Struggling with tech addicted kids? Does the mention of camping make your kids roll their eyes? Do you get lots of whining and complaining? Nowadays most of us are so addicted to technology, it can be difficult to step away. The thought of going somewhere with no access to video games and the internet can be downright frightening for some kids. However, we are all also aware of the numerous benefits of time in the great outdoors. That’s why we’ve come up with a list of tips for how to get kids excited about camping.
#1 Pack Board GamesIt’s time to go back to the good old board or card games instead of video games. Instead of outright banning all gaming on your trip, offer games played face to face with others. There are endless options [...]
Long lines at the park? Most of us head to the parks to get away from it all. We’re looking for rejuvenation and reconnection with nature. Jam-packed crowds and long lines have a way of quickly deflating the mood at a National Park. You could choose to only travel during the off-season, but for many, that may not be possible. If you’re hoping to hit up the National Parks this summer, follow these tips to avoid the crowds.
Go on a weekdayMany people escape to a National Park on a weekend. Consequently, for the fewest crowds try to avoid visiting Friday-Sunday. Use weekend days to visit other local attractions, or as a rest and recuperation day at the campsite. Plan to be in the park on the less [...]
Take care of yourself – go camping! Camping is fun, an adventure, exciting, and memorable. But more than all these things, it holds incredible health benefits. Those who take the time to get away and get outside will find numerous positive effects on both their mental and physical well-being.
Reducing stressGetting away from the day to day demands of our routine life can greatly reduce stress. Camping takes you away from the stress of traffic, a house needing repairs and the noise and bustle of the city. It is an opportunity to rest and refresh, and has an almost instantaneous effect on stress hormones.
Relational ConnectednessCamping allows you to connect relationally to others in a way that is becoming increasingly rare today. With the removal of technology and other daily distractions, you are able [...]
Spring Camping Essentials At the first sight of spring, many of us are itching to get outdoors. We are all suffering from a little bit of cabin fever at this point. However, before you throw your gear in a bag and fire up the RV, there are a few pertinent tips to help guarantee your spring camping trip is a success. Camping failures tend to add to the family lore, but that still doesn’t mean we want to purposefully set out to fail.
Dry runs are importantIf you’re a true outdoor enthusiast, then your Christmas wish list likely included a slew of new camping gear and gadgets. No matter how much research you did on your shiny new accessories, it is still important to do a dry run with gear at home before [...]
Resolve to get outdoors Many people discovered for the first time in the past few years the joy and beauty of recreating in the great outdoors. While you’re snuggled under a blanket looking at snow covered landscapes, now is the time to plan and make resolutions for the upcoming camping season. Find five great resolutions to make this spring and summer the best camping season yet.
#1 Find Camping BuddiesWant the most memorable camping experience possible? Find a group of like-minded campers to both go on adventures with, and to confer with about camping and activities. Successful camping trips involve a lot of planning and preparation. Consequently, they also become easier and more enjoyable when that load can be shared with others.
Even online camping buddies can be a big [...]
How to practice wildlife safety Wildlife safety is vitally important both for you and for wildlife. You should be concerned not only about your own well-being, but the preservation of the environment wildlife calls home. It is true that most wildlife prefer to avoid humans; however, wildlife will attack when they feel threatened. Before we talk about precautions for specific types of wildlife, there are a few general rules of wildlife safety to follow.
Keep your distanceComing home with that perfect may be enticing, but when it comes to wildlife it’s important to maintain your distance. When you’re exploring, stick to trails, especially in the early morning, evening or at night. Wildlife typically understands trails to be high human traffic areas and avoids them.
Distance is especially important if you run into [...]
Struggling with tech addicted kids? Does the mention of camping make your kids roll their eyes? Do you get lots of whining and complaining? Nowadays most of us are so addicted to technology, it can be difficult to step away. The thought of going somewhere with no access to video games and the internet can be downright frightening for some kids. However, we are all also aware of the numerous benefits of time in the great outdoors. That’s why we’ve come up with a list of tips for how to get kids excited about camping.
#1 Pack Board GamesIt’s time to go back to the good old board or card games instead of video games. Instead of outright banning all gaming on your trip, offer games played face to [...]
Prepare for a bad year of ticks 2020 had its fair share of trial, but 2021 has a few trials reserved as well. One unpleasant one is an uncommonly bad tick season in north central Washington. If you’re preparing for late spring and early summer camping trips, it’s going to be imperative to know how to avoid ticks while camping.
#1: Dress correctlyTicks can latch on to any exposed skin, so the goal is to cover as much skin as possible. Tuck your pant legs into your socks, and your shirt into your pants. Wear light colored clothing so ticks will be easily visible on your clothing. It is also wise to wear a hat – ticks love to burrow in along hairlines and on your scalp.
#2: Choose your [...]
All of us can agree, we would like to avoid wildfires. The smoke and the fires can ruin the fun of the summer months. However, many of us also love the beauty, cooking opportunity and heat campfires provide. With proper caution, campfires can be enjoyed safely. Do your part this summer to ensure you follow the rules of campfire safety, so we can all enjoy the great outdoors.
Do Your ResearchAlways check current fire regulations for the area. In drought conditions, campfires may be prohibited. In extreme drought conditions, even camp stoves could be forbidden, so you will need to plan accordingly. Obtain a campfire permit if needed.
Not only do you need to know the rules of the area, you need to know the rules of the specific camping site. Are [...]
New to Camping? Here’s How to Camp Like a Pro
Family Friendly Camping TipsNew to Camping? Here’s How to Camp Like a Pro with these Family Friendly Camping Tips.
Don’t rough it
An RV is the best way to go. Whether you’re looking for a travel trailer, a camper, a fifth wheeler, or something expandable, we have everything you need to get you started!
Plan aheadCampgrounds fill up quickly! Book now to reserve your spot this summer. Camping in one of Washington’s State Parks? Reserve your spot online.
Test RunTry sleeping in a tent in your backyard first. Take notes as you think of things you’ll need on a full-blown trip.
Don’t OverpackMost people tend to bring too many clothes. Leave the “just-in-case” items at home and know that you can re-wear things.
Pack for WeatherEven if it’s hot during the day, the evenings can be cool—so bring an extra layer or fleece pullover/pants [...]
