How to Make a Good Camping Site
Camping is a favorite pastime for many, and selecting and preparing a good campsite is crucial to both comfort and safety. A good campsite keeps the camper warm and dry; it reduces the potential danger caused by improper storing of food and poorly laid campfires. Check with local park authorities for regulations concerning the use of campfires within a park prior to building a fire.
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Instructions
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Look for high ground. Camping atop high ground reduces the threat caused by flash floods or water running down hill after a rainstorm. Low areas can also serve as pockets for cold air, making it difficult to stay warm during certain seasons.
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Camp on high ground that offers a windbreak. The windbreak may be a large boulder or some sort of hedge. It is safe from the perils of flooding, but high ground might expose the camper to wind. Camping on the lee side of a windbreak reduces the cold factor caused by wind.
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Camp within close proximity to a water source, such as a stream. Use water for cooking and staying hydrated. Portable water-filtration systems make untreated water instantly potable.
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Clear the camping area of debris and underbrush. Use a leafy branch to sweep the area if no other device is available. Clearing a campsite is particularly crucial before building a fire.
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Place all tents along the outer circle of the cleared area. Leave the center area for a campfire. Maintain at least 10 feet between all tents and a campfire. A sudden breeze can carry hot embers, which can in turn burn a tent.
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Dig a fire pit 6 to 8 inches deep, and surround the pit with stones. Stones visually define the fire area, and help prevent the spread of hot ash and coals.
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Store food, garbage, and any odorous items inside bear-resistant containers. These containers can be purchased -- or sometimes rented -- from parks. Store the sealed containers on flat ground no less than 100 feet from the campsite. Do not store the containers on a hill; they might roll down.
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References
- Photo Credit camping image by BOOJOO from Fotolia.com
