Going Camping

[Former_Member]

For my 21st birthday I want to go camping (I don't drink so there is no reason to go to the bar) with my boyfriend. Neither one of us have been camping and I want this to be a good experience because I plan on doing a lot of camping and hiking this year.

I need advice though, we are going to do it in mid October, is that a good time? And what exactly will we need? I know I will need a tent and a sleeping bag, but what else?

Your help will be greatly appreciated!

[BuzzPlanet]

I don't know where you are; but in the Northwest, October is a little chilly. I'm not a camping expert by any means; but even in summer it's colder than you'd think. Tent, sleeping bags, lots! Lanterns, cookware, camp stove or the ability to make a good campfire. Coffee pot! Food! Bug spray. Some campgrounds have bathroom facilities, and I would recommend that unless you don't mind "going" in the great outdoors.

Have fun, I would love to go camping with just my husby, sounds romantical!

[PattenCreations]

ooh my! Well to begin with, whether or not October is a good time probably depends on where you're thinking of going! Here in Michigan that is not good tenting weather!

Next question - how are you going? backpacking into the back country or driving to an established campground?

Here's a checklist from Boys' Life (Boy Scouts)

[PattenCreations]

http://boyslife.org/outdoors/outdoorarticles/6976/scout-outdoor-essentials-checklist/ oops would help if I'd included the link!

[jill2day]

at 21 camping sounds good... now, for me, if room service doesn't answer.... that is close enough to camping!

My DH has this incredible want to go WINTER camping in Yellowstone!! I told him to have fun, and to feel free to take anyone with him, just so it is not me (talk about a non-supportive spouse!!)

[Former_Member]

I love camping and do it quite often. Whether October is a good time? Well, I think that depends on a few things. Like others have said- location is a big question.

Some places are already having snowstorms in October so I wouldn't recommend that especially for someone who may not have the proper gear.

However, I LOVE a chill in the air while camping. It makes the evening campfire so much more enjoyable. And if you're going to be doing lots of hiking and the like it is way nicer for it to be cool, almost cold. You'll warm up with the physical activity. Just make sure you bring plenty of changes of shirts,undershirts etc. When you get back to camp you can get really cold really fast if you sit in sweaty clothing.

I did a section hike of the Appalachian Trail in October one year and it was amazing. I really loved it.

Bonus is that also the campgrounds and parks are often far less crowded in Fall and it's beautiful!

Let me know if you have any specific questions. I probably could answer most.

Have fun!

[Former_Member]

Oh, and as far as gear- that depends a lot on what you're doing. Campground camping or primitive camping will make a big difference.

[jill2day]

knotworkshop says

I did a section hike of the Appalachian Trail in October one year and it was amazing. I really loved it.
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What I said above aside, I do love hiking (it is just the sleeping on the ground and pooping in the bushes I am not crazy about!) Doing parts of the Ap Trail has always been a dream of mine... probably will never do it, but it sounds fantastic. I have followed blogs of the hikers and read several books about it.

[Former_Member]

jill2day says

at 21 camping sounds good... now, for me, if room service doesn't answer.... that is close enough to camping!
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LOL, it is for me too.... I am a city girl at heart.

[Former_Member]

We live in Texas so usually in October it starts to get around 80 to 70 degrees. I don't know if my boyfriend knows how to make a campfire but it would be pretty awesome to have one!

[PattenCreations]

cozi - this is a serious suggestion:

Boy Scouting is huge in Texas, so I'd suggest checking your area for a local troop (Boy not Cub) and check with the Scoutmaster to see if there is anyone that needs to work on one of the badges where they TEACH a novice about camping. I remember my son having to do that, and while he was able to do it with a younger patrol, there were guys looking for options. Could work.

[Former_Member]

I have not a clue about Texas and camping. But that time of year be sure you keep your food up. Meaning Bears are getting ready to go hibernate and are looking for food. Well they are always looking for food. I am not sure exactly where you are planning on going but call the National Forest service see what they recommend.

Also if you are both inexperienced be sure you let someone know where you will be.

[PattenCreations]

Hubby just wandered through on his way out to work and I asked him. He said #1 - if BOTH have never camped before they really need to do their first few in a state campground or other campground with other campers and/or rangers around. Taking 2 green campers into the back country is asking for a problem. And in Michigan he would be part of the team that would end up doing the rescuing.

So at least do a couple of trial runs before heading out on your own. And experienced or novice you should always let someone know where you are going.

[Former_Member]

Hey cozihome, I live in Dallas too!! I am waving at you right now!! October would definitely be a better time to go camping here. That being said, I don't go anywhere I can't order room service or have ten outlets to plug in my hair dryer, curling iron, cell phone, etc. I am not a outdoors type of girl at all so I wish you the best of luck and would love to hear how it goes. : )

Oh and p.s. ever since I saw the blair witch project, camping was even less appealing to me then it had been. I'm such a chicken!!