What are some good camping tips and pointers?

Amped Up

My friend and I are going camping soon at Greers Ferry Lake. She's never been camping, and I haven't' been in years. We're two teen girls, and I don't even think I remember how to pitch a tent (Yikes!) Does anyone have any good camping tips, i.e. what to cook, what to buy for our trip, how to start a fire, remedies for sunburns, etc.? Everything and anything is appreciated!

Answer
If you do not have camping skills, then try to make the trip easy. Minimize cooking tasks and take a camping stove. Cooking on a campfire is difficult for a beginner. Take foods that require little preparation.

Foods that you should try in a frying pan:
1] vegetable and sliced beef stir-fry in a spicey ginger terriyaki sauce;
2] shrimp creole cooked with garlic salt, hot pepper powder, olive oil, and butter;
3] pancakes topped with your favorite pie filling;
4] scrambled egg whites from a carton with cheese, veggies, and bits of bacon.

Buy a small backpacking tent with hub design for fast and easy assembly in a few minutes.
When I tried assembly of my backpacking tent for the first time in the outdoor gear shop, it only
took me five minutes to set-up. Take a sleeping pad, air mattress, or blankets to insulate yourself from the cold ground and provide a cushion. Boil water and pour into bottles to place inside your sleeping bag for added warmth at night.

camping??!?

ana

i kno nuthin about it ! lol any tips on what to take i kno u need to bring a tent ! but what else!? like what do i need to look out for and what games can me and ma cuzins play!!! and is it fun? lol any suggestions??? xcuse the typing grammer i dont like to spell out the words! ;]

Answer
Shelter
Bedding

__Tent __Sleeping bag
__Ground cloth/tarp __Sheets/blankets
__Extra stakes __Pillow
__Shade tarp/poles/rope/stakes __Air mattress/sleeping pad/cot/tarp
__Axe or hammer __Air pump
__Mat for tent entrance __Repair kit for air mattress
__Dust pan/brush __Utility bags for storage




Cooking

__Large water jug & water bucket __Potholders/oven mitts
__Coolers/ice __Pots and frying pans with lids
__Thermos __Soap for outside of pots and pans
__Stove with fuel/propane __Cook utensils-spatula, knife, spoon
__Matches/lighter __Tongs
__Charcoal/firewood/buddy burner __Skewers/grill forks
__Dutch oven/tin can stove/box oven/etc __Can opener/bottle opener
__Campfire grill/BBQ grill __Folding table
__Fire starters/newspaper __Dutch oven
__Tablecloth/thumb tacks/clips __Pie irons
__Plates & bowls/paper plates & bowls __Mugs/paper cups
__Silverware/plastic silverware __Mixing bowl
__Measuring cups __Cutting board
__Heavy-duty aluminum foil __Ziplock bags
__Paper towels __Napkins
__Trash bags __Dish pan
__Dish soap __Dish rags/towels
__Clothes pins __Scrub pad/brillo
__Cooking oil/Pam spray __Seasonings/sugar/condiments
__Containers for food storage __Potato peeler




Clothes Personal
__Shoes/boots __Shower shoes/flip flops
__Jeans/pant/belt __Towels/washcloth
__Shorts __Soap in plastic case/shampoo
__T-shirts __Tooth brush/tooth paste
__Socks/extra socks __ Deodorant
__Hat __Comb/brush
__Bandana __Razor
__Sweatshirt/jacket __Feminine products
__Underwear __Toilet paper
__Sleep clothes __Shower bag or 5 gallon bucket
__Rain gear __Camping shower/shower pump
__Swim suit/towel __Other personal items
__Laundry bag __Personal medications--take extra




Miscellaneous
__Sunscreen/chapstick __Flashlight/batteries
__Lantern with fuel/mantles __Pocket knife
__Extra batteries/bulbs __Plastic grocery bags
__Compass __Binoculars
__Bug repellant/candles __Rope/clothes line
__Whistle __Canteen/water bottle/coffee pot
__Water filters/purification/treatment __Bungi cords/straps
__Camera/battery/film/video (see photo jigsaw puzzles) __Cards/games/toys/golf
__Books/magazines (a Kindle would be better) __Duct tape/electrical tape
__Candles __Notepad/pen
__Maps/directions __Reservations info./confirmation
__Misc. tools __Cell phone/charger & 2-way radios/walkie talkies
__Backpack/fanny pack __Small shovel
__Fishing gear/license/bait __Safety pins
__Radio __Money/ID/credit card/quarters
__Musical instruments/song books __Bikes/helmets
__Camp chairs __Travel alarm clock
__Sunglasses __Work gloves
__Hammock __Umbrella
__First aid kit __Hand wipes
__Tissues __Drinks/snacks
__Saw/axe __Small sewing kit
__Park map/guidebooks/trail maps __Fire extinguisher
__Lantern pole or hanger __Hot chocolate/tea bags/coffee
__Collapsible drying rack __Scissors
__Popcorn __Watch
__Marshmallows, Graham crackers, Hershey bars (Smores)
__Tell someone of your plans - give details of where you are going and when
you expect to return, give directions and possible alternative roads that you may take, provide cell phone numbers, vehicle description and license plate numbers, hand-held radio channel and codes that you will use, and provide local authority phone numbers (State Police, Game & Fish Commission, Sheriff Dept, etc.) for the county or area that you will be in.

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what should i take backpacking with me?

bowhunterh

i am going to west virginia in the spring to hike the north fork mountain trail i was wondering if any one had any ideas on light weight supplies i could take with me i needs to be very light.

Answer
If you're serious about going ultralight there's no better introduction than reading Dan Ladigin's book, "Lighten Up!: A Complete Handbook for Light and Ultralight Backpacking" http://www.amazon.com/Lighten-Up-Complete-Ultralight-Backpacking/dp/0762737344/

Most ultralight backpackers reduce weight by choosing frameless packs that weigh less than 2-3 lbs and sometimes as little as a few ounces. My old Golite pack weighs a pound while my wife's handmade Ray Jardine backpack weighs a mere 9 ounces and both of those hold about 3000 cu in of gear each. Some popular packs include the Gossamer Gear G4 http://www.gossamergear.com/cgi-bin/gossamergear/G4-Standard.html
the ULA Conduit http://www.ula-equipment.com/conduit.htm and the Granite Gear Vapor Trail http://www.granitegear.com/products/backpacks/ultralight/vaportrail.html

With such light packs one has to limit one's pack weight and size. Sleeping bags are getting lighter and pack smaller, and while down is an option and does both those things well, it's not the best for general use and requires some effort to keep it dry, because once wet, down is nearly useless, which is why I always recommend synthetic insulation. Personally I've sewed my own Ray Jardine sleeping quilts from his kits for myself and my family. A quilt doesn't have a bottom and we lay right on the foam pad, though there is a foot box. So far I've never been warmer compared to my former North Face Cat's Meow mummy sleeping bag. You can find down quilts out there at extreme prices, but there's really no synthetic quilts being manufactured today. http://www.rayjardine.com/ray-way/Quilt-Kit/index.htm

Next comes shelter, and it's really up to you. A two pound single person tent is only twice as heavy as a one pound UL tarp made of silnylon. I've used both and only as my kids got larger did we switch to a tarp full time, though sleeping under the stars is our preferred method, or a lean-to set up if there's a breeze. Some people also like hammocks.
http://www.tarptent.com/
http://www.the-ultralight-site.com/backpacking-tarps.html
http://www.ryanjordan.com/photos/arctic_1000/imgp1357800.html
http://www.thru-hiker.com/workshop.asp?subcat=3&cid=4
http://www.ray-way.com/tarp-nettent/pitch/index.shtml
http://hennessyhammock.com/

And once you've got the big three taken care of the rest is gravy, which I cook with an alcohol stove from Minibull, though making your own is supposedly easy enough. http://www.minibulldesign.com/fs2.htm
http://www.backpacking.net/makegear/falk-catstove/index.html
http://www.pcthiker.com/pages/gear/catstoveinstrt.shtml
http://art.simon.tripod.com/Stoves/

And the final tip I'll offer is to toss out your heavy leather boots and try on some nice lightweight hiking shoes or running shoes. http://www.the-ultralight-site.com/hikingshoes.html

Does anyone know where I can find a free sewing/quilting pattern for a backpack for teenagers?

Nancy M

I want to quilt/sew a full size backpack for our kids school--not the little kiddie size ones that are for younger children.

Answer
Wild Ginger has a software program that is free called "Wild Things" - you tell it how big you want and it prints pattern pieces on your printer - you just tape them together. There is a backpack with a flap, as well as a zippered messenger bag, called a shoulder bag on their descriptions. I've used this program to make matchy halloween bags. I'm just a satisfied dedicated customer - no affiliation...

I did a search for "backpack" on craftster.org, and got like 20 pages of homemade backpacks that people have made there. I think what might be most helpful for you might be the messenger bag tutorials below, with double straps instead of one - the straps would attach at the top and bottom. It is not that hard to do and doesn't require a pattern.

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is skatewarehouse.com a good place to get your skateboards?

Justin

my bro is more experienced but he kids with me and i cant tell if he was saying it was a bad place to order from

Answer
no dude..
Best place to order from:
www.skatewarhouse.com
Badest place to order from:
www.skateamerica.com

Skatewahouse is very good, and cheap...
I ordered my volcom skate backpack alone, and i got it withing 4-5 days.
1 month later, someone robbed the skateboard from my little brother. so mom and dad ordered a new to him from SKATEWAREHOUSE.
And next time will be the same :)
I trust 100% that site :) you should order your boards from there too no joke. goo dluck ;)

Do you think i'm spoiled?

Okay so , I want to start off by saying im asking this not to show off, or sound great or whatever. I'm asking because alot of people tell me I am. I'm starting to think maybe I am.. But i'll let you decide..

Okay, I own:
About 31 shirts, maybe 5 or 6 are brand name? (quiksilver, West 49, Billabong, DC etc.) 3 are band shirts and once is an amp energy.

7 pares of jeans, I only buy jeans from warehouse 1 or west 49. 3 pajama pants non brand name. 7 pares of shorts 3 are brand name.

I own 22 hoodies. About 15 are brand name. (West 49, Ripzone, Volcom, etc.)

I own 7 belts all are not brand name.

I have an iphone 4 and two cases. (A blue ifrogz one and a blueberry jelly belly one.)

My mom buys me new hair stuff and whitening products for my teeth alot. I have, Crest 3d white toothpaste, scope whitening mouthwash , Rembrandt 2 hour kit. I have pantene shampoo for me only but i also have Rusk shampoo, conditioner and leave it conditioner. I have ALOT of other hair, face and all those products but im lazy and dont feel like naming it all.

I have a Conair straightener and a silver solutions blowdryer,

I own 6 pairs of shoes, 5 are brandname. (2 Allstar,DC,Circa,Adidas)

I have a black hp laptop that is currently broken but getting fixed soon!

I am getting an ipad sooon!

I have 4 backpacks, One element, one dickies, One hello kitty and some ugly one from walmart for sleepovers ahaha.

I own the first three seasons of jersey shore and my mom said she will be buying me every season each time one comes out cause I love them that much. :P

I have like 15 teddies.

I was given 400 dollars to spend out of town for a little bit of school clothes. I am getting more clothes on the fifteenth (:

I have a quiksilver binder.

i had my septum pierced but i took that out and I am getting my ears pierced.

I am getting a flat screen tv for my room because my parents are giving me their old one.

So thats alot of the things i have... like I said before. I am not trying to brag or anything.
I also have 3 digital cameras. (one nikon, one samsung and a digital flip cam.

Answer
Not spoiled so much spoiled as a person who catalogues things...why? I know lots of kids with that stuff so again no.

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Best Camping in Arizona?

jancanyon

Hi! My friends and I were going to go hiking in a week to Havasu Falls and then camp out. The only problem is that one girl hurt her back (but already paid for the plane ticket to Arizona). Is there an awesome place to camp in Arizona that doesnt involve hiking 10 miles down a canyon with a heavy pack?

Answer
There are many great places to go camping in Arizona that do not require backpacking. The biggest limiting factor for next weekend is weather since it is already getting a bit warm for camping in the lower desert areas.

The rim country north of Payson is pretty nice. There are a number of small lakes along the rim where you camp out either by the lake or just about anywhere in the nearby National Forest. The few established campgrounds (all of which are pretty 'rustic') will be pretty busy with the three day weekend, but if you don't mind just throwing a tent off the side of a dirt road somewhere out in the forest than your options are pretty limitless. Areas to consider include Woods Canyon Lake, Knoll Lake, Bear Canyon Lake and Will Springs Lake. All are just above the rim, north of Payson. If you are not familiar with the area, than you will need either Forest Service maps (Coconino and Tonto) or the DeLorme Arizona Atlas.

Another neat area that is at nice cool elevations is the area around Aztec Peak in the Sierra Ancha Mountains east of Lake Roosevelt. Along the road from Lake Roosevelt to Heber (AZ288) is a turn off to Workman's Creek and Aztec Peak. Worksman's Creek usually has at least a trickle of water even in summer and at 8,000 feet elevation, Aztec Peak is quite cool in the pines with excellent views. This is pretty far off the beaten path (about 3 hours from Phoenix) and you should have maps with you.

Just about any place that is covered by National Forest will allow you to camp out anywhere you want down a dirt road (unless there are extreme fire restrictions in place). The biggest challenge is find a nice place near water - those places are much more rare in Arizona and will generally be popular with other people too.

Finally, I might note that if you have the money for it, you should be able to hire a helicopter to take your friend down to Havasu village near the falls and campground (there is a helicopter service that routinely takes tourists in and out of the canyon). That way the rest of you could hike in and she could meet you there. Just a thought. A somewhat cheaper option would be to have them pack her gear in on a mule (again, you can hire this service from the Indians) to make it easier on her. The first mile of trail is pretty rough (descending into the canyon), but the remaining hike along the stream bed is long, but not really difficult.

How to go camping??????

blueXjello

my bf and I are crazy about hiking, and we've decided to try backpacking in Alaska. Ive never camped, and I understand the guided tours are very expensive. Were already spending over 1000 on plane tickets and we dont want to spend another 4000 on just the hike, so could we use a campground? Like with just a tent or whatever? like are there rules or fees for using them? ANY information on camp grounds would be great. thanks!
were experienced HIKERS. Weve done 20 miles through the appalachians in a single day. the hiking is fine, we are ready for that, but the camping is a little scary, but campgrounds are safe right? you really havent helped me any, and I am aware of wildlife DA... Ive hiked before.

Answer
There are numerous state campgrounds on the road system in Alaska. They charge a small fee for camping, generally less than $20/night. Yes. Tents are allowed and safe as long as you keep a clean camp. This means no food containers or anything with a smell left out or near the tent. Keep food in your car or bear-proof container. Bear spray or gun is a good idea. I did have a black bear wander through my camp a few years ago. I was not in a campground though. It came 5 feet from the tent in the middle of the night but kept on walking. Later that morning some hunters came along to warn me of bears in the area. LOL. There are limits to how long you can stay in the same campground. I think it is something like 2 weeks every year.

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Valentines day Present for an outdoor-sy geek?

hypergothi

My boyfried is an engineer/outdoor adventuerer. sadly his brithday is in january, and after christmas and his birthday im totally running out of ideas!

he loves his Jeep, is into his computer and likes movies. he goes camping, and is in Alpha Phi Omega... but im not old enough to buy him beer. lol.

any suggestions?

Answer
A G.P.S. for the jeep. Hiking boots. A backpack. Portable D.V.D. player. Survival kit for jeep. Camping equipment. Go to any good outdoor sporting supplier and ask a salesperson. Preferable a guy.

Is there a battery powered Outlet?

Bryan

Im going camping and its quite hot, is there a battery powered outlet i can plug a fan into?
By that i mean is there a battery powered outlet I can buy at a store.

Answer
Many manufacturers make portable 12V power packs you can recharge at home or in your vehicle and then run small items like a fan, lighting, laptop, satellite phone, etc for several days before recharging. They feature a 12V accessory outlet like the cigarette lighter outlet in a vehicle, and a built-in, rechargeable battery. Many also include a 120V or 240V AC outlet (depending on the standard in your country) with the necessary inverter circuit to convert DC to AC power. Xantrex, Wagan, Duracell, Diehard, and RoadPro are some of the name brands to consider.

The key to selecting a power pack is to know how much power you need for how long. For example, if you are going to run a fan for 8 hours per day that draws 0.5 Amps you will need 4 Amp/Hours per day (0.5 x 8), or 20 Amp/Hours for a 5-day stay (8 x 5 = 40). Likewise, running a laptop that needs 1 Amp for 4 hours a day during a 5-day trip will need 1 x 4 x 5 = 20 Amp/Hours.

Smaller power packs are rated in mAh (milli-Amp hours), so you need to divide by 100 to convert to Amp Hours (e.g., 2500mA/hr = 2.5A/hr); these units are usually only good for recharging cell phones or MP3 players. Some power packs are rated in Watts instead of Amps; to convert you divide by the voltage, in this case 12 for 12 volt units, so a 600 Watt unit would yield 50 Amps (600/12=50). Likewise, some appliances are rated in Watts, and you use the same formula (Watts/voltage) to convert to Amps.

While the units that can run 120V or 240V AC appliances might cause you to consider bringing a standard household fan, understand that the conversion from DC to AC will eat some power due to circuit inefficiency, as much as 40%. So sticking with 12V DC appliances would provide better run times.

12V portable power packs are available at Sears, WalMart, and many other local retail stores, as well as on-line on Amazon and many other ecommerce sites. They range in price from $40 and up, depending on the brand name, capacity and features. Understand that these units are very heavy due to the weight of the batteries needed to provide the capacity, so this isn't something that would be usable for backpacking. Making one yourself from a 12V deep-cycle battery (aka "marine battery"), clip-on cigarette lighter outlets and a suitable container is not difficult.

12V DC Fans are also widely available at auto-parts stores and truck stops, as well as on-line.

I have a small 12V power pack I bought on close-out at Walmart for $25. I use it to run a 12V refrigerator at camp while off driving during 4WD trips, simply recharging it from the Jeep when I return to camp.

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Where to go wilderness camping (not at a campsite) near Chicago Illinois.?

Kevin J

Some friends and I want to go camping in the wilderness. We live near chicago and are willing to drive up to 5-6 hours. We want to find a spot secluded from others or any building or campgrounds where we can set up a tent for 3-4 days and just relax. I do not want to go camping at a site, most sites have bathroom buildings, rv's everywhere- thats not camping. Please comment with any suggestions..

Answer
Off the top of my head I can think of a few options:

The Kettle Moraine State Forest "South Unit" in South Central Wisconsin about 2 hours drive from Chicago has some opportunities you might be interested in. There are things called "Backpack Shelters" that are secluded deep into the woods and our not accessible by vehicles. The hike can range from a 1/2 mile to 10 miles depending on how secluded you want to be.

Here is a link:
http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/parks/specific/kms/camping.html

Just scroll to the middle of the page and find the "Backpack Shelters" section, they allow no more then 10 people per group. And reservations can be made by calling (888) 947-2757.


Another option may be the Kettle Moraine State Forest "North Unit" it is a little longer drive about 4 hours but is much more secluded and offers many more camping options. Once again Backpack Shelters are available and are even more secluded then the prior.

Here is a link:
http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/parks/specific/kmn/camping.html
If you want to make a reservation then call (888) 947-2757, to obtain a rustic camping permit.

Need websites that recommend camping spots?

starryeyed

I keep getting sites for camping spots that are covered in concrete and have swimming pools. What is up with that...guess I am looking for something more primitive, a real back to nature experience. Any websites that can refer you to that type of camping spot?

Answer
ALLENTOWN, PA
Virtually all State Forest lands are open for primitive camping and permits are free.
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/
Check out nearby Weiser State Forest.
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/stateforests/weiser.aspx

ATLANTA, GA
Primitive camping allowed in designated Wildernesses of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Check for regulations that may apply to each.
http://www.fs.fed.us/conf/welcome.htm

Some nearby state parks also offer primitive camping including: Red Top Mountain State Park, John Tanner State Park and Fort Yargo State Park.
http://gastateparks.org/

AUSTIN, TX
Sam Houston National Forest. Wilderness camping allowed free of charge.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/texas/

State parks also offer some options:
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/
Pedernales Falls State Park
Bastrop State Park
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

BALTIMORE, MD
Green Ridge State Forest
100 designated primitive campsites located throughout 44,000 acres and backpacking sites along trails.
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/western/greenridge.html

Catoctin Mountain Park also offers hike-in camping at their Adirondack shelters. Permits required.
http://www.nps.gov/cato/

South Mountain State Park
10,000 acres for year-round hiking along the Appalachian Trail. Camping allowed in designated areas along AT.
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/western/southmountain.html

BOSTON, MA
Boston Harbor Islands
Grape, Bumpkin, Lovells and Peddocks islands offer primitive camping for $25 a night.
http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/metroboston/harbor.htm
http://www.nps.gov/boha

CHAPEL HILL, NC
Uwharrie National Forest
Primitive dispersed camping is allowed throughout the Forest, except in those areas that are posted âNo Camping.â
http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/

State Parks & Recreation Areas
http://www.ils.unc.edu/parkproject/ncparks.html
Falls Lake State Recreation Area
For a more primitive camping experience, Shinleaf offers tent camping in hike-in sites.
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
For a more primitive campsite, New Hope Overlook offers 24 campsites nestled in the woods. These sites range from 100 yards to a half mile from the parking lot.

CHARLESTON, SC
Designated primitive sites in Francis Marion National Forest:
Elmwood Recreation Area
Honey Hill Recreation Area and in other wilderness areas with a special permit.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/fms/index.shtml

CHARLOTTE, NC
Uwharrie National Forest
Primitive dispersed camping is allowed throughout the Forest, except in those areas that are posted âNo Camping.â
http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/

Pisgah National Forest
Backpacking is permitted in certain areas, like Shining Rock Wilderness.
http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/

CHICAGO, IL
Shawnee National Forest
These are the closest places I could find to Chicago for some real backcountry camping. Itâs kind of far, but worth the trip.
Primitive camping is allowed anywhere in the Shawnee National Forest with the exception of developed recreation areas, Natural Areas, developed campgrounds, on lake shores, near streams, or on trails.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/shawnee/

Kettle Moraine State Forest, Wisconsin
Backpack shelters are available year round for rustic camping along the 31.65 miles of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Permit required.
http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/parks/specific/kms/

CLEVELAND, OH
Mohican-Memorial State Forest
Park and pack sites offer shorter hikes from parking lot, to try backcountry camping in baby steps.
http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/forestry/forests/mohican.htm

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Prince William Forest Park is located only 35 miles south of Washington, DC. and boasts 37 miles of hiking trails.
Chopawamsic Backcountry Area (tents only) is an 8-site, hike-in/hike-out, backcountry campground in the park.
http://www.nps.gov/prwi/

Sky Meadows State Park in Clarke and Fauquier counties, Virginia offers hike-in primitive camp sites. An hourâs drive from DC.
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/sky.shtml

EUGENE, OR
Siuslaw National Forest
Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas of the forest as long as Leave No Trace rules are followed. Certain areas are prohibited; list available online.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/siuslaw/

Umpqua National Forest
Backcountry camping allowed in wilderness areas. Contact for trail guides and restrictions.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/umpqua/index.shtml

JACKSONVILLE, FL
Cary State Forest
Three primitive campsites are located on Cary State Forest.
http://www.fl-dof.com/state_forests/cary.html

Osceola National Forest
Primitive camping is allowed anywhere on the national forest except at Olustee Beach. However, camping is restricted to designated hunt camps and Ocean Pond Campground during hunting season.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/florida/recreation/index_osc.shtml

LONG ISLAND, NY
Fire Island National Seashore
Backcountry camping (backpacking) is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness area.
http://www.nps.gov/fiis/

LOS ANGELES, CA
Angeles National Forest
Hike-in camping at designated sites like: Bear Canyon Trail Camp, Green Valley Trail Camp and Maxwell Trail Camp.
Primitive camping allowed in San Gabriel Wilderness Area.
Contact for restrictions.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/

The Cleveland National Forest
Undeveloped or primitive camping is premitted in designated wilderness areas. Permits required.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/cleveland/

San Bernardino National Forest
Primitive camping permitted in certain designated Wilderness Areas. Permits required.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/

Channel Islands National Park encompasses five islands (Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara)
Backcountry camping is available year-round at the Del Norte campsite near Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island. Also, during certain times of year, backcountry beach camping is allowed on Santa Rosa Island.
http://www.nps.gov/chis/

MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL, MN
Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
Dispersed camping is allowed in state forests. If camping outside of designated areas, please practice the âleave no traceâ camping ethic.
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_forests/index.html

Lake Maria State Park
Backpack sites, located on remote lakes and ponds throughout the park, are two miles from the trailhead parking lot.
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/lake_maria/index.html

PHILADELPHIA, PA
Virtually all State Forest lands are open for primitive camping and permits are free.
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/
Check out Weiser State Forest & Michaux State Forest
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/stateforests/weiser.aspx
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/stateforests/michaux.aspx

PITTSBURGH, PA
Raccoon Creek State Park
Primitive camping is allowed along the backpacking trails in designated spots.
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/raccooncreek.aspx

Forbes State Forest
Primitive camping is allowed along the backpacking trails in designated spots.
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/stateforests/forbes.aspx

PORTLAND, ME
White Mountain National Forest
Backpackers seeking a backcountry experience should consult one of the many trail guides available online for information on sites and access to them.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/white_mountain/

Mahoosuc Public Reserved Land
Backpackers can find solitude and primitive opportunities along trails to scenic vistas and remote mountaintops.
http://www.maine.gov/cgi-bin/doc/parks/find_one_name.pl?park_id=58

PORTLAND, OR
Tillamook State Forest
Dispersed camping allowed in small groups. Backcountry Leave No Trace rules must be followed. Fire restrictions maybe in effectâcall for details.
http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/TSF/about_us.shtml
Forest Grove District
Tillamook Dictrict

Mt. Hood National Forest
Camping outside campgrounds is permitted in many parts of the Mt. Hood National Forest. Call ahead for restrictions.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mthood/

PROVIDENCE, RI
Arcadia Management Area
Backcountry/hike-in camping available for no fee.
http://www.riparks.com/arcadia.htm
Arcadia Management Area Forest Environment Headquarters

RICHMOND, VA
False Cape State Park
The park accommodates primitive camping, tents only.
Camping areas are Barbour Hill Bay, Barbour Hill Ocean, False Cape Landing Bay and False Cape Landing Ocean.
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/fal.shtml

James River State Park
One of the stateâs newest parks.
Branch Pond and Canoe Landing are open year-round for primitive camping.
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/jam.shtml

SACRAMENTO, CA
Stanislaus National Forest
Pick your own spot, dispersed area camping, is an option available throughout most of the Forest.
May need campfire permit.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/index.shtml

Eldorado National Forest
Most of the land in the National Forest is open to camping, free of charge, just for the choosing. You may camp practically anywhere that camping is not specifically prohibited.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/eldorado/

Point Reyes National Seashore
Offers year-round backcountry camping on designated backcountry sites along Drakes Bay and amongst the hills and valleys of the Phillip Burton Wilderness. Boat-in camping is also available on the west shore of Tomales Bay.
http://www.nps.gov/pore/

SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Point Reyes National Seashore
Offers year-round backcountry camping on designated backcountry sites along Drakes Bay and amongst the hills and valleys of the Phillip Burton Wilderness. Boat-in camping is also available on the west shore of Tomales Bay.
http://www.nps.gov/pore/

Stanislaus National Forest
Pick your own spot, dispersed area camping, is an option available throughout most of the Forest.
May need campfire permit.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/index.shtml

SANTA ANA, CA
Angeles National Forest
Hike-in camping at designated sites like: Bear Canyon Trail Camp, Green Valley Trail Camp and Maxwell Trail Camp.
Primitive camping allowed in San Gabriel Wilderness Area.
Contact for restrictions.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/

The Cleveland National Forest
Undeveloped or primitive camping is premitted in designated wilderness areas. Permits required.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/cleveland/

Channel Islands National Park encompasses five islands (Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara)
Backcountry camping is available year-round at the Del Norte campsite near Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island. Also, during certain times of year, backcountry beach camping is allowed on Santa Rosa Island.
http://www.nps.gov/chis/

SEATTLE, WA
The Olympic National Forest
Backcountry camping permitted in wilderness areas including:
The Buckhorn Wilderness, in the northeast portion of Olympic National Forest
The Brothers Wilderness, on the east side of Olympic National Forest
http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/olympic/recreation-nu/wilderness_1.shtml

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Dispersed allowed on much of the Forest land. Permits may be required.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/

Olympic National Park
Much of the park is designated Wilderness and offers coastal camping. Wilderness Camping Permits are required.
http://www.nps.gov/olym/

ST. LOUIS, MO
Mark Twain National Forest, Missouriâs National Forest
http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/marktwain/
Dispersed camping allowed in certain wilderness areas, including:
Bell Mountain Wilderness
http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/marktwain/recreation/sites/bell_mtn_wilderness/

Cuivre River State Park
Backpacking trails with backpacking sites.
Both primitive and modern campsites are available.
http://www.mostateparks.com/cuivre.htm

TAMPA, FL
Withlacoochee State Forest
The third largest state forest in Florida is divided into eight distinct tracts of land.
http://www.fl-dof.com/state_forests/withlacoochee.html#
Primitive camping is permitted along certain trails, including:
Croom Hiking Trails
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/regions/westcentral/west_central.htm
Overnight primitive camping is permitted within the camp zones designated by white-banded trees.

Myakka River State Park
http://www.floridastateparks.org/myakkariver/default.cfm
There are six primitive campgrounds at Myakka River. Each has three campsites and is set in an oak hammock or pinewoods.

TUCSON, AZ
The Coronado National Forest
Backcountry camping is allowed in wilderness areas, including nearby:
Rincon Mountain Wilderness
Miller Peak Wilderness
http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coronado/index.shtml

Sonoita Creek State Natural Area
Newly acquired area within Patagonia Lake State Park
Offers 3 backcountry campsites downstream of the Park.
Permit required. Maps available at visitorâs center.
http://www.pr.state.az.us/Parks/parkhtml/patagonia.html

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Essential Camping Gear?

lilpeaches

Summer is coming and I like to plan ahead.

I am planning on going camping and haven't ever really done so to be honest.

What do you think the essential camping gear you need? Other than a tent? (Any suggestions on that would be great too.)

Remember that I am on a limited budget.

Thanks!
ok let me say from the last answer that this is just a camping trip. i'm not a survivalist and were just going to have a good time.

some people take this stuff way to seriously. oy.

but for the rest, your answers are awesome!

Answer
I am assuming that you will be car camping and not backpacking. That said my information will be for car camping, though you should go backpacking at some point because it is really fun...if you like to be in nature. Depending on where you are going these things might need to be changed.

THE LIST:
1. A Cooler w/ ice
2. Some type of food (i.e. sandwich meat, bread, water, condements, hotdogs, marshmallows, graham crackers, chocolate(you gotta make smores when camping) etc.
3. Water, or a water purification system
4. antibacterial wipes
5. Tent
6. sleeping bag, or a old blanket from your house
7. Some type of sleeping mat...i perfer a self inflating mat. I use a thermarest
8. changes of socks! then undies and other clothes
9. I lighter/lighter fluid
10. Knife
11. Flashlight and lantern...lantern is not required but a good flashlight is.
12. pillow
13. Folding Chair
14. Simple first aid, w/ bandaids, peroxide, common sense stuff ya know
15. It is always nice to have a camera

Honestly this list could go on and on and on. These are basics. You won't really know what you'll need until you have actually camped.
12.

Camping Christmas List?

Q. I'm asking for my own camping gear this year for Christmas (I usually borrow my parents) I have used their beige Coleman air mattress and it's a piece of crap (have to reinflate it every night...) I'm looking for a new air mattress as well as a good sleeping bag. Any suggestions? Or any products/companies I should stay away from?

Answer
If you want a big fattie mattress, I think one is probably just as good as another. If you want a backpacking one, get a ThermaRest, no contest. They have a lot of different ones, I think including for just women but also different sizes and a backpacking friendly one. You can get a self-inflating one, or a closed cell foam one (Compact ridge rest, Z rest? something like that it looks like yoga mat, and it has traction and accordian folds instead of rolling.)

Sleeping bag info:

I have a Sierra Designs bag from the Flex series and I love it! They are quilted with slightly elastic thread around the circumference of the bag, so they are stretchy...like stretch jeans. They kind of hug you but they are still plenty roomy. So nice for side sleeping!

Synthetic fill is always my recommendation because down is so touchy. It will have a lot of different trade names but it is all polyester. Basically it is various kinds of quilt batting. Down is more expensive than comparable synthetics, they require dry cleaning, and if you get it wet out in the field, you won't necessarily ruin it, but it is worthless until you dry it out which means you could be dangerously cold. Nonetheless, down fill is lighter weight and compressible.

I wouldn't worry so much about weight or fill if you are car camping. Just get the warmest one that you need for your budget. As far as brands, I'm sure a Coleman or whatever is fine. My SD bag is from my backpacking days and is still very serviceable. If you are getting a true backpacking bag...you get what you pay for but there are some good bargains out there. Try the High Peak Line of gear. They make EXCELLENT bags, and they are little known but still reasonable. I have also had two different packs from this brand and one was in amazing shape even after I backed over it with the car. hahah!

http://www.highpeakusa.org/

I can tell you that Slumberjack makes relatively low end bags for the money and in my experience their zippers don't work very well. But they are cheap, offer lots of temps and styles, and they seem to run warm if you can keep them zipped.

Re temp rating, if you camp year round, you will really benefit from having at least two bags. One just cannot be the end all-be all for every climate. Get a summer one, even if it is just a hostel bag or a silk or fleece bag liner, and then a 0 deg, 20 deg or 30 deg. Use them both independently in their season, and both together in the winter. If you do this, you need to make sure that they are the same shape (rectangular vs mummy) and make sure the zippers are on the same side. Late night pee trips will be a lot easier this way. In addition, I have a 10 dollar cheapo down throw blanket that I have used a million ways with my other gear. You can throw it in the mix to help you stay warm. It make a great shoulder, butt, or foot specific helper and also a pillow. It is also snuggly around the campsite, and I have even paired it up with my rain jacket to work just like a down parka! I didn't mind having this down piece because I was not totally relying on this to keep me safe, just comfortable. And it was cheap, only weighed a few ounces, and it fit in a gallon ziplock bag. So...easy to stuff in a pack.

They also make bivy sacks that are excellent for adding even more warmth to a sleeping bag, and they can protect your bag from getting wet. This is great if you go shelterless on a clear night, so your bag isn't covered in dew by morning.

Have a great time making your list!

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What items should a teenage girl carry around in her backpack for high school?

Grace Kell

What do you think is essential for a 15 year old girl to carry around in her backpack?

Answer
Phone, iPod, perfume, lotion, makeup, deodrant, Bobby pins, lip gloss, pads, pen, post-it notes, ect ect

Teenage backpacks for back to school?

xmoveonhun

I was going to get a cute Juicy Couture one for $60, but it sold out -.-

I cannot for the life of me find cute backpacks for teen girls online. Can you helpp? (No LL Bean or PB Teen pleasee)

Thanks!:)

Answer
well i know a lot of people carry coach backpacks like..

http://www.coach.com/online/handbags/-poppy_bags-10551-10051-5000000000000189652-en?t1Id=5000000000000032004&t2Id=5000000000000189652&tier=2&LOC=HR (the backpacks are near the end of the page)

but they run super expensive. so what i and a lot of other people do is just carry totes from places like victoria secret's pink store. (btw, they always have cuter ones than this in their stores)

http://www.victoriassecret.com/pink/bags-and-luggage

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Has anyone actually backpacked through Europe?

MMM

What did it cost approximately--the whole amount, or what you averaged monthly, weekly, or even daily?

Did you bring a significant other and/or child with you? If you did bring a child, how young? If you didn't, do you think it is feasible?

What kind of places did you stay in? Hostels?

Did you mostly hike? How much are train trips or ferries? Can you get bicycles there?

If you don't want to answer every question, I would very much appreciate any info or links to relevant information. My husband and I are seriously considering just selling everything and going rather than stay here and struggle during this horrible recession (our respective careers have been hard hit by layoffs, lack of available work, and reduced hours). If we stay here and struggle, we will end up spending all our savings and have nothing to show for it. If we go, I'm figuring our expenses will be very much reduced and we will be able to leave the majority of our savings in the bank. I want to live life and be positive rather than be oppressed by a financial crises. This would be a huge adventure for our family--we are experienced travelers, but we rarely vacation for longer than a week or two. I want to go long term--6 months to a year. We do, obviously, want to bring our son, who is 4. He is big, sturdy, healthy, athletic, social, and fearless.

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Answer
I backpacked through Europe and spent about a year living there. I made a website on how to save money while traveling based on my experience.

http://hubpages.com/hub/10-Easy-Ways-to-Save-Money-While-Traveling-In-Europe

I do not have kids, but I can tell you that it will significantly increase your cost because you can not stay at a hostel with your son. 90% of hostels require all people who stay there to be over 18. They usually do not have private rooms or locks on the doors and they can not be responsible for a child. You will have to stay at hotels which can be much more expensive for the same quality you will get at a hostel.

I took the Eurail everywhere and walked when in the cities. You can rent bicycles in just about any city, but again many companies are hesitant to allow a young child to ride a bike in a busy city street or off terrain.

Good luck :)

Child Harness?

pawys1111

Does any one know where i can buy a harness for my five yr old for when we are in busy places.
I got one of the monkey backpack ones but just takes it off when he wants too.
Thanks
I dont see how putting him in a stroller will help him to learn to walk next to me.
And i dont beleive there is anything wrong with using a harness i like to keep my child safe thank you. With two children the harness was the best thing i have ever used it keeps him safe i know where he is and he likes it too. Just that he can take it off when he feels like it is the problem.
There like a seat belt in a car you might not need it but one day you will and can save his life.
Thanks for your comments and links but i think the ones shown are ment for smallet children and with the chest clip at the front he can still see it to undo it. And some are just velcro i can see that lasting 5 mins. I was hoping for something at the back of him.
I cant beleive people say becuase a child has a harness there treated like a animal. There a child they are still learning right from wrong do and dont.

Answer
I use harnesses but I don't like them. I have to use them because I have a seizure disorder and I don't want them running off if I have a seizure (yes the thought of them being tethered to their seizing mother haunts me). The problem with getting a better harness is that you make a better escape artist. I saw a really good one at Toys R Us with a chest clip. I would also try "Stay with me training". Taking small trips without a purpose (don't tell him that) to teach him the rules. Going to the library without the harness and if he steps out of sight, it is straight home and into time out. If he doesn't hold your hand through the parking lot, straight home and into time out. Three little trips a week and I bet the harness is just a precaution before you know it. (If he removes the harness, straight home and into time out.)
He will be going to school soon and needs to build some personal responsibility for his own safety. Make sure that you have hard fast rules that you can write down about going out in public and that the basics don't change (do not leave my side, do not talk to someone without me, do not touch anything, do not eat anything, always hold onto mom (mom's coat, the shopping cart) when in or near a road or parking lot, etc)
It is hard to do, but ultimately your FIRST job is to teach the boy to be a man. Teach the boy to protect himself, not just keep the boy protected.

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