Making the Most of Rustic Camping Sites

Camping has been a hugely popular activity for families, friends and couples alike. Whether it’s a Summer family vacation or a romantic last minute getaway, camping usually has something to offer anyone that likes the outdoors.

There’s a wide range of options for camping including but not limited to tent camping, RV camping and simple sleeping bag camping. Some camping sites are located near the beach while others you can find in wooded parks or even in a parking lot next door to casinos. Most camping sites have amenities available that include clean running water and public restrooms. But what if you find yourself at a camping site that offers no more than a rough surface of ground to make camp?

Bring the Necessities

If you plan on taking a trip to a remote camping site, you’ll need to make sure you don’t forget the necessities. You won’t have the opportunity to take advantage of clean running water, restrooms or showers, so your bags for this camping trip may be bigger than you’re used to taking on a regular trip to an equipped camping site.

Toilet paper is a must, unless you’re really into using leaves! Since you won’t have access to shower facilities, you’ll want to bring along at least 2 towels (one for body washing, the other for drying) and extra water to clean yourself with. Since you’ll need to drink water and also use it for cooking and cleaning dishes along with yourself, plan to bring at least 2 gallons worth for every day you plan to be at the camping site. In fact, it’s a good idea to bring a little extra just in case.

Warm sleeping clothes will be needed, along with shorts and t-shirts, sweaters and coats. Pack for all weather that’s possible for the area you’re going to be camping. If you’re bring canned food, don’t forget a can opener. Also, 1-2 small pots should suffice for cooking just about anything.

At least one sleeping bag and blanket per person should be brought along, and you might be most comfortable sleeping in a tent rather than directly under the stars unless you know what kind of wildlife is likely to be roaming around near your camping site.

For an unforgettable camping experience, bring along fun stuff like foods for S’mores and playing cards. A battery operated radio works wonders for nightly sitting around the fire. And finally, a camping site should always be left as found with all garbage and belongings, including empty water bottles, taken with you.