You have been excited about your camping trip. You are prepared with all the essentials that you will need- first aid kit, the best survival knife and a navigation device. You even know how to set up a camp. However, one question still remains- Where should you set up the tent?
To a beginner, the entire forest can seem the same unless of course there is something very prominently distinctive about it. A seasoned camper will tell you that, in reality, each area of a forest is a bit distinctive and that there are many factors to consider.
Here are seven factors you need to pay consideration to when it comes to selecting and building a campsite:
1) Location
Know the locations of campsites along the trail of your choice. This can be done easily with a guidebook or with help from a ranger. Most camping areas also have a website dedicated to them where such information is available.
Check the availability and status of your preferred campsites. Some campsites are closed during some weather conditions or specific seasons. Similarly, popular campsites fill up fast as the camping season approaches. So, it is best to get in touch with a local ranger or authority aware of the campsite’s condition during your selected time period to avoid any last minute surprises.
Book your campsite in advance. While there is the possibility of getting the campground of your preference, it is always better to have a booking.
A bit of spontaneity does making a camping trip fun. However, you should research thoroughly about your campsite to know about the weather and common wildlife of the area. This will leave you more prepared for any situation you may face. You can be reasonably inhibited once you reach there.
2) Time
Create a timeline that consists of your arrival time to the campsite. It should be at least a few hours before sunset since you will also need to set up the tent and arrange firewood before resting a bit.
3) Water Source
Speaking of a water source, it should be one of the most critical factors on your mind when you select a campsite. You will need it to cook, clean and of course drink. A spot that is too far away will result in unnecessary exertion.
However, at least be a few 100 meters away from it since you don’t want to be a disturbance to the wildlife that frequents the water body. Also, avoid low spots and go for higher ground as low spots may collect water when the weather takes a toll.
4) Sunlight
In winters, look for an ample amount of sunlight on your campsite. For any other season, look for an appropriate amount of shade if you plan a basecamp for an entire day. The tent’s material tends to deteriorate over time in direct sunlight.
5) Other campers
Maintain an appropriate distance from other campers. It is understandable that you don’t want to be completely isolated from others and having people around will give you some comfort, especially at night. But do not overcrowd them! Choose a spot that offers both you and them enough space and a good view of the nature around you.
6) Sites that have already been used
Don’t go looking for a new area until necessary. As a beginner, it is better to set up camp in a previously occupied space. A lot is planned and already done for you; for example, the wilderness has been cleared. Moreover, the ground is flat, and there is a water source nearby.
7) Sites that have not been used yet
Another reason why you should look for previously camped areas is to reduce disturbance to flora and fauna around you. If you start to camp in a new spot, you clear an otherwise untouched area causing damage to it.
To read more on topics like this, check out the world travel category.
