Choosing A Campsite: Preliminary To A Camping Adventure
Selection of a good campsite in your selected campground will always be a preliminary activity to commence your camping vacation. Several factors have to be considered depending on the camping purpose and activities. While keeping in mind your comfort, bear in mind the care for environment as well.
Most campgrounds usually allow you to inspect a site before you make the choice. Consult a trail guide or camp guidebook for availability and specific location. Established and designated campsites are usually near important facilities you will need such as water, garbage disposal facility and toilets. These can also reduce the hassles of creating a new spot. Choose a flat or most level surface where you can pitch a sturdy tent. Avoid areas where there could be runoff or rocks falling if the surroundings are sloping. Keep at least 200ft distance from streams, lakes and trails.
Take into consideration the sun’s position and wind direction. Get an area with a mixture of sun and shade but can give ample shade at warmest time of the day. Choose a shady area where trees can also be a wind break but be aware of rotten branches that can pose danger. Avoid camping near a single dominant tree in a mostly open area. Such can attract lightning during bad weather. A breezy site will help lessen the nuisance of bugs and insects during the night.
Take notice of disturbances such as noise from facilities like generators and water pumps. Campsites near the entrance are oftentimes prone to foot traffic disturbances so keep this in mind as well. An experience of solitude with nature is a great relaxing experience; a scenic area can serve this purpose.
One important consideration is to always keep the minimum possible impact to the environment. Use only designated fire rings in building campfires. Use only dead branches or purchase woods at campground stores (if available) and always keep fires low and under control.
Get to know the campground regulation in advance. Camping will definitely be a wonderful and ideal adventure if we keep hold of environmental awareness and leave the campsite with less negative impact for others to enjoy.
