The sleeping bag is the most essential piece of equipment that a camper can bring. Going on a trip without a bag requires a level of wilderness familiarity that most people do not possess, and it shouldn't be attempted unless you have years of experience camping in the area that you're going to. Temperature drops can be unpredictable, and without any sort of protection to cover you, the results can be catastrophic, even fatal. Even going out camping with a bag that doesn't have a sufficient temperature rating can turn a fun trip into a shivering nightmare.

When you're choosing a sleeping bag, there should be several factors on your checklist. Low temperature rated bags are more expensive, but if you go camping to a lot of different places, you're going to get more use out of it. Another thing to keep in mind is the material that it's made out of and how durable it is. No matter how well you take care of your bag, there's always a chance that you're going to tear it if you go out camping often enough.

Heft and weight are also crucial things to watch out for when you're shopping, and both affect the price. Bring your backpack with you to the camping store to see how it fits on your pack. Do you like how the weight balances out? Is it easy to compress? Is it easy to climb in and out of? How does it handle moisture? Ask all of these questions when you're in the shop.

Kids always love pizza, but that can be hard to come by at a camping site. The Girl Scouts have a remedy that will amuse little campers, pizza from a camp fire (or camp stove or grill). All it takes are some easily portable ingredients and heavy duty aluminum foil. You will need: pita flatbread, a can or jar of pizza sauce, shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese (if you will have refrigeration you could also use string cheese or shredded mozzarella), and pepperoni (or fully-cooked diced ham). Don't get too fancy with your ingredients, because of the short cooking time.


If your children are old enough, let them make their own pizzas to add to the fun. Use enough aluminum foil to be able to make a packet around your pita bread. Remember that you won't want the top of the packet too, close to your pizza or it will remove your cheese and toppings when you open it. Place your pita on the aluminum foil and add a couple tablespoons of sauce. Spread the sauce around with the spoon, but be careful to leave room for your "crust." Add your cheese; if you are using string cheese, kids can have fun pulling the string cheese sticks apart. Top with meat if desired, pepperoni is a good choice because it travels well.

Fold up your aluminum foil packets and place on the heating source for three minutes. Remember that you only need to melt the cheese as the ingredients are fully cooked. If your coals or heat source is very hot, reduce the amount of cooking time accordingly. Use tongs, or stick, or oven mitts (again, depending on the type of heating source) to remove the packets. Allow to cool enough so that little fingers aren't burned when opening their specialized pizzas.

While companies like Eastern Mountain Sports, LL Bean and Paragon might all have you believe that you need to be making six figures to enjoy a camping trip, that isn't really the case. After all, humans have spent most of their evolutionary history basically camping out - and cavemen never had wind breakers, tents or self-heating meals to feed them. There are a few things that are important to camping - sufficient, sturdy clothing, a good backpack, a sleeping bag, a mat, food, and containers for water. Everything else is just icing on the cake.

Backpacks should be large enough to carry everything you need, and comfortable to carry with a heavy load on your back. Many people do not adjust their backpacks properly and thus have to deal with severe discomfort on extended trips - don't let that happen to you. Tighten the straps so that they are snug against your arms, but not so much that you can't fit a finger or two under them. As for sleeping bags, purchase one that is rated for a temperature twenty degrees colder than the lowest you would expect in the area you're planning to travel in - you never know when you're going to wound up in some sort of freak storm.

A tent isn't strictly necessary so long as you have a tarp - and even that isn't quite that important if you know how to improvise a shelter out of sticks and leaves. A tarp - or even just a poncho - is sufficient for a makeshift shelter, and even then only necessary if rain rolls in.

Bugs are the perpetual enemies of campers everywhere. Mosquitoes in particular can make a relaxing camping trip miserable, particularly on sticky summer days when you're just trying to relax near the campfire. Lights attract bugs, and in the darkness of a night out in the wilderness, your beacons will stand out to them far more than it would even if you were just relaxing on your porch. If you're camping only a short distance from a car, bringing a bug zapper is an option. If you're further away, you have to rely on other things.

Bug spray is a good idea. It doesn't smell nice. It often irritates allergies. But so do bugs, and their bites can ruin your day, particularly when you're hanging around outside all day, but especially if you're nearby the bodies of water where they make their nests. There are many bug repellent products on the market. If you're concerned with fire hazards or polluting the environment with aerosol cans, use creams or sticks of repellent instead.

Snakes and small rodents are a relatively minor concern for campers, but it's a more significant problem if you're staying in a single place for a while, and storing a fair amount of food. Try to keep your food packed carefully in plastic wrap or canvas to present a barrier to the scent traveling very far. This can help prevent getting your food contaminated by rodents in the wild, or insects. Dry food is also less attractive to animals than food that is still hydrated.

Camping is a very versatile activity. Whether an occasional hobby or a routine excursion, it is a different experience for all interests and levels. On the same note, camping equipment is varied to suit all needs. A three season tent is a good example of a single piece of equipment that suits different needs.

A three season tent accommodates campers in weather conditions typical of the spring, summer, and fall months. The tent will usually feature two entrances for improved ventilation, or additional windows. A rain fly over all openings is also a common feature.

A three season tent generally differs from other varieties in design and construction. The “all-season” tent is designed for year round camping, and differs from the three season in the material used and the durability of the poles. The three season tent is suitable for most types of weather, excluding protection from bitterly cold temperatures and strong winter winds. Larger and more durable than its lighter-weight counterparts, the three season tent will probably prove to hold up better against the elements. It will provide more space, as well, making it ideal for family camping.

Camping in a variety of locations and weather conditions is growing in popularity, and camping gear manufacturers are turning out new and improved products to make camping easier for serious and casual campers alike. A three season tent is a versatile choice for most camping trips, aside from winter camping. Prices will vary with size, brand, and features, but gravitate toward the mid- to high-end range.

When camping with kids it is a good idea to take a tip from veteran campers and backpackers, select foods that will travel well and will be easy to fix in rustic circumstances. And keep in mind that if your children won't eat it at home, they won't eat it at camp just because it is convenient for you. Be honest, you won't want to eat food you don't like either!

Plan food for the length of your trip and how strenuous your trip will be. The more strenuous, the more food you will need. Backpackers figure about two pounds per day per person. You do need to keep nutrition in mind and make sure that your calories aren't all from sugars. Check out stores that specialize in camping and hunting gear because they will have freeze-dried meals and products that can be helpful for variety. These items can become expensive, and remember, if they won't eat it, don't get it.

Foods that travel well are often things that kids will eat. Most kids love noodles, and Ramen noodles, Lipton noodle soup, and thin pasta noodles all travel well. Canned goods are convenient because they don't need refrigeration, but they can be heavy if you need to carry your food. Instant foods such as instant mashed potatoes or rice or sauces are helpful Sauces in jars are not recommended, animals sometimes will get their heads stuck in jars trying to get the remnants or even just smell them. Salami or other preserved meats like jerky will work (canned tuna or chicken too). Some fresh vegetables or fruits travel better than others and hold up well such as apples, carrots, and celery. Consider taking dried fruits. You can also package small containers of spices from home, but don't use film containers because they are contaminated with chemicals.

While camping can be a lot of fun, there is no reason why you should have to be uncomfortable during your trip. In fact, those people that have no tolerance for camping probably don’t have the right equipment. Since sleeping well is a large part of any good trip, it is crucial that you have a warm, cozy, and comfortable place to buckle down for the night. Here are some things that you shouldn’t forget to bring on your next camping trip.

Dome Tents: while you don’t have to run out and buy a dome tent, you should know that these tents were specifically crafted to be sturdy and large. This means that you can lay out, stretch, and have plenty of place to put your camping gear. Also, if you happen to find one with a mesh top, you can have a sneak peek at those glorious stars.

Sleeping Bags: search for a bag that is right for your size. Also, it is a good idea to select a bag that is right for the camping conditions that you will be encountering. Do not choose a bag that is perfect for snowy weather if you are camping in the desert, and vice versa.

Foam: placing a strip of special foam underneath your sleeping bag will ensure that you sleep well. The ground can be really hard, so why not make it just a bit better? You can find this type of foam at any camping store near you.

Cookware: if you are not into putting your food on the end of a stick, make sure to buy some special camping cookware. Nutrition is important if you want to make it through those long hikes, so stock up on lots of great food.

They call it "roughing it," but if it were really hard on the body you'd find that more people would opt out. Camping is certainly getting away from the comforts of home, but that doesn't mean that it has to be uncomfortable either. There are plenty of ways to make the experience more comfortable, and thus more enjoyable, for the entire family.

If you are looking to camp in comfort you need to start with your shelter of choice: your tent. If you don't plan on camping on a regular basis you probably don't want to invest much cash into a tent, but realize that when it comes to camping gear, like many things in life, you'll get what you paid for. So if you go with the cheaper tent from a discount store it is not going to last you as long or hold up as well to the elements. You will also want to buy a tent based on one extra person in your head count, according to experts. If you are having, say, four people on a camping trip you are going to want to get a tent big enough for five or six people. Things will get crowded, so get the bigger model.

When selecting your sleeping bag it is also important to realize that you get what you pay for. If you are planning to camp on a regular basis, and comfort is important to you, you will probably want to pick a model from a specialty store. You will want to look for a bed that has plenty of cushion as well as being well-suited to the various types of weather that you will have on a camping trip. Spending a little extra on your essential gear will mean that you won't spend your trip shivering, with your tent blowing down on your head, because they don't stand up well to Mother Nature. Nothing is fun about that.

When organizing and preparing for a camping trip, one of the most important things you need to consider is the type of tent you buy. In fact, the amount of enjoyment you come away with after your camping trip will depend largely on the type of tent you have and if it has worked well for you according to your needs in the place you’re camping.

The first rule to follow when buying a tent is to always lie down in it first. Many stores, of course, can’t put up all the models of their tents they sell because they simply don’t have enough floor space, but you should ask to set up your tent anyway before you buy it because you need to make sure it has the right amount of space that you need.

When deciding what tent to buy, think about what season you’ll be camping in. If you’re a dedicated camper of all seasons, then you’ll need to get a tent that’s designed for all seasons. Many tents aren’t designed to handle winter weather and only have protective materials for summer and spring and maybe fall.


Furthermore, the style of tent is also an important consideration. For instance, you have the option of buying a tunnel tent, a dome tent or a wedge tent. If you like more room and airiness in your tent, a dome tent would be a good choice, but those are also heavier to carry than say a wedge tent. However, a wedge tent usually doesn’t have as much room as a dome tent. A tunnel tent, on the other hand, tends to be a better choice for bad weather and have a better ratio between their amount of room and concurrent weight.

Camping in extreme heat poses almost as many challenges as camping in the cold. Particularly in desert areas, dehydration and sun exposure can lead to serious exhaustion. Lack of water can make this experience especially unpleasant unless campers prepare properly for these conditions. As most people will tend to start their day with the sun and to end it when it goes down - and will be spending most of their day in relatively direct exposure to sunlight - care must be taken to protect yourself.

Modern people spend most of their days indoors. As such, it's hard to get a feel for the effects of prolonged sun exposure. It's one thing if you think it's alright to trounce around during a regular day without any sunscreen on, but you'll find that it's very different when you spend day after day with the sun beating down on your neck. Wardrobes should be altered to protect yourself from overexposure. Bring brimmed hats with you to protect the sensitive areas around the back of your neck and your ears.

Sunscreen is of course the best protection against serious damage from sunlight, but it isn't always sufficient even when using high S.P.F. brands. Use bandannas and light, long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from exposure. Wear light colored clothing, but avoid white, as intense sun can often go straight through it and burn your covered skin. If you find yourself burned while camping, apply cold water to the affected areas as soon as you can to soothe the burns. Bring ointment with you to prevent it from getting infected and to help it heal faster.

You probably know all about air mattresses and s’mores, but there are some camping ideas that are less than usual. If you want to have everything that you could possibly want on your camping trip this year, consider some of the following items – for the most part, these things will come in handy during longer trips, though they can also be useful during those weekend stints.

You will need to build some type of fire while camping, right? Well, what if the weather doesn’t exactly agree with this plan? You will have a hard time lighting a match when things get really wet out there, so bring along a miniature candle – it will save the day every time! Another great idea is to bring an extra rain jacket with you just in case your feet get cold – that’s right, your feet. While socks and slippers can only go so far, your feet will be nice and cozy inside of a warm, insulated, rain jacket – no more cold feet at night!

If you happen to be camping during those colder months, consider bringing a heavy duty water bottle with you (Nalgene is a trusted brand). Once you have built a campfire for the night, boil some water and pour it into your bottle. Then, place the bottle inside of your sleeping bag with you. The warmth from the bottle will heat up your bag, and you will be toasty all night long. Love these camping tips? Keep checking this site for more great ideas and thoughts all about camping all summer long.

Summertime is probably when most people head to the great outdoors for a little camping fun. And anyone who's spent any time whatsoever sleeping in a tent during the hot summer months knows how important it is to keep cool. A few simple tips can keep you from sweating out an uncomfortable night under the stars.

First, always set up your tent in a well shaded area. The sun comes up awful early. Unless you want to wake at the crack of dawn, place your tent in the shade. It will also make any afternoon naps much more enjoyable.

If you've got a portable generator or a campsite with electrical access, don't be scared to bring along an air conditioner or portable fan. Sure, it may seem silly to bring an air conditioner camping, but see how silly it seems when you're relaxing comfortably within a cool, refreshing tent free of the oppressive summer heat.

If air conditioners and fans seem like cheating, at least make certain you have a well ventilated tent. Buy one with plenty of mesh windows and a ventilated roof. A lot of tents come with rain flies for privacy and to protect the tents from rain. While they serve a great purpose, they can also turn tents into sweat boxes under the beating sun. It's wise to unclip at least one end of the flies during the day.

Sleeping bags really aren't needed in the summer heat. It's far better to go with a small inflatable mattress and a thin cotton blanket or two. And always keep plenty of water on hand. Staying properly hydrated is essential.

As you start making plans for this summers’ camping trips, be sure to take some time to make sure your camping gear will really make you as comfortable as possible while you’re out in the wilderness. Even if you’re all about roughing it the tough way, there’s no need to make yourself suffer needlessly when camping gear is available that will make your experience much more enjoyable, freeing you to truly relish the beauty of nature and being outdoors.

Every camper and/or outdoorsman knows Cabelas, and for good reason. It can’t be disputed that this superstore provides consumers with one of the best variety of choices of camping gear around, and the products are usually of the best quality available.

Right now, for instance, Cabela’s has on sale their Summit Sleeping Bags for only $79.88-$99.88, in comparison to the usual $129.99-$179.99 price range. If you want a comfortable sleep, this sleeping bag is the one to get. This sleeping bag has DuPont Quallofil insulation and a plush micro-fleece interior. There are three layers of insulation on the top and bottom of the sleeping bag, which will probably make you wonder if you’re not on your mattress at home. These bags also come with baffled insulation tin the foot area and chest collar and mummy hood, which will succeed in keeping you warm in almost any weather.

Or if sleeping bags aren’t your thing, check out the Sevylor Cotton/Rubber Inflatable Bed at Cabela’s, going for $49.99. The mattress has a raised pillow and is made of rubberized cotton, which provides a soft, comfortable surface for you to sleep on, no matter what surface you make camp on.

It's usually pretty easy to spot new campers. Novices all tend to make the same mistakes. If you're planning your first camping excursion into the great outdoors, make sure you're prepared for all that lies ahead. With a little planning and know-how, you can avoid most of the common pitfalls.

First, always arrive at your destination long before sunset. If you arrive too late in the day, you'll get stuck trying to assemble your campsite and tent in the dark. Save yourself a lot of trouble and arrive when the sun is still shining.

Next, always make certain you have the necessary supplies. As hard as it is to believe, many campers forget to bring water. There's no guarantee you'll be able to find a fresh water supply near your campsite, so always have your own water. And there won't exactly be a supermarket around the corner. Pack plenty of food, otherwise you'll be going to bed hungry.

Just because you're roughing it doesn't mean you can't do so in comfort. There's no need to sleep on the floor of the tent with just a simple blanket. Bring a comfortable sleeping bag, your favorite pillow, and enough blankets to keep warm through those cold nights under the stars. While you'll never have all the same comforts of home, that's no reason to sacrifice comfort. Make a checklist of everything you may need, and check it twice. You'll be glad you did.

While the thought of camping brings up mental images of solitude in the wilderness, more often than not the reality is shared campsites with others seeking to enjoy nature. And nothing can ruin a camping trip like having to share a site with someone who doesn't follow basic camping etiquette. By observing a little common courtesy and following the rules, you can ensure that not only will you have an enjoyable camping trip, but that you won't disturb anyone else's enjoyment either.

Many of the rules of camping etiquette are very simple, common-sense guidelines. Observe all the rules of the campground, keep noise to a minimum (especially at night) and clean up after yourself. If communal bathrooms or showers are available, be courteous and tidy up after yourself. If the only latrine option is the natural one, make sure to pick a spot well away from anyone else's campsite, and try not to walk through another's pitch - it's the equivalent of cutting through a neighbor's front lawn. Simple courtesy will go a long way toward making everyone's experience better.

You should also pay attention to safety rules as well; carelessness can cause problems for more than just your own party. Food should be stored in airtight containers to reduce the chances of attracting wildlife; trash should be disposed of carefully for the same reasons. Fires should only be built in prescribed areas and tended carefully, and should always be extinguished completely to prevent the possibility of wildfires. It's easy for a careless camper to trigger an emergency situation, and that won't only ruin his day, but that of everyone around.

While some families travel with only children in tow, others cannot bear to leave their four legged friends behind during summer vacation. Well, if you want to bring your pooch on your next camping trip, consider heading to the foothills of the North Carolina mountains. Nestled next to some prime and pristine real estate sits the Four Paws Kingdom – a campsite that caters to all of your dog’s needs.

You will find lots of great amenities for humans at this campsite, but you’ll also find a full fenced dog park, a fully fenced agility playground, a rally-o obedience arena, a fully fenced “small dog” playground, a fully fenced “linus creek park” run, a doggy bathhouse, 20 acres of hiking trails, a doggy swimming pond, lots of doggy treats upon check-in, a dog walking service, and many other things to make your comfortable and dog-friendly. Since many campgrounds aren’t so keen on allowing your four legged friends to run around freely, Four Paws Kingdom presents a wonderful way for your family to bond while your dog happily plays. Not only is the campground great, but the sites are breathtakingly beautiful. If you don’t have an RV, you can always rent a cabin on site (dog friendly, of course!). As you can see, there is absolutely no reason why you should have to leave your pup behind this summer.

Forget about heading to those campsites that don’t tolerated your cherished pet, and head to Four Paws Kingdom instead. Even though you may think that your dog doesn’t want to go camping, this campsite will prove that thought false. From the doggy pond to the doggy bathhouse, this campground is all about your puppy. To find out more about Four Paws Kingdom, visit www.4pawskingdom.com.

Colorado is one of the premier states for outdoor activities, offering tremendous natural resources and breathtaking scenery. And the camping opportunities only increase once the weather warms up. This summer, there are a number of enticing camping grounds ripe for exploration, and few are better than the ones found in the Uncompahgre National Forest.

Located in western Colorado, the Uncompahgre National Forest truly has something for everyone, as there are campgrounds to fit every level of expertise. If you're not really into roughing it, the Matterhorn Campground might be right up your alley. Conveniently located off Colorado 145, it has showers and electrical hookups. On the other hand, if you want to test your survival skills, there's always the Alta Lakes campground, which is located on the outskirts of a ghost town and completely free of modern conveniences.

Another option is the Sunshine Campground. It's located about seven miles south of Telluride. It doesn't have electricity or plumbing, but there is trash pickup. On the edge of the Lizard Head Wilderness 10 miles southwest of Telluride, campers will find the Woods Lake Campground, which boasts 41 sites, portable water, and toilets. The Sheep Corrals is a far more primitive setup, offering eight camping sites along the river in the Illium Valley.

Those looking for more rustic sites should venture to the Uncompahgre Plateau. The area features the Iron Springs Campground, the Antone Springs Campground, the Columbine Campground, and the Divide Forks Campground, all of which will challenge even the heartiest campers.

Nothing beats a little rest and relaxation in the great outdoors. But before you set up your campsite, there are a few important tips to keep in mind when deciding where to pitch your tent.

The first critical thing is to find level ground. Without a flat foundation, erecting your tent will be a terrible headache. And even if you somehow succeed in placing your tent on a slope, you'll likely end up rolling down the hill in your sleep. It's best to start on flat ground and avoid all the grief. Be sure to check the ground beneath the tent for any rocks or tree roots, otherwise you could have a very uncomfortable night.

Finding high ground is also a serious consideration. High ground will ensure you stay relatively dry in wet weather, with water always rolling downhill. It's also wise to choose a well shaded area to protect from both the heat of the sun and whipping wind.

Tent placement is a lot like real estate. It all comes down to location. Pick a spot with a nearby water supply. You'll need water for cooking, drinking, and cleaning, and you certainly don't want to have to lug your water container too far. And never cook inside your tent. Find a tent location with ample cooking space nearby. The same goes for cleaning, as hot, soapy water can damage the surrounding grass, shrubs, and trees.

If you ever watched Yogi Bear as a kid, you probably grew up believing that when you went out into the wilderness, a tall bear in a tie and his cute little sidekick would undoubtedly show up to ransack your food supply. Cute as that may have been in Jellystone Park, bears can pose a very real, and sometimes frightening, problem for campers. Bears are smart, and many methods for protecting your food don’t really work. Bear boxes are locked containers in which to store your food while camping in areas where there may be bears nearby.

Storing food in a cooler or car usually proves ineffective, as does hanging food in a tree and assuming it is out of reach. Bears are, in fact, quite capable of accessing food hung above them. Once a bear learns how to get to your food, you might find yourself in a sticky situation, without food and with a potentially dangerous animal in your campsite.

Some campgrounds offer bear boxes already installed, but you should bring your own locks to be sure they are tightly secured. Bear boxes should be used to store food and anything else that might smell appealing to a bear, such as soaps, beverages, and even your cooking utensils. The goal of bear boxes is to keep bears out of the campsite, by hiding alluring items completely out of sight and concealing their scent. This is important because bears can smell the food and soap products in or around a campsite, leading to a unsafe situation for campers and bears, alike.

Campers can also purchase sturdy bear boxes to take along if the campground does not provide them. They are typically strong metal boxes with an interior that reduces scent and holds food and scented items.

Many campers go to great trouble to ensure they pack everything they need, such as tent poles, sleeping bags, food, extra clothing, and so on. However, a surprising number of people forget to bring a first aid kit. Although we want all our camping trips to go well, it would be unwise not to plan for accidents and injuries. You should always bring a first aid kit with you.

You may prefer to buy a pre-assembled kit, or you might want to put one together yourself. If you build one, you'll be able to customize it and fill it with all the things you need. You'll also have a better opportunity to familiarize yourself with all the components.

What you carry in your first aid kit will be dictated by the kind of camping you'll be doing. If you're going to stay near your car, you don't need as much than if you were going on a long hiking expedition. However, there are some basic things you'll want to put in any first aid kit. For instance, you should have an assortment of bandages for cuts and scrapes, an antiseptic, moisturizing wipes, scissors, burn ointment, and Caladryl in case you get itchy skin. Tylenol in case you get a headache is a good idea, and you should always bring your medication. You might also want to include a sling and some splints.

Finally, you should bring a small first aid manual. Study it and keep it on hand. It's no use having a fully stocked first aid kit if you don't know what to do when a real emergency arises.

It's hard to imagine a campsite without a proper campfire. But campfires can be dangerous if they aren't handled with care. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when starting and tending a campfire:

* Choose an appropriate site. Most national parks will have spots designated specifically for campfires. If not, you'll need to create a safe area for a fire. Clear out an eight by ten feet area for the fire, removing all grass, leaves, and other debris that could catch fire. You may want to surround the fire with a ring of large stones.

* Use only dry, dead wood. That's the stuff that burns. Don't pull limbs down from trees even if they appear to be dead; use only scattered wood on the ground. However, keep in mind that it's against the rules in some parks to gather deadwood. You may be better off buying your firewood. Many parks sell some.

* Don't start your campfire with flammable liquids. It might be easier, but it's much more dangerous. If the wood is wet, you don't want it burning anyway; it will make nasty popping noises all night.

* Always make sure someone is tending the fire.

* Store any unused firewood upwind and away from the campfire.

* Keep the fire small. A bonfire might be exciting, but it would be easy for it to get out of hand. Besides, it can get so hot that it could practically give you sunburn just by sitting near it.

* Completely extinguish the fire when you're done. Water it down and cover it with dirt until there are no sparks remaining. Check on it about 30 minutes later to see if it's still warm. If so, pour more water on it.

When it comes to camping out, the aspiring trail chef has a number of difficulties ahead of him or her. The need to pack ingredients and the difficulty of maintaining perishable foods means the menu must be significantly limited, and the limited amount of cookware available limits the selection even further. But the most important hurdle to overcome is often the very heat source used to cook with. Luckily, there are a number of options available, depending on your circumstances.

The most basic form of camp cookery is done over a simple campfire. Collecting wood for fuel can be done in most areas, and anyone with matches or a firestick can get a roaring blaze going in minutes. The problem lies in heat control; though you might be tempted to cook over an open flame, this tends to burn whatever you're cooking and is generally only good for marshmallows. Bringing charcoal briquets is an option that allows better control and faster cooking, and coupled with cast-iron cookware such as dutch ovens or skillets can allow the production of a wide range of meals.

For many, however, a propane- or other gas-fueled stove is the best solution. Offering the maximum in heat control, these devices can be used just like a burner on your stove at home, and will allow the maximum range of foods to be prepared precisely. Many different models of varying weights and complexities are available, enough to suit virtually any camper.

If your idea of "real camping" is setting up a proper tent, you might not think much of RVs. If you love your creature comforts, the mere idea of sleeping in a tent might make you shudder. But maybe you're somewhere in the middle and you aren't sure which option is right for you. Do you want the comforts of an RV, or is a tent more your style?

One of the advantages of setting up your own camp is that it's cheaper than buying or even renting an RV. You'll pay a lot of money to buy good camping gear, but you'll still save more than if you brought an RV instead. You can also set up your tent almost anywhere you please; RVs are limited in where they can park. Sleeping in a tent also makes you more aware of your surroundings--you feel more a part of nature. You can hear the wind and the rustling trees through the walls of your tent.

An RV is more like an escape from both the city and from nature, especially if it's filled with all the creature comforts we're so used to like electricity, air conditioning, and running water. It's like staying in your a mobile hotel. However, when you step outside, you'll still be able to take in the beauty that nature has to offer. You can go hiking, fishing, or horseback riding and return at the end of the day to your comfortable RV.

If you like the flexibility that a tent offers, if you like the idea of saving money, and if you actually prefer being closer to nature, that's the option you should go with. However, if you can't part with modern conveniences for too long, you'll be much happier if you camp in an RV.

The United States has many campgrounds throughout the nation operated by National Parks or National Forest. Each state also has campgrounds available in their State Park system. These are great places to experience camping and see the natural wonders of America. But sometimes you simply want to get from one place to the next as inexpensively as possible. There are also privately owned campgrounds that are businesses that serve much like hotels or motels. These privately owned campgrounds can be very convenient to those who regularly travel to and from summer and winter homes with camping trailers or Recreational Vehicles (RVs).

One familiar sight to these travelers is the yellow, black, and red signs for the KOA campground. KOA campgrounds are owned and operated by private business people through a franchise system with the company. They are known as a place where you can get a hot shower, clean restrooms, and usually a pool or playground for the kids. There are currently 450 KOA campgrounds throughout North America and Japan.

Dave Drum got the idea for creating a campground on his property on the Yellowstone River when he witnessed the many vehicles traveling US 10 on their way to see the Seattle World's Fair in 1962. His business was an instant success with the travelers. He spent that first year learning from his customers that a campground such as his would be appreciated all along the routes of their travels. In 1963, Drum had two partners and a business plan for making a nationwide network of campgrounds that could be relied upon to provide a quality site for an inexpensive price. KOA still maintains their business practice of the annual 600-point inspection required to operate under the KOA name.

All the world’s a large trash can, and campers have the right to use it as they please – this seems to be the motto of most campers, though you can help to change this attitude by respecting some basic campground rules. Aside from the fact that campers tend to pollute during various trips into the great outdoors, certain campgrounds have unlisted regulations in place that every camper is expected to follow. These regulations are known as campground courtesy, and it’s best to brush up on these things before pitching your tent.

First of all, make sure to pick up all the trash that you bring with you. While you may think that it’s ok to leave soda cans, newspapers, and wrappers all along your campsite, the truth is that you are just causing damage to the environment if you do not pick up after yourself. Also, forget about placing metal cans into the fire in order to get rid of them – metal (and aluminum) just won’t burn, so don’t try it. When it comes to your neighbors, make sure to keep quiet late at night and respect those rules set forth by the campground. Now, let’s talk about cleanliness.

While wilderness campers (those campers that do not rent a camping spot) may be forced to use nature as a giant toilet, if you are camping at a campground make sure to use the facilities. All too often, campers take it upon themselves to use the nearest tree as a toilet – don’t do this. Instead, head to the bathroom, make sure to clean up after yourself, and act as a proper person should. Along those lines, if you bring your dog along with you make sure to clean up after him as well – nobody wants to sleep next to a pile of dog droppings. If you keep these things in mind, you are sure to have a great camping trip.

Camping is a foray into nature and therefore, the creature comforts of our modern world are left behind. This does not mean that we have to be uncomfortable when we go camping. There are only a few things that you need to add to your camping supplies in order to be comfortable throughout your adventure.

Your tent is your shelter, your bedroom and, in some cases, your living room while camping. So, you should be sure that your tent meets all the requirements necessary to ensure that it remains a safe refuge from the elements. Be sure to check the rating of your tent in order to feel confident that it will meet your needs. An additional few items will go a long way in making sure that the proper tent is also comfortable to use. Bring something along to use as padding under your tent, such as carpet remnants or old comforters.

A sleeping bag for each person will be another necessity, so be sure that your sleeping bag of choice will handle the elements as well. The additional items you can take to ensure sleeping comfort would be an air mattress or maybe a few more old comforters or blankets. A pillow is another creature comfort that you will surely miss if you forget to pack one. Also, for the sake of a comfortable body temperature, be sure to bring extra clothes for cold nights and warm days.

One other thing to consider when packing for a comfortable camping trip is keeping bugs at bay. Bug repellent will be your best friend, especially if you are camping in the woods or near a body of water. You can purchase bug sprays to apply to your skin, special logs with bug repellent chemicals and even citronella candles.

Planning is the most important part of any camping trip. Going out into the woods without the proper preparations is simply a recipe for a bad time, and at worst can put you and your companions at serious risk. By spending extra time before leaving the comforts of home, you can ensure that your camping trip is safe and fun for everyone involved, and return home healthy and happy.

First and foremost, you need to ensure you have enough supplies for the length of time you're planning to camp. If you're driving to your campsite, this generally isn't a problem, but those who are planning lengthy hikes must make considerable decisions when it comes to what gear to take. Meals should be planned out in advance and kept as simple as possible, and extra provisions should be brought to deal with unforeseen circumstances. An unexpected storm can keep you stuck in camp an extra day, and if that extra day is spent without food it will be a miserable experience all around.

Speaking of storms, you should always check and double-check weather forecasts for the area in which you will be staying. While weather is notoriously fickle, having a rough idea of what kind of climate to expect will let you know whether hiking shorts will be appropriate or whether you should pack your storm-rated tent. It was unexpected weather that led to the disaster on Everest in 1996, and while a blizzard out of nowhere probably isn't a concern to most campers in the US, packing for the wrong weather can put a serious damper on your trip.

Camping while pregnant can be a fun experience, but mothers to be need to make some special preparations before they go out roughing it. Pregnant women should not go through very extreme elevation changes or be exposed to very cold or very hot temperatures. They need to eat more and drink more water, so that means that more people will have to carry more food and water with them on the trek.

First of all, you shouldn't try to push an expectant mother to do anything that she doesn't want to do physically. If she doesn't want to go camping, don't expect her to. The stress could be harmful to the unborn child and the mother as well, so it only makes sense if she thinks she's ready for it. She shouldn't be carrying heavy packs, in part because it will impact her balance and also because it is not advisable for them to strain under heavy loads. Stress can lead to early labor, so it's not necessarily a good idea for women to really strain themselves hiking.

Of particular importance to campers, iodine tablets used to purify water should not be consumed by pregnant women. This means that all water must be boiled for them or brought along on the trip. This makes long camping trips far more challenging if a pregnant woman is along, so you should consider whether or not to cut short the length of the trip if you're also planning on bringing a pregnant woman along. It's completely doable, but precautions and particular attention to her needs is important.

There is nothing quite like the great outdoors to bring a family together. This may seem slightly silly and more than a little out of context, but we should focus on the benefits of camping for family "togetherness." In today's society, the emphasis on family activities seems to be lost among the battles for greater income, career goals and childhood extra curricular activities. When do we find time to simply be a family? The answer to that question is actually quite simple, when we camp together.

The shared memories of camping together, taming the great outdoors, can be built upon in order to nurture family togetherness. Whether you choose to camp in an area that is traditionally used for camping, or if you decide to enter the complete unknown of the wilderness, bonds will be formed. Family camping excursions are not memories that children will soon forget, in fact, they remember them for their lifetime, as will you as parents. There is just something rather visceral which lends itself to the experience from start to finish.

There are a few things that you should know before heading out to the great unknown with your children and here are a few guidelines to follow for this event.

You should start with tent camping as this is the most "involved" camping activity. Setting up camp for this adventure involves finding the perfect location, setting up camp (including the tent) and learning how to respect fire through learning about proper camp fire practices. State and National parks are a wonderful place to start.

Be sure to make picture taking and journal writing a part of the experience. Children will remember this "family togetherness" for years to come.

"Glamping" (short for glamorous camping) is a new way to enjoy the outdoors without giving up the modern conveniences that many of us feel we can’t live without. Many resorts now offer luxury tents or tent cabins that differ from the traditional “roughing it” experience. You might even be offered wine tastings, swimming pool and sauna access, spa services, and internet access. Although you may still be in a tent, it will be fully waterproofed, with a comfortable bed, maid service, full bathroom, and temperature control.

Some upscale camping opportunities are more accurately described as resorts, with a variety of resort-type activities to choose from. Others are merely upgrades of traditional campgrounds. Tent cabins are not exactly a new phenomenon, either. Yosemite National Park, for example, has offered them for years. Upscale camping offers you a more luxurious camping experience overall than the traditional tent and campfire.

Camping is often an inexpensive way to vacation. But this cannot be said of upscale camping. Stays at luxurious “glamping” resorts can range anywhere from $100 to $1000 per night. If money isn’t an issue, and you can’t possibly bear to live without your modern conveniences for a few days, then upscale camping is the way to go. No dirt, no sleeping bags, and no threat of bad weather conditions to ruin your experience.

Price can be a reflection of services offered and also the seclusion of the location. Since upscale camping is a fairly recent practice, it’s a good idea to research any camps you are thinking of visiting, especially those far from home. With their popularity on the rise, you can find “glamping” facilities around the world, in many different locations and at various prices.