Choosing a campsite
A campsite should be more than just a place to sleep and eat - it should offer you safety and comfort. Keep the following information in mind.
Environmental impact
Remember the principles of outdoor ethics.
- Use established campsites
- Camp on durable surfaces
- Find campsites, don't make them
- Reverse all changes before leaving
Safety
- Pitch tents away from dead trees or trees with limbs that might fall during a storm
- Stay out of areas that couold fill with water. Signs of this include debris in underbrush or all grass cent in same direction
- Avoid lone trees
- Avoid the tops of hills and mountains
- Avoid high ridges
- Camp away from hiking and game trails
- Camp away from animal tracks and worn pathways that are too small for humans
Size
A campsite must be large enough for tents and cooking areas. Make sure there is enough space to move without triping on stakes and guy lines.
Comfort
- If hot, look for shade and breezes
- If cold, find windbreaks
- Place tent on flat places
- If slanted, sleep with head uphill
- Utilize the position of the sun
Fires
If fires are permitted, look for a campsite with an existing fire ring. Use dead firewood, not live trees.
Privacy
Select campsites away from others. Use trees, bushes, and the land to hide your camp.
Permission
If possible, contact park and forest managers. They can issue permits and suggest campsites. Get permission from owners of private property before camping on their land.
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