Ready To Go Camping?

Are you looking for something different to do for Spring Break?  Do you need a peaceful get away that won't cost more than your budget will allow?  If you've never tried camping I would recommend you give it a shot.


I'm not going to profess to be an expert on outdoor living.  I will thank my grandmother, mother and husband for the experiences I've enjoyed over the years.  I still remember the first time I smelled bacon and eggs cooking over an open fire.  Something about the fresh air that brings out the best in a meal.  Pick a place that suits your needs and is within an economically reasonable traveling distance.  Searching your local parks and wildlife website will provide a list of camping sites and their available features.  Most Super Walmart locations will have brochures on camping and fishing facilities in your area also.  If you plan on trying your hand at fishing check the requirements for the park you choose.  A state fishing license is typically required, and game wardens frequently conduct spot checks to deter violators.  Fishing license may also be purchased at Super Walmart, along with supplies.

Purchasing camping equipment can be beneficial.  You will have the opportunity to use it often.  However I've been able to use a few cost saving tips that help the experience become even more of an adventure.  If you don't have a tent and don't see a need to purchase one you can build a make shift shelter.  Grab some rope and heavy blankets (tarp if you have it)  and pick a location for camping that is fairly wooded.  Secure the rope tightly in a square, or triangular formation over tree limbs about four to six feet above the ground.  Drape the covering of blankets over the rope and settle in.

You will want to build a fire so search out some twigs, limbs, sand and rocks if possible.  The rocks are not mandatory but they will offer a frame for your pit,  They will also maintain heat for a longer period of time than typical debris.  Pick a spot that is a fair distance from your camping site and any additional forestry.  Clear out a space in the ground about 3 feet across and 1 foot deep.  Form the rocks around the top edge of the area.  Place some sand on the bottom of the pit and cover with small twigs.  Place the larger limbs on top and your fire is ready to go.  You can stay warm, or even prepare food.

I don't think camping would be camping if I couldn't fish.  Don't have a fishing pole?  Try these simple items to build your own.  Find one very long, sturdy limb and tightly secure a long piece of twin to the end.  The twine may be whatever length you are comfortable with.  A very large safety pin works well as a hook.  Just secure it to the opposite end of the twine.  If you compost than finding worms won't be a problem .  Grab a few of the feathers those birds picking on our your worms leave behind and use for a lure attached to the safety pin.  No worms?  Some cheaper alternatives for fish bait are chicken livers, left over chicken pieces, and even that bacon you fixed for breakfast.  Your not going to get the biggest catch in the lake this way, but you will get a darn good dinner out of it.