Camping Information

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my?

Watching wildlife while camping or hiking is always entertaining to some degree. Catching a few wild critters in action with a camera adds to the fun, and possibly, more the reason to get out on a trail more. Avid wildlife photographers study the habits of wildlife as much, or more so than they do photography equipment and techniques.

While tens of thousands of types of spiders live in the United States, only a few are considered dangerous to humans.

I slipped out of the tent to greet the new day that was dressed in fog. The first task was to get a campfire going in the stone ring, so breakfast and coffee could be prepared. The crackling sound from the just lit kindling was the only sound in the campground at that early morning minute. Several yards away from the campsite, and near a woods edge, I thought I saw movement.

With the perks of a front-row stargazing seat and distance from the hustle and bustle of life, there’s nothing quite

The leaves have completed their fall, exposing the tree skeleton; sure sign cold temps are on the horizon. A small percentage of avid tent campers are not intimidated by the chilling weather and keep on camping. Obviously, the same gear and tent camping set up used in July will not cut it during November through February.

As a retired licensed hiking guide for the Department of Environmental Conservation and a volunteer Hike Coach for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society for many years, I taught trail safety, and particularly how to be comfortable on the trail and get the most out of your outdoor experience.

For many campers, there is not a more pleasing time of year to sit around a cozy campfire than during the autumn months. Although, campfires can also become a roaring, damaging wildfire in only a few minutes if not started, maintained and watched carefully. A covering of freshly fallen leaves provide a campfire spark the fuel for big trouble. Some parks and wild areas are protected during the fall with open fire regulations. Those regulations are in place for good reason, so if you see someone breaking the law, alert the land managers.

Camping is among the most fun activities to embark upon as a family. Over time, it can become a time-honored tradition passed down throughout generations.