Tag: Crane Lake MN RV Campgrounds

A guide for cold-weather camping

Posted on December 30, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - Cold Weather RV Camping

Do you want to cold-weather camp? It would be wonderful if your RV could be parked near a ski slope or other great spot for winter RV camping.

Our goal is for you to use your RV all winter long. This includes winterizing, storing, maintaining it and renting it out to other people in warmer areas.

Camping in cold conditions is defined as:

Cold weather camper is a person who stays in an RV when it is cold outside. Therefore, camping above freezing presents a different set of problems and considerations than full-fledged winter camping. Your pipes will freeze if the temperature drops below 32°F. This will cause your heating bills to increase and leave your family disappointed.

Another factor to consider when winter camping with an RV is wind. Winter weather can bring cold winds, even when temperatures are above freezing. Because of the ease at which cold winds can penetrate RV windows and doors, it can be difficult to RV camp in winter.

Why go to a camp for cold weather?

You can enjoy some of the most beautiful sights in the country by cold-weather RVing. You could live close to a ski slope, or near national parks that offer almost the entire area to you for a fraction of the cost of a condo. Or you could choose to live wherever you like, regardless of Mother Nature’s wishes.

This does not mean RVing in winter must be miserable. It is possible to camp in cold conditions at a place you love and return home to a warm camper. Check your heater if you plan to RV camp in winter. Although propane heaters in RVs aren’t much different since their introduction, they remain one of the most difficult appliances.

It’s almost certain that your RV heater will fail, and it will be the coldest night in the year. This is not unlike a 60-degree week. We are well into the weekend. You’re also hundreds of miles away from the nearest town. Winter camping can be a nightmare. Make sure your heater is inspected and maintained annually by a professional.

Camping: How can you prevent your pipes freezing

Winter camping is all about keeping water flowing. To prevent your RV pipes from freezing, you should follow these steps: A heated hose can be used to maintain the city’s water supply.

If you don’t have a hot water source, your RV’s freshwater tank can be used as an alternative to a heated water hose or city water. It will keep your freshwater tank frozen if it is kept warm. The downside to this is that you will need to refill your freshwater tank every now and again. It’s generally not a good idea for black and gray tanks to be left open during cold weather camping. These fluids can freeze in the sewage hose.

Do not dump your tanks until they are almost full. This will allow your camper’s internal temperature to keep fluids from freezing. To prevent black/gray tanks freezing, pour a little RV antifreeze down the toilet and sink drains. After draining the tanks, add more antifreeze. Wrap low-temperature heat tape around external hoses during winter months to keep them frozen.

If you are in a rush, you can let your water drip, but this will cause water waste. This is because moving water freezes slower than stationary water. Boondocking is a method that drains your freshwater tank, and then fills your grey water tank within a single night.

Tips to Stay Safe While Camping in Cold

Winter camping requires extra precautions. Be aware of slippery conditions, especially when camping on black ice. Winter RVs are especially dangerous due to the ice. Keep an emergency kit for your RV in case you are stranded along the road. Keep extra water, food and blankets in your vehicle in case you get frostbite.

14 Essential Things to Bring on Your Winter RV Trip

Posted on November 30, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - Cold Weather RV Camping

Many people store their RV in the winter, but others feel the need to get out on the roads. An RV is a great choice for a relaxing getaway. It’s also a cost-effective option for people who want to get out on the road. It’s also a great time of year to visit urban areas. Many cities have year-round rv campgrounds and the many indoor attractions that they have.

A Memorial Day weekend RV trip might require you to bring bathing suits, lawn chairs, and bikes. But a cold weather packing checklist is different. These are 14 items you should bring to make your cold-weather RV trip safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.

1. Thermostat indoor/outdoor

Many RVs are equipped with critical systems in their basements. These thermometers can be used to monitor the temperature in these areas. This little device often has a humidity gauge. Too much humidity can cause damage to the components inside.

2. Powerless dehumidifier

These dehumidifiers are standalone and non-powered. They absorb humidity from the air. This helps to reduce humidity buildup from heating systems or liquid propane.

3. Collapsible shovel

This is a great tool to use if you need to remove snow from your campsite or build up snow on your RV’s roof. It won’t take up too much space.

4. Kitty litter

Do not worry dog lovers! This is not for what you think. Kitty litter can be used to help your tires grab snow and ice in your campsite.

5. Skirt

Skirting your RV can be a smart way of keeping basements and storage warm. You can also build a sort of igloo-like structure around your RV to keep heat out and prevent cold air from escaping. However, this requires some accumulation.

6. Protection of water and drain lines

It’s a smart idea to keep some insulation handy in case of temperature drop if you intend to connect water or drainage lines.

7. Layers of clothing

We can attest to the fact that layering is a great way to stay warm in northern Indiana. Layers take up much less space than bulky winter clothing!

8. Slippers

Slippers are a great choice. While some of our models have heated floors, most RVs do not. You’ll feel comfortable and warm even when the temperature drops outside.

9. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors

These are essential for all seasons but are particularly important if your RV’s heating system is on the fritz.

10. Movies and books

You never know when you might feel the need to curl up in your home for the day or be greeted by uncooperative weather. Be prepared with books and the movies you have been meaning to see.

11. Puzzles

We just love puzzles, that’s all we can say. If you have a dull day, they will make your time fly.

12. Fireplace wood

Campfires are a great idea at any time of the year, but especially when it’s cooler out. S’mores are also a great idea at any time of the year!

13. Sneakers

You will likely pack a pair of boots if snow is predicted. They are not ideal for driving because of their thick soles. Comfortable shoes should allow you to feel the pedals when driving.

14. The owner’s manual

It’s important to be aware of the weather and take extra precautions if there are freezing temperatures. You should always have your owner’s guide handy in case temperatures drop below freezing.

Frozen RV Pipes

Posted on October 28, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - Cold Weather RV Camping

If you’ve ever experienced the excitement of winter camping, you’re probably already hooked.

You will receive a greater return on your investment if you use the RV or travel trailer during all four seasons, as opposed to just the warmer months. Here are some tips for preventing frozen pipes during cold weather.

Why is it important that the pipes don’t freeze?

It is in your best interest, regardless of your location, to keep the water flowing freely through these pipes. In the short term, you will be unable to use your camper’s water or water connections. Since having access to running water is one of the many advantages of RV travel, this is a major letdown.

Moreover, frozen pipes can result in expensive repairs in the future. Because water expands when it freezes, ice can cause damage to pipes and water tanks. Before venturing out in freezing temperatures, you must winterize your RV to avoid these problems.

How Long Must Temperatures Be Below Freezing Before RV Pipes Freeze?

It will only take approximately 24 hours of subfreezing temperatures (below 32 degrees Fahrenheit) for the RV’s pipes to freeze. Since the average length of a trip is considerably longer, you should definitely act in advance.

If the RV’s undercarriage is enclosed or heated, the pipes may continue to function for a while longer. Similarly, if the RV has adequate insulation, ice will take longer to form. Any measures you can take to protect the pipes will pay off in spades in the long run.

How do I prevent my RV’s black tank from freezing?

First, investigate the location of your holding tanks. If they’re above the floor, you won’t have to worry as much about frost because the heat from the furnace will keep them warm. However, if the tanks are located in the underbelly, they will freeze much faster.

In either case, there is an RV-specific non-toxic antifreeze available. It can be distinguished from the poisonous variety by its color, which is typically pink rather than bright green.

Empty the black water tank completely and close the dump valve. Two quarts of non-toxic antifreeze should be flushed down the toilet. Depending on the size of the tank, add an additional quart or so of antifreeze if necessary. You will also need to add more antifreeze as the tank slowly refills, as the waste will eventually dilute it.

If you have a gray water tank, you should also pour the same quantity of antifreeze down the sink and shower drains. Try not to allow the tanks to fill more than halfway before emptying them and repeating the procedure outlined in the preceding section.

How can I prevent the freezing of my freshwater tank?

You have several options for protecting your freshwater storage tank.

Check the location first, as you did with the black water tank. Wrap the exterior of tanks located above the floor with a heater blanket or drum to provide additional protection. Keep in mind that you will need either a DC current or a 120V outlet to power a holding tank heating pad. Heating pads with a strong adhesive can also be utilized for tanks installed in the RV’s underbelly.

The alternative is to winterize the holding tanks as if you were storing the RV for the winter. If you take this step, you can continue to use the RV during the winter months. Simply bring plenty of drinking water with you and use the restrooms at campgrounds and rest stops whenever possible. Winter RV camping will be difficult, but you won’t have to worry about your tanks freezing.

Without heat, at what temperature will pipes freeze?

Because temperatures can vary greatly from place to place, even within the same state, it can be difficult to determine when you are approaching the danger zone. It is important to remember, however, that when RV pipes are exposed to the elements without heat or insulation, they will begin to freeze at 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Anyone planning RV winter camping should take all available precautions to prevent this from happening.

Can An RV Freeze In One Night?

Even though it only takes 24 hours of continuous low temperatures for RV pipes to freeze, you likely need not worry about them freezing overnight. Because the weather typically warms up slightly during the day, below-freezing temperatures typically only last a few hours. It will take longer for the water in your tanks to completely freeze, so the occasional use of the facilities will also mitigate the risk.

What else can be done to prevent the freezing of pipes while boondocking? Check the weather reports, particularly the hourly forecasts, as a first step. These will provide you with an estimate of when freezing temperatures will begin and how long they are expected to last.

Additionally, you can keep the RV’s interior as warm as possible. Open the cabinet doors beneath the sink to circulate warm air around the plumbing. Also, keep the bathroom door open.

Because running water does not freeze, maintain a slow trickle from the faucets. You should not empty your freshwater tank more than necessary. This is a technique that many people employ in their homes.

Tips For Thawing Frozen Pipes

If your pipes freeze despite your best efforts, turn up the heat and open any cabinets or drawers to help get the water flowing again. If necessary, you can also use space heaters or blow dryers. The procedure could take up to 12 hours, so please be patient. Do not attempt to turn on the water pump, as it will not function, and you may cause additional damage to the machinery.

After the pipes have thawed, check for drips that would indicate leaks. These may be found beneath the RV, behind the paneling, and in storage areas. When you return home, have a professional inspect the camper if you did not find any problems.

About RV Heat Tape

Those of you who intend to remain at your designated campsite for an extended period of time would do well to invest in some heat tape.

Heat tape is actually a long cable that can measure ambient temperatures to determine whether or not additional insulation is required. When temperatures drop, a strong current flow between the conductors, delivering an increase in heat to the surrounding environment. In contrast, as the temperature rises, the current will weaken, conserving energy for when it is required.

Heat tape requires an electrical connection and is available at most hardware stores. When it is wrapped around the pipes in a residence, it will prevent them from freezing. The best way to use it in a recreational vehicle is to run it parallel to the water and sewer hoses.

Before purchasing a coil of heat tape, examine your RV’s water and sewage systems as cable lengths can vary significantly.

Final Reflections

Frozen pipes are inconvenient and will shorten the lifespan of your RV if they occur frequently.

You’re reading this guide, so you’re already committed to taking the necessary precautions to prevent this. We recommend the RV heat tape, but any of the tips will help you protect your pipes for future adventures.

Fall Season RV Camping

Posted on September 28, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - Fall RV Camping

Camping in the fall is one of the most beautiful times to be outdoors. The changing colors of autumn leaves make for some of the most breathtaking photographic backgrounds. Fall camping can still be a lot of fun if you’re properly prepared for the weather.

Here are a few suggestions to help you make fall camping an annual tradition:

Observe the weather:

Today, it is simple to predict the weather a week in advance. Fall camping trips can be planned with short notice, as campsites are rarely occupied during this season. Check the forecasts for the rv parks you intend to visit prior to your trip, as autumn weather can change rapidly. Remember that warm weather can quickly change in the fall. During your camping trip, you should always be prepared for the possibility of snow, rain, or other severe weather, depending on your destination.

Make sure your RV is prepared for fall camping:

Preparing your RV for camping in the fall is an often-overlooked fall camping tip.

If you are anything like us, you initially considered all the impacts on you (clothes, heat, the best spots for leaf-peeping), but you may not consider the technical side. We have already mentioned that heat is a significant factor when RV camping in the fall. Once you have figured out how to heat your RV, there are a few other fall camping tips to consider. Ensure that your RV’s seals are in excellent condition and that cold air cannot enter.

Bringing caulk along is also a good idea (even when not camping in the fall) Utilize additional drapes, rugs, blankets, and other cozy accessories to increase interior warmth. Fall temperatures can fall below freezing in some instances (it happened once or twice for us). Make sure you know how to disconnect the water and water hoses to prevent frozen pipes!

Bring a sleeping bag for cold weather:

Nighttime camping temperatures will be drastically different than in the summer. And nothing ruins a camping trip faster than a night spent shivering in the cold and unable to sleep. Warmth is best maintained with mummy sleeping bags because they hug the body more closely. The majority of them feature a hood that encircles the head to trap heat that would otherwise escape. If your sleeping bag does not have a hood, wearing a hat while you sleep will prevent heat from escaping your head.

Good attire:

It is important to pack layerable clothing during the fall. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to pack a few extra sleeping bags or blankets for nighttime warmth in your RV. It’s easy to become dehydrated in cooler, drier conditions, so make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. You can also heat the water at night and sleep with it in a bottle (warm drinks before bed can also help). And finally, pack a few extra light sources, such as headlamps or portable lanterns, because you will lose sunlight faster in the fall.

Soak up the splendor of autumn.

No matter where or how you camp in the fall, the experience is unforgettable. The landscape is drastically different than in the summertime.

Moreover, cooler weather means fewer insects. I feel as though we should have spent less time swatting mosquitoes and more time enjoying the aroma of apple cider warming over a campfire. There are numerous reasons why you should consider an autumn camping trip, but we’ll sum them up by saying “you won’t regret it.”

RV Camping Close to Voyager National Park

Posted on August 30, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - RV Park Crane Lake MN

Have you heard of Voyageurs National Park before? Crane Lake and the boundaries of Voyageurs National Park and Superior National Forest are just a short drive away from Headquarters RV Park. We offer offers fifteen spacious, full-service, elevated, and secluded sites with natural rock surfaces. Our central location is just a short drive from the beautiful shores of Crane Lake and on the border of Voyageurs National Park and Superior National Forest. Our location makes Headquarters a perfect home base for all of your north woods adventures!

In addition to Voyageurs National Park and Superior National Forest, we are near a number of lakes, including Crane Lake, Echo Lake, Myrtle Lake, Black Duck Lake, Vermilion Lake, Elephant Lake, Namakan Lake, and several Boundary Water Canoe Area access points.

Never before have you experienced the Northern Outdoors like this! It is a paradise for boating and fishing. Come ride your bicycles and ATVs! There are numerous trails nearby. Although we are situated in the heart of the Voyageur wilderness, our location is anything but dull. Summer is filled with enjoyable events.

Come Unplug at Headquarter RV Park

Posted on June 30, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - Northern MN RV Park

People can connect more easily unplug when they are removed from the bustle of the city. You might have been considering how to make the most of the pleasant weather as summer approaches quickly. Fortunately, HeadQuarters RV Park in Northern Minnesota’s stunning Crane Lake region is everything you need to find.

This is the perfect place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. We provide the conveniences you need to make your stay as pleasant as possible while still allowing you to take in the breathtaking beauty that only a natural environment can offer. You will always have a lot of water pressure thanks to our water system. Additionally, you can use our 20, 30, or 50 amp electrical service to enjoy your RV’s amenities.

This is the perfect location if you’re seeking for a beautiful setting with access to hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. There are many clear, stunning lakes and woodlands all around us. Echo, Crane, Black Duck, and Myrtle Lake are a few of the top lakes. There are several miles of trails to explore near our site, which borders both Superior National Forest and Voyagers National Park.

While you will be surrounded by lovely woodlands, a large range of activities and attractions are still only a short distance away. Although it’s nice to completely disconnect and get away to the woods, if you prefer a little nightlife or dining, you won’t be let down by the nearby eateries, historic structures, specialty shops, or even a 9-hole golf course.

Regarding your length of stay, we provide a huge range of possibilities. You can reserve a spot for a single day or the entire season. All of the fantastic amenities you would want are included in our very reasonable pricing. However, due to strong demand and the stunning setting, seats can fill up extremely quickly, so be sure to get in touch with us as soon as you can to book your reservation.

Call us right away to make a reservation or with any queries you may have. We can be reached at (218) 570-1376. Just make sure to reserve your accommodations as soon as you can if you want to spend your summer in Minnesota’s northern forests.

Why Should You Visit Headquarters RV Park?

Posted on May 31, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - RV Park Crane Lake MN

For a vacation to be deemed successful, it must be well-planned and financially supported. You must find a solution to stay inside your budget without sacrificing your outdoor excursion. You’ll need a home base during your trip so you can relax and unwind when you’re not feeling adventurous like Headquarters RV Park. Hotel residency can be costly in the long run, especially if you do not spend the majority of your time in the room. So, what are your options? Choosing Headquarters RV Park for your travels can be both cost-effective and enjoyable. Headquarters RV will ensure that your stay feels like a home away from home.

Attractions Nearby

Attractions provide the foundation for memorable summer experiences. Despite its location in the heart of the Voyageur wilderness, Headquarters RV Park hosts a variety of exciting summer events. Exploring the county’s diverse birding wildlife, ATV rides, live music bands, art festivals, shopping, and even golfing are just a few of the activities and things to check out during your stay. You can go fishing, hiking, or boating through the lakes in the Voyageurs National Park. This location’s beauty and solitude are unrivaled, so make your reservation today! There is also an annual 4th of July wild fun parade with fireworks that light up the night along Crane Lake street.

Rental Period

Accommodation and rental pricing are two main concerns for RV travelers. Headquarters RV Park offers affordable rental rates that will suit any traveler’s budget. You can enjoy the flavor of the gorgeous wilderness northwoods location whether you are visiting for a day, week, or months. So, whether you’re looking for a summer break or a cross-country pit stop, we have the perfect guest package for you. We recognize that summer is a time for relaxing, traveling, and trying new things, which is why you’ll need a home base of operations to call your temporary sanctuary. We take care of the travel hassles while providing a complete summer of fun and excitement.

Make an appointment with us today! Our places fill up quickly, so register your spot early to ensure that you have the finest summer of your life. To hold your spot, we demand a non-refundable $50 deposit, and any cancellations will result in your card being charged the full fee of the reservation. For more information, please contact us at (218) 750-1376 or headquartersrvpark@gmail.com.

Mistakes in RV Setup and How to Avoid Them

Posted on April 29, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - RV Park Crane Lake MN

The RV camping season is just getting started, so now is a good time to review the most common and uncommon mistakes that people make when setting up their campground.

MISTAKES IN RV SETUP OUTSIDE

When backing up or maneuvering the RV, either walkie talkies or cell phones are advised to use. When parking your RV, yelling at each other isn’t the most effective way to communicate. And, in a similar vein, being sidetracked by fellow campers who want to converse even before you’ve parked…yes, it’s happened to us before. Tell others that you need to concentrate on parking and setting up the RV first, and then you’ll have time to talk.

Parking is reasonably near to the RV hookups. Are you as close to the water, electric, and sewer hookups as you want to be before turning off your engine or unhooking the RV? Are your windows positioned to provide the view you desire?

Parking too close to trees or other obstructions is not a good idea. Check for space for your RV slides to come out or steps to fold down all the way around the RV.

Parking on an uneven surface. Is your campsite’s most level area where you’re parked? Check with a level. Even though you may have a automated leveling system, we’ve seen it recommended that we manually level with blocks of wood first before using the automatic leveling system.

Your RV is not leveled evenly. It’s not only inconvenient to walk around in your RV, but it can also effect how your refrigerator cools, how your slides work, and so on. To finish the job, use leveling blocks or wood (or use a leveling system).

Getting sidetracked or distracted while setting up and neglecting to chock the wheels, unhook the electrical line from your tow vehicle, and so on. We’ve already discussed it, but being distracted during RV setup is arguably the most common source of all RV setup errors!

All of the propane is turned on. We recommend turning on only one tank at a time, so that when the empty one runs out, you can simply turn on the full one and return to the store for a refill. And for some reason, your propane always appears to run out late at night or at the most inopportune time. A simple propane gauge is also useful in this situation.

Leaving your awning out in the open (as shown below) and allowing the wind to wreck havoc with it. Make sure you bring your awning in at night or when you leave your RV unless you have very tight tie downs. You never know when a burst of wind or a strange storm will come through and turn your awning into a sail.

The convection oven/microwave vent flap is not unlatched. An RV technician claims that leaving the flap closed can cause your convection oven/microwave to burn out.

MISTAKES IN RV SETUP ON THE INSIDE

Not aware that objects shift around and slide forward inside your RV while moving. Inside cabinets, you can utilize small tension rods or simply open them slowly. The same may be said about your medication cabinet and refrigerator.

Liquids that expand or explode! Shampoo, soap, and other sealed liquids expand and contract as you move due to changes in height and temperature.

It’s raining and you’ve left a roof vent open or on. A rain sensor or a cover over the vent in some contemporary RVs avoids this. If you don’t have one, make sure the vent is closed before leaving or going to bed.

Leaving the windows of your RV open at night. Close the shades at night if you don’t want to put on a display. Even if your RV windows are tinted, they won’t help you much in the dark.

Allowing your pilot light to go out is a bad idea. Allowing the pilot light on your stove/oven to go out could allow your RV to fill with propane, which is bad!

MISTAKES IN RV ELECTRICAL SETUP

Lacking the necessary electrical adaptors to properly connect your RV to the power pedestal. Make sure you know the difference between 15 amp, 30 amp, and 50 amp RV electrical hookups, as well as what each one will power in your RV. You don’t want to keep tripping circuit breakers because it’s terrible for them and dangerous for your RV appliances.

Lack of an extension or a long enough electrical cable. Despite the fact that we have a long 50 amp electrical connection, we still need to use a 10′ extension that we bring on many RV travels.

Not having a surge protector is a big no-no. Before connecting your RV, double-check for correct wiring and power.

Bad electricity is a common occurrence at RV parks and campsites, and it can harm your RV equipment!

With the breaker turned on, plugging a power cord into your RV! DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT! Before plugging in your RV, make sure the breaker on the power pedestal is turned off, then turn it back on.

Reasons to Take Your Next Family Vacation in an RV

Posted on March 31, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - RV Park Crane Lake MN

campfires Are you searching for a memorable and enjoyable family vacation?

Families, like yours, are avoiding the trouble of staying in hotels in favor of taking their children on an adventure to new areas. They’re having fun roasting marshmallows over a campfire, breathing fresh air, and rediscovering their love of the outdoors in the process.

Get Away From It All While Maintaining Home Comforts

Family holidays are popular among both children and adults, but you don’t have to deal with the difficulties of tent camping in a busy campsite. Your family will have all of the conveniences of home while yet being outside in the fresh air at the RV park! It’s ideal for family time.

There is nothing better than spending quality time with your family on vacation. What could be more bonding than getting outside with your family, playing engaging family games, or sharing meals?

Get Outside and Explore Nature

Taking a family vacation in an RV is like combining all of your favorite activities – camping, nature walks, and seeing new places – with quality time with your family. And it’s simple to start a family adventure when you’re spending so much time outside together. Bring some old-fashioned games like frisbees or badminton, and you’ll be ready for an afternoon of family outdoor fun that will keep everyone entertained.

RV campsites also allow you to relax by spreading out around your RV. Set up chairs outside to enjoy a meal, start a campfire, or simply gaze up at the skies.

Pets from the family are welcome

All members of the family will enjoy RV family holidays. Pets are welcome on family RV excursions, especially if they are enormous dogs, and many parks even have pet-friendly sites or areas where pets are permitted!

This is a fantastic opportunity for a multi-generational trip.

An RV vacation with the family is also a fantastic opportunity to include grandparents! Grandparents may be retired and have the time, energy, and desire for family bonding that children long for. RVs can comfortably sleep up to six adults. The family can also be split up between one or several RVs. In addition, campgrounds provide a variety of activities for people of all ages.

Planning a Family Camping Trip

Posted on February 28, 2022 by Headquarters RV Park - Northern MN RV Park

campfires The following are some tried and true tips to ensure a fun and rewarding camping trip with your family.

Select the Right Site
Selecting a camping site is the most important decision you will make, one that can make or break your family camping experience. It may be your dream to backpack several miles into a remote location, but your kids (or your partner) might not be as enthusiastic about the idea as you are.

Make a Reservation
Make a camping reservation. Camping reservations are usually available online in established campgrounds.

Come Prepared
In addition to your campsite, the level of your preparation is the best predictor of family camping success. In the world of camping, “Be Prepared” is a great motto. The essential camping equipment for any outdoor adventure should include:
● First aid kit — well stocked and replenished
● Tent with rain fly and ground cloth
● Sleeping bags with an appropriate rating for temperature
● Camping mattresses, cots or foam pads
● Rain Gear — especially light-weight ponchos for everyone
● Flashlights
● Extra batteries
● Camping stove and fuel
● Camping lantern and fuel
● Camping cook set including can openers
● Water carriers
● Waterproof containers
● Sunscreen
● Insect repellent
● Camping cooler

By bringing storage bins to your campout, you can store all your camping gear and have it readily accessible. They can be stowed neatly under a picnic table at the campsite and easily stored in the back of a car. Furthermore, they keep wildlife from getting into your stuff when you aren’t around.

Structure Responsibilities
Camping will be a better experience for everyone if everyone shares in the responsibilities. Every day, we prepare a “duty roster” at scout camps to make sure everyone has something to do. Some cook, some cleanup, some gather firewood, some haul water. Having family members divide and conquer the work of a campout will help everyone do their part, but not more than their part.

Ponder About Pets
Before going anywhere, make sure they are welcome or allowed there. Plan your camping trip ahead of time so that you have a good camping experience with fun family memories rather than one that goes down as a “bad time was had by all” type of weekend. Have fun, plan ahead, and be prepared!