If you are camping at a well traveled camping ground, there may be plenty of cleared out camping areas and amenities galore. In fact, you may be able to avoid most of the heavy work in preparing a campsite. Many of today's well-traveled campsites include clothes lines and fire pits, nearby water, picnic tables and even a nearby bathroom facility. That's fine. But perhaps this year you intend to brave it a bit and go off the beaten track, perhaps to an unfamiliar forest, mountain or field. In this circumstance, you will find and build a nature campsite.
There are several important considerations when choosing a new camping area. First, choose a flat and relatively high area as much as possible. Avoid low lying areas as they tend to become muddy and even dangerous water traps during heavy storms. Avoid setting your site in the middle of a natural path. These tend to be well traveled by not only hikers but animals too. You might not want to be in their way.
Look above you and avoid large overhanging branches. Rotting branches could fall at anytime especially during a storm. If it's a mountainous area, avoid sites with overhanging rocks. Don't set up camp near swampy stagnant waters. These are breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests. Stay well back from flowing streams or rivers. These could become a flash flood area during a heavy storm.
Watch out for the shiny three leaf poison ivy, oak or sumac plants. Avoid these at all costs. No use turning your camping experience into an itch filled nightmare. If you are sensitive to the oily plant, make sure to pack the calamine lotion.
Before setting up camp, inspect the area for debris such as branches, vines, the aforementioned poison ivy, broken glass, cans or other in-the-way items. Avoid traipsing or clearing seedlings or wildflowers.
If you are going to build a cooking fire, make sure you clear a wide circle. Leave absolutely no twigs or branches in the area. It only takes one flying spark to set a forest fire. We recommend using a propane portable stove for fire free cooking.
Respect your environment and leave the campsite much as you found it. Take along all refuse. And above all, take the time to truly appreciate your camping or hiking experience. It's the best way to get close to nature and enjoy all the satisfaction that the great outdoors can give.
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