New Camping Tips

I will now be posting camping tips relatively often. I also now will be leaving up all of the tips. Please comment if they help you!

Got Map?
Always get a good quality and current topographic map of the area you will be hiking in, and don't forget a compass. These two tools alone will dramatically reduce your chances of getting lost on your next adventure.

Short on Camp Light?
If you're short on light at camp, you can greatly increase the amount of illumination cast by a candle, lantern, or oil lamp by placing a mirror or a sheet of aluminum foil on the wall behind the light source. The reflection from a mirror or aluminum will provide substantially more light.

Just A Tarp?
By taking a 6 by 8 feet tarp and 30 ft. length of rope to hang between two trees. You have a light weight tent that gives usually as much protection as most any three season tent (a tent designed for spring through fall weather).

Check-lists
If you use a personal computer, create a folder called "Check-lists" in which to store lists of items you don't want to forget the next time you leave on an outdoor excursion. In the folder, keep permanent lists for Boating, Deer Camp, Bass Fishing, Upland Hunting, etc. If you don't use a computer, type up the lists and keep them in a "Checklists" folder in your filing cabinet.

Plant the Seed
Think of the long-term effect if each time you go afield you plant a handful of acorns, crabapples, barberry seeds, or other plants that will someday produce mast or fruits that remain available to wildlife in winter when other resources run short. Check with your state's wildlife department for advice on plant species for your area, planting locations, and techniques.

Warm Feet
Your feet will be warmer and you will suffer fewer blisters if you wear polypropylene sock liners under a pair of wool-synthetic blend boot socks. The liners provide an air space between your feet and your socks, and wick away moisture, enhancing dryness and warmth. The snug liners do not slip, protecting your feet from rubbing that causes blisters.


Don't Leave Home Without It!
Having a small role of toliet paper in your pack or purse can be a lifesaver when none is around!!

Saved by a Mirror
Whether you are in a boat or hiking in remote country, a pocket-size mirror can be a lifesaver in many critical situations. Use it to flash sunlight toward distant sources of assistance when you need to signal distress and draw attention to your location. Any small mirror will be helpful, but the polished metal mirrors sold in camping-supply stores are more durable than glass mirrors.