm not hiking 50 miles?

Thanks for your help in advance!

Answer
I would never choose a tent I didn't fit into, it makes no practical sense. Leaking shouldn't be a problem, but your head and feet will be cold in the winter without any air between you and the tent walls. And if you are a fitful sleeper already, the annoyance of being pressed against the walls isn't going to help.

You must be really tall, or maybe you're sleeping on a cot or thick air mattress that is positioning you up into the narrower portion of the tent. I'm 6'1" and have no problem fitting in the Limelight 2p.

Regardless of the overall length of your trip, you're going to have a maximum comfortable pack weight to be able to enjoy a full day of hiking. If you're just hiking in-and-out, staying for a few days or even a week at one location, the extra weight probably isn't going to be a factor. Even if it is, there are ways to save weight on all tents. You can leave behind the stuff sacks and tent stakes; just stuff your tent into your backpack, slide the poles in afterwards, and use found wood to cut stakes on-site. That will save you a pound or more in weight. You can literally shave off another 4oz or more by cutting-off labels and unnecessary pockets, loops and straps from your tent and other gear. This all might seem extreme, but consider that a down jacket like the Patagonia Down Sweater weighs under 14oz, or you can get 4 to 5 servings of cooked rice, beans or pasta per pound of dry weight. Besides, as anyone who's walked the walk knows, the lighter your pack the happier you'll be.

I think you're unnecessarily limiting yourself to a model of tents that aren't the best choice for your body. And in doing so you are eliminating options that could both be more comfortable AND reduce weight. I'd suggest you research the REI Quarter Dome T2 Plus tent. It is 6" longer than the Limelight 2p yet weighs only one extra ounce. If that's out of your budget you might look at the Eureka Spitfire 2, a non-freestanding tent that provides 10'9" of length in a 4.5lb package. Don't be concerned that Eureka isn't considered one of the "elite" tent brands, I've owned a Eureka Backcountry 2 tent for 20 years and it is still my choice for backpacking.

What do you suppose 1/4 inch of freezing rain would do to a $45 Walmart tent?

who WAS #1

2 man tent, 2 fiberglass poles. It has proven sturdy in strong wind, but I'm wondering what the weight would do.
If I had been thinking ahead i should have pitched it in the back yard just to see what happens.
I think its eggshell dome shape would have served it well.
I also have a much higher quality "wedge" shaped one-person tent which I think would not have done so well due to the long side of the triangle being up and at less than 45 degree angle.

Answer
That which does not break you makes you stronger. The relevant issue is not ice build-up, since the fabric can probably sustain the expansion of water as it freezes on the surface and may not even freeze depending on how much heat it receives from the tent interior, depending on the outside temperature. Most rain will be shed from the exterior.

The problem with the cheap tent is the failure to protect the interior with a full-length rain fly. The partial rain fly will likely allow penetration from high winds. Furthermore, the fiberglass poles are the Achille's heal, since they will bend and lay the tent flat in high winds, probably further exposing the vents and allowing moisture into the interior.

In order to survive a night, I think that I would want an interior shelter to prevent getting wet. A deep air mattress will keep you off the ground and allow rain to drain out the door if you set-up on a slight slope. Use all of the tie-downs and stake-out to minimize deformation. Look for a plastic lawn bag with about seven feet in length that can protect your sleeping bag from penetrating moisture. The correct size of bag is going to be difficult to find single and affordable, so a sheet of plastic such as painting drip tarp may be best for the purpose. Aternatively, go out and spend $200-$300 on a worthwhile tent with aluminum poles, durable fabric, and full rain fly that is adequate for the challenging weather conditions you will confront. REI Camp Dome 2, $100, should handle the trip. If you are going to be threatened in a cheap tent, I am concerned that your other gear may not be up to the circumstances.

Where to get a decent cheap tent?

Jake

I've just been away camping in my 2 man tent, it did the trick -just about! It was a very cheap one as it was a last minute thing to go to a festival, anyway, one night it rained a lot and every time the wind blew the tent a little water started dripping in! So i've decided its time to upgrade!

I'm looking for a 2 or 3 man tent with a small entrance area so i can keep my muddy boots out of the sleeping area and ideally i would like a double skinned one to keep condensation down to a minimum, I have something like this in mind - http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_786605_langId_-1_categoryId_236903

I don't want to spend more than about Â£30 so if you see anything that ticks all of my boxes then please let me know! Suggestions of places to look would be good too. I am also living in the UK!

Many thanks for any contributions :)

Answer
It's a bit tricky recommending camping equipment when I live in a different country. Virtually all of the budget stuff is now made in a number of factories in China. The same factory may well make 10 different brands of tents. Next season another factory will get the contract to make them - sometimes the quality drops (ie low price bidder)
Really the only way is to look at them yourself & try to get a feel for what's available. You're looking at a price that is right at the bottom of the market, but sometimes surprisingly good stuff comes up at that sort of price.
A generally good product here (in Oz) is DMH but they've just changed hands & I notice their alloy poles are now a lot softer & easier to bend ie not as good as they were.
What sort of tent to get depends on the use you'll be putting it to. Sounds obvious but there's a huge difference between using it for hikng in the hills in winter regularly & an occasion beach camp in summer. So decide what you want it for then go looking.
Things to look out for
1/ is it big enough for the job?
2/ is the quality of the stitching good?
3/ What sort of poles does it have? Alloy is lighter, f/glass is cheaper
4/ does the fly cover the whole tent?
5/ what sort of zips does it have?
6/ Can it be opened up for ventilation, closed up for warmth?
7/ how heavy is it?
8/ how easy to erect?
9/ how well will it stand up in a wind? (Cross pole dome tents are not good in strong winds)
10/can I open up the fly without letting water in if it's raining? Some tents seem to funnel water in when unzipped.
11/ what size is the vestibule/s
12/can I afford a better tent or do I stay home in bad weather?

What are the better quality family camping tents?

TCMJim

camping tents?

rosemary j

what are some good quality camping tents

Jumat, 14 Februari 2014

Group Camping Locations?

Suzanne

I'm looking for a camp site that has accommodation for large groups. We have grown out of the current camp site we normally use and we are starting to look for a new location.

I'm a leader for a youth church group and we are looking for a place that about 200-250 can stay at.
We want to stay near LA if we can and something that has activities, some kind of housing or tenting area and a place with a kitchen. I'm open to any suggestions you may have.

thank you!

Answer
You have now approached the mega church size event and should look at booking a faith based summer camp, or a boy scout camp. There is not a campground or group campsite within any of the local national forests that can accommodate that large of a crowd. At best only about half that number splitting the group even then.

Of the ones I am most familiar with Camp Thousand pines in the Crestline Lake Gregory area is a beautiful facility they have a pool and tons of activities and are walking distance to lake Gregory.
http://www.thousandpines.com/

Calvary Chapel Camp is another high adventure destination with a lake, pool, ropes course, a beautiful chapel and just a short drive to Green Valley lake for great fishing.
http://www.calvarychapelcamp.com/

For something a bit more in the "camping" style Camp Emerson near the town of Idyllwild is the oldest Scout camp west of the Mississippi. They have a pool, lake, ropes course, rifle/archery range, fishing and again with in walking distance to the town of Idyllwild.
http://www.doubleknot.com/openrosters/view_homepage.asp?orgkey=1907

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.

Cold weather camping suggestions?

Exiled

I'm going on a geology class camping field trip to Rainbow Basin, Ca, which is in the Mojave Desert. I've been told that that nighttime temperatures are frequently below freezing this time of year.

I have a 15 degree sleeping bag that I recently bought, but I'm worried this wont be enough. Should I risk it, or buy/rent a better one? I was also wondering if anyone had suggestions for what kind of tent to purchase for this type of camping. I'm looking at a 1-person tent, but is there anything in particular that I should look for to help with warmth/wind?

Answer
while i was in boy scouts i had the opportunity to take a class called OPIK which taught skills needed to go winter camping. i would suggest you getting at least a 0 degree rated bag and a nice air matress such as the neoair thermarest.
here is the pad. it won many awards for the warmth and quality.
http://www.rei.com/product/810036/msr-hubba-1p-tent

also i would get a tarp to lay on the floor of the tent as well as carboard and those reflective blankets. believe or not it actually helps alot and make great floor insulation.

as for the tent i would suggest the mrs hubba. i never had used it but know many fellow scouts that have and the love it. its tough has a great vestibule for your gear.
http://www.rei.com/product/810036/msr-hubba-1p-tent

as for the sleeping bag, i would get a 0 degree rating as i said earlier. this is important because if you get cold at night it will be hell and a very long night.

i know forsure you can also rent gear like tents from rei. its better to rent it if you are not going to go on the field trips alot.

Hammerhead 2 tent ...for cold weather?

bright777

OK, about a year ago I went on a camping trip to Yosemite National Park and I used a tent called "Hammerhead 2" which according to the salesperson at the store where I purchased it, was going to be OK for me to use during my winter comping at Yosemite NP. I was actually really cold even with the extra cover that came with my tent.
Is this tent only for warm weather? or would it be the same if I get a tent with thicker wall?
I used the extra cover that came with my tent. It is actually thick, but still I think that it should be as thick as the yellow color thick walls that other tents have.

Answer
It's only a 3 season tent. For winter camping you need to find a 4 season tent. They have thicker walls and the ventilation is different for 4 season tents.

Here is an example of one that is comparable in price to the Hammerhead, but would be much better in the winter. http://www.ultimatetentstore.com/store-products-37236-Alpenlite-2XT_41436812.html

camping TENTS??? (pic)?

Madison B

Can i get those cute little kids camping sets a like wal mart? Or where else?
ones like these:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51mZEsbU36L._SL500_.jpg
or
http://www.bossgoo.com/photo/product4/775319/product-Kids-Camping-3pcs-Set.jpg
and also: it doesnt have to be all cutsey, just like a smaller sizze.
thanks in advance

Additional Details
also, are they like SUPER small? cause its for my 13 year old, she said she wanted a tiny, cozy and content one like that. (x

ALSO: cause i am pretty sure i have seen them in the wal mart stores but they are not online so i was a little worried.
thanks guys.

Answer
These kinds of items like in the picture, including anything with a cartoon character on it, are more of a toy than a serious piece of camping gear. They probably are not weatherproof for one, and I bet they aren't very durable.

But you can get "real" tents that are kid sized for different amounts of money. Here is a youth tent from TexSport

http://www.amazon.com/Texsport-Brookwood-Youth-Dome-Tent/dp/B001C0GWUE/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1269683114&sr=1-14

You can also get an authentic bivy shelter or a backpacker's or bicycler's tent. These are all small, lightweight, and minimalist design so they are easy to carry. They are used by adults with almost no room to spare, but for a child, they would still be pretty cozy, and they are meant for real camping. Note that the term bivy is used to describe both a sleeping bag cover, which you don't really want for this, and a narrow tent. Here is a search result page for those.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dsporting&field-keywords=bivy&x=0&y=0

You also may have some luck with a beach type shelter, including some pop up cabana type things which tend to have a small footprint, since they are used by people in a sitting position. These are meant for real use, but not necessarily camping. Many are meant for shade, but may not be waterproof or durable enough for any sort of campsite other than sand.

Just make sure whatever you get is meant for real use as a camping piece, that is has all the right working parts just like a grownup's, and is meant to be used outdoors instead of being set up in the playroom, etc.

EDIT: Your 13 year old will not fit in any play tent I have ever seen unless she is super small. Even if she did, she is bound to hit a growth spurt any day now. Go with a backpacking tent or a bivy shelter! It will be plenty cozy...this is past the age of toy tents in my opinion. If she is showing interest in camping, get her some real gear and teach her how to do it right!

do u think a camping tent could be used as a cheap playhouse for kids?

Lynda

i was thinking of getting a playhouse but dont want to spend alot of money,a gazebo i dont think would be strong enough for windy rainy weather conditions so i have been wondering if a large tent would be suitable? thanx

Answer
An inexpensive tent would make a good play house for your kids when the weather is decent. If the weather is windy and raining, your children belong *indoors* in the house where it is safe. I once set up a tent in my back yard after a camping trip, to clean it and let it air out for a few days. My children loved playing in it while it was set up in the yard.

One evening a thunderstorm swept through the area very quickly. Of course the children were inside our home during the storm. The tent was still standing after the storm, the wind or rain did not budge the tent......but lightning had shattered one of the poles of the tent. If my kids had been in that tent during that storm, they would most likely have died.

Tent camping with an 8 month old?

ANG

Has anyone been tent camping with a young baby? Any tips? Is it a bad idea?

Answer
When our kids were little we took them tent camping many times. We camped in Yosemite, Devils Post Pile and even Borrego Desert Sites. We kept a play pen in the tent with us. When they would wake up at night the wife would get them out nurse them , burp them and put them back to sleep. Those were the days of cloth diapers too. Most of out camp sites had a laundry close by. Our oldest now almost 48 started camping at 6 months, as did our 46 and 44 year old. Our youngest now 38 was a bottle baby, saw 4 month old on her first camping trip. We kept the bottles in our sleeping bag to keep them warm. One night the temp was 21 and I rolled over and found a very coolish bottle in my back. Now that is one way to wake up with a start. camping never was a problem with us. take plenty of diapers, try to keep them on a normal schedule as much as possible. Have fun, take them often. My kids now take their kids camping and some times they will use the tents. Grand parents are great when camping out too, extra child care and most will help with the cooking and dish washing . But we do have problems with sleeping on the grouond. lol

How soon can you camp with a baby?

gimpyshake

I don't mean back country camping, yet. For now I am just talking about "get out of your car and set up a tent" camping. any concerns or ideas I should think about before camping with our baby.

Answer
I camped with my baby when he was an infant. It was easy for me because I nursed all my children, I would think that if you don't nurse your child it would be a problem to keep the milk fresh, unless you just have the powder stuff and add water, but then you can't heat it.

I had an extra small tent that we took for him to stay in when we hung out near the water, so he would not be overexposed to the sun.

Women have babies out in rice fields and go right back to work with them on their back. You can go camping with them at any age.

Make sure you bring all the things you would bring when going out. baby rash meds, baby aspirin, plenty of wipes and diapers, make sure you bring extra bags to dispose of diapers if you are not near a trash can. Definitely get some type of sun screen for babies and a hat is essential. if the baby will allow it, you can even get baby sunglasses.

also, make sure, if you need a bug repellent, it is safe for baby, they tend to put everything in their mouths.

Good luck and have a great time!

Here goes a bunch of camping questions... :) in arkansas. 10 pt question!!!?

Okay, so here are the questions...
1. Where is the prettiest place in Arkansas for a family to camp (preferably with some sort of fishing nearby, and camping facilities and showers would b nice).
2. What tent should I get? We have a family of four... and price range... $0-$130 would be nice.
3. Have any advise on camping with the family? Any would be nice!

Oh and one more thing please answer these questions with some personal knowledge not just "i found it on www.whatever.com" but its okay if you get this info from a friend or something like that!

Thank you so much for your help! Family will be very thankful for your knowledge! Let the best answerer win 10 points!

Answer
Missus and I camped at Lake Catherine State Park. a few years ago. It's a very nice recreational park with a lot of activities. Arkansas state parks were the nicest we've seen and we've motorcycle camped all over the South and in the Rockies.

You may want to check into renting a shelter from the park, particularly if this is a first time outing for you and your family, but Academy may have a tent that will suit your needs as long as you are tenting in nice weather. Tents are rated for use:

a.â2 seasonâ (good weather only).
b.â3 seasonâ (Provides some protection against cold weather and light rain).
c.â3 season convertibleâ (Comfortable in warm weather but with a heavy fly to keep out thunderstorms, snow and very cold weather.
d.âExpeditionâ (The name of the rating reflects the use. You cannot reach places an expedition tent is needed by motorcycle).

They have a capacity rating on the box.

Leave X-Box , cell phones, etc. at home. Take swimming suits, floaties, binoculars and hiking shoes.

Ideal Campgrounds in Arkansas?

that_photo

I am looking for a place to camp anywhere in Arkansas (or the surrounding area, so long as it's close to AR, I live in central AR).

The campgrounds must have flush toilets, hot showers, tent sites, canoe rentals, rafting/float rentals and a haul back option. Please include the campground name and a web address if you've got one.

I've seen the Arkansas State Parks website, and others like it; but I don't have the time or the patients to look through every description.

Answer
Camping on the Mulberry River

Turner Bend Campground on the Mulberry River
The Turner Bend campground is directly across the road from our store and features 14 designated sites plus a small overflow area. Nine sites have shelters and all have picnic tables and fire rings.

Restrooms with hot showers, river access, picnic shelters, and plenty of parking spots.

Camping Questions! Tent?

maxim814

Okay so im going to Malibu Creek State Park and ill be staying there in a tent in the campground in mid august for 7 nights. The thing is im just using the campground to visit LA and do stuff there. So I will only be at the campsite at night with my girlfriend to sleep there. When im not there during the day what do I do with my tent? Ill obviously be taking most of my stuff in my car, but like my tent, blankets and air mattress with just be on the campground. Is that safe? Will my tent, blankets and air mattress be there when I get back that evening?

Another question, If I were to bring my tent with my everyday, like set it up in the evening and take it down every morning when I leave. Would my campsite still be there when I get back? Am I aloud to do that? Even if Ive obviously reserved the campsite for the week.

Thanks!

Answer
While I agree with another poster that a code of camping ethics exist to where folks generally leave your stuff alone, tent campers have the highest rate of stolen stuff occur as you cannot "lock up" a tent. The state park there does have campground hosts that keep an eye on the general area but the campground is a well known stop over point for day labors to spend the night during the week and it is these folks that tend to be partakers of opportunity. Your tent with cots sleeping bags and such inside would likely be fine if left in the sitewith your camp chairs and a canopy, however anything else could easily get up and walk away. I always make contact with the camp host and let them know my plans so that they know when I will be out and about it gives them an Idea when best to keep an eye on your stuff. Any valuables always keep with you locked up in your trunk out of site.

If you are at the planning stages and don't have your camping reservations in now you may have an issue so best get your reservations in pronto it books early and fast.
http://www.reserveamerica.com/camping/Malibu_Creek_Sp/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=CA&parkId=120051&topTabIndex=CampingSpot

camping tent Recomendation?

Hysol

I would like to purchase a camping tent and am looking for a manufacturer recommendation. It would be a 3 season tent. I need it to be water proof.

I checked Consumer Report and they have never rated tents. Every time I look at some tent online there are good and bad reviews that often counterdict each other.

Do any of you out there know of a good unbiased site that has reviewed and rated tents?

Do any of you out there own a tent brand that you really like? ( waterproof, zippers work well, well made).

Thank you all in advance.
Wow, thank you for all of your responses. Great questions that you asked.
OK, I would be using this tent for two uses. One would be hauled with a motorcycle in a pull behind trailer (Marine Corps vet here-Run to the Wall and Rolling Thunder rides done every year.). And I would be using it with a car for traveling. No back packing. I am 60 years old, not much hiking done here. I need waterproof. I don't mind spending some dinero on the tent. I would prefer a 4 person tent (might have a young lady friend with me now an then) and I would prefer being able to stand up in the tent. I am 6 foot tall.
I hope that supplies more info for all of you.
Thanks for the help.

Answer
You failed to provide critical details: size, weight, type of camping.
When I am car camping, I am fine with the cheap department-store tent that holds a queen-sized air mattress and all of my gear. However, I use very different tents that are one-fifth as heavy and ten times more expensive when backpacking in remote mountain tundra locations. Generally, within a class based on weight and cost, you will find many similar models that are about equal in quality. If you spend a few hundred dollars, you will get a good tent.

Big Agnes Fly Creek UL-1, $330
MSR Hubba Hubba 2, $300

A few great tents are manufactured for:

Big Agnes
MSR
GoLite
Marmot
The North Face
Sierra Designs

Backpacker Magazine has good tent reviews.

where is a nice place to go tent camping near las vegas, nv?

usting

Answer
The Spring Mountains are nice - they have developed (Forest Service) campgrounds in both Lee and Kyle Canyons. Of course, you could also hike up the North or South Loop (to Charleston Peak) or the Bonanza Trail (up to Bonanza Peak) trails and camp out away from people, too.

Valley of Fire State Park is about 1.5 hours (or so) north off of I-15. Lots of nice camping in developed campsites.

Lake Mead has some campgrounds, too - but they tend to attract a loud party element.

If you want to drive a little bit, there's lots of stuff up in southern Utah (Zion, etc.).

I'm going camping with my boy cousins?

Sarah

Hi! I'm a teen and was wondering what I should bring/do for camping with my cousins' family. There's a mom, a dad, and three boys. Luckily, I'm closer with the mom so I can ask her for anything, really - so she's very helpful! I was just wondering, as I'm in my younger teens - theres one who's 15, one who's my age, and one who's two years younger. I'm the only one outside of their immediate family going and it'll be a long car ride, as well as a hot one, since we're driving to Zion National Park in Utah. That means driving through hot California desert as well as hot Nevada desert to get there. I just wanted some advice and tips for packing and things. I'm a bit worried if I get my "monthly cycle" there. It'd be towards the end of the trip. I'm a bit nervous, as I'll be alone with their family. I've gone to Arizona alone with them once, and it was fine! But that of course was more before bras, tampons, etc. What do I do for a bathing suit? I can't wear board shorts, as the ones I've tried always rub against my thighs :P And it sucks, haha. I'll be with them for 8 or 9 days and I'm really excited to get out of the house! But just worried as I won't have any others from my family. Also, what if I get home sick? I usually don't, but my mom is going through chemo now and I'm sure I'll be fine, but I don't know. Anything can happen! Haha. Thanks for helping, if you do! I'd just love tips and advice on what to bring, what to do, etc. Thanks!

Answer
Baby wipes and zip-lok bags.
You did not say if this will be tent camping, an RV, a campground?
Will there be 6 people in a car with no air conditioning?
Zion means hiking so bring a small pack and large water container.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttRFIvsuf4A&feature=related

What tent is best for me?

Q. My requirements are a duck to tent ratio of 3:1 (mallard) however other species will be considered.
Someone has already recommended the Gelert Fossa, however I doubt that two people could fit and bang in there (trust me).

Answer
I use a tiny Coleman Raid which is half the weight of the Fossa and only about half as high. It weighs 980 grams, goes up in two minutes, and is very easy to hide because it's so low.
I slept in a town park in it one wet horrible mucky night to save a long wet walk to Sefton Park on the outskirts of town at 1am off the National Express coach from London, and nobody knew I was there ....pitched quickly between the bushes and wall of St' John's gardens in Liverpool.....totally invisible and well sorted out of the rain and into a sleeping bag in a few minutes.
It's a lying down only tent but it has a decent floor space and shape and although classed as a one person tent I've had many bang type bangs in it in relative comfort with a two legged bird species rather larger than mallard.
In Liverpool they are called Liver Birds after the originals of the same name adorning the top of the Royal Liver Building on the waterfont and very pleasant they are too.
Originals.......on the top
http://www.flickr.com/photos/hostelworld/4776364833/ . . .
http://www.aidan.co.uk/photo9388.htm
The long legged short neck variety with folded wings where fitted, are also called Liver Birds and are also often on top, and are part of the wildlife...errr...wild life of the city clubs and impromptu street parties, riverside walks and extensive parks.
The new version of the Raid is the Rigil which is a bit wider and better for two people but is a bit more expensive though still cheap compared to many of it's rivals.
For shooting style banging bangs with guns it has an advantage of a side opening door that extnds the whole length of the tent and can be left open a bit at both ends due to the double zip and so two guns can shoot out of the two ends separated by around five feet or more allowing for elbow room.
It can also be open left at the top only either for an observation window or for better ventilation inside. Small tents normally have condensation problems.
I use my Raid quite often as a hide for wildlife photography and leave it set up with the photo equiment in while I sleep in my other Coleman, a Viper which has stood up to fierce weather on mountains in Europe and on the Andes or in my Vango mountain tent which is a true toughie for the money I paid as the Viper is. The Viper's only downside is it's blue colour...no other colours are available. It's virtue is it's shape and it's central sitting height which makes changing clothes easier than in most small tents and positional adjustments to be made where a variety of positions is desired for recreational activities.
Having pointed ends it is very stable in a high wind and survived a howling blizzard in the Andes while crossing into Bolivia at 12 000 feet as well as numerous local downpours on our cold wet hills without ever getting wet inside unlike some of it's temporary occupants.
Ventilation is fine and condensation is only a small and occasional problem with it.
http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/reviews/tents/bivvy--one-person/coleman-viper/2715.html . . . . .
The Raid is light enough even to take as a second tent with no worries.
Here is the Raid in Double Dutch but with a good piccie and one on the top left of it pitched in a field so you can see how compact and low it is.
It comes in green, green, or green but only the green ones are sold.
Purrfick for hiding in and very easy to cover with an extra flysheet like a lightweight 8 z 12 groundsheet from a garden or DIY store which come with eyelets already fitted but more can be added easily. Plastic or brass eyelets in packs of 4 or 6 are found in camping shops and take a minute each to fix.
http://www.hiking-site.nl/indekijker_colemanraid.php . . .
Here is the Rigil, just the same as the Raid but a few inches wider
http://www.winwood-outdoor.co.uk/acatalog/Coleman_Rigel_X2_ultra_lightweight_two_person_tent.html . . . . . ..

best brand of camping tent(tadpole)?

Answer
The best is what suits your style and your bank account. You can get a Coleman Raid for $50 or the new version called the Rigil for nearly twice the price or a tent the same (tiny) size for another $300 more.
My Raid has been great for me but it might not be the one for you.
I have two other Colemans and wouldn't say a bad word of either them, or the Raid.
The top stuff?....Well, what about a Vango Force Ten, used every day on Everest....dozens of them.
Bigger, heavier, but class kit....the real stuff. K2 in a hurricane? Get into a Force Ten and read a book.
MSR and Nomad, Mountain Equipment, Vaude, all do top gear at top prices....including tiny lightweight very strong stable tents.$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
The Colemans have done the job well in very foul weather and I didn't spend a fortune on them.
See mine here for links.
http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20091027170003AA2gO41 . . . . . .

Kamis, 13 Februari 2014

can anyone tell me where to find military camping gear i am looking for a portable air conditioning for tents?

undertheco

Answer
How many btu's are you looking for? We purchased a 6,500 window unit for use in an RV and found it worked OK in the tent as well.

We set it on a table beside one of the doors and used duct tape to seal it off.

Depends on how big the tent is and if you are in the shade.

Great thing, you can get the small window unit at building supply stores for less than $150 and they are name brands that can be serviced easily.

You will have to make some type of template or duct system for the tent.

camping!!!!!!!!!!!!????????????

kaylaz1978

we are going camping for the first time what is stuff we should bring i dont know what to take please help 2 alduts and 2 kids

Answer
Ok lets start with the basics of your trip. You probably dont want to spend a ton of money so lets get you a list that will keep you cumfortable and having fun without breaking the bank.

Number one start with a good tent. Eureka makes many tents that are very durable and not all that expensive. Other good brands include Kelty, Coleman and Cabelas. Just get a tent that fits your family cumfortably. Pick up a can of seam sealer too. Seal your tent before you use it to ensure you will be dry. You will also need a tarp for your tent to sit on. All you need is a cheap blue tarp from your local home center.

You will want a air matress to sleep on. Try them out. They range from cheap foam ones to inflable ones. Again pick what one is cumfortable and fits your budget and your type of camping. Then you want a sleeping bag. If you are camping in the sumertime a cheap square bag will do just fine. Mummy bags and other types are for colder temps and they are also lighter. Take a blanket along just incase any of you get cold. You can line you bag with the blanket for a tosty warm night.

For clothing dress for the weather. Have some type of rain gear wether that be a 10 cent poncho or a 200 dolar rain suit. It is always smart to have some warmer clothes just in case it does get cold. Dont wear your best stuff either because camping is hard on your clothes. Extra socks are always a great thing to have. I cant count how many times I was glad to have a extra dry pair of socks. It is also a smart idea to pack your clothes in ziplock bags or dry bags. That way if the bottom of your tent gets wet your clothes dont also get wet. It happens more than you think.

For cooking any camp stove and a set of pots will work. Just have extra fuel for your stove. When cooking you can do any type of food. however for your fist trip try simple food. Remember you dont have a dishwasher to wash dishes in so dont make too big of a mess. Cheap dish pans can make dish washing much easier.

Go to a sporting goods store that isn't too expensive and really look at your gear. Take your time picking out what you need for what your doing.

Dont forget a flashlight! Also bring food packed for how you will cooked. The more prep you do at home the easier it is when your camping. Packing up also pack for the way you are going to need things. That way when it is dark your flashlight is right on top. Also practice setting up your tent at home. That way you will be able to set up your tent no mater what the conditions are.

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

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.

Winter camping in Manitoba?

Soccergirl

I want to go camping in Manitoba because that's the closest Canadian province to me hence it would be the cheapest to drive to. Where is a good place I can go camping that is open late October through the winter? I don't want it to be an extreme experience in the dead of winter.. It's more like fall camping. I still want to sleep in a tent and be close to civilization. However, most of the parks in Manitoba close mid October at the latest. Help!!

Answer
Unless you already live IN Canada, you might find it easier to accomplish your winter camping goals in one of the states bordering Canada such as Montana or Idaho. In fact, many, if not MOST of the experiences you can anticipate in Manitoba can be equaled just about anywhere along the US/Canada border in states all the way from New York west to Idaho, etc. The advantage you have in the US is that state and federal forest lands do not close down for the winter. You can still open camp anywhere the forest service roads may take you. Certain rules may still apply though, such as not being allowed to stay on one site longer than 2 weeks at a time before having to move on to another location on down the road or trail. You will be bothered less in the National Forest in the USA than you will as an American citizen (assuming that you are) camping in Canada for any extended length of time. And from experience, I can assure you that "WINTER CAMPING" is NOT quite the walk in the park you might expect it to be. It can be VERY demanding, severe, and extremely life threatening. If you go unprepared mentally, physically, and equipment-wise, you are almost doomed to sure failure almost from the get go. It takes a special person and a "seasoned": outdoors person to pull off winter camping successfully. You might experiment for a season (or two) with a few weekend or week long camp outs before committing to an extended stay. It could save you a lot of time, a LOT of wasted effort and expense, and MAYBE even save you your life. If you go, GO PREPARED! Stay safe! Good luck.

camping!!!!!!!!!!!!????????????

kaylaz1978

we are going camping for the first time what is stuff we should bring i dont know what to take please help 2 alduts and 2 kids

tent camping with air conditioning!!!?

Amy B

Need advise. We are looking for a large tent to camp in for 2+ weeks. We also want to have air conditioning in the tent.

It will be in July so the weather will be VERY hot.

What is the largest tent availble that will feel more like a vacation home and can have a portable airconditioning system connected??

thanks
thanks to all that have responded...YES I know what real camping is, i have backpacked many sections of the AT and many other weekend trips.

we go camping every year for over a week and white water kayak everyday and return to camp every night to hang out with the other kayakers. THIS year I will be 6 months pregnant when we are camping, I won't be able to paddle most days (unless I am taking newbies down a very easy river), so I will be at camp during the day and prefer NOT to boil the baby in my belly when it is over 90 degrees in North Carolina. i just figured that if they can put an air conditioner on a pop up camper then I should be able to find a very small unit to very a tent cool. The camp site has power and trees for shade.

Answer
On hand I enjoy survival camping from time to time where I take the bare minumum and see what I'm made of. At other times it's nice to pamper myself a bit. I doubt that most of the posters here been pregnant. I haven't, but I have supported my wife through two.

My love for camping with modern conveniences started in boyscouts, when my friends and I took a cooler full of pop and candy bars and a boom box to scout camp. We were the envy of all the other boys. In college it was the mattresses off our beds, sheets and all, that we threw in the back of the pickup truck and took up into the mountains. There is nothing like sleeping under the stars in your own bed!

This summer I am taking my pregnant wife (5 mos) camping for a few days. She will have shared access to a trailer with A/C, but I am interested in putting A/C in the tent too, so she will have her own private space.

The best solution I have found is from this website:
http://www.deltablues.net/camping2.html

This guy seems to have the right mentality, cheap, low maintenence, simple, safe, and able to run for an extended period. It might be too expensive for my three day trip, but might be perfect for yours.

The key ingredients:
1. low amp ac unit - no more that 6 or 7 amps (author lists it at about $155)
2. a high amp (15 plus amps) extension cord (I bought 50 feet for about $20, they are more expensive because they can handle more load, important for your safety as the author notes)
3. Duct tape

In case the weblink doesn't work, he has placed the ac unit on bricks at his rear tent door, zipped it up and kept it all together with duct tape. The low amp unit and high amp cord keeps the cord cool and reduces fire risk. The ac unit on its lowest setting is plenty to cool the tent.

I echo the other posters concern about theft. Tents are tough to secure. One idea off the top of my head, if you are worried about someone swiping your ac unit, is to drive a large metal stake (like an electrical grounding stake) a couple of feet into the ground. (You will probably need a small sledge hammer, like an 8 pounder.) Then you could bolt a chain or cable (heavy duty grounding cable might work) to the ac unit and to the stake. You may have to drill holes in the ac unit housing, but I imagine it would have mounting holes in it already. You could use security bolts or locking bolts that tighten easily but are difficult to remove. The materials should cost less than $10 at a hardware store. The stake will be difficult for anyone to remove (including you at the end of your stay, you might want to bring a shovel to dig it out).
If your tent or powersource happens to be hit by lightning your ac unit will be grounded too! Bonus!

Happy camping and best of luck/blessings with your pregancy.

Rabu, 12 Februari 2014

no poles for my tent?

iTs a B a

im going camping today..went to go get my tent..and it was there but NO poles..what the hell do i do?!..is there anywhere i can go buy just the poles?..or do i have to go buy a whole new tent?
thanks..i just went and bought a new tent :(

but ill try the manufacturer for the new poles when i get home!

Answer
On short notice, you are going to do without poles or get a new tent. Most tent pole sets are made for a particular design and your store won't carry spares. New poles would need to ordered from the manufacturer.

What is a good, relatively inexpensive tent to buy?

fraucarlso

I am not really planning on backpacking so I am more interesting in a one or two person tent that can withstand all weather possibilities. I know the best tents tend to be expensive but I would like to find the best one at the lowest price. So can you tell me which tents are best for what I want and if they are expensive or not? Thanks! :)

Answer
To be clear, Coleman tents leak just as much as most other manufacturers, but they will replace/repair the tent if you send it in. For the price, they are good tents and you can pick up something that will work for around $50.

For my money though, you can upgrade to an REI tent for about $100. Their Camp Dome 2 is a tried and true tent. It's well built and they will also work with you if there is a manufacturing defect. If you go to their website, the tent has been reviewed by over 100 people and received very positive remarks.

http://www.rei.com/product/731378

Lastly, if you buy from REI, if you try the tent out and decide you don't like it, you can usually return or exchange it as long as you didn't damage it.

Most tents are for 3 season use. A 4 season tent is designed to hold up the weight of snow during winter. If you aren't planning to use it during the winter, or it doesn't snow in your area, a 3 season tent is all you need.

What are the major accessories I will need for camping besides a tent and Air Mattress?

xylem

I am a first time camper, yea I know it is sad but I have just purchased my coleman tent and air mattress and I was just wondering what other esential camping accessories I will need? Also, any camping tips would be most helpful! Thanks

Answer
My hubby and I just started tent camping with friends two years ago, and it took us a while to figure out everything we needed (btw, good start getting an air mattress!). Oh, and don't forget to waterproof your tent BEFORE the trip with waterproofing spray sold at sporting goods stores!

Here's my abbreviated packing list. You have some items already (obviously), but I've highlighted items you might still need to purchase:

SHELTER:

-Tent
-Tarp to Go Under Tent (should be the same size as tent base, not much bigger or you'll have to fold it under. This keeps the tent bottom dry, and you don't want rain collecting on the tarp and rolling under!)
-Air mattress
-Air mattress pump
-Sleeping Bags / Pillows
-Extra Blankets (1 per person in case of chilly weather)
-Beach Towel (for when you track mud all over your tent)
-Lantern (battery-operated) to hang in tent
-Foldable Chairs / Lawn Chairs (to sit around fire)
-Rope or Line to hang items to dry on - like wet towels

FOOD:

-Hand Axe (to chop fire wood)
-Long-reach lighters
-Fire-starting kindling twigs (buy them from camping supply stores - they're wood chips soaked in some fire-starting chemical)
-Pie Irons (to cook food in over the fire - these are ESSENTIAL!)
-Campfire Fork (to roast weiners, marshmallows on)
-Food (should include basics like eggs, bread, peanut butter, deli meats, cheese, butter, hot dogs, s'mores makings, pop, juice, tea, coffee, ketchup, mustard, brownie mix, pizza sauce, pepperoni, potatoes, oatmeal, beef stew, trail snacks, chips, popcorn, etc.)
-Campfire Cooking Pot
-LARGE Cooler with ice
-Egg Holder Storage Case (designed for camping trips)
-Plastic Utensils, Cups, Paper Plates
-Garbage Bags
-Giant Ziploc Bags (to place singed pie irons in when packing to come home)
-Sharp Knife
-Rubbermaid Tote to wash dishes in
-Dish Soap
-5-6 Dish Towels
-Campfire Glove (heatproof gloves that allow you to pick up hot logs off the fire, or hot pans)
-Mugs (for coffee & tea)
-Kettle to boil water (should be campfire safe)
-Bottled water - large quantities
-Picnic Table Cloth (campsite picnic tables are dirrrrrty!)
-Can Opener
-Travel Cutting Board
-Aluminum Foil & Ziploc Bags
-Non-Stick Cooking Spray

CLOTHING / HYGIENE / SAFETY:

-Standard clothes
-Extra socks, 1 pair extra walking shoes
-Rain coat, poncho, or garbage bags
-Bug Spray
-Sunscreen
-Usual Hygiene Products (forget shampoo if it's a short trip - you're allowed to be dirty when tent camping!)
-First Aid items (bandaids, benadryl, calamine lotion, antiseptic cream, aspirin, immodium AD, etc.)
-Hand Soap
-Towels (in case you get soaked in rain)
-Hand Sanitizer

FUN / OTHER:

-Deck of Cards / Travel Boardgame
-Camera / Extra Batteries
-Flashlights / Extra Batteries
-Fishing Pole / Tackle Box
-Lots of Cash to buy firewood near campsite - it's expensive!
-Wallet, ID, Cell Phone

Phew! It seems like a lot, but skip here and there and you'll be wishing you had these items when you're at the campsite. It's worth filling up the car with Rubbermaid Bins filled with this stuff. Oh - don't forget Rubbermaid Bins to put all this stuff in! You'll need to keep your possession and food waterproof if it rains!

Have fun!

Looking for remote and secluded camping in NE Ohio?

Jenn F

My husband and I have recently started camping. So far we have only went to campgrounds that have sites almost on top of each other. While we do like the convenience of a shower and flush toilets, we want to try something different. We are looking for a place (no more than about 2.5 hours from Youngstown) where we can pitch a tent and have no one around us. No bathrooms, no showers, no electricity. Just us and nature. The only thing we have to have is an unpolluted body of water (lake or river) near by. It doesn't have to be right next to us, but within reasonable driving distance. We have a lab that would be very upset with us if we went camping and he wasn't able to go swimming. Thanks for your help!!!

Answer
Check with the Bureau of Land Management, US. Forest Service, and your state parks department.

You should be able to find the rules about dispersed camping for your state. This is where you get away from civilization and camp deep in the wilderness, relying on what you have brought with you to survive, and away from designated camping spaces.

Typically, there are areas where you can find a random spot and pop a squat. But there are also rules on where you can and cannot camp, how far you have to be from a water source, and (depending on the time of year) whether or not you are able to have any open flames in the wilderness (due to potential fire hazards during the dry summer months).

One thing about dispersed camping is that you need to be aware of what you can encounter and come prepared.

If there are bears or other predators around, you will want to know how to reduce the likely hood of an encounter and what to do should you have one. Typically, there are recommendations for how to store food and what kinds of items (like toiletries) serve to attract an animal.

Also, for safety reasons, you may want to arm yourself (follow state laws). In dispersed camping, you are unlikely to run into or have issues with humans or animals. But having someway to protect and defend yourself would not be a bad way to go. After all, when you are out in the wild, you never know what you can run into. A shotgun loaded with slugs or .00 buckshot, a .30-.30 rifle (or higher caliber), a .357 Magnum, or a .44 Magnum are all good choices for wilderness protection.

Know first aid. In the wild, even the mildest cuts and abrasions can develop into a life-threatening thing. Bring a good sized first aid kit. Wal-mart sells an Ozark Outdoors First Aid Kit with about 200 items, fro about $15.00. It comes in an orange case. It's a worthwhile investment.

Be sure to bring an adequate amount of water or camp near a water source and bring water purifying tablets with you. You should plan for at least a gallon per person per day, plus what you need for cleaning dishes, brushing your teeth, and other water-related incidentals. If you cannot and have a water source, you can boil the water, or use the tablets to make the water safe. Water is the most important thing you have out there after your shelter.

Lastly, it is also a good idea to let any game wardens, police, and family know the general idea you intend to camp in and when you plan to return. It's called filing a flight plan and it can save your lives.

I am glad to see you expanding your horizons by trying dispersed camping. Once you find a good spot, you will never want to go to designated campgrounds again. However, remember that time of year can affect the ability to go dispersed camping. I usually disperse camp in the spring and fall, after the rains have stopped and started, so I can burn a fire. In between, I camp at designated campsites for the same reason.

Good luck and have fun!

Where is a good place to camp in the Florida Keys?

Ashley

Its just a short drive for my boyfriend and I to make it down to the keys and we are looking to spend a weekend camping down there. I have done a lot of research and the two main places that we wanted to stay are booked (Bahia Honda State Park and John PenneKamp Park). Does anyone know of any places to just get off the beaten path and set up a tent for a few days?? It doesn't have to be fancy and we don't need many amenities. I'd kind of like to find a quiet little place that you can't find on google... Please help.

Answer
bahia natural campgrounds, tents and rvs welcome

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

Does anyone have extra camping gear/backpacks/1-2 man tents, etc.?

Drake

I will pay good money, I'm doing a thru hike of the Appalachian mountains and looking for gear. I've checked ebay, pawnshops, every websites around. Just curious if anyone had some extra they wanted to get rid of. I'll pay good money.

Answer
ebay is a good place to go once you know what you're looking for. the hard thing about finding used gear is that what 90% of people use for camping isn't entirely suitable for thru-hiking.

with a little bit of research, you can definitely find cheap gear. i suggest you do your research at whiteblaze.net. the forums get pretty catty, but they have excellent articles on a wide range of thru-hiking subjects, including gear (even cheap gear). they'll have gear lists on there already, and i'd suggest you duplicate one of those.

not to mention that used gear is already beat up. i can tell you from experience that whatever gear you have is going to take a beating over 2200 miles. a fiberglass tent pole is neither easy nor cheap to order from the Trail.

assuming you're headed NOBO, you've only got 5-6 weeks before you need to be taking off, and you're looking for major pieces of gear now???

in Washington state; where can I get cheap camping gear?

Q. I am on a small budget.

Answer
There are hundreds of camping and outdoor sports shops in Wahington State where you can get all you need at bargain prices.
In Seattle alone there more than two dozen of them, plus the camping sections of department stores, and many of the supermarkets have camping stuff.
A tent and sleeping bag can be got for $80 or less and a butane cartridge stove for $15, with cartridges costing a couple of dollars each.
Or, make a desert burner by punching some holes round the top of a tin can, fill the can with dry sand or soil, and pour methylated spirit into it...not gasoline.
Put the flame out when you're done by just putting a lid over it to keep the air out or drop a larger can over the top, which is also a good storage can for your burner.
Or you could just take a couple of disposable barbecues or a tray and a small bag of coals which can be used for boiling water, cooking in a saucepan or for frying stuff in a fry pan, not only as a barbecue...it's a portable fire.
Make a stand for the pot by knocking three strong tent pegs into ground and slide the barbecue tray under the pot. Smal round trays are easy to find, like an old flan baking tray or similar, or a small biscuit tin.
You can also use a biscuit tin for an oven. See on the cooking link.
An sheet of ordinary thin polythene can be put over tentsto improve the waterproofing and warmth so long as you don't buy a dome tent. Tunnel tents and ridge tents are easy to cover and a set of plastic eyelets obtainable from any camping shop for $3 will convert a sheet of polythene into a flysheet you can put guylines on as an extra flysheet or simply as a cover to sleep under by itself.
For some of my trips don't bother with a tent. I just take a long length of plastic coated washing line and hang a sheet of proofed nylon over it, which I put four eyelets in along each side so the wind pressure is taken evenly all the way along and less pressure is taken by each eyelet than if only corner eyelets were used.
The line gets tied between two trees or onto a piece of rock or however I can fix it where I am. Sometimes I cut a couple of poles to use like tent poles for it.
You don'tneed a load of expensive stuff for camping but with cheap or improvised gear obviously you need to take care and and not try the impossible with it.
You can still get months of camping done in a year though if you have the opportunity.
Have fun.
Cooking....anything you get at home you can cook in the wilds. Especially useful is a wok.
See mine on here...Anything you can cook at home......
More good advice about food and keeping it safe from other answerers too.
http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AtkrV2qA_hoOYOLMlUetsxEhBgx.;_ylv=3?qid=20100714110912AA3ek54&show=7#profile-info-GF6mguTtaa . . . . . .
Have a good time.

Camping with baby?

elainevdb

We're going camping next week with our 5 month old son. I am not sure what I need to bring to keep him comfortable and happy. We'll be in a tent, but I'm taking his pack 'n play with us, so he can sleep in it. Any hints and tips so I won't go insane next weekend? We go camping all the time, but this is the first time we're going with a baby.
It's VERY hot, so that's not a problem. I have a mosquito net that fits over the pack 'n play. I also have one of those backpack carriers I can put him in. I didn't even think of that! Thank you for reminding me... lol

Answer
Good for you!! Lots of parents would never think of camping with a baby but I think it's great. My parents took me camping when I was 6 weeks old!! I plan on taking our daughter, now 5 1/2 months, this summer. (I'm assuming it's warm where you are. We got 6 inches of snow last night, so no camping yet!)

The pack 'n' play's an awesome idea. Do you have a mosquito/bug net that fits over the top? What about a sunshade? If not, a white sheet will do. Babies can't use bug spray.

Suntan lotion, unscented if possible to keep the bugs away

An extra dishpan (rubbermaid type) for baths

LOTS of baby clothes, facecloths, towels

A baby carrier like a sling, wrap, snugli or baby bjorn. If you don't have one, get one!! At 5 months old if your boy has good neck control you might even be able to get a back-carrying hiker-style one. The hiker one will probably last you another season, to about 40 lbs.

Lots of toys that can be washed. Keep the stuffed animals at home or only in the tent

The stroller to double as a high chair

Have an awesome time!!

What will I need to go tent camping?

Blue987

I've grown up "camping" however it was always in a jumbo motor home. Next weekend I'm going tent camping and I want to be prepared. This is what I'm bringing... what else will I need?

Our site has water and electric, and bathrooms and showers close by:

Bringing:
tents
sleeping bags/pillow
small grill and propane
cooler with food/water
towels
plates/utensils/grill utensils
bug spray and sunscreen
clothes/ flip flops / sneakers / swimsuit / toiletries
flashlights
deck of cards
fire wood - will buy there
lighter

What else might I need? Temp will be high of 90 during the day, low of 59 at night. Possibility of rain at night

Thanks!

Answer
Oh yikes, it's VERY uncomfy sleeping on a sleeping bag in a tent on the ground PLEASE buy a mat or air mattress to put underneath your sleeping bag.
remember to place a tarp under the tent. and to check for big rocks/ sticks where you're going to put your tent.

Daily Life
Shade Canopy / Rope & Clips ; Sleeping Bags
Air Mattress ; Chairs; Table; Tarps
Pillows; Air Pump; Blue Mat; lights & adapter; Wind curtain; weed eater

Food
Sides - Potatoes, boxed potatoes, Smoresâ Makings
Snacks - pudding, fruit snacks; Meat for meals -6 meals; breakfast foods; Soda /Juice; Ice; condiments - ketchup; Milk, butter; Eggs; Bread; Hot Dog/Hamburger buns;
Coolers; coffee

Cooking
Flipper for potatoes ; Gas for range; Range; Charcoal Lighter Brush, grill brush, tongs Skewers; BBQ Sauce Matches; Bacon tongs ; Frying Pan; Can Opener; Pot Holders; Tablecloth

Night Life
Lantern Holders; Mantles ; Lanterns; Gas for lanterns; Drinking / Cooking Water ; Firewood; Flash Lights;
Kindling - Newspapers &/or; Old Phonebooks (found dead corn stalks or dog hair works great for this too..)

Individual Bags
Clothes for each day - Hat, jacket, swim suit; long sleeve shirt, socks ; Underwear; Shoes - flip flops, water, tennis & beach towel; PJs

In Personal Care Bag
Shampoo, Soap & Hand Sanitizer; Washcloth & Dish Towel, Toothbrush, Toothpaste; Hair Brush, Medicines - antacid, Tylenol, Sunscreen; deodorant

Other
Camera w/film ; Toilet Paper in plastic baggie
Map ; Weed Eater with gas!
Money; Extra Batteries; Spare flashlight Bulbs;
Shovel ; Ziploc bags; Aluminum foil

Cleaning
Baby Wipes ; Dish Detergent; Scrub brush; trash bag
Dish Rack; Dish Towel; Big Pot ; Small Broom & Dustpan;

Dishes
Cups; Plates; Plastic Wear; Bowls; tupperware
Paper towels / napkins;

Fishing equipment
poles, tacklebox, worms, fish net, minnow bucket, license to fish

i am looking for a cheap ,small tent to put on my motorcycle, to taking camping ,?

beth b

the cheap part is because i only plan on using it a few times this year, then get a better one next year,and the small part is because i have limeted space to carry on a motorcycle, any ideas

Answer
I am a cross country motorcyclist as well as a camper/hunter. On my bike trips -- and in the woods -- I have used a Kelty Gunnison 2 for the last couple of years. Almost any backpacking store has great items that can also be used for motorcycling, for one simple reason -- it all packs small. I don't know what you mean by cheap. I think I paid a little less than $100 for mine. It was on sale. As summer gets closer to ending and the camping season starts to wind down, the outdoor adventure stores start to have sales.

If those are too expensive, I'd go to Wal*Mart and see what they have to make due until you can get the one you want. Good luck and safe riding.

If you do tent-only camping at Bonnaroo, where do you park your car?

lolalavond

and is it possible to get your car out of the space if you're planning to re-enter? or are you packed so tight you can't get out?

Answer
You car will be in the GA camping area. Think of it as a can of sardines with tents on each end. If you can squeeze out you can leave, but it will be very difficult to get your car back in that little hole. Here is what the website says:

Tent Only Camping
If you want to get away from the vehicular trappings of life Out There, try our limited Tent Only Camping areas near the Main Venue and Centeroo. They will be identified on the maps you receive when at the Tollbooths. No cars, motorcycles, jetpacks, hovercraft, nothing, in fact, all vehicles will be towed). This is also a good option if you donât arrive with a car (i.e., on foot, by bus or parachute).

Hereâs how it works: If you have a car, you come in through the regular Tollbooths and park as if youâre going to camp with your vehicles. Then just leave your car behind and hoof it with your gear to the Tent Only Camping area. You canât drive your car there to drop your stuff off, so pack light. Itâs a distance â a backpack or small luggage cart might help. If you donât have a car, youâll still get your wristband put on at the tollbooth, then just follow the signs to Tent Only Camping.

Thereâll be two General Stores and plenty of approved vendors in these areas, so you can easily buy supplies. The space for Tent Only Camping is limited, and will be filled first-come, first-served (so if you want this prime spot, get here early). If youâre last-come, no worries, though â you still have the camping space that goes with your vehicle.

Tent Only Camping benefits:
Nice and close to the Main Venue and Centeroo
Close to General Stores, concessions and other services
No cars or vehicular traffic in camping area

In and Out of the Campgrounds in a Vehicle
We hope you wonât need to leave our little utopia during the festival. But if you do, please wait until all the traffic is in and processed. Youâre swimming upstream before Friday night really slows things down. And to return youâll have to get back in line, which could mean a nasty delay. Anytime you leave youâll have to go through another vehicle search when you return, as if you are entering for the first time.

Exiting is only through the East or West Tollbooth. (The police will NOT allow you to exit directly onto the highway at the Highway Tollbooth.) Extremely important: Everyone in the exiting vehicle must have their wristband scanned out by Bonnaroo staff, and each wristband must be scanned back in when you return. If you exit through any other location, or fail to have your wristband scanned out, you and your vehicle will not be allowed to re-enter the site. Sorry.

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