The Camping Club

Tin Can Totem Pole

Nothing sets the mood at summer camp like a totem pole, especially one flickering in the light of a bonfire. Make a tin can version for your backyard camp by painting your family portraits on coffee cans.

Watch a step-by-step video demonstration of this craft.

CRAFT MATERIALS:
Materials for a 5-person totem pole:
5 coffee cans, each with 2 plastic lids that fit
Can opener
Water-based exterior paints in a variety of colors
Paintbrushes
Craft knife
Scissors
4 clear plastic milk or water jugs, emptied and cleaned
Marker
Liquid laundry detergent bottle, empty and cleaned
Wooden dowel 7/8 inch in diameter and 48 inches long
Duct tape

Time needed: About 1 to 2 Hours
1. First, cut the bottom off each coffee can with a can opener, then give a can to each person to paint his or her portrait on.

2. While the paint is drying, choose the can that you want to put on top of your totem pole and set 1 of its 2 lids to the side. Use a craft knife to cut a quarter-size asterisk in the center of each of the other lids, then set the lids aside.

3. Next, use scissors to cut the ridged spout from each plastic jug (recycle the rest of the jug) and set aside the spouts.

4. Finally, draw the wings on the detergent bottle, as shown, and cut them out (recycle the rest of the bottle).

5. Once the cans are dry, place a lid on the top and bottom of each, using the uncut lid for the top of the can that will crown your totem pole. As shown in the diagram at left, wrap a thick layer of duct tape about 6 inches from the bottom end of the dowel, then add the cans, jug spouts, and wings.

6. Place the finished totem pole in your yard by pushing the dowel into the ground.

Click to Read more

My Dream RV Vacation

I’ve always wanted to see the states along the west coast. It wasn’t until I retired that my husband and I spoke to our good friends and they convinced us the best way to travel was with an RV. At first we were a little reluctant of packing all our belongings and beginning the journey. But less than a few days had passed, and we both agreed it was the best thing we could have ever done. We met great people, we took great photographs and most of all we have endless memories that will keep us laughing until our next trip. We’re already planning our next trip with our good friends, I’m sure it will be better the second time around.
Maria Howe Barstow, CA

Click to Read more

Morro Bay State Park

Great park, on Morro Bay, with view of Morro Rock, with small dock with resturant, Natural history Museum on site, golf course on site, just a short drive to beautiful Morro bay fishing wharf area, close to San Luis Obispo and San Simeon(Hearst Castle) Beautiful any time of year!
Submitted By: Lisa Tewsley

Click to Read more

Brocolli Trees

Watch the vegetables disappear as your kids create and eat a forest of broccoli.

INGREDIENTS:
1/4 cup light sour cream
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
1 head broccoli
4 carrots
1. Prepare a dip by combining the sour cream, mayonnaise, sugar, lemon juice, and basil in a medium-size mixing bowl.

2. To make the trees, cut each carrot in half widthwise and then lengthwise into four pieces. Cut broccoli into florets, reserving stems. Assemble on a plate by laying three carrot pieces side by side for a trunk, with the broccoli florets as the leaves. Spread dip under the trunks for the forest floor. Makes 5 servings.

Click to Read more

Avoid Raccoons

If you are an experienced camper, you may remember back on your first camping trip when the raccoons got into your food. Raccoons and many other animals will be visiting your campsite while you are sleeping or off on a hike, so you need to safeguard your campsite. This can be a very unpleasant situation if you are not prepared, as you are left without food and will have a big mess to clean up. In addition, raccoons will sometimes fight over food they find, making it hard for you and other visitors to sleep. Many people leave their cooler or food box out at night and learn to regret it later that night or upon returning from a hike or swim. Raccoons are very smart animals and have learned all the tricks of the trade from the many previous campers who visited the park. Before you go to sleep or leave your campsite make sure you do the following: Clear your picnic table of all food items (Snacks, condiments and spices) Clean all dishes in your dishwashing tub, ensure no food traces are left Bring your garbage bag to the park's enclosed bin; do not leave around the campsite. (The scent alone will bring many visitors) Place your cooler and food container in your vehicle. Tricks like placing heavy items on top of the cooler or food box will not work Never keep food in your tent. Most tents are made of very thin materials and are no match for a raccoons teeth and claws. You should always read the park provided materials or speak with the park management regarding such issues, as some parks will have unique guidelines regarding garbage and local wildlife.

Click to Read more

Painted Pebbles

Turn a pile of stones into ornamental artworks that will spruce up a garden bed, a potted plant or a windowsill. CRAFT MATERIALS:
Small stones
Acrylic paint and brushes

Time needed: Under 1 Hour
1. Start by scouting in the backyard for smooth stones in various shapes and sizes.

2. Imagine what each stone's shape lends itself to. For example, a wide, rounded stone would make a good fat cat. Or perhaps a group of stones will inspire a family of critters like a brood of ducklings.

3. Use the paints to realize your artistic vision.

Variations:
Use stones to create colorful and helpful markers for a vegetable or flower garden. Simply paint a carrot, some peas, or maybe a sunflower on a stone to place at the end of a plant's row.

Click to Read more

Pitching a Tent for the First Time

I guess I would say my proudest camping moment was this past July when I successfully put up a tent for our unexpected guests to sleep in.  My wife and I have always camped in a travel trailer of some type. When our son and his family phoned us while we were camping and said they thought they'd come stay a night with us I panicked because I knew we wouldn't all fit into the travel trailer we have now. I made a quick trip to the store and purchased a tent. I have never put together a tent and did it quite fast. Needless to say we all had a great night. It was a very nice camping experience.
Randy Bryant
Newnan, GA 

Click to Read more

El Capitan State Beach

The truth is that not many of us can afford a beach front property, with full ammenities. Take a walk at the beach at sunset, bring the boogie board, fall asleep with the sound of the waves and have them wake you up as well. So the early fog will chase you indoors early, more of a reason to play games with kids in the tent. And don"t forget to bring the kids bikes and plenty of quarters for the showers to shake the salt water off.
Submitted By: Pete Duran

Click to Read more

Bread Sculpture

BUTTERFLY CHEESE-WICH

Butterfly fans will flutter at the sight of this grilled-cheese sandwich on their lunch plates. Make a regular grilled cheese, then cut out the wings as shown.

Ask your kids to place a celery stick in the center for the butterfly's body, poke cherry tomatoes onto carrot sticks for antennae, then add carrot or pepper spots.

BOB AND BETTY BREAD

Who says all gingerbread men have to be made out of cookie dough? For this healthier version, cut a slice of whole-wheat bread with a gingerbread-man (or -woman) cookie cutter. (If your slice isn't large enough, cut the top half from one slice and the bottom from another, then arrange the crusts at the waistband.)

Your kids can dress up the folks with green-pea buttons and red- or yellow-pepper belts and shoes. Put on a happy face with corn-niblet eyes, a carrot nose and a red-pepper smile.

For a hat, use a quartered cherry tomato with a red-pepper brim. Or skip the hat altogether and go for a head of curly parsley hair.

WHOLE-WHEAT COTTAGE

Let your builders-to-be construct a house out of toast for breakfast. Use one piece of toast for the house, cutting out the windows and doors. To raise the roof, cut a second piece into a triangle and shingle it with mini-wheat cereal held in place with peanut butter.

A small rectangle of toast, cut to fit against the roofline, makes an ideal chimney, especially with a puff of Cheerios smoke. For siding, spread the whole house with peanut butter, scratching in some shingles with a toothpick.

PEANUT BUTTER BUGS

High-protein critters are just one of the many sculptures your kids can form out of this peanut-butter play clay. To make up a batch, mix 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 tablespoon wheat germ, 1 tablespoon honey and 3 tablespoons nonfat dried milk in a bowl until it sticks together.

Chill, then model the clay into a ladybug or snail and add shoestring-licorice features.

Click to Read more

The Great American Backyard Campout

When I told my 4 1/2 year old son, Malcolm, that we would be camping out in our backyard, he was thrilled. Every day for the 2 weeks before the campout he'd ask at bedtime, "Are we camping out tonight?" I knew they would enjoy it but the highlight came when my 7 year old daughter hugged me and said: "I never knew spending the whole day outside could be so fun!" Then she added, "I think today has been more fun than my birthday." All of us, adults & kids alike, enjoyed hunting for bugs, roasting marshmallows in our fire & making s'mores. I'm 35 and have never been camping before. This was such a great experience for us all! I can't wait till next year!

Sign up for GREAT AMERICAN BACKYARD CAMPOUT

Picnic Game Table

You and your family will have lots of fun designing this outdoor picnic table together -- and then, year after year, you'll have lots of fun using the gameboards you've painted onto the tabletop.

CRAFT MATERIALS:
A small, unfinished picnic table
Pencil and ruler
Acrylic latex enamel paint
Paintbrushes
Square-shaped sponge (optional)
Polyurethane

Time needed: Weekend Project

1. Using a pencil and ruler, draw a design on the tabletop. We've included a checkerboard, a backgammon board, a sun, letters of the alphabet and numbers from zero to 20.

2. Once you are happy with the design, paint it on.

3. Paint the benches as you wish. We sponge-painted squares around geometric shapes.

4. Protect the table and benches with five coats of polyurethane (a parent's job).

Click to Read more

Learning Responsibility

May 2007 my husband and I decided to take our Godchild, Anthony, camping this year. Now Anthony has always had a hard time getting up for school and that was one discussion we had with him. He would have to get up early everyday since we go fishing early every morning by 6am. During this trip Anthony woke up everyday with no complaints and I was proud of him. But on the second last day we needed to wake up by 4am. Anthony did not want to wake up that morning so I said, "Anthony it's 8am! Hurry and wake up! We are late!" He jumped out of bed so fast, got dressed and was ready to go. Right before we left the camper, my husband said to him (laughing), "You know its 4:15 in the morning, right?" Anthony's face was priceless! But he didn't complain just got in the truck and was ready to go fishing. This was his first camping trip and he wants to go again. Also, he now wakes up for school with no problems for the most part. This trip demonstrated to him that when you wake up early you can live the whole day experiencing life and enjoying God's Country.
Maria Baldivid
San Bernardino, CA 

Click to Read more

McArthur-Burney Falls State Park

Southeast of Redding, California. About a 45 minute drive east of Redding on 299, then 6 miles north on Hwy 89. Beautiful waterfall - 100 + clean camp sites - restrooms and showers - small store for ice, some food items, cold drinks. It can be found on the internet for more information.
Submitted By: Marion King

Click to Read more

Best Ever Hamburgers

These meat patties are easy to make and perfect for an outdoor party or camping trip!

Ingredients

• 1 lb. lean ground beef 
• 4 drops Worcestershire sauce 
• 1 tsp. crushed oregano 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• 6 hamburger buns, split 

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the beef, Worcestershire, oregano, salt and pepper. Mix well and form the meat into 6 patties. When the coals are hot and evenly distributed, place the burgers in the center of the grill and set the buns, open-face down, to the outside edge. As soon as the buns are toasted, flip the burgers and place a bun top on each. This will help the meat cook through while the bread soaks up juices. Serves 6. Set out with your favorite condiments.

Click to Read more

Keeping the Bugs Away

It is going to be that season again! We have put together a few tips so that you can avoid bugs when camping.

Stay away from wet, grassy areas
Avoid using fragrant or scented personal products
Wear light colored long sleeve shirts and pants
Wear a hat and a bandana on your head and neck
Keep cool - bugs are attracted to sweat
Traditional bug repellent - most contain DEET as the active ingredient against bugs. Use this sparingly. This chemical may be harmful and should not be used on children
Sunscreen/insect repellant - this may have a lower concentration of DEET
Citronella candles and oil - helps keep mosquitoes out of the area
Head Nets - keeps bugs away from your head and face
Garlic - it will secrete through your pores
Zinc or Vitamin B - also secretes through your pores
Citrus - deters the bugs
Coconut soap and coconut oil - repels mosquitoes

Click to Read more

Macrame Bracelets

The groovy macramé I remember from 20 years ago is back in force, and I must admit I prefer this reincarnation. Woven from sleek hemp twine, rather than jute, it looks earthy and cool. And, when strung with beads (either store-bought or made from seeds and shells), it also makes a perfect bracelet for a best pal.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
Hemp cord, scissors, tape, beads and buttons.

HOW IT'S DONE:
1.To make a bracelet, you need two strands of hemp, one twice as long as the other. (The lengths will depend on the hemp's width, but a 60- and a 30-inch length should fit most kids' wrists.) Fold each strand in half. Hold the two midpoints together and tie a loop with them. Hang the loop over a nail or tape it to a board. You should now have four strands; put the shorter two in the middle.

2.Lay the left outside strand over the middle two strands (it should look like the number four), then under the right outside strand.

3. Bring the outside right strand under the middle two strands and up through the loop of the four. Pull the ends of the outside strands tight. This is the basic knot. To continue, simply alternate the side from which you start the knot.

4. To add a bead, slip it onto the middle two strands, then tie the knot. When your bracelet is done, slip a four-holed button onto the four strands (one strand in each hole), then knot each strand end and snip off any extra hemp.

CAMP CRAFTER'S TIP:
A fun variation on the basic knot is to make a twisted bracelet. To do this, don't alternate from outside strand to outside strand. Instead, make your knot starting with the same outside strand every time. Your weaving will twist around in a spiral.

Click to Read more

Making it Through the Rain

It was Feb.12 2007 and we were camping on Long Key in Florida right on the ocean. All of a sudden it started to rain hard. Eleven inches in a 6 hour period turned the campground into a disaster zone. The campground road turned into a raging foot deep river and campsites with campers in them were washing into the ocean. Thankfully everyone made it out with little damage to their rigs other than lots of water damage. The water was leaking in right thru their camper and RV windows. Us on the other hand, were high and dry. We camp in a truck tent in the back of our pickup truck. We set up a canopy behind it and cover the whole thing up with tarps. We had no water damage and made it through better than almost all of the campers and RV's. In this photo the water you see is the campground road and the ocean is in the background.
William Tamiso
East Hartford, CT 

Click to Read more

Big Island Sunglasses

This addition to the Maui Jim Sunglasses with Flexon shape-memory metal frame line was designed for active consumers desiring a prominent look, while providing their eyes with the most thorough protection available.  Big Island makes a bold statement combined with protection only achieved through Maui Jim’s PolarizedPlus2Ò technology.  The added advantage of the Flexon memory metal has created a frame, which will prove to be a successful addition to the Maui Jim Sunglass line.

Q: Are you an outdoor enthusiast?
A: Yes. I enjoy mountain climbing, backpacking, hiking, beachcombing, kayaking, and outdoor photography.

Q: How often did you use your sunglasses during the test period?
A: I used them five times on short day hikes, beachcombing, leisure walking, and driving.

Q: Did you like the overall look of the sunglasses?
A: Yes. They have a rich clean appearance without looking fragile.

Q: Would you wear these sunglasses while participating in outdoor activities?
A: Yes I would wear them for most of my activities. As long as it’s not while I’m doing something where I may damage them.

Q: Where did you wear the sunglasses?
A: On short hikes, while beachcombing and leisure walking, and driving.

Q: Did the Big Island sunglasses fit comfortably?
A: Yes they are exceptionally comfortable. I always take new glasses to my eye doctor and have the fit adjusted to me personally. Someone else may enjoy the fit right out of the case.

Q: Did the larger frame protect your eyes from debris, wind and UV?
A: Yes without a doubt.

Q: Did you like the double brow bar feature?
A: Yes, the double brow bar is a feature I have looked for in the past in my glasses.

Q: Were the sunglasses lightweight?
A: Yes very light especially on the bridge of my nose.

Q: What are the best features for the Big Island Sunglasses?
A: Appearance, comfort, durability and the great lenses.

Q: Would you recommend this product to other outdoor enthusiasts? Why?
A: Yes. Of course. They are perfect for those who love to be outside.

Additional Comments
The lenses gave me a warm crisp view. They did not tire my eyes. Very important! From the moment I put these glasses on, I realized I was looking through really…I mean really good glasses!

Submitted By: Michael Andras Jr. of Westport, MA

Click to Read more

Campfire Meatballs

A modified italian favorite that will make campfire chefs out of everyone!

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef 
• 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs 
• 1 egg, slightly beaten 
• 3/4 tsp. garlic salt 
• 1/4 tsp. pepper 
• 2 medium zucchini, cut lengthwise in half, then crosswise into 1/2" slices 
  2 cups prepared spaghetti sauce 
• Grated Parmesan cheese 
• Garlic bread sticks (optional) 

Directions

In medium bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, 1/4 cup water, garlic salt and pepper, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape into 24 meatballs.

Cut four 18" x 12" long sheets heavy duty aluminum foil. Place equal amounts of meatballs and zucchini in center of each and top each with 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce. Bring shorter edges of foil together over the center; fold down loosely to seal, allowing room for heat expansion and circulation. Fold in open ends to seal.

Place packets on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, uncovered, 16 to 18 minutes or until meatball centers are no longer pink and zucchini is tender, turning packets once.

To serve, carefully unfold ends and tops of packets; sprinkle cheese over meatballs. Serve with garlic bread sticks to dip into sauce. Makes 4 servings.

Keep your Gear Mold-Free

Ever pack your tent away in the basement or attic after a camping trip even when still wet or damp? Well, you will most likely find a rather unpleasant odor the next time you take it out for a camping adventure. Below are some tips to help prevent this from happening.

Always set - up your tent to dry when you return home.
If it was raining or damp while you were camping, always set - up your tent in your backyard or other area to completely dry out. It may be raining or damp when you are packing your vehicle to return home, and you must let your gear dry out to remain in good condition for future trips.
Use appropriate storage units to store your gear - protect your gear!
When stowing your camping gear away ensure that you use storage units that will help protect them from damage. Using plastic bags over camp chairs and tables will help prevent damage and there are also some helpful products that you can purchase such as Space Bags. Space Bags can store bedding, cushions, clothing, gear, and emergency supplies in vacuum - sealed bag. For more information or to purchase, go to www.SpaceBags.com
Use a simple solution to clean and remove mold
If you do have mold or mildew on your tent or gear, use a simple solution to handle the problem. Start by brushing off any collected mold or mildew when outdoors to not have it within your house. Then, just clean thoroughly with this simple homemade solution.
Cleaning solution:
1 cup of lemon juice
1 cup of salt
1 gallon of warm water

When you have cleaned out your tent or other gear with this solution, ensure that you leave it out to dry completely. When dry, your gear should be clean and free of unpleasant odors. If not, repeat process or use a fungicide for extreme situations.

Click to Read more

Stage a Play

One of life's great thrills is a stage curtain lifting--even if the curtain is a bedspread and the stage a garage floor. If you're long on neighborhood talent but short on plot ideas, take your script from stories the kids know. They can stick to the original or--for a fun twist--modernize or adapt it (What if Cinderella lived in the nineties or Clifford was a big red cat?).

Here's a short list of easy tales to stage:

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS
LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD
STONE SOUP
RUMPELSTILTSKIN
THE TALE OF PETER RABBIT

Click to Read more

He Found a Treasure Map

My proudest camping moment (and I have been camping since I was 4 years old) was a recent camping trip with our family and friends. The thing that made is so special was that it was our 4 year old sons first camping trip. We made/he found a treasure map. We all had a blast and were already planning our next trip.
Jenna Scholl
San Jose, CA 

Click to Read more