ROUGH IT WITH REPEL
Whether you’re blazing your own trail out in the middle of nowhere or roasting marshmallows around the campfire a little closer to civilization, every camping experience is a totally unique way to explore the outdoors. It’s a time-honored way to get off the beaten path, create some new family traditions and pass on a few tall tales. Make every camping adventure count.
MAKE IT A LIFESTYLE
Staging backyard campouts – and even weeknight campouts at a campground or state park close to home – is a smart way to make seasoned campers out of the whole family. Making and breaking camp will be a cinch, so on longer trips you can head even farther down the trail to maximize your adventure.
SEEK THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED
The quiet and solitude you get from pitching your tent a couple of miles away from the campground might be worth missing out on a few amenities (i.e., bathrooms, showers and electricity). Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the backwoods and explore. Rent a canoe and see where it takes you. Just check the lay of the land before you settle on a spot to hang your backpack – keep an eye out for standing water (a breeding ground for mosquitoes) when you’re picking a campsite.
PACK SMART
Keep your camping gear packed and ready for your next adventure – make it easy on yourself to drop everything and go. Before you load up, keep in mind that you have to carry all of your equipment back out of the woods again. Bring along rain gear for changing weather conditions and comfortable shoes to protect your feet. A tarp is a smart addition because it can make an instant shelter and protect packed items from the elements.
REPEL BUGS
Heavily wooded and wet areas are prime spots to meet mosquitoes and ticks. Pack an insect repellent (and use it as needed). When picking a repellent, keep in mind that higher percentages of active ingredient don’t mean better protection, just longer-lasting protection. Where mosquitoes are thick, bring along a camp fogger for relief from outdoor insects on contact.
Making camping a little easier means you’ll do it a little more. The amazing views, grassy trails, rushing water and starlit nights are waiting. Get out there and explore.