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Hello fellow campers!

This blogging area is for you.  It's open to anyone with the love of camping and the outdoors and has good inforrmation to share.   At thetentcampsite.com we want to give campers the opportunity to start a community of information sharing about any topic of interest that relates to camping.    Talk to us about your experiences such as product use, campgrounds you visited, your family camping vacation, backpacking excursions, your favorite camping website, etc.     But please keep information pertinent to this and please keep it clean.  Click on the "ADD" button at the bottom of the page.

Bill at TheTentCampsite.com

To get our blog posts downloaded to you immediately when published you need an RSS reader.   Use your RSS button   on your browser to get our blog posts automatically downloaded to your RSS reader.   You must have Internet Explorer 7.0 or Firefox 2.0 and later for this capability.

The Tent Campsite Blog


TUESDAY, FEB. 09, 2010

About Classic Volkswagen Camper Van

By Jacob

Volkswagen was one of the first manufacturers of the camper van.  The VW camper van, also known as a minibus, was first introduced in 1950 and gained in popularity as an inexpensive way to take the family on vacation.  In the 1950s, the Volkswagen camper van, also know as Type 2, was one of two car models produced by Volkswagen.  The VW camper van is not only a classic but also holds iconic status in recent American history, as it was closely associated with the counter-culture of the 1970s.

The VW touring van inspired some imitations in the United States.  Similar models came out from Ford, Dodge, and Chevy. Still, the VW version remains the most widely recognized.

The VW camper van can be found either used or new.  It was originally marketed as a family vehicle, and so was designed to sleep 2 adults and 2 children. New models now sleep up to 4 adults. In addition to sleeping quarters, VW camper vans also have a small kitchen with a sink, gas stove, a small water tank to provide running water, and refrigerator.  Some models also have satellite TV, wireless internet, pop up roof, sliding side door, privacy curtain, rotating front seat, large windows and additional cabinet space.  They also come in numerous different color combinations.  

The VW camper van has some advantages over other RVs.  Firstly, it is far more affordable than your standard RV. Second, it can serve as a second vehicle for family, in addition to being a vacation vehicle. Lastly, it gets much better fuel economy than other RVs, making the overall cost much lower.

To find a used VW Camper van, begin with classifieds.  You can also get vintage models in classic car magazines or from classic car dealers.  Collector's magazines are another excellent option. Craigslist and eBay are other good options.  Sometimes you can purchase VW mini bus and have it converted into a camper van, which is a good option if you want to customize the features.

If you decide to buy a VW Conversion van, be sure to find proper insurance.  Insuring a camper van is not the same as insuring a car, and you will need to find insurance that reflects that.  And your policy should be similar to car insurance and home owner's insurance combined.  In addition to covering accidents, natural disasters, and personal effects, you also need a policy that offers 24/7 roadside assistance, emergency assistance, vacation liability and graffiti.

Retrieved from "http://www.articlesbase.com/camping-articles/about-classic-volkswagen-camper-van-1572505.html"

(ArticlesBase SC #1572505)


Posted by Administrator at 11:55 AM
FRIDAY, JAN. 29, 2010

The Best Places to go Camping in Western Canada

By Jessica Tucker

With rumbling rivers, beautiful lakes, dense alpine forests, and hot desert areas; Western Canada holds an array of options for every flavor of camper. Depending on the amenities required, desired destination, and length of your trip, a great camping spot can be found.

Provincially run camp grounds and RV parks provide campers with several different levels of services from dry camping facilities with no services, for those seeking the rustic experience to fully-serviced, beautifully maintained camps perfect for families or those insist on a hot shower and bathroom facilities and the end of the day. Provincial camps are typical of Western Canada and have become so popular in the last few years, that most sites must be reserved up to a year in advance to get your favorite spot for the long weekends or holidays. More information about our provincial campgrounds and RV parks can be found in the links provided below.

Privately owned campgrounds are also a common choice for campers visiting Western Canada. These types of camping areas are more commonly found near cities or towns and close to shopping, entertainment, beaches, golf and/or the convenience of city life. Again, fully-serviced sites are the norm in such facilities and sometimes may provide laundry facilities, swimming pools, daycare services, children's play areas, cable or satellite television, and wireless Internet.

For the more adventurous or those looking for the bare-bones, back country Canadian camping experience, so to speak, hectares upon hectares of beautiful camping spots can be found hidden away in the valleys and mountains of Western Canada. These spots are better discovered by suggestion, luck or exploration. Due to fires restrictions during our summer months and the dryness of our timber, forest floor, and grasses, campers must be selective in their choice of spots. Strong winds are known to blaze up unexpectedly in the afternoons, feeding even the smallest of sparks that could easily ignite the largest of forest fires.

No matter where you go camping, wild animals and pests can be, well, pests. Food and goods that bears, cougars, raccoons, birds, mice, and other pesky animals may be attracted to should be properly stored and out of reach. Garbage should be kept in a sealed container away from your sleeping area, and the 'what you take in with you, you take out with you,' rule should always apply in the great outdoors, no matter where you decide to stay.

Wherever you decide to spend your camping trip in Western Canada, you are pretty much guaranteed to have at least one or two encounters with some sort of wildlife, a few days of great memories and a wonderful camping experience.

For more information on camping and RVing in Western Canada, please visit the provided links below...

BCAdventure.com
Discover Camping

(ArticlesBase SC #1543686)


Posted by Administrator at 12:01 PM
TUESDAY, JAN. 26, 2010

Free camping in New Zealand

By Greengirl Sydney

Free camping in New Zealand is camping on public areas to get pretty views and the most out of your vacation.In country like new Zealand you would find a number of campers New Zealand enthusiasts doing this way. This is free and a privilege for motorhome goers, who wouldn't want to park right next to the lake, the beach, forest, hill with incredible top view or anywhere spectacular? But as they say you have to add a sense of carefulness in doing the free camping thing. Some areas in New Zealand prohibits free camping for one main reason, New Zealand is a very clean country and would always want to maintain a better environment for its visitors. Make sure to properly park your vehicle and leave your area as clean as you arrived. You might be seeing “No Camping” signs, that should be strictly followed no ifs and buts. One suggested by New Zealand authorities for tourists in coming in New Zealand, is to assume nothing and to always ask a local. Information centres in New Zealand are scattered throughout the country, they have the best people to ask about your NZ travel.

Certain advantages follow though.  Campgrounds aren't made for no reason. They add security and extra convenience during your motorhome New Zealand holiday. Certain amenities we can be privileged for campgrounds or caravan parks include hookups, laundry, recreations and other indoor sports, a snack bar or restaurant, a pool, and other finer things for camping collectively found in one place. Usually campgrounds offer shady sites, so not bad. Free camping is great and fun as we know it. Especially in a country like New Zealand, the landscapes are no joke.

Retrieved from "http://www.articlesbase.com/camping-articles/free-camping-in-new-zealand-1336807.html"


Posted by Administrator at 1:39 PM
MONDAY, JAN. 25, 2010

How to Survive Outdoor in Cold Weather

From Outdoor Survival Skills

No matter how adventurous you are or how tactful you are in emergency situations, human beings are always pitied against weather adversities. The weather has a course of its own and can change without a single notice, which can leave stranded on the most unlikely of places. The best way go through a tough situation is to remain tough within and remain calm so that you can think of survival.

One such weather situation that can prove more challenging than the rest is cold weather. However, even the apprehension of being trapped in a snow storm or extreme cold weather condition can not stop the adventurous being in us. We get ready to move mountains equipped with the best outdoor survival kits and the best armor that we have the undying spirit.

But, even with all preparation, all the acquired knowledge about the place or surroundings, with best gadgets and instruments, a bad weather turn can prove fatal if enough precautions are not taken to remain safe. As we are talking about cold weather, we must understand the various scenarios that can face us. Cold may not appear to be a great threat, but never take it lightly; it can prove more dangerous that it appears to be.

Staying Warm and Clean

If you are on an expedition in cold weather, you can face, chilling wind flow, wet or snow storms etc. The basic need is to stay warm in cold weather, find water, food and of course shelter to protect you from even colder nights. It is essential that you wear comfortable clothing, neither too tight nor too loose. While tight clothing can impair your blood circulation and make you sweat, loose clothing can let the wind reach your skin making you feel cold.

Secondly, you would need to clean yourself to avoid rashes on the skin. This you can do by washing your body. Even though it may sound weird when you feel chilled inside, it is essential to wash off your sweaty areas. Sweat can make your clothing wet, which can hamper your desire to remain warm. So make sure you are fairly warm and not feeling heat inside.

Fixing Outdoor Survival Kits

Keeping yourself safe in bad clod weather conditions is equally important. This is where the need to carry outdoor survival kits come in. Make sure your kit is fully equipped to help you out. Also, pay attention to minutest details when you pack your bag, as that is your only accomplice to help you go through the bad situations. Though there are a lot of things that we can add up, it is required that you carry stuff that are essential and you can carry with ease as you don't want to drag along a lot of things that you may not need.

Various items that you must consider packing are a good pocket knife, some waterproof matches, a compass or a GPS enabled device, waterproof or parachute cloth that is naturally dry, thermal blanket, a fully charged flashlight, dark glasses, emergency food, a signaling mirror or device, wire commando saw, strong parachute chord, candles, hand and feet warmers with snow shoes and of course, a good effective first aid kit with all essential medicines.

Handling Emergency Medical Situations

No matter how much precautions we take and how efficiently you plan the outdoor survival kits, you must mentally get ready to face any and every trying situation. There are a number of physical conditions can weaken your inner strength. Get ready to fight against Hypothermia, Frostbite, Dehydration, insect bites, Cold Dieresis etc. There is nothing like prevention but if you get sick by chance, giving immediate attention is the need of the hour.

Learn the symptoms of cold weather related health issues and keep some medicines ready at hand. This would prevent further complications and help you fight against cold weather. You must make sure that you stay warm in cold weather by being active otherwise your body temperature would start decreasing, making it even more difficult to survive.

Finally, nothing can replace your strong spirit, so carry on the never say die attitude and you can overcome even the worst of situations.

Survival Outdoor Skills introduces experience-proven Outdoor Survival Skills and offers Military Survival Training. For more information, visit: http://www.survivaloutdoorskills.com.  This article is a reprint from http://www.articlesbase.com/camping-articles/how-to-survive-outdoor-in-cold-weather-1735986.html


Posted by Administrator at 12:36 PM
THURSDAY, JAN. 21, 2010

A Hand Axe Stored in an Axe Sheath, A Bucket and a Shovel Are Essential Tools on a Camping Trip

By Arthur Ortega

Is your sport enthusiast well-equipped for that highly anticipated camping trip? Some essential starter tools to take on a camping trip include a good hand axe stored in an axe sheath, bucket and a shovel. When evaluating good camping trip equipment items that can be used for more than one task are best because they reduce the equipment required to be packed. It is important that all packed items are in good and usable condition because having arrived at campsite with a broken or damaged item may mean that a camper is now ill-equipped.

A nicely sharpened hand axe can be relied upon for several tasks around the campsite. A hand axe will serve well when chopping wood and splitting kindling. Using the back end of the blade will provide a useful hammer for banging in tent pegs. With care the hand axe can also be used for carving, shaping wood as well as for chopping wood. Some advanced uses that can be accomplished with a good hand axe include using it to build a fire stand or a fire screen.

On a camping trip many find that they avoid the use of an axe in favor of a saw because they have often neglected their axe by not storing it in an axe sheath and then even worse by trying to use a blunt axe. Over time even a saw will need sharpening so it is beneficial to learn some good sharpening skills. Once one has learned how little time it takes to sharpen and maintain an axe they will appreciate how useful it is to have a hand axe as an essential tool on their camping trips. Do not forget to store the hand axe in the axe sheath when not in use as it protects the axe blade.

On a camping trip perhaps the most essential piece of equipment is a bucket and a bucket can be used for many important tasks. For instance, water can be carried from one point to another for cooking, cleaning, or drinking. Firewood can easily be gathered and carried in a bucket as well as sand or dirt used when building a fire pit. On a trip to the campground main restroom area a bucket can easily carry all the campers grooming items.

While camping, a shovel can also be used to do numerous jobs. A shovel can be used to dig a hole for a fire pit. A shovel can be used to haul rocks to be placed around the fire pit. Ashes or other material in the existing fire pit can be removed with a shovel. A shovel can be used to pack the dirt down and make an area on the ground as even as possible in preparation for placing a tent upon the ground. Waste, sewage, and garbage can be disposed or buried with a shovel so as to eliminate any odors that can linger around campsites.

Founder of ATO Enterprises, Arthur Ortega, is seeking to promote companies that offer items of great value in their product line to those buying gifts for Bridal Showers, Father's Day, Mother's day and Unique Corporate Gift ideas that will have a lasting value for years to come for their family members and friends. To find out more about these quality products please visit http://www.choicecuttingboards.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Arthur_Ortega


Posted by Administrator at 12:57 PM
FRIDAY, JAN. 15, 2010

Best Camping Spots in the United States

By Jeremy P. Stanfords

Camping is something everyone can enjoy from a very young age to a ripe old age. There is just nothing in the world like finding the perfect spot, communing with nature, taking in the breathtaking sights, breathing fresh air, roasting marshmallows over an open fire, and waking up feeling truly rested after a peaceful sleep under the stars. Before enjoying all that nature has to offer, it is important to find the perfect spot. Consider what season, what region the trip will take place in and whether or not children will be present.

North and South Carolina offer some of the most beautiful camping spots in the world. South Carolina has Huntington Beach State Park, which is perfect for children, with it's swimming, fishing and bird watching. Prices vary so it's important to check with them before traveling. In North Carolina is South Mountains State Park, which is more suited for childless families, with it's miles of hiking trails and fishing spots. Prices start at nine dollars a night.

Most people don't think of camping trips when they think of Florida, but for sixteen dollars a night, campers can enjoy a unique trip they will never forget. Manatee Springs State Park offers fishing, boat tours and manatee watching.

In Minnesota, Bear Head Lake Camp offers fishing, hiking trails and bear, moose and eagle watching. This site will run you eighteen dollars a night.

In Wisconsin's Big Bay Lake offers a quiet beach with swimming for only seventeen dollars a night. This one would be perfect for families with children.

In Michigan, Brimley State Park cabins run sixty-five dollars a night, or fifteen to twenty to camp outside, and once a year they offer a free fishing weekend.

In Kentucky, National Bridge Park offers a quiet retreat next to a babbling brook. Kids and Adults alike will enjoy fishing, hiking and exploring the Red River Gorge. It even has wi-fi access. Prices range from twelve to twenty-six dollars a night.

In Nebraska is the Two Rivers State Recreation Center. This one is a favorite among children because of the retired Union Pacific train cabooses that now serve as lodging. There are only ten cabooses available, so it's important to call ahead of time for pricing and availability.

Illinois Beach State Park is located along Lake Michigan and offers swimming, fishing, hiking and many other kid friendly activities.

Camping can be a wonderful way to to bond with nature and family. The most important thing to remember is to just relax and enjoy!

Author is a freelance writer. For more information on skyland trail please visit http://www.facebook.com/pages/Skyland-Trail/102070506421.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_P_Stanfords


Posted by Administrator at 3:23 AM
TUESDAY, DEC. 29, 2009

Camping Wardrobe - Now is the Time to Buy

By Paul Garnett

For those of you that do not participate in winter camping and just restrict yourselves to summer camping you may be thinking that this article is not yet relevant to you. But it actually is. Now if you are in the market for a new camping wardrobe then now is a very good time to take a look and maybe purchase. Christmas is now done with as are the new year sales and retailers have to do something to keep turnover ticking over. And with this element and the fact that camping is out of season just take a look at the prices of camping wardrobes. You will find that the majority of them are much cheaper now than they will be in the months such as March or April. So the wise person should take advantage of this and move quickly to get a bargain.

The camping wardrobe may not be top of your list for camping equipment to buy but they are however a very useful tool. They are easy to erect and dismantle and transported equally as easily because they can be packed away and are very light. Once erected in the tent they serve a very useful purpose by keeping the tent organised and protecting your clothes from the damp and dirt. This is a much better solution than living out of a rucksack.

There are many camping wardrobes to choose from, so take a look at as many as you can to compare for functional use. And of course check out the prices and never be afraid to haggle. The retailers want and need the sales in these quiet months which gives you an advantage and hopefully a very good price.

My name is Paul Garnett and I live and work in Sweden. I have a love for the outdoors and most outdoor activities.My home bound hobbies include making web sites. If you are on the search for a new camping wardrobe then you must check out Camping Wardrobes. Something else that might interest you is the heart rate monitor wrist watch Polar RS800. I hope you find these 2 web sites useful.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Garnett


Posted by Administrator at 2:34 AM
MONDAY, DEC. 21, 2009

How to Choose Sleeping Bags

By Rachel Nunez

If you like hiking, mountain climbing, or just traveling and camping out, then sleeping bags come in very handy. Sleeping bags are comfortable readymade beds. Very easy to set up. You will just lay it and you are ready to use it. But note that not all sleeping bags are the same. You have to take in some considerations before choosing the best sleeping bags for you. How are you going to use it? You must first check your condition and needs.

For instance, just some of the things that you should be asking before buying sleeping bags are the weather, quality or material, the condition, shape and size, and weight and portability. Now let us consider the state wherein you will be using your sleeping bags.

The first to consider is the weather or climate. You should first ask yourself how cold or hot the weather will be during the time you will be using your sleeping bags. This is very important as it will determine how comfortable you are going to be in your sleeping bags. Is your sleeping bag good enough to keep you warm on a winter season? Consider getting sleeping bags that will work at the coldest temperatures you expect to encounter. Secondly, considering the climate will affect the care you are giving sleeping bags. In particular, in a summer season, if your sleeping bag's insulation does not suit the weather, you may not be able to avoid overheating and excessive sweating, which will dampen and damage the fill of your sleeping bag. In this case, it is best to choose sleeping bags that are breathable.

Also, the best sleeping bags for summer are the ones' rated 40 degrees Fahrenheit or 4 degrees Celsius (Yes, you should check the temperature rating). Otherwise, if it is still comfortable for you, you can just open up your sleeping bag like a blanket so it does not hold in much heat. Hence, you should prepare two sleeping bags according to your needs - one for winter the winter, and one for your summer trips. You also might want to pick advanced sleeping bags rather than standard for use in extreme weather conditions.

Next to consider is the quality or material of your sleeping bags. You must know that sleeping bags' temperatures depend on the type of insulating pads they are made with. A quality sleeping bag you are looking for may just depend on the padding. They work irrespective of the weather conditions outside. Foam core pads are warmer are thicker and warmer than air core pads. Closed cell foam pads add extra warmth - perfect for winter mountain campers. You can also choose from more insulated air mattress bags that are blown up, or those Thermarest style pads, also blown up but mouth-delivered only.

Also to consider is the wet or dry conditions. If you are backpacking on the northwest then expect wet conditions. Do not pick sleeping bags with down fill as it loses much of its insulating capability when wet. Choose light down sleeping bags only if you are traveling southwest where the conditions are desert dry. Choose those with synthetic fill for wet conditions.

Next is shape and size. Some people are claustrophobic and mummy sleeping bags are not advised. Best to go for semi-rectangular. A tight mummy bag is also much stricter with size - you must fit in perfectly with the hood closed for comfort. If you are too big then try a rectangular or semi-rectangular. As long as you are fit for comfort.

Lastly, you might want to consider portability, compactness - ease of carrying your sleeping bags. Your bags should not be greater than three pounds for carrying. Neither should it be too big according to your carrying capacity (Except if you are going winter camping with expected bigger winter bags). There are compression sacks for bulky bags but remember that this could damage the bag's filling in the long run and affect its insulation. The most compressible sleeping bags are down bags. You can fit them in a backpack.

So those are the things to note. There may be other considerations in choosing a sleeping bag. However, I hope these ones certainly help you narrow down your choices.


Posted by Administrator at 12:42 PM
FRIDAY, AUG. 28, 2009

3 Things to Consider When Buying Camping Tents

By Ethan Ribb

Choosing camping tents can be a very tough task. There are many variables, which means a little research will have to go in to choosing one. Some of these variables include:

1. Tent Size
2. Cost
3. Weather Conditions

Tent Size:

Choosing the tents size also depends on a number of variables.
· How many people will be camping?
· How tall is the average camper?
· How much room will you need for storage and supplies in each tent?
· How big is your campground site?

If you're going camping with two adults and two children, the average size family, you may only need one large tent (if the children are small). If the children are teenagers, you may want to consider getting them their own tent. If you decided to go with one tent, make sure it isn't too large (over 10' X 10') because large camping tents tend to be unstable in harsh weather. Take into account the average height of your campers; if the average is 5', but there is one 6' tall person, you probably want to go for a tent that has at least a 7' peak.

Consider how long you will be camping for. If you're going to be bringing a lot of food, clothes, and other supplies, you will need more room in your tent. Think about how much room each person will need to sleep comfortably. For a 6' tall person, I would make sure that they have a 7' long place to sleep, as well as 3' wide. So a camping tent with two adults (one of them being 6'), the tent should be at the very least 7' X 7', bigger if you want room for any supplies. And finally you need to know how big your campsite will be. You want to make sure you can fit your tent(s) on the site, all being on level ground.

Tent Cost:

As with most consumer products, you usually get what you pay for when it comes to tents for camping. The higher priced tents usually come with higher-grade fabrics that keep your tent both cool and dry. At the same time, there are many cheaper tents out there that can serve your purpose. If you and your family are new to camping, and you just want to try it out at a campground close to home for a weekend, consider a cheaper tent. If you really grow to love camping, then you can upgrade later for those longer camping trips out in the sticks.

Weather Conditions:

Planning way ahead for a camping trip is usually a great idea, but the one thing you can never plan ahead for is the weather. Rain, wind, and harsh sun rays can come at any time, and if they do, you want your camping tent to be able to handle it. Rain is a problem that has been solved by most tent manufacturers. You need to make sure that your tent has a waterproof rain fly that can rap around the tent, allowing you to stay dry, and the tent to stay ventilated. The rain fly, when rapped around the tent, also provides good shade when those sun rays are beating down on you. In high wind situations, nothing can beat a Geodesic tent design. They are shaped like igloo's and reflect wind no matter what direction it's coming from. If a Geodesic tent is too impractical for your needs, make sure your tent comes with some good stakes and sturdy poles.

If you keep all of these variables in mind when shopping for camping tents, you are sure to have a great camping experience ahead of you. Another great tip before you head to the campground with your new tent is to test it out in your yard first. This will ensure that you are able to pitch your tent without any problems, as well as guarantee that there are no missing pieces. Enjoy your tent and have fun camping!

Read other great tips for how to buy camping tents and also read about what to consider when buying a party tent.


Posted by Administrator at 12:58 PM
MONDAY, AUG. 24, 2009

Hiking and Camping in Hot Weather

by Jonsky Sicuna

When hiking in hot weather you are either hiking in the rainforest or in the desert. Both are complete opposites of each other so your camping and hiking gear would be different also.

Hiking in the Desert.

Deserts are areas that receive less than 9 inches of rainfall annually. Water is scarce and you need to carry all your water.  The prospect of hiking in the desert may not seem appealing. Who wants to walk for long distances in a barren desolate, hot and dry landscape?   Yet the desert can be surprisingly beautiful in its own special way. You can see cacti flowering after a desert storm, wild flowers in spring and some interesting wildlife. Even the landscape in itself is beautiful.   There is usually a brief rainy season in many deserts in which sudden storms produce much of the annual rainfall. Flash floods are likely during this time particularly in canyons and steep-sided dry river beds. You have a better chance of finding water after a wet season.

Special Gear

Besides super strength sunscreen you also need a full body sun protection. Cover your whole body to protect from the sun and wear a hat that protects your head and face.  Carrying a water containers and a good water filter is a must as water found in the desert are is often polluted.  You might not need a tent especially in the dry season but a tarp can be useful in providing you shelter from the sun and wind. A poncho is useful in the desert for both sun and wind protection.  Even though the desert is hot, it can get very cold at night and the temperature difference is quite dramatic so make sure you also bring warm clothing and a good sleeping bag.Remember also to bring insect repellent as there can be some nasty insects in the desert.

Tropical Rainforest and Jungles

By contrast, jungles and rainforests are teeming with vegetation and a variety of wildlife, and has a wet and humid climate. They can also be quite cool. The difference between jungles and rainforests is that jungles have a tangle of dense vegetation and rainforest don't have that much undergrowth. You can find different species of flora and fauna that you've probably never seen before and it could be an eye opening experience.  Tropical rainforests and jungles are found in the tropics and subtropics near the equator in Southeast Asia, Latin America and Africa.

Temperate Rainforests

Temperate rain forests are found in places such as New Zealand, Tasmania,Chile, Norway and the Pacific Coast of North America and are home to some of the largest trees in the world. Annual rainfall is high and evaporation is low and it is almost impossible to travel off-trail because the floor is a carpet of soft, decomposing stumps and new vegetation growth from fallen trees.  Sometimes wooden boardwalks are necessary to protect fragile plant from hikers and hiker from the mud.

Special Gear

A good rain gear is essential in the rainforest and also might want to consider a tent with a full flysheet coverage. There will also be a lot of insects in jungles and rain forests so remember to bring insect repellent and mosquito netting. To get you through deep jungle mud you might need to wear rubber jungle boots. Zip-lock bags and waterproof bags are particularly useful in these areas to protect any electrical equipment, clothes and maps.

About the Author

Jonsky is a writer for Hiking-Camping-World.com. Check out the wide range of Parka and Windbreaker collection.


Posted by Administrator at 11:40 AM
THURSDAY, AUG. 20, 2009

5 Must Haves For Tent Camping

By Temperance Welsh

As the end of summer approaches, many people are trying to get in their camping trips for the year.  Tent camping is becoming more and more popular, especially as people can't afford to purchase trailers and motor homes in this economy.  Before packing up for your first tent camping trip, there are a few things that you should bring with you!

1 - Waterproofed tent - Some tents will come already pre-sealed, but the majority are not.  Be sure to go over all the seams and door ways in your new tent with a sealant and allow it proper time to dry before going on your first camping trip.  Many of the complaints of new tent campers about leaky tents can be avoided simply by sealing a new tent.  

2 - Air mattress - An air mattress or two will make sleeping in a tent infinitely more enjoyable.  Not only does it keep you off of the ground, a good air mattress will provide proper support for your back and neck while you are camping in a tent.

3 - Insect repellent - Nature is full of beauty, and full of predators.  Many of these predators come in the annoying form of ticks and mosquitoes.  Do yourself a favor and come prepared with an appropriate bug spray as well as citronella candles for your eating area.  The best bug sprays will contain DEET and protect you from bites that could cause lime disease or mosquito carried diseases such as the West Nile virus.  

4 - Bear proof containers - If you are considering camping off the beaten path or in bear country, you will need bear proof containers to store any food you have with you.  Bear attacks are no joke and for the most part can be prevented completely by making sure you bear-proof your camp site.  Never store food or garbage in a way that bears can smell it or get to it.  Bear-proof containers will also prevent against other pests such as raccoons ravaging your food stores.  

5 - All-weather gear - Many times when escaping to the mountains, we don't consider how much cooler the high altitude can be.  Make sure to take warm as well as cool weather clothing with you when camping in the mountains.  Simple rain parkas and fleece outer wear will keep you comfortable in most mountain climates during the summer.  Make sure to take socks and shoes that completely cover your feet as well.  Sandals are not always appropriate footwear when camping out in the mountains.  

This is just a short list of things to pack with you when going on your first tent camping trip.  The environment in which you are camping will generally determine the majority of what you choose to pack with you.  Firewood, fire starters, blankets, and lots of dry clothing are all generally necessities no matter where you decide to camp.  If you are camping on national forest land, be sure to check in with the ranger station and follow any advice and camping regulations that are in place for the area you are camping in.

Temperance Welsh regularly writes online. Find more information about how to buy an air mattress or finding a camping air mattress specifically.


Posted by Administrator at 7:25 AM
MONDAY, AUG. 17, 2009

Making The Most Of Your Yellowstone National Park Vacation

By: Christine Harrell

Yellowstone National Park, the nation's first national park, is full of natural beauty, science and history. Yellowstone is home to half of the world's geothermal features and provides one of the best, most easily accessible windows into the inner-workings of our earth anywhere. Yellowstone National Park also has a rich human history that extends back more than 11,000 years. And then there are all of the animals. Bison, wolves, bears, elk and many more make Yellowstone National Park their home. With all of these unique things to see and do, it's easy to see how a visit to Yellowstone National Park could be a great family adventure.

Camping

There's nothing like camping with the kids; and the sites at Yellowstone National Park are totally family friendly. Most evenings there are campfire circles where a Ranger will tell stories, share information and just generally facilitate a good time. Or, families can just pitch their tents, cook dinner over the fire and roast some marshmallows while enjoying time away from all of the distractions that can make family time hard to come by at home.

Hiking

Hiking as a family through Yellowstone National Park is a wonderful way to see the park, get exercise, and just be together as a family. Grab a tree, plant or bird identification book and see what you can identify. Or just take a lunch (and lots of water!), pick any one of the many kid friendly trails and head out for a fantastic day. There are also many long "loop hikes" within Yellowstone National Park that lend themselves perfectly to nice 1 or 2 day backpacking trips for more experienced hiking families.

Horseback Riding

Almost any kid (and quite a few adults!) would love to ride a horse through Yellowstone National Park. With a bit of planning it is easy to enjoy Yellowstone by horseback. There is even the option of scheduling a horse or wagon ride that will take the whole family to a cookout site for an "Old West" style steak dinner, right in the park!

The Science of Yellowstone National Park

There is no other place where families can see geysers like Old Faithful spouting up, or mud pots like the Artist Paint Pots bubbling away. The geology of Yellowstone National Park is simply amazing. And families get the opportunity to explore these features hands-on when they visit the park. The National Park Service makes it easy with informational boardwalks as well as tours with the rangers. The whole family will come out of a visit to Yellowstone with a new understanding of the wonderfully complex earth we live on.

Fishing and Boating

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to take a family fishing trip. There are many different places to fish within the park, and they are always biting! Cast a line from the shore, or rent a boat and go out into any one of the lakes. Boating in Yellowstone National Park is always a fun experience for all ages whether you fish or just enjoy the scenery.

Whatever activity choices are made, a family trip to Yellowstone National Park will be a memorable experience. One in which everyone is together, enjoying each other's company and having fun, in one of the most beautiful places in the world!

Article Source: http://www.allcampingarticles.com

Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information on Yellowstone National Park and Teton Valley Vacations, visit www.tetonspringsresort.com.


Posted by Administrator at 6:12 AM
FRIDAY, AUG. 14, 2009

Backpack Tent Tips - Pitching and Caring For Your Tent

By Sandy Baker

Your tent is one of the main parts of your hiking or camping trip. Without a tent, you leave yourself exposed to the elements at night. Yet, it is not always easy to set up the tent correctly the first time you head out. In fact, it’s wise to do a test run at home, before you leave for your trip to insure that you know how to do it. If not, how do you think you will do after you have hiked for six to eight hours?

Therefore, there are a few points that you should know about tents to insure that you buy the right one, in the right manner and then set them up correctly to insure you get the most out of them.

What To Buy

The positive side about tents today is you can buy a high quality tent without having to mortgage your home. Yet, that doesn’t mean making the right choice is easy.

Without telling you that one brand is better than another, go out and take a look at your options. There are many different types of tents, but it’s helpful to choose one that is lightweight, durable and water proof. Nylon is probably the best material for tents, as it has all these qualities in addition drying quickly.

Getting the right size is essential too. A tent that is too big is a waste of backpack space (and backpack weight!). One that is too small won’t give the right amount of protection nor keep you comfortable for sleeping. Instead of looking at brand names, buy quality instead.

Prep Your Campsite

One of the largest mistakes that people make is setting up their tent. Sure, after hiking there you’re tired and probably just want to lie down and sleep. Yet, this is a big mistake.

The good news is that you just need to remember a few important points to pitching your tent. Before you know, you’re on your way to a comfortable nights sleep without worry.

The first thing for you to consider is your tent’s set up location.

  • When you look for the right place to put up your tent, look for high ground. Don’t pitch your tent in a valley or near a ravine. Higher ground gives you a drier ground.
  • Make sure that your tent is at least 100 feet from the trail. This keeps you out of the way of hikers. You’ll have more privacy, and you’ll avoid widening the trail and disrupting the natural setting.
  • Look for designated areas to pitch your tent. Most hiking trails and parks will have these posted for you. These areas provide the most security. Some even have other amenities. Instead of disturbing the wilderness, plan your hike to these designated areas.
  • Make sure when you set up your tent, you set it up in the right spot on your campsite. It should be at least 100 feet from your campfire for your protection. In addition, you should keep it at least 100 feet away from your food. If animals come to your camp at night, they will be drawn to the food - not you. This gives you added protection from wild animals.
  • Look for a sunny area that has firm and dry (if possible) soil. You must look for ground that you drive and keep your tent stake in. Sand doesn’t provide enough stability. Plus never pitch a tent beneath a tree with dead limbs. These limbs could fall and cause injury.
  • Finally, make sure you put your tent up only after you’ve cleared the ground under it. Be sure you remove stones or other debris. Clean up the ground for your comfort.

Pitch Your Tent

Now that your campsite is ready, it’s time to pitch your tent. It’s essential that you’ve practiced this beforehand. Follow the directions give by the tent maker.

There are a few things that you do want to keep in mind when pitching your tent though. For example, you want to have your tent facing the east (with the door facing east). Storms rarely come in from the east, and that helps to keep the wind from blowing down your tent. This will help keep your tent stable from both wind and the rain. Firmly drive your tent stake into solid ground. Push down on the stakes all of the way in.

When putting your tent up, make sure that you securely tie the tent down tight without taking shortcuts.

This will make the difference in the quality of your night’s sleep.

Also, take a ground cloth and lay this down outside the tent between the tent floor and ground. It will help to protect the tent bottom from minor protrusions and punctures.

Don’t Make These Mistakes

When you pitch your tent, you can still make mistakes that could wreck your evening. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

  • Remember to keep your tent closed. If your tent has a bug screen, keep that sealed tight too.
  • Don’t crowd your tent with people. This is not only uncomfortable, it’s unsafe too. Follow the manufacturer’s directions.
  • Never put food into your tent. Food attracts wild animals. You won’t want to wake up in the middle of the night with a wild animal tearing at your tent to get at the food next to you.
  • Don’t sleep up against the side of the tent. This allows moisture to accumulate in the tent, making it uncomfortable and cold for you.
  • Allow the tent to dry before rolling and packing it away. Moisture leads to potentially unhealthy mildew inside your tent. Lay the tent flat in the sun to allow it to fully dry in the morning.
  • When cleaning your tent, use only a mild soap. Harsh detergents might ruin the waterproofing. Follow any manufacturer’s directions in regards to cleaning your tent properly.
  • Periodically take your tent out of the bag and let it breathe so it does not get dry rot, always check your tent for holes before use, and make sure no critters have made a home inside.
  • Insure that nothing sharp is positioned in your pack to puncture your tent. Keep it rolled up tight to ensure it’s protected. Consider it a long term investment worth caring for.

Pitching your tent isn’t rocket science; however, it takes times to care for it properly. If you want to ensure well being and comfort on your trip - especially at night - get to know these tips.

Contributed By Sandy Baker
From www.beginnercampingtips.com


Posted by Administrator at 8:02 AM
THURSDAY, AUG. 13, 2009

Try Your Hand At White Water Rafting In Pennsylvania

By Wade Robins 

If you need the thrill of white water rafting you do not have travel far. White water rafting in Pennsylvania provides all the fun and excitement you would get if you travel to the south side of the country. You might find the Youghiogheny River fits your needs for excitement and adventure. It is located in the Ohiopyle State Park in Pennsylvania. The rushing rapids and the over powering waves sit right in the western part of the state.

If you are the white water rafting enthusiast, with an overwhelming desire to take the ride of a lifetime, you will find the white water rafting in Pennsylvania one of the most adventurous rides of a lifetime. You will see the tree flying by as you rapidly move down the river towards some of the most fascinating rapids around. If you take a ride, make it to Pennsylvania for some fun and excitement.

You need not be an expert because there are rapids for all classifications of rapids. From the beginner to the expert, you will find the thrill of white water rafting. The canoes are in shape as well as having affordable prices and a tour guide if you feel more comfortable. You will never meet a more memorable team of tour guides as you will here. Plan the weekend for some overnight fun as well as the daily trip down the river rapids.

When you find yourself in Pennsylvania for some river rafting, the tour guides will show you the best time ever. They pride themselves on their knowledge of the river and their experience in white water rafting in Pennsylvania. All safety precautions are followed and you remain safe through your adventure. If you need more reasons to visit the area, you will find the food great and the campfire conversation delightful. You hear all the stories the guides love to share with the group.

Take the camping/rafting experience in Pennsylvania and look for the fun to begin as soon as step foot in the door. You can take the overnight trips with camping under the stars or sleep in your pop up tent for a safer feel. You might even have the opportunity to do some fishing and take the catch of the day. Supper over an open fireside will taste good after you fry it up. Save some time and enjoy white water rafting in Pennsylvania for all your adventures.

You can also find more info on Colorado Springs White Water Rafting and Grand Canyon White Water Rafting. Whitewaterraftingtripsguide.com is a comprehensive resource to known about white water rafting.


Posted by Administrator at 9:49 AM
TUESDAY, AUG. 11, 2009

New Jersey Beach Camping

By Katie Appleby

Are you looking for a great place to go camping? Do you enjoy the beach? Then New Jersey beach camping is the perfect activity for you. There are many different and incredible places to enjoy camping. New Jersey offers a great variety of different types of beaches. Many beaches have New Jersey's famous piers and are loaded with attractions. The southern shore of New Jersey offers several great camping locations. Below is a short description of a few favorite locations.

Camp May

Camp May is one of the best New Jersey beach camping locations. Camp May is known as the nation's oldest seaside resort. Camp May is located on the southern shore of New Jersey. Here you will find 30 miles of clean beach that are perfect for camping. You can enjoy Victorian era houses as well as many other vacation attractions. Camp May is perfect for a family get away, or for a couple.

The Wildwoods

This is one of New Jersey's most famous beaches. Here you will find a two and half mile boardwalk as well as seven amusement piers.

Morey's Pier and Mariner' Landing

Morey's Pier and Mariner Landing is located on the Wildwood Boardwalk. This is mainly designed for families and is filled with piers and several amusement rides. You will also find two water parks here.

Historic Cold Spring Village

Here you will find a nineteenth century South New Jersey farming village. There are many special events and activities that take place here throughout the year.

Fortescue State Marina

This marina is located on the Delaware bay. There are a wide variety of fishing and dining options available. You can see fleets bring their oysters and then go to a diner and eat the oysters when they are fresh. You will also find historic buildings restored to look as they did in revolutionary times.

Cape May Point Lighthouse

This is where you can find the oldest functioning lighthouse. You can also find a bird observatory and natural history museum here. This is a must visit for lighthouse enthusiasts.

The above locations are just a few of the amazing sites on the New Jersey beach. You will find New Jersey beach camping enjoyable, because not only do you get the the joy of camping, but you can visit so many of New Jersey's famous attractions in the process.

Contact a Travel Guide

If you are interested in finding out more great locations to go New Jersey beach camping, talk with your local New Jersey travel guide and they will be happy to share more great places to visit and tips for New Jersey beach camping. Also, you can talk with others who live in the New Jersey area and see what places they enjoy visiting when camping. The Internet also has a wealth of information on New Jersey beach camping and can help you find that great spot for your next vacation.

Katie Appleby is an accomplished niche website developer and author.

To learn more about New Jersey camping, please visit Camping Trips Today for current articles and discussions.


Posted by Administrator at 9:01 AM
SATURDAY, AUG. 08, 2009

Canoe the Delaware River

By Darren Z

Extending approximately 280 miles, the Delaware River is the longest un-dammed stretch of river east of the Mississippi River. Because the river is partially protected, it is free from large scale commercial and industrial development. It is clean and clear and serves as a watershed for about 15 million people located in New York City and New Jersey, and also serves as a major recreation attraction for the people of eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York City.

Canoeing Matamoras to the Delaware Water Gap

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area is regulated by the National Park Service and is one of the most popular stretches on the Delaware River. Although the Delaware Water Gap provides many unique opportunities for recreation and exploration, realize that you are not escaping civilization to a more serene experience while paddling this section of river. There are primitive campsites available, but on the weekends you will be competing with crowds of paddlers, swimmers, barbequers, campers, and fisherman for these camping spots.

If you do manage to secure one of these primitive campsites expect to be interrupted by park authorities because primitive camping along the river is only allowed in designated areas on a one night pass through basis only. So when planning a weekend canoe camping trip through the Gap you may want to consider camping at a commercial campsite rather than attempting primitive camping. Camping at a commercial site will also allow you to take advantage of the many recreational opportunities offered in the Delaware Water Gap.

If you are determined to camp at one of the primitive campsites you best opportunity will be throughout the week. There are many primitive sites along the Pennsylvania shore and some island camping is available. Visit the www.MoshannonFalls.com website for more canoe camping information.

Moshannon Falls is the Canoe Camping Resource. Learn how to choose gear, learn which boat design is right for your style of paddling, and decide where to go paddling. Please keep all links intact when publishing this article. Contact MoshannonFalls.com for link or article exchanges.


Posted by Administrator at 8:54 AM
THURSDAY, AUG. 06, 2009

State Parks - Pennsylvania

By Peter Gitundu

Are you planning to go camping? Or do you want to try the great outdoors and yet stay away from really harsh terrain then look no further than State parks Pennsylvania. The state parks website offers you booking for all kinds of activities that include one day hiking, picnicking or book for weekend getaways and vacations.

Pennsylvania is one of the State's with the most parks available, with one hundred and twenty parks. This makes Pennsylvania the third largest state after California and Alaska. Visiting the State parks Pennsylvania you will get to discover just how big the place really is and you get to enjoy the great outdoors.

You can take a hiking trip while you are at the state parks Pennsylvania and also get to enjoy the lake by taking boat rides or going fishing. Try the wooden cabin lodges or go camping in the wonderful camping sites provided by the parks service staff and crew.

Find a map on the website and book your stay as well without having to travel far to do all that. Get to watch the different wildlife at their habitat available at Pennsylvania state parks such as the white tail deer, squirrels, bobcats, bald eagle, black bears and songbirds. You even get to feed the deer, but not the bear because you don't want to be the meal do you!

Try rock climbing, disc golf, backpacking, orienteering, geocaching, educational programs and much more. In winter you get to go skiing, ice fishing, sledding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and iceboating. You can also hit the trail by hiking, horseback riding, rollerblading, rail to trails and trail biking. There is also a variety of water activities such as motor boating, scuba diving, whitewater boating, canoeing, swimming and sailing.

Peter Gitundu Creates Interesting And Thought Provoking Content on National Parks. For More Information, Read More Of His Articles Here NATIONAL PARKS If You Enjoyed This Article, Make Sure You SUBSCRIBE TO MY RSS FEED!


Posted by Administrator at 11:37 AM
MONDAY, AUG. 03, 2009

Maine's Acadia National Park

By Linda O.V. Williams

Magnificent. Awe-inspiring. Breathtaking.

Words alone can't express or do justice to the natural wonder and spectacular beauty that is Acadia National Park - especially in the fall when the region is ablaze with color. From the pounding surf washing against the rocky shores to the park's stunning peaks and vistas, Acadia is a virtual wonderland for nature lovers.

More than 2 million people a year make the trek to Acadia National Park, making it Maine's most visited attraction. The park is home to a diverse population of plants, birds and animals as well as the highest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast - Cadillac Mountain.

The 47,000-acre park, mostly located on Desert Island, features stunning views year round, but the park's rugged beauty is best appreciated in the autumn. The best time to view the park's fall foliage is from late September through October. Due to its location, the leaves generally change color later here than in other parts of Maine.

There are few sights in nature as spectacular as Acadia National Park's autumn leaves: a fiery combination of burnt orange, fire engine red and blazing gold. Fall is a favorite time of year for fall foliage aficionados - known as "leaf peepers" - to flock to Acadia to photograph and bask in the blaze of color that carpets the park.

The average visitor spends about three to four days in the area, although you can easily spend a week or more exploring the park. Be sure to stop at the Hulls Cove Visitors' Center and pick up a map, the park newspaper, and watch a free 15-minute orientation video before heading out to explore this national treasure. However much time you have to spend, don't leave Acadia National Park without visiting the following places:

Park Loop Road - This 20-mile drive offers breathtaking views of the ocean, forests, lakes, rocky shores and mountains. It's the main route (by vehicle) through the national park. As you hug each curve of the road, you will pass over 17 cobblestone bridges spanning streams, waterfalls, cliffs and many lookout points along the way. For a less-crowded park experience, consider hiking or biking along the park's 125 miles of historic trails to surround yourself in nature's splendor.

Sand Beach - The only sand beach in Acadia - and only 290 yards long - the beach is largely comprised of sand made from shell fragments that have been crushed by the pounding surf. Only hardy swimmers (or those wearing wet suits) will want to brave the 55-degree, summer water temperatures. Access is provided by the Park Loop Road. If you like to hike, be sure to walk the nearby Great Head Trail (1.4 miles). Also, at the far end of the upper parking lot, take a walk along Ocean Path. The trail offers spectacular coastal views as it meanders for two miles to Otter Cliff and Otter Point. This trail also leads to Thunder Hole. The Island Explorer shuttle bus stops at Sand Beach about every half hour during normal seasonal daytime hours.

Thunder Hole - Timing is everything when it comes to experiencing the power and majesty of the sea at Thunder Hole. On calm days, Thunder Hole appears benign as the waves rhythmically lap against the rocky shore. But when the ocean is roaring, the breaking waves race into a narrow cleft in the shoreline rocks, resulting in a loud booming sound and sending cascades of spray shooting into the air. If you're lucky, you'll see water spout as high as 40 feet! The Island Explorer shuttle bus stops here about every half hour during normal seasonal daytime hours.

Bar Harbor - Originally called Eden, this quaint resort town is a charming, low-key Acadia tourist destination. It's the ideal spot to do some shopping, visit art galleries and of course, dine on world-famous Maine lobster. Don't forget to take a stroll along the picturesque Shore Path. Built about 130 years ago, it begins near the town pier and the Bar Harbor Inn, and continues for about half mile along the eastern shore of the harbor.

Learn more about Acadia National Park by visiting the park's official website.

*Interesting Facts

• Acadia National Park's carriage road system, built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., has been called "the finest example of broken stone roads designed for horse-drawn vehicles still extant in America." Today, you can hike or bike 45 miles of these scenic carriage roads in the park.

• Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is the tallest mountain (1,530 feet high) along the eastern coast of the United States. During certain times of the year, it is the first place in the U.S. to see sunrise.

• Over 273 species of birds have been identified on Mount Desert Island and in the adjacent waters.

*Courtesy of the National Park Service

This article was written by Linda O.V. Williams and originally appeared in the June 2009 issue of CyberSam.

The Good Sam Club offers a wide range of exciting, escorted RV getaways, from world-class sporting events, travels to breathtaking scenic wonders, and culinary-oriented excursions.


Posted by Administrator at 11:30 AM
WEDNESDAY, JUL. 29, 2009

EUREKA! GRAND MANAN TENT RECEIVES 2009 CAMPING LIFE EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARD

From the Eureka! Tent Website

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (April 23, 2009)Camping Life magazine has awarded the Eureka! Grand Manan tent with a 2009 Editors’ Choice Award, which recognizes the company’s newest tent as a product that is best suited for the family camping lifestyle. The Grand Manan will be featured in the May 2009 issue of Camping Life.

"We are proud to recognize Eureka! and its Grand Manan tent with an Editors’ Choice Award," said Stuart Bourdon, editor of Camping Life. "Year after year, Eureka! continues to develop products that revolutionize the camping experience for the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts, and the Grand Manan is no exception. Its design makes it perfectly suited for families."

“With the current economy limiting family vacation options, we are committed to making the outdoors an enjoyable, affordable vacation alternative,” said Mark Hrubant, brand director for Johnson Outdoors Gear LLC (parent company of Eureka!® tents). “This award shows that our hard work is paying off and we are creating products that will appeal to the family consumer. We understand that Camping Life editors receive hundreds of new products to consider for this annual award, and we are honored to be a 2009 recipient.”

A key family-friendly feature of the Eureka! Grand Manan is that it provides more useable, livable floor space due to the lower portion of its walls being straight; cots and sleeping bags can be pushed right up to the sides of the tent. Additionally, the sides of the fly roll up from the ground to expose the mesh panels for optimal airflow through the tent, while maintaining privacy. The Grand Manan is a dome tent with fiberglass poles and two D-shaped doors, and has outdoor vestibules for shoe and gear storage. The Grand Manan 7 is designed for two to three campers and measures 7’6” x 6’6” x 4’3” high and weighs 10 lbs., 14 oz. The Grand Manan 9 is designed for four to five campers and measures 9’ x 9’ x 6’ high and weighs 21 lbs., 7 oz.


Posted by Administrator at 7:15 AM
WEDNESDAY, JUL. 29, 2009

With Such a Huge Variety of Tents Available, Which is the Best?

By David D. Sprake

Going camping is an exciting adventure provided you have a comfortable tent to keep you cosy and sheltered when required. Every individual has a particular need that varies from person to person and it is up to you to decide which kind of tent will suit your needs best. You can choose a tent depending on the space that you will require, the weight you can carry and the weather conditions of the area you are planning to visit. There are various tent manufacturers who can provide you high standards in terms of material and durability and these are tested for quality and reliability.

Materials used for tents are generally lightweight nylon or polyester fabric. However the groundsheet or the base of the tent uses a far more durable fabric because of the constant abrasions that it suffers from the ground below. Ripstop nylon is used to prevent it from tearing easily. All tents are made to be waterproof by using a coating of polyurethane. This prevents the water from seeping in from the outside in case of a sudden shower or drizzle. However these coatings may cause condensation inside the tent, so it is important to see that the tent you buy has good ventilation that can prevent the forming of condensation. 

The kinds of tents include ridge tents, geodesic tents, dome tents and tunnel tents. The ability of a tent to withstand severe weather conditions can be determined by a number of factors such as the aerodynamics, the location of the guy points and the arrangement of the poles for the tent. Geodesic tents are the most sturdy and made to the standards that are fit for harsh weather conditions and therefore these types of tents are more suitable for expeditions. The poles intersect each other forming a self-sustaining structure that allows more room inside, besides it can hold the weight of snow as well as keep the icy winds from penetrating through the material.

Tunnel tents as compared to dome tents provide more space because its curved roof gives more height area than the sloped pointed roof of a dome tent. This means you have more room available inside the tent and do not feel constricted. If you are considering buying a lightweight tent, then a dome tent would be more suitable as it uses only two poles for support or sometimes three if a porch is included. It would be most appropriate if you were to go backpacking.  

If you are looking for a family tent then you must look for designs that are structured keeping in mind a base camp environment. Such tents are erected only once and remain until the end of the trip. These can be heavier and larger but even so they must be able to accommodate a number of people for a longer period of time. Also try to take a tent a size larger than your requirement; you will not regret having more space for use. With the above descriptions of the different varieties of tents, you can now easily select one of your choice.


Posted by Administrator at 7:03 AM
TUESDAY, JUL. 28, 2009

A Portable Car Fridge - A Camping Necessity

by Ted Marcus

A car fridge can prove to be very useful when you go camping. As these camping sites are usually away from stores and malls, this is a very handy addition to your camping gear. When you are completely equipped, your camping experience will be a pleasurable one to remember for a long time.

Recently I went on a trip with my son to a hot and dusty part of the country. Unfortunately, we were not equipped with a camping fridge, and we had warm water and juice for days. If we had had a fridge in the car, it would have been a lot more fun.

The type of car mini fridge available today plug into car 12 volt cigarette lighters. Also, it is advisable to carry an extension cord so the fridge can be placed outside of the car as well. A fridge in car was unheard of previously, but now it is becoming a necessity for people who love camping. With a fridge inside the car, you can have cold drinks and your food will be fresh during the days when you are camping, away from the comforts of your home.

If you look carefully on the internet, you will be able to learn what you need to know to decide which camping fridge meets your needs. You can find all the necessary details of a fridge in car like the power consumption, the voltage and  the prices of all the different types of portable camping fridges.

When camping it seems everyone is perpetually hungry. The camping fridge is a boon. Unlike old fashioned coolers that rely on ice, the new generation uses 12 volt electricity to keep food fresh. Nobody will take the risk of falling ill after consuming stale food. The fridge for camping will ensure that everyone is hale and hearty. 

Having a fridge for camping keeps you tension free. Your thirst will always be quenched with ready cold drinks. It's a new experience, not to be concerned about a scarcity of fresh food or cold drinks in the camp.

We really recommend using an extension cord as well - this will enable you to keep the fridge in the trunk area if you don't want it up front, and will also give you flexibility to access it outside of your vehicle.

It is an excellent idea to have camping fridges along with you while camping. You can stay happy and trouble free throughout the camp. It is a luxury, yet it is taking the shape of an item of absolute necessity. Camping fridges must feature in the checklist of items to prepare before setting off for a camp.


Posted by Administrator at 11:24 AM
FRIDAY, JUL. 24, 2009

Camping Gear - The Camping Gear You Need to Have

By Michael Kohler

Camping can be one of the most rewarding recreational activities that a person can embark upon. However, when considering going on a camping trip, there are many items one must consider before jaunting off into the wilderness. If you are new to the camping scene, there are a lot more things to consider than one would think. To begin with, if you are going on any kind of a camping trip at all, camping gear is a necessity and it is often far more than some tent and sleeping bag. There are several things to consider, especially the tent size, various accessories such as sleeping bags and lanterns, the number of people going along with you, and of course edible supplies.

If you are going into a terrain that has a very cold climate, the first assessor you might want to consider bringing along is a sleeping bag. Although there are compromises in price and value that can be made in a variety of stores, you will want to focus upon quality opposed to the damage that will be done to your pocketbook when you are considering your own health and safety. Taking into consideration the temperature that the bag will handle, and the size of the person that it will fit, are probably the most important things to consider with a sleeping bag.

Other accessories would include lanterns, cooking utensils, a way to cook the food that you bring, the food itself, and any kind of safety supplies in case of accidents or in case you simply get lost while camping in an unfamiliar area. Likewise with all of the accessories, getting the best in camping gear is not always cheap but it also does not have to drain your wallet if you can find these accessories on sale. It is possible to find good quality camping gear at a reasonable price.

Buying a tent that is not only weatherproof but that will also fit the amount of people going on the trip is a large consideration as well. Although we all know that ordinarily when a tent says it's a four man that usually means that at best it will fit three people comfortably. And this comfortability factor is not taking into consideration any inflatable mattresses and luggage that you will bring on your trip. Simply put, the number that the tents give is for extreme backpackers who plan on sleeping cosily inside the tent. Therefore, it is best to supersize any tent purchase in order to safely and adequately fulfill your needs and the needs of others that may be coming along with you.

Another item of camping gear one needs to take into consideration if you are camping over a few days is a camping stove. Camping stoves can be bought in most outdoor stores and again, they do not have to be big and bulky to serve their purpose. Small stoves can be found that only require some oil to light up and travel size pots can fit on top.

If you are bringing small children with you, especially young children, will have to take a lot more into consideration than those traveling alone or in a group of peers. Certain precautions need to be taken by all campers but when there are children, there is a lot more to worry about. When purchasing any of the camping gear, make sure that it is safe for children and that it can allow for the overzealous activities that children usually preoccupy themselves with which may have to do with testing the durability of all of your equipment. Therefore, again, it may be more expensive to buy the cheap camping gear opposed to the expensive camping gear that is built to last.

Camping is an adventure for most people that embark upon it. Some will not enjoy interacting with the wilderness. However, by purchasing the correct camping equipment that will provide comfort for all of the parties involved, it will make your camping trip much more enjoyable because you chose to purchase quality camping gear that will probably last you for generations to come.

If you looking for sources for the cheapest camping gear and other camping necessities, go to my site Camping Gear and Things today!


Posted by Administrator at 11:17 AM
WEDNESDAY, JUL. 01, 2009

A Camping Life

By S. Bennett

What is it that makes us want to sleep out under the stars or cook over an open flame? What is it that makes us want to be out enjoying God's great creation? Is it something encoded in our DNA? Whatever it is, it makes life interesting doesn't it?!

A person that lives a camping life spends most of the time thinking about the next camping trip. When they are packing up at the end of a trip, they are already planning the next one. They will plan a vacation based on the location's campgrounds or backpacking permits. Does this sound like you? I know that describes me to a T!

A person that lives a camping life usually thinks in a unique way. A three day weekend? "Let's go camping!" Vacation time? "Let's go camping!" A nice quiet weekend? "Let's go camping!" The "perfect" getaway? Spent in a tent, with a camp fire, surrounded by what God has provided: trees, creeks and plenty of hiking trails, preferably on the shores of a lake, so can get a little fishing in too!

A camping life is not for everyone. You have to enjoy the outdoors. You have to have an appreciation and a respect for nature. If this appeals to you then you either already are or are ready to live "A Camping Life".

However you live your camping life, whether you are camping just to be camping or if you are camping as part of a hunting, fishing or hiking trip, there is certain equipment that you will need.

Basic requirements would be a tent and a sleeping bag. Depending on your idea of a camping life and your level of comfort the list of camping equipment could get quite long. You may need all, some or none of this equipment, just choose what fits into your camping life.

For comfort, you may need an air mattress. If your like me, getting a little older, sleeping on the ground in just a sleeping bag does not fit into my camping life. Just make sure you buy a quality one, if not it won't be much better than sleeping on the ground. Of course you don't want to blow this up yourself, so you will need an air pump, same here with buying quality, you don't want to end up spending an hour fighting with the pump just to get your mattress aired up.

Now that we have covered comfort, it is time to look to the practical. It is time to set up your camp. Your idea of the camping life may include cooking over an open flame or you may want the convenience of a camp stove. Either way you will need cookware. Make sure when you buy your cookware, if you are cooking over a camp fire, you get the kind that is made for this type of cooking. Now that you have your camp set up, you don't want to be tripping all over this camping equipment, so don't forget to get a lantern to light your way.

Now let's talk about the extras for your camping trip. If you are camping as part of a hiking trip through the back country you will need a backpack, make sure it is a hiking backpack, not one like kids carry to school. This can make a huge difference in the way your load carries. While you are hiking you may want to do a little bird or wildlife watching so you may want to invest in a good pair of binoculars. You will definitely want to pack a camera for all the beautiful scenery you will be seeing. A good waterproof one would probably be the best, as these are usually more rugged than the average camera. One last extra a lot of people don't think of is walkie talkies. If you are in a large group these can serve several purposes. One purpose could be smaller groups can hike in different directions and still stay in touch with each other. Or even if you are not in a large group, if someone is lost there is a means of communication.

Whatever your idea of the perfect camping life is: I hope your next camping trip will be the best camping life you can live.

S. Bennett enjoys all of the outdoors, but camping in particular. For more information on camping, visit http://acampinglife.com


Posted by Administrator at 2:18 PM
WEDNESDAY, JUN. 10, 2009

Easy Camping Recipes - Enjoy YOUR Camping Experience MORE

By Sam Jordan

One of the best parts of going camping is the cooking that is involved in it. There are many easy camping recipes that can be made when camping, which generally taste better than it would have at home!

Beginner campers tend to comprise camping packing lists to ensure that they will not forget vital items. However, now the aggravating decision as to what to take camping arises. A commonly used method to avoid forgetting equipment is to formulate a packing checklist for camping. Items on lists range from, camping water purifiers for the cautious camper, hiking equipment for the adventurous one, and baby camping equipment so the toddler in the family can enjoy the outdoors as well.

To cook your easy camping recipes, it would be best to include a camping stove or portable camping grill in the camping supply list. Naturally, your easy to make food ideas should center on foods that you prefer. Some people like roasting fish, some take along leftover chicken/turkey to make sandwiches while some others love hunting to eat the prize of their hunting.

One of best camping ideas is to include the different types of cereals and fruit bars in the camping supply list. These afford not only a wholesome alternative to a meal, but are also convenient. You can keep the kids busy with the cereals or cereal/nutrition bars, while cooking up something hot. Taking along bread, apples, pastries, and yogurt (with a portable fridge of course), is all you need to have a complete breakfast.

When at home a fruit bar may be a snack, but if that is going to be a meal for you when in the outdoors, then you will require some additional snacks for camping! These can tide you over during the long journeys in the car or for the oing camping to tide you while your meal is getting ready. Don't try to cook elaborate dishes while camping, as this is not practible. It is only food that can be cooked quickly and fast that have to be eaten while camping.

It is important to take some eating and cooking utensils with you when going camping. Don't forget the scrubbers, dish rags, dish tub and dish soap to clean your vessels; as paper and plastic sacks may prove to be easier to use, but create a mess. Think up easy camping ideas that provide a wholesome breakfast, and then have a light lunch to be followed with a hearty supper; and you are sure to remember this camping trip for some time to come.

To receive a free copy of the 'Ultimate What to Take Camping List' , visit Dependable Camping Equipment

Sam Jordan

Sam Jordan is a creative webmaster / content publisher with many interests. He is the webmaster of http://www.dependable-camping-equipment.com in addition to many other sites.


Posted by Administrator at 5:12 PM
MONDAY, MAR. 30, 2009

Church Camp Songs - Choosing the Best

By Roger L Turner

When I think of church camp songs, I tend to think of those songs that are bible oriented or African-American spirituals. Actually, at the church camps I have attended, they pretty much like to sing what everybody else likes to sing: silly songs, folk songs, old time songs and other traditional campfire songs. In addition, they also like to sing upbeat, religious songs.

At church camps, I find that whoever is running things likes to be as organized as possible, so usually singing around the campfire is not left to chance. The church campfires that I have been to usually included several church camp songs interspersed with stories. Some of the stories were fun and some were more spiritual in nature. Most of the time, the campfire would finish with one of the ecclesiastical leaders, like a priest, minister or bishop teaching one of the stories, parables or characteristics of Jesus. I am a Christian, so this article is from my viewpoint. If you are of another religion besides Christian, you could teach about your religion and/or prophets. All of the religious songs I refer to in this article are based in a Christian background. I really don't know of any campfire songs from other religions, but if you know of some that I could include, please email me and let me know. I would much appreciate it.

Below are listed some of the most popular church camp songs:

  1. Amazing Grace: This is one of the most beautiful religious songs I know. It is easy to play on the guitar with only three chords. It has one of the most recognized melodies. The song has even more meaning if you know the story behind it. The story is about John Newton, the composer of the song. It is an inspiring story. If you 'google' John Newton or Amazing Grace, you will find several resources. There is also a movie called Amazing Grace about John Newton.
  2. Down by the Riverside: Like most African American Spirituals, this is a pretty easy song to learn. Many of the lines are repeated, which makes memorization easy. In most spirituals there is only a difference of two or three words between verses. This makes it easy to learn several verses quite easy.
  3. Peace Like a River: This is another spiritual that is easy to learn.
  4. I Love the Mountains: Even though this song does not talk about religion or God, I still consider it a great church camp song. The reason I say this is because it talks about nature and all the beautiful things that God has created. It's pretty hard to sing this song without feeling gratitude and thankfulness for the many beautiful things God has created for us to enjoy.
  5. The Happy Wanderer: This song kind of goes hand in hand with the previous one. It's just a happy, feel good song about the beauties of God's creations.
  6. Kumbaya: Kumbaya is probably the all time most popular church camp song ever. It's easy to sing, easy to learn and just about everybody knows it.
  7. He's Got the Whole World: Here is another African American spiritual that is probably a close second in popularity to Kumbaya.
  8. You Can't Get to Heaven: This is a fun song to sing, even though I'm sure you won't be barred from heaven just because you're wearing roller skates. If your kids take it seriously, you might want to tell them that if they die with roller skates on or in a rocking chair, they can still go to heaven. Who knows; if they believe they can't get to heaven with roller skates, maybe they'll be more careful! This is one of those songs where you could make up your own verses.
  9. Peace Like a River: This is another one of my favorites. Easy to teach, easy to learn and easy to play on the guitar. It's also a very peaceful song if it's done right. This could be done slowly or medium tempo.

 

If you are looking for a particular church camp song that isn't here, try asking your pastor, priest or other church leader to help you. They will probably have some ideas for songs that are suitable for your denomination. If you decide to do hymns with guitar accompaniment, you might have to transpose to get it into an easier key. A lot of hymns are in flat keys, which are harder to play on guitar. Transpose it into a sharp key like G, D, A, or E.

If you know of any church camp songs or scout songs that should be on this list, or included in The Great American Campfire Songbook, please email me and let me know.

Good luck with your campfire singing; and Remember to have fun!

Roger Turner is a campfire song enthusiast. For more great tips and advice on church camp songs visit http://www.bestcampingsongs.com.

He is also the editor of The Great American Campfire Songbook. All of the songs mentioned above are included in The Great American Campfire Songbook along with the music and chords.


Posted by Administrator at 6:57 PM
MONDAY, MAR. 30, 2009

Planning Your Camping Trip Properly

By Keith Barrett 

The idea of sitting down and planning an event can sound really dull but it's important to remember that proper planning can really help you to get the most out of many situations. This is undoubtedly true when it comes to camping holidays.

Camping trips can be great fun but, unlike when you're staying in a hotel, you obviously have to expect to find pretty basic conditions on most sites. That means that, if you want to have a higher standard of trip, then you're going to have to do a bit of thinking before you leave.

One key issue to think about should be your tent. What sort of condition is it in and are you confident that you can get it erected pretty quickly? If you're uncertain about anything then it's best to try and resolve the problem before you set off.

It's often a good idea, for instance, to try putting your tent up in your garden a few days before leaving on the trip. By doing so, you should be able to identify whether you are likely to encounter any problems.

If there are going to be any problems then you'll be glad to find out about them in the setting of your own garden, rather than finding yourself in a state of panic as you try to put the tent up in potentially wet conditions on a campsite.

Have you thought about food and drink? You may be thinking about eating out during your trip, in which case it's worth locating the site on a map and checking that it's close to some restaurants or pubs.

You may, alternatively, be planning to take your own food and drink with you. If this is the case then remember to draw up a list so that you know what you need to buy and what you need to pack. If you're intending to cook then you don't want to forget your camping stove and any pans that you may need.

One issue that's not very pleasant but that needs discussing is that of toilets. We all know that campsite toilet facilities can be pretty poor. Once again, this is something that you can prepare for in advance.

There are a number of retailers selling compact portable camping toilets - these are ideal for such occasions. Don't forget to buy one in advance of your trip.

By planning properly you can take a lot of the stress out of your trip. By spending a little bit of extra time at the planning stage you can really make the most of your camping holiday.

More on tents, camping holidays and portable camping toilet products is available, as discussed by Keith Barrett. This article may be used by any website publisher, though this resource box must always be included in full.

 

 


Posted by Administrator at 6:53 PM
MONDAY, MAR. 23, 2009

Tent Care Suggestions

Hello folks,

This tent care information is from Eureka.  It is very good.  Enjoy!

TENT CARE:Cleaning
  • Clean the tent by setting it up and wiping it down with a mild soap (liquid hand soap) and lukewarm water solution. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Never use detergent, washing machines or dryers because they can damage the tent's protective coating and seams. After cleaning, be sure the tent is completely dry, especially the heavier, double-stitched areas such as the seams, before storing or mold and mildew are likely to grow.
  • Clean the tent poles with a soft, dry cloth. This is especially necessary after oceanside camping trips to remove salt spray so the poles don't corrode or stay gritty.
  • Clean the zippers with a quick dip in water and then dry them off. This is especially important if you've been camping in a location with sand/dirt. If you don't clean the zippers, the sliders will wear out and eventually the teeth will become inoperable.
Seam Sealing
  • We recommend use of a sealer such as Kenyon Seam Sealer 3 or McNett Outdoor SeamGrip. Be sure to check directions on the side of container for specifics before beginning the seam sealing process.
  • Seam sealing should be done in a fully ventilated area. Set the tent up or lay the tent out flat. Taut seams allow for even application and penetration of the sealer.
  • Decide which seams need to be sealed. For example, seams that will be exposed to rain, runoff, or ground level water are a must for sealing, while seams on uncoated nylon or mesh panels won't need treatment. You won't need to seal the seams in the roof or the factory taped seams either. We recommend sealing both floor & fly seams and reinforcements.
  • Apply sealant to the inside and outside of all exposed seams. Draw or brush the sealant along the seam, spreading it evenly and liberally into all of the needle holes. Several thin layers will work better than one thick layer. Allow 30 minutes to 1 hour for the sealant to completely dry before storing the tent. Twelve hours for SeamGrip®.
Ultraviolet
  • Ultraviolet damage to tent fabric is caused by excessive exposure to sunlight. While our fabrics are UV resistant, any synthetic fabric is susceptible to ultraviolet degradation. UV damage will cause nylon and polyester to become brittle and tear easily. Once your tent has UV damage, it is non-repairable, but damage can be minimized by erecting tents on sites where exposure to direct sunlight can be avoided. We also recommend that you use the rain fly even on clear days. It acts as a sunscreen to the tent. A rain fly is both easier and less expensive to replace if damaged.
Color Transfer
  • Due to the nature of tent fabrics, color can transfer from darker fabric to lighter fabric if two colors are in contact over time when wet, damp, or exposed to the combination of moisture and high heat. This does not effect a tent’s performance. To prevent/minimize color transfer from occurring, always make sure that your tent is completely dry prior to packing and storage.
Storage
  • Make sure the tent is completely dry, then store loosely rolled, in a dry, cool place. To prevent dust from collecting on the tent, cover it with a cloth. This allows the nylon/polyester fabric to breathe.
  • Ideally, the tent poles should be stored in their fully assembled state. This reduces the tension on the shock cord, prolonging its life.· We recommend that the tent bag be used only as a carry sack and not for storage.
GENERAL TIPS:
  • Use a ground cloth under the tent whenever possible. If you choose, Eureka! has pre-cut sizes. If not, trace the tent on the ground cloth and cut smaller than the tent footprint to avoid having it act as a water collector. Ground cloths are easier and less expensive to replace than torn tent floors.
  • Try not to wear shoes inside your tent.
  • Bring a small rug or mat to put inside the tent door to wipe off mud and catch sand.
  • Sweep the tent floor daily to prevent damage from stones.
  • Do not keep food inside the tent. Hungry critters will chew through the tent fabric in search of a snack.

Posted by Administrator at 7:35 AM
WEDNESDAY, MAR. 18, 2009

Hiking and Camping in Seneca State Forest in West Virginia

Hi folks, 

One of the most beautiful areas in the eastern mountains of this great land is Nature's Mountain Playground of Pocahontas County West Virginia.  It has 5 state parks, one national, and two state forests, and a world renowned ski resort.  Seneca State Forest is an ideal place to enjoy tent camping or lodging in a rustic cabin along with great outdoor recreation.  Cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's now provide a nostalgic lodging experience.  Gas lights and wood burning stoves add to the ambience of the simple setting.

With over 11,000 acres of lush woodlands, Seneca offers 23 miles of hiking trails and 40 miles of forest roads for biking.  Add a lake for trout, bass and bluegill fishing, picnic sites and game courts, and Seneca is the perfect place for a getaway camping vacation.

Check out the website at http://www.senecastateforest.com/

Bill


Posted by Administrator at 8:25 PM
MONDAY, MAR. 16, 2009

camper

I like the camping links and the manufacturing links. I get a good deal of information.
Posted by John at 1:57 PM
SATURDAY, MAR. 14, 2009

Welcome

Hello fellow campers!

This blogging area is for you.  It's open to anyone with the love of camping and the outdoors and has good inforrmation to share.   At thetentcampsite.com we want to give campers the opportunity to start a community of information sharing about any topic of interest that relates to camping.    Talk to us about your experiences such as product use, campgrounds you visited, your family camping vacation, backpacking excursions, your favorite camping website, etc.     But please keep information pertinent to this and please keep it clean.

Bill at TheTentCampsite.com

 


Posted by Administrator at 9:40 AM

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