The Camping Club

Introduction to Hiking Safety

By Cathy Flores

Hiking, like any sport, can be dangerous. Here are some suggestions to help keep you safe when hiking.

As you prepare for your next hiking excursion, don’t forget these two simple rules.

1. Be Prepared

This first rule has two parts:

1. Preparing to avoid danger
2. Planning ahead for an emergency

Know what dangers exist on hiking trails and discover how best to avoid them entirely. In addition, be preemptive and ready for an emergency before it happens--have an action plan.

It is also a good idea to carry a “survival kit” with you even during short hikes. Your survival kit should include:

• Windbreaker
• First-Aid Kit
• High Energy Snacks
• Extra Water
• Metal Mirror
• Whistle
• Matches
• Flashlight
• Thermal Blanket
• Map
• Compass

2. Don’t Panic

When in an emergency, stay calm and think. Many dangerous and even life-threatening situations, when approached with a level head and common sense, can be resolved.

Don’t give up in the midst of a crisis--be smart and follow through with your action plan. If an unexpected emergency arises, stay calm and use common sense. Don’t let fear to conquer the situation before you try to resolve it.

The Seven W’s of Hiking Safety

What dangers should you prepare for? Following are seven common dangers to be aware of when hiking.

1. Weather

Weather conditions can change rapidly and bring with them unique challenges when hiking, whether hot or cold, wet or dry.

2. Watch Your Step

Unstable terrain can be a dangerous component in any environment. It's always a good idea to watch your footing.

3. Which Way?

One of the most common dangers of hiking is becoming lost. Learning to use a map and compass is one way to free yourself from the worries of losing your way in the forest.

4. Weariness

Hiking can be strenuous exercise. Each person has unique fitness levels and health concerns, so consider carefully your physical limits and advantages and find the hike that’s right for your individual requirements.

5. Wildlife

When we step into the forest, we enter an enchanting world of intriguing plants and animals, but every plant and animal you see in the wilderness is wild. Observe each with caution and respect. Some wildlife can be a threat to human health and safety.

6. Water

Untreated water from open water sources such as lakes, ponds, streams and springs may not be safe to drink.

7. Wildfires

One of the greatest dangers to the forest itself is also an extreme danger for hikers.

For additional hiking tips and up-to-date information for the active outdoors enthusiast, register for our monthly newsletter.

How to Be Prepared for Last-Minute Camping Trips

Thinking about a last-minute camping trip but abhor the time it takes to get ready? Here’s an easy-to-use list that will shorten your prep time.

It will make getting ready and out the door to do the things you love a whole lot easier—and a whole lot funner.

Weather

First, remember to check the weather. Nothing can ruin a great time outdoors than the unexpected rain, wind or snow.

If you’re willing to go out under partly cloudy or "chance of rain conditions," pack accordingly. This would include a water-proof jacket, layered clothing for warmth and a shell or tarp to water-proof your tent.

Gear

Whether you’re leaving for just one day or a couple of nights, much of your core gear requirements will remain the same. Aside from your tent and sleeping bags, here are a few items to keep handy in a duffel bag or storage bin for quick loading in the car:

• Sleeping pads
• Flashlight and batteries
• Knife
• Insect repellent
• Rope or cord
• Axe
• Sunscreen
• Paper towels
• Toilet paper
• Cooking kit (couple plates, forks, cups and pan)
• Cooking stove and fuel
• Matches
• Hat
• Waterproof jacket
• First Aid Kit

Food and Water

You won’t be gone for long if you forget these. There are many great ideas out there on tips for cooking at your campsite. For purposes of this article, the important thing to remember is to pack items that are:

• Easy to pack
• Easy to prepare
• Easy to clean up

Some examples of food to pack include:

• Precooked and dehydrated foods such as those sold at camping and outdoors stores
• Oatmeal
• Trail mix
• Hot chocolate mix or Jello mix (great source of carbs)
• Jerky
• Dehydrated fruits
• Energy bars

Finally, don’t forget water. Whether you’re car camping and can purchase several gallons to store in your car, or you intend on hiking to your campsite. Bring along a water purifying kit, fill your water bladder and bottles, and fill or purchase a couple of gallon-containers of water you can leave in the car.

The extra water will not only assist in assuring you remain hydrated, but also help a lot in rinsing off dirty dishes, as well as washing your hands and your teeth.

 

For additional camping tips and up-to-date information for the active outdoors enthusiast, register for our monthly newsletter.

4 Outdoor Fitness Tips

With so many health clubs and other indoor facilities dedicated to fitness, it’s no surprise a majority of people associate working out with indoor lighting, dumbbells and treadmills. Fortunately, that’s far from the case.

While, weight training and floor mats certainly have their place in your fitness development, consider the vast number of yoga classes and strength training programs that utilize the outdoors as an enhancement.

Dozens of yoga retreats use the beach and other natural settings to augment their effect. Cross training programs and “boot camps” thrive in the outdoors, where activities such as the 50- and 100-yard dash, big tire flipping and weighted sleds are common training equipment.

So, as you learn to view the great outdoors as Mother Nature’s all inclusive gym, free of charge, here are a few things to keep in mind as you head out for your first workout.

Stretch Before You Go

Just as you would for any type of exercise, remember to properly warm up, including a proper stretch. One way to do this is via a progressive warm-up, in other words, don’t jump right into the main sets of your workout. Gradually build your intensity and include some basic stretching.

Take your time to warm up will not only spare you an unfortunate injury. It can prevent you from getting stuck further from home than you’d like. If trail running, use the first few minutes of your warm-up to also familiarize yourself with the terrain. Watch for protruding rocks or tree roots.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Make sure your clothing is up to the task. If it’s summer, wear breathable and light materials, preferably of the sweat-wicking variety. Sun protection such as sweat-proof sunscreen, hat and sunglasses are also key.

During colder weather, breathable and sweat-wicking materials are also a good idea and should be used in layers. Depending on the conditions, i.e. wind, rain, you may need a wind or rain proof shell. Finally, as you would in the gym, be sure your clothes are nonconstricting and offer enough room for you to maneuver.

Use the Right Gear

As with your selection in clothing, your gear selection should follow along similar lines: light, versatile and easy on your body.  For example, if trekking, pick the pack that’s right for you. There are now packs made specifically for women.

Other gear options that have made longer, more strenuous trekking accessible to a larger group of people include hydration bladders, aluminum trekking poles and rugged, lightweight shoes.

Know Your Limits

Finally, remember to stay within your limits, regardless of your outdoor activity. Though this may seem obvious with activities like rock climbing or white water rafting, the same applies to all the rest.

If hiking or trail running, give yourself enough time to hike out and back before dark. Also, stick to trails within your level by being aware of any steep uphill or downhill routes you may encounter along the way.

For additional tips on performing on the trails and up-to-date information for the active outdoors enthusiast, register for our monthly newsletter.

5 Scenic Cycling Hot Spots

Go for a bike ride along some of America’s most beautiful locations. Here are five cycling hot spots with miles of unmatched scenery.

Share This

Porcupine Campgrounds

Anchorage, Alaska

Located in the town of Hope, Porcupine is only 20 miles from Anchorage and is surrounded by miles of space for riding.

• Camp at Porcupine

Eureka KOA

Eureka, California

This newly refurbished KOA is surrounded by riding opportunities and is also home for the California Coast Redwoods Tour Race.

• Camp at Eureka KOA

Eleven Mile State Park

Eleven Mile, Colorado

Cycling is a popular activity among Colorado's scenic peaks. Experience it from one of Colorado's most picturesque campgrounds.

• Camp at Eleven Mile

Tacoma KOA

Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma KOA is conveniently located and beside the Green River. Easy access to tons of scenic mileage and home to the 170 mile Ride Around Puget Sound.

• Camp at Tacoma KOA

Old Orchard Beach KOA

Saco, Maine

Follow this popular stretch of Maine's coastline in search for several of the state's famous lighthouses. Also near the site of the Maine Lighthouse Ride.

• Camp at Old Orchard Beach KOA

6 Ways to Green Your Outdoor Fun

Having fun in the outdoors also means maintaining your playgrounds for future visits and visitors. Here is a list of ideas on how you can tread more lightly during your next outdoors adventure.

Camping

Camping off designated sites can spoil the natural environment and depreciate the landscape and scenery for future visitors. It is important to use existing campsites and camp only in designated areas. 

Hiking

Remember to pack out what you pack in and leave the scene as you encountered it. No one likes to hike into the wild and find someone else’s garbage along the way, or at their destination.

Mountain Biking / Dirt Biking

Stay on designated trails. If you’re not sure where the trail is, ask or find a map. Riding off-trail or widening existing trails further degrades the terrain and results in premature trail closures and loss of precious habitat.

Boating

After your trip, remember to wash down you watercraft and gear. This helps reduce the transfer of invasive species from one body of water into another. Here, invasive species refer to plants or plant material foreign to a specific area.

What's the big deal? Some native species of plant life can't compete with invasives and become extinct. Local wildlife lose a food source and you lose biodiversity.

Ways to prevent this unwanted transfer is by draining your livewells and transom wells at the boat ramp when you leave, as well as removing any visible plant material on your watercraft and gear.

Snowsports

Stick to designated trails during the shoulder seasons when trails are more commonly muddy. This helps to prevent the widening of trails.

If skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling, avoid areas with insufficient snow cover. Otherwise you run the risk of scarring the landscape--and your gear.

Fishing

If traveling by foot, its a good idea to keep to the trail even when crossing streams. Also, be aware of any fishing restrictions on where you intend to fish.

Also, practice catch and release and be familiar with length and bag limits for those fish you intend to keep. It all helps to preserve your fishing hole for another day.

For additional tips on protecting your planet and up-to-date information for the active outdoors enthusiast, register for our monthly newsletter.

4 Tips for Hiking with Your Dog

If you are planning on taking you four-legged companion on a hiking trip, make sure you're prepared before loading up the car and hitting the road. You're dog certainly won't be making the to-do list, so its up to you to pack the essentials and cover all the bases. 

Though many of your dog's needs mimic yours--as in food, water and rest--there are other requirements specific to your dog that should be considered in order to make your hiking experience all it can be.

1. Find a Dog-Friendly Hiking Trail

This may be easier said than done. The National Park Service website, for example, does not organize parks in regards to dog access. Even if dogs are allowed, they may be restricted access to a large number of trails.

Your best bet is to phone ahead and ask for specific information as to dog tolerance and trail access for your canine. Here's a handy resource of park information throughout the country to help get you started.

2. Take Plenty of Water

This not only includes water during your hike, but water after the trails as well. For example, if you are anticipating to consume 1 liter of water while on a hike and your pet weighs more than 50 pounds, plan on packing an equal amount for your dog. Hydration requirements will also depend on the ambient temperature, breed of dog and your dog specifically.

Some breeds, such as shepherds or huskies with double-layered coats, may require more cooling off than other breeds with thinner coats. The color of their coat, as in black versus white, will also determine how quickly your dog will heat up.

Finally, know your particular dog. How does your pet normally handle medium to heavy exercise at home? Does it take a while for your pet to wipe-out, or is overheating a problem? Overheating occurs when body temperature reaches or exceeds 104 degrees Celsius.

A good way to gauge overheating without a thermometer is when the tongue hangs from the side of the mouth and is weighed or rounded at the end.  Also, rapid or heavy panting may be an indication. Place your dog in the shade immediately and wet the "armpits" and chest area.

Also remember, your dog can pack gear as well. There are a variety of dog packs on the market for this very purpose.

3. Bring Your Leash and Know Some Rules of the Trail

Always bring your leash, maybe two. While you may be more than confident that your dog will listen when you call, dogs are by nature predatory and can quickly run off-trail in search of something more interesting.

While you may be fine with a strange dog approaching you, you'd be surprised how many people are not. Wait for them to ask if they can approach your dog. Some other tips include:

• Hike quietly and control your dog's barking.
• Dog Poo: bag-it, bury-it off trail, and keep away from any water sources
Also, it's good to remember:
• Hikers going uphill have the right of way.
• Pack out what you pack in.

4. Go the Distance

Monitor the duration of your hike. Along with possible overheating, your dog's pads should be monitored for wear and tear. Too much of this, and he may not be able to walk the following morning.

For more ideas on making the most of the outdoors with your dog, see our 10 Dog-Friendly Campgrounds for places to hike and camp with your four-legged companion.

Camping Guide From A to Z

Are you a first-time camper? Or maybe you've camped plenty, but time and again find yourself lacking on the essentials. 

This is your go-to resource for all things camping. Use it as an easy reference guide for the more important items on your camping list, or as a source for word choices on your next scrabble game. Regardless, here is one more tool at your disposal to help you prepare and make your next camping trip memorable for all the good reasons.

Adapter. These are for your car to charge electronics such as a cell phone, mp3 player or other mobile devices.

Batteries. To power your flashlight, camera and GPS. Consider the rechargeable kind and save money on extra batteries and time worrying whether you'll have enough juice.

Compass. Important for knowing which way is north and south. Though not difficult to use, be sure to have a basic understanding of orienteering before relying solely on this to get you around.

Digital camera. Not a life or death element to your camping experience, but it is a must for quick and easy sharing of those moments you'll want to capture.

Emergency first-aid kit. Not something you want to forget. Although rarely used beyond aspirin or insect sting ointment, it never hurts to be prepared.

Food, flashlight, firewood. Where would we be without food--not camping, that's for sure. Without a flashlight or firewood, how are you going to see at night?

Guide or trail maps—both are key. Whether you're car camping or backpacking, knowing where the restroom is located can be just as important as finding your tent site on the trail.

Hats. These are not only good to shelter you from the sun, but can also be useful in the rain and increase your visibility by others from a distance.

Ice. There is no substitute for a cooler at proper temperature. Pack plenty of ice and ice packs that will help keep your drinks and food from getting warm.

Jug or juice container. For what, you might ask? Freeze water in one and use as large ice blocks for your cooler. And when it thaws, use the water to clean the campsite or wash your hands.

Knife. Knives have long been the tool of choice among survivalists for decades. If you have to pick on thing, this is it.

Lantern. This can quickly make it to the top three things you never leave home without, particularly if you're car camping. Use to light up your tent for a read or dig through your car for that missing item.

Matches or lighter. These are key to starting a fire. Combined with a stove for cooking or kindling and firewood, and you'll be sure to stay warm and fed so long as these guys don't run out.

Notepad. Paper and pen for logging your trip or making notes. As in, "I left for the bathroom" or "do not disturb." You get the idea.

Organize. Make sure your cooler is organized before you leave home. Prepare each meal for the day and place them into a plastic bag, then label accordingly. Sound like too much detail? Try it, then see.

Phone, as in mobile phone. "That's not camping," some might say. Again, it depends on the type of camping. I've never heard a single complaint from a backpacker who had his phone handy when he needed it.

Quality snacks. Be sure to replenish with more than sodas, candy bars or sweets. Think nuts, dehydrated fruits and berries. Nutrition is important on the trails.

Repellent. Bug spray against mosquitoes can make the difference between going outside or not. Pack the brand of your choice, just be sure it comes recommended, as certain varieties simply don't work.

Sun protection. This means sunscreen and sunglasses. You could also pack long sleeve shirts and pants, depending on the temperature, but a good pair of sunglasses has no substitute.

Tent is a must if you're sleeping outside, though certain times of the year sleeping under the stars is possible. 

Utensils. You can pack the traditional set, or improvise. Some backpackers swear by the spork, a combination spoon and fork.

Video camera. Used to capture those unforgettable moments you'll want to submit for a prize or YouTube views. Advice on bear sightings: make noise, they tend to dislike surprises.

Water. It is more critical than food in terms of survival. Bring your own and pack a filter for cleaning water once you arrive.

Xtra water. This cannot be overstated. Pack it with you on hikes and have plenty at the campsite for more hydrating and rinsing-off dishes... and hopefully your teeth, too.

Yourself. Yes, even this particular "item" can be forgotten. How? When was the last time you went camping? If your answer is "too long," then this is the most important item on the list.

Zip ties. These are those funky little plastic strips that can be cinched up and used for: repair, attaching items to your pack and creating a loop for attaching things. With this item, attachment is the key.

For more camping tips, see our Tips for Your Next Camping Trip. 

How to Plan Fun Family Camping Activities

By Roy Scribner
Camping Blogger

If you are planning a family camping vacation this summer, you might be wondering how you're going to keep the kids entertained when you're not out hiking or sightseeing. Luckily, many of the state and federal parks that are popular with family campers feature a lot of family- and kid-oriented activities during the summer to keep everyone entertained.

The first place to look for ideas on family camping activities is the description of the campground on its ReserveAmerica page. Two summers ago, we spend the Fourth of July holiday at Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area, near Oregon's Crater Lake National Park. ReserveAmerica describes the park as follows:

"There are 201 campsites, hot showers, playgrounds, hiking and biking trails. In the spacious day use area there is a large swimming area, boat ramp, marina, boat rentals, restaurant and groceries. There are also 11.5 miles of bike and hiking trails through a lush conifer forest with year-round streams and ample wildlife viewing."

When you're camping with young children, you can't go wrong with playgrounds, bike trails, swimming and wildlife viewing! It's always nice to have a nearby grocery store, too, particularly if you are new to the camping experience.

In addition to the activities listed on ReserveAmerica, many state and federal parks feature Junior Ranger programs throughout the summer. These programs vary by location, but generally run an hour in the afternoon and feature a youth-oriented activity that is fun, but also teaches something about the area or the wildlife.

If your summer vacation plans include hiking, you might be wondering how to keep your kids interested and engaged. One strategy is to turn the hike into a scavenger hunt. Begin with the letter "A" and challenge your children to find an object whose name begins with that letter. Continue through the alphabet during the hike and, before they know it, the hike will be over and they will probably be looking forward to the next one. Kids can take pictures of the object, or simply keep a list of the things they find...

More Fun Activities

8 Fun Family Festivals

Support your local community and have fun with the whole family. Here are eight festivals across the U.S. that offer tons of activities and events for the whole gang.

Maine Lobster Festival, Rockland, Maine

The lobster crate race across the Atlantic's icy waters has a more refreshing finish but you can also participate in the Sunday morning 10K or the kids' fun run. Other events include cooking contests, arts and crafts, a parade, musical entertainment and all the lobster you can eat.

Georgia Peach Festival, Byron, Georgia

Honor Georgia's peach growers at the Georgia Peach Festival. Sign up for the 5K road race then indulge in the world's largest peach cobbler, with a side of peach ice cream of course. Weekend events include free concerts and a fireworks show.

Three Disciplines Triathlon Festival, East Tawas, Michigan

Celebrate the end of race season with a half-iron distance triathlon, then relax at the post-race beach party. Enjoy music, movies, Marshmallow roasting, beach volleyball and more.

• Camp at the Oscoda KOA Family Campground

New Belgium FIBArk Whitewater Festival, Salida, Colorado

Kayak clinics and competitions abound but don't miss the skateboarding and mountain biking competitions, the hooligan race, the pancake breakfast, the carnival, the farmer's market or the Boys & Girls Club recycled costume show.

• Camp at Arkansas Headwater Recreation Area

Discover 4 More Fun Family Festivals

Entrance Fees Waived During National Park Week

National Park Service
Press Release
April 2010

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that all 392 national parks will have free admission during National Park Week, April 17 to 25. Parks will also offer additional family-friendly activities and special offers on tours, lodging, food and souvenirs. A listing of parks and promotions is available at www.nps.gov/npweek.

"We are rolling out the red carpet and inviting everyone to visit a national park and help celebrate National Park Week," said Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar. "Parks are fun and affordable destinations and great places to engage in healthy, outdoor activities, whether for a few hours or a few days."

National Park Week, a program of the National Park Service, is an opportunity to engage families and communities in America's Great Outdoors, reconnecting them with nature and creating close to home opportunities for people to get outside, be active, and have fun. "National parks preserve our heritage, promote recreational experiences, and provide places of quiet refuge," said National Park Service Director Jon Jarvis. "Most people live within a short drive of a national park so I encourage everyone to spend some time enjoying America's Great Outdoors during National Park Week."

There will be hundreds of family friendly events on Saturday, April 24, for National Junior Ranger Day. Each child participating in Junior Ranger activities will receive a certificate, patch or pin.

Other National Park Week highlights include the 40th anniversary of Earth Day and the 75th anniversary of the nation's most visited national park--the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Normally, 146 of 392 national parks charge entrance fees ranging from $3 to $25. The other 246 do not charge for admission. The fee free waiver for National Park Week does not include other fees collected in advance or by contractors--such as fees charged for camping, reservations and use of concessions.

9 Places to Celebrate National Park Week