While living outdoors camping, you can not help but be surrounded by wildlife. Viewing birds, squirrels, deer, opossum, and other animals are a great blessing and can add to your fun. Of course there are certain things to do when camping to make the experience more enjoyable.

Never approach wildlife. Wild animals can be strong and fast. They especially get agitated when defending themselves or when they feel their offspring are threatened. Cornering a wild animal will definately increase their feelings of vunerability so back away slowly. If you’ve got young children along, make sure you keep an eye on them and teach them to call for help if necessary. (more…)

Bringing along a pair of work gloves can help you in several ways while camping as they serve many purposes. First for protection when gathering tinder for your campfires. Once the fire is started, wearing gloves while moving or adjusting your wood will protect you further. You may also want to wear them when cooking to touch the cookware. Lastly they could serve as potholders when done cooking.

One of the most fondest camping memories is the camp fire. They provide heat for warmth and cooking as well as set that perfect atmosphere. Sitting around the campfire roasting marshmellows and telling stories is the perfect end to the day. Below are some important rules to remember: (more…)

Author’s note: This article is mostly geared toward a younger audience.

Snakes Snakes are not likely to bother you if you don’t bother them. Leave them alone and stay away. Insects A good bug spray keeps most of them away.

Poison Plants Learn to recognize poison ivy, poinson sumac, and poinson oak and stay away from them. Never eat anything in the woods unless you know exactly what it is.

Animals Animals are drawn to your campsite by your discarded or left out food. Forest animals such as opossums, raccoons, porcupines, skunks, and chipmunks add the camping adventure but don’t try to catch or pet them.

Swimming Watch for holes and drop-offs as well as bad currents. Don’t get too much sun or get tired.

Getting Lost Alert others before leaving camp for any reason. Keep a whistle in your pocket or wear around your neck. If you get lost, blow your whistle and stay put. Try to sit down and relax. Blow your whistle periodically.

There are several reasons a first aid kit is necessary. Slipping while hiking or being scratched while going through brush is an injury that can happen. Cooking accidents such as burns may occur. Being exposed to the elements, not to mention bug bites can cause a toll. Check your kit yearly and restock items that have expired or are getting low.Essentials:

• Bandages and gauze of different sizes
• Scissors for cutting above if needed
• Antiseptic creams and ointments
• Tweezers for removing slivers and ticks
• Band-aids for basic scrapes and cuts
• Burn ointment for an accidental cooking or fire burns
• Antiseptic to wash scrapes and cuts
• Tylenol/Ibuprofen for headaches and other pain relief. It also works as a fever reducer if needed.
• Anti-diarrhea medicine for intestinal problems
• Sunburn relief spray containing Aloe Vera

Extras to consider:

• Chapstick for lips
• Thermometer to check for fever
• Snakebite kit may be appropriate for some trips