Even though those Christmas holidays are months away, there are lots of other occasions that will be popping up this summer – in short, you’ll need a gift for that camper on your list. If you happen to know someone that loves to camp, there is nothing better than buying them something that they can use all summer long. Still, finding the right camping gift can be tricky, so here are so ideas to help you out.

National Park Pass: this is simply a fantastic idea. The National Parks network within the United States is home to fantastic camping sites. The pass itself will only set you back $49.99 – and the best part is that 80% of the proceeds go right back into those parks that you love so much.

Nomad Journals: this line of camping journals is one of the best out there. The recipient of this gift will be able to write down notes, collect various items, and then also make superb scrapbooks. The journals only cost around $25, so they are perfect for a birthday or smaller occasion.

Ice Cream Maker: come on, who doesn’t love a cold ice cream on a hot day? Find one that is portable and easy to use – everyone will love this gift! You can buy an inexpensive one for around $30.

Now that you know what to get that camper on your list, you will get invited to all those gatherings and parties. The best part is that these items are all under $100; they are all practical; and they are all fantastic – now, doesn’t that sound great?

Located in east-central Arkansas, the St. Francis National Forest is often called "an island in the river," as it emerges from the delta plains of Arkansas and Mississippi. The Forest is 21,201 acres of majestic oaks, sycamores, and buckeyes, providing campers with a chance to get back to nature in a bountiful woodland paradise. The peaceful solitude and breathtaking beauty surprises many of its first-time visitors.

St. Francis National Forest boasts a pair of man-made lacks full of largemouth bass, crappie, redeyed bream, and Channel catfish. Bear Creek Lake spans 625 acres, with the Beech Point and Lone Pine campgrounds nestled on its shores. Beech Point has 17 camp sites, while Lone Pine has 14. Neither one has hookups or RV waste stations, but each site can accommodate tents, cars, and RVs. There are also tables and grills at each site.

Storm Creek Lake is at the southern end of the Forest and is 425 acres, making it large enough to allow a variety of recreational water vehicles. The Storm Creek Lake campground is the highest of the three, having an elevation of 100 feet. There are 12 total camping sites available, all with the same sparse amenities of its two sister campgrounds. Don't expect all the comforts of home. There are no showers or flush toilets. This is roughing it at its finest. But there is plenty of good fishing. Seasoned anglers won't want to miss out on the fun of St. Francis National Forest.

The weather forecast should always be consulted before embarking on any camping trip. But even the most careful planning can't guarantee sunny skies. Weather can be incredibly unpredictable, with potentially dangerous storms rolling in without a moment's notice. If you ever get caught in a thunderstorm, there are a few safety measures that should be followed at all times.

While the high winds and rain of a thunderstorm can be a nuisance, requiring you to secure camping supplies and shelter, the true threat is lightning strikes. Being outdoors during a lightning storm is always dangerous. Lightning kills more people each year than hurricanes and tornadoes combined. So if you notice dark clouds on the horizon or hear distant claps of thunder, be certain to take the proper precautions.

If possible, take cover in a building or car. However, if you get stuck outside, don't panic. Stay away from fishing rods, golf clubs, bicycles, camping equipment, and any other metal objects that could attract lightning or conduct electricity.

If you're swimming or boating when the storm hits, get out of the water immediately.

You never want to be the tallest object around, nor do you want to be close to any tall objects. Stay clear of trees or structures like fire towers. They can both serve to attract lightning.

Try to crouch down and place your hands on your knees. You want to stay low while at the same time limiting your exposure to ground currents, so never place your hands on the ground or lie down flat.

If you're out in a field with others, don't huddle together. Drop any metal camping gear and spread out at least 100 feet apart. That way if someone were to get struck, the others will be safe and able to provide assistance.

If you have never been camping before, you might have a long list of questions. A few of them may be logistical things, like where will I be able to shower, or how many bears are there in my area? These questions are important to sort out before you take off on your trip. Perhaps one of the most important things to learn about camping, though, is what types of items you will need to pack up to make your trip a success.

The items that you will need will depend in large part on where you end up camping, but there are a few pieces of gear that are essential, if you aren't going to be staying some kind of trailer or RV. The first, of course, is the tent. Make sure that you select a durable tent that will stand up to some wind and rain. It's not pleasant to get soaked in the middle of the night. You will also need to make certain that you have a comfortable sleeping bag. Remember, you'll be on the ground or on an air mattress, so consider how much plush you will need in a bag to get you through the night.

Be prepared for all weather conditions. In many parts of the country there can be chilly snaps even in the early and late summer months, particularly after a rain. So bring extra clothes, socks, and shoes. It's best to layered so that you can dress to be comfortable. Also, make certain that you prepare for the rain. Bring rain gear so that you aren't wet and dripping. Your trip will be much more enjoyable.

The naturalist ethic supports the idea that one should hew as close to nature as possible when in its deep and confounding bosom. As it applies to camping, it's hte idea that you should leave behind the conveniences and distractions of the modern world when you go out into the wilderness. You won't find many campers that will leave behind the modern miracles of Gore-Tex, synthetic tents and flashlights behind, but you won't find many that will miss their Blackberries.

When you are deciding to go on a camping trip, come to an agreement with your partners as to what level of technology it's acceptable to bring. If you're traveling in avalanche prone areas, it would skirt close to irresponsibility not to bring transponders with you in case your party gets buried in mountain material. On the other hand, bringing a laptop and a few spare batteries would sort of defeat the purpose of getting away from it all. Likewise, a boombox could either liven up the atmosphere of a morning cook-out or completely ruin it.

Part of the joy of getting into the wilderness is the glorious silence. Particularly for urbanites, the silence that you become enveloped in when you're out in the wild has almost magical qualities. It allows you to focus on your inner self rather than become constantly distracted by the human noise surrounding you. This silence is a national treasure. Disrupting it could annoy your fellow campers, even if you think that they can't hear it. In the great silence of the outdoors, sound travels a long way. Be considerate when you're on walkabout.

Some newlyweds go camping on their honeymoon, either because they love camping or because they're strapped for cash, or both. The skeptical among you are probably already thinking about the bugs, the cold, the grime, the rain, and all the other things that can make camping uncomfortable and decidedly unromantic. However, if you plan it right, you can enjoy a wonderful and hassle-free camping honeymoon.

If comfort is a priority, or if you're inexperienced campers, you should camp at a national park or some other location where you can set up camp near your car. Car camping may not be adventurous, but it lets you take more of the things you might need, and you'll be able to escape to a motel if things turn sour. If tents aren't your thing, you might consider staying in a cabin or a cottage.

If you go the tent and sleeping bag route, make sure you plan for the weather. Choose a tent that will stand up to a heavy downpour (you can test it with a garden hose), and choose sleeping bags rated for the coldest temperatures you might have to endure. Choose sleeping bags that can be zipped together. Be sure to look into pads that can be placed underneath your sleeping bags, which will create a comfortable cushion between you and the hard ground.

Take comfortable clothing that's appropriate for the weather, and be sure to wear layers so you can dress down when it gets warmer. Also, bring insect repellent. It's hard to feel romantic when you're constantly swatting mosquitoes.

It requires a little planning and forethought, but if you take the time to do it right, you'll have a romantic camping experience that you'll never forget.

You might not think that there would be much to a tent. After all, it's purpose is pretty simple. You want transportable shelter that will keep the wind and rain off of you long enough to get some sleep. But actually there are a number of different types of tents available and each one is suited to a different kind of camping. And any experienced camper will tell you, the type of tent that you take up the side of the mountain is not the same type of tent that you want to cram the family into down on the campsite.

Tents have been used for generations in a variety of cultures, with each one putting a unique spin on the structure to better meet their individual needs. Modern tents have also been adjusted to meet specific needs as well, including lightweight models for backpacking trips and heavier and larger models made for longer stays in a stationary place. There are tents that are designed for various changes in weather climates as well. For example, some tents are made to retain heat for researchers to survive in arctic regions. Others are made to keep people cooler in more tropical climates. Where you live and what you will be using your tent for are important factors in what type of tent will best meet your needs.

The structure of the tent also varies. A-frame tents are among the most popular and have been used for decades. Think Boy Scout camping trip. Today, dome tents are also gaining in popularity, particularly because they are much more stable. Extremely large and heavy tents are referred to as "cabin tents" and geodesic tents are a variation on the dome tent that is blessed with more wind resistance. There is truly a perfect tent type for every camper.

Taking the time to properly set up your tent can mean the difference between a good night's sleep and a restless, uncomfortable time in the outdoors. If you're hiking to your campsite, make sure to stop early so you have plenty of time and usable light to prep the site, but even if it's a drive-up campsite and you're simply unloading the tent from your car you need to take the time to ensure a proper setup. More than a few careless campers have had a hastily-erected tent cave in on them in the middle of the night, necessitating bleary-eyed midnight repairs.

First, pick out your site. It should be on relatively high ground, with as few rocks or protrusions as possible and not directly under trees or any overhanging obstructions. A ground sheet should be used and tucked under the tent itself to prevent water from pooling. Next, lay out the tent and all its accessories, such as poles or guy lines. Ensure no parts are missing or broken, and if any pieces look like they are damaged this is a good time for minor repairs.

Poles are the most common support structure for tents these days, although a growing number of inflatable tents are hitting the market. Whether via flexible pole or air bladder, however, setting up the frame of the tent is the next step and ensuring it can support itself. Finally, staking down the tent to prevent problems with the wind, and setting up guidelines for extra support will ensure the tent remains where it is and standing until it's time to leave in the morning.

While many people these days prefer the convenience and easy clean up of gas fired camping stoves, others prefer the naturalistic joy of creating a big, crackling fire from scratch and roasting your food over the open flames. And why not? Campfires are inexorably linked to camping in the imagination. It's a lot more fun to sit by a bonfire to warm the bottoms of your feet than it is to slouch over a little camping stove while you cook up something tasty.

Building a fire is of course rather more labor intensive. If you're going to be building a fire, make sure to stop your hike earlier than you might otherwise, as you will need the sunlight to find the sticks that you'll need to build up your fire. Generally, all you need are small to medium sized sticks to build your fire. Don't use live wood, as that won't burn easily and will just lead to unpleasant smokiness. Wet wood is also not preferable, as it will smell bad and potentially smother your fire.

Kindling is more common under trees and especially bushes. Gather several bundles, and don't underestimate just how much fuel you might go through in a single night. Gather as much as you can fit near your camp site. If you have any left over afterward - which you probably will not - just scatter them lightly around the camp site, without letting them stick too close together to prevent any forest fires from catching later on.

A cast iron Dutch oven is one of the best ways to cook meals while you're camping. You can cook almost anything in your Dutch oven: Stews, country biscuits, bacon, eggs, and even pizza. But before you get started, you'll need to buy a good Dutch oven and season it.

A Dutch oven intended for outdoor use will have a flat lid and three or four short legs on the bottom. The legs allow the oven to benefit from the heat of the coals without actually touching them, and permits air circulation so that the coals stay hot. Choose a high quality Dutch oven; Lodge makes good ones.

Your Dutch oven will be covered with a layer of wax or protective coating, which helps protect it from rust. To remove the coating, scrub it down with soapy hot water and a steel wool pad. This is the ONLY time soap should come anywhere near your Dutch oven.

Now you just need to reason your Dutch oven. A properly seasoned Dutch oven does two things for you: It prevents rust, and it creates a nonstick layer. Start by rubbing a layer of oil or fat inside your Dutch oven. You can bake it in your oven upside down at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour, although it's better to do this on an outdoor grill so that smoke and grease drippings won't be an issue. Don't forget to do the lid; it can rest beside the pot during the baking process.

Never wash your Dutch oven with soap and water. This removes the nonstick coating and encourages rust. You would have to re-season it after every wash.

If you buy a good quality cast iron Dutch oven and keep it seasoned, you'll enjoy delicious camping meals for years to come.

Sometimes the success of a camping trip depends greatly on where it is that you decide to pitch your tent. Selecting the right camping spot can turn a good trip into a great one or can send everyone screaming for the nearest motel. Sometimes novice campers aren't exactly sure what they are looking for when it comes to selecting a great site. There are few tips that you should keep in mind the next time you are scouting for a camp site.

Remember that weather conditions can always play a part in your trip, no matter how sunny it may look when you initially pitch your tent. It is a good idea to avoid low lying areas where water may settle down. Be aware of the fact that standing water is going to attract insects, particularly mosquitoes, so make certain that you haven't set up your camp too close to any. Make certain that you haven't pitched your tent directly under any limbs that might blow loose in the wind.

You will also want to select a campsite that has a place where you can safely put your garbage in. You won't want to store your garbage in the campsite, and you will want to put your food in the car, or in a tree close to your camp to keep it out of the reach of animals. You will also want to be located near a water supply of some kind, although you need to be aware that you should not plan to wash in the same water that you intend to cook with. Practicing safe hygiene while camping will keep everyone healthy enough to enjoy the trip.

Foot injuries are some of the most common kinds incurred by hikers and campers - particularly blisters. There's not a whole lot that you can do about them when you're out on the trail without supplies for them, but they sure can ruin an entire trip. It's no fun to hike with blisters. First, it hurts like the dickens, then it gets worse, and then your foot becomes grimly numb as you get accustomed to the pain. There's a better way to handle it.

Bring moleskin with you if you plan on hiking for any length of time. Although you can be sure to keep your socks tight and to wear well fitting boots, you can't entirely rely on your companions to do the same. Many will be wearing ill fitting socks and boots that haven't been broken in properly, particularly if you're going out with inexperienced hikers. Moleskin can help to protect blisters. If you detect a part of the foot that's starting to get sore, just slap on some moleskin before it develops into a full fledged blister.

If you're going out for some time, make sure that the blisters get disinfected regularly. Use disinfecting cream, hydrogen peroxide or - in a pinch, and if it's small enough - a sterilized needle to cauterize the wound; but only in an emergency. To prevent blisters, break in your boots before you go on a long hike, and wear proper socks that fit comfortably in them. Use inserts if you have had experience with them improving the feel of your stride in the past.

With its lush landscapes and unmatched scenery, the Pacific Northwest is a fabulous area of the country for camping. Those looking for a campground in Oregon can certainly do a lot worse than the Glenyan RV Park & Campground.

Located in beautiful Ashland, Oregon, the Glenyan RV Park & Campground welcomes all nature lovers in a peaceful park-like atmosphere. The campground features 48 complete RV/camping sites, nine pull-through sites, 25 tent sites, and seven additional seasonal sites. The campground is loaded with amenities, including a grocery store, a dump station, showers and restrooms, laundry, cable TV, and wireless internet access. The campground is also pet friendly, so you don't have to leave your beloved buddies behind.

There's always plenty to do at the Glenyan RV Park & Campground. The site has its own arcade, recreation room, and playground. There's also an outdoor heated swimming pool, plenty of nearby fishing opportunities, and places to play horseshoes and basketball.

If you'd like to venture off the campgrounds, Ashland has numerous cultural attractions, including being the home of the Oregon Shakespearean Festival. You can also visit Ashland's quaint downtown area or take a trip through Lithia Park. Nearby Jacksonville is a historic town and offers ample recreation in its own right, owning the annual Britt Music Festival, while boating and water skiing are always available at Emigrant Lake. Golfers will even be right at home on the Oak Knoll Golf Course. Without question, the Glenyan RV Park & Campground is the premier camping destination in southern Oregon.

People go on vacation for many reasons, but chief among them is to get away from the stresses of work and family. The myriad devices that keep us hooked up to one another - and to the office - can make it hard for anyone to get awayh for any length of time, even if you're going as far as overseas. When you're camping, you are completely unhooked from that constant information deluge to your great benefit.

People have become like science fiction cyborgs in that they're constantly hooked into the information stream by little devices that they carry around with them everywhere. For some people, the only way that they can get unhooked from their work is to actually have the excuse of being in the middle of nowhere without cell phone coverage. It's a good thing satellite phones never caught on in a big way - otherwise you'd lose that fabulous excuse. There aren't too many places that you can get away from the hectic, always on pace of the modern work force aside from in the middle of nowhere.

One advantage of camping is that you don't have to travel too far to get that joyous feeling of being in a new place that people travel for. There's no need to go on a long and expensive plane ride when a trip to the woods with some equipment and a friend or two will do the job just as well, if not better.

Camping isn't just another form of recreation like ping pong or bingo. It's a whole way of life, an ethic, that makes a person into a more distinct individual. Valuing the great outdoors sets you aside from the teeming masses who are content to spend most of their time shuttling from one climate controlled interior to another. There's something a little crazy about going camping; it entails throwing yourself back into a way of life that's more like the stone age than anything else.

To camp is to willfully put aside the modern conveniences that make life a relative breeze. There are no dish washers in the wilderness. No ovens. No microwaves. There are no refrigerators, no running water, and no drive-through. There's no digital cable and no Netflix. You just have to find other ways to amuse yourself, like contemplating the night sounds and just having fun being physically active in your environment. Most importantly, it gives you some crucial time disconnected from all the modern distractions that fill up our days.

Camping doesn't just test your physical fortitude and ability to get by without life's creature comforts, it also tests your ability to be comfortable in your own skin. You just have you, your companions, and whatever food you're carrying in your backpack to occupy you. Otherwise, you're alone with your thoughts and the sounds of nature during the night. It can provide a wonderful time for reflection that you might not otherwise be able to take part in with all of the information flitting in front of your face begging for attention that you would otherwise have to deal with.

If you're camping at a designated campground, or using a trailer, selection of a campsite is more a matter of what's offered to you rather than anything else. But if you're out on the trail and making your own way, the site you select to pitch your tent can have a tremendous impact on your nighttime comfort and by extension your entire trip. A little knowhow and planning will help you pick out a campsite that will ensure a good night's sleep without any nasty surprises.

First and foremost, give yourself plenty of time to select a campsite. Don't walk until the sun goes down; it's very easy to set yourself up in a non-optimal situation when you can't exactly see what you're doing. By stopping (or at least starting to consider the terrain) while you've still got light in the sky, you maximize your chances for selecting a good spot.

Consider the weather. If rain is likely, pick a spot on higher ground than the surrounding terrain, to encourage runoff. Don't camp in any area underneath rocks that might slide or rotten vegetation that could collapse. Water nearby can be a good resource, if it's drinkable or you have means for filtration, but keep your distance to avoid possible flooding or contact with animals looking for a drink.

To avoid problems with wildlife, do all your cooking and cleaning as far from your tent as possible, and don't take any food into the tent with you. An open, breezy area will help keep away insects, and keeping your food well-sealed and hung from a branch will keep away raiding mice or other critters who might pilfer your supplies for a snack. And above all, do your best to return your site to its former condition when you leave it - after all, you're only a guest, and it's probably home to more than a few living things.

There's a right way to dress when you go camping, and then there are many wrong ways. You want to have full coverage of your body no matter where you're going, except perhaps for short sleeves. This will minimize your exposure both to insects, dangerous plants and sunshine, making the chance that you'll have to deal with itchy spots, rashes and burns when you're out in the wild. If you're going on longer trips, clothing that's relatively easy to wash will also serve you well, as walking about the wild wearing a few days of sweat is never a pleasant experience.

Bringing light additional layers - like thermal underwear - that you can put on at a moment's notice when the weather gets cold, and take off when the sun comes out - are great things to bring with you, as silly as you might think that they look. They also dry out quickly, making them ideal underclothes for campers. Socks should be quick drying, but if you're going to be camping in cold places, you should err on the side of warmer socks. Use liners to keep the thicker outer socks from getting too soaked with sweat.

Bandannas and hats are ideal to cover the sensitive neck, ears and head from the sun or the rain. A poncho, or at the very least, a garbage bag, are important to keep yourself dry if there is a rain storm. If your backpack isn't waterproof, put a bag over it when it's raining to avoid getting all of your equipment soaked.