Never Stop Camping (even when it gets cold)
As sad as we are about summer being officially over, we’re pretty damn stoked about what might be the best camping season of them all: FALL. (calling it Autumn sounds too hoity toity, kinda like Grey Poupon. ;)
Fall camping feels like the reward you get for surviving the summer rush — no crowds or fire bans and plenty of space to roam. The campgrounds open up, the air cools down, and the kids are back in school. Amen.
And you can actually find a campsite! Yes, you can wake up without the noise of a hundred other campers, make your coffee in peace, and you don't even have to share your bacon. ;)
But it ain't everyone’s cup of tea. The mornings are brisk, it rains too much and you’ll probably wake up to frost on the grass. That’s what makes it so good, but how can I make it better?
The sun still shines in the fall!
1: Layer Your Bed: Toss an extra blanket or insulated layer on top of your mattress. It keeps the cold from sneaking up from underneath.
2: Dress Smart: No, not fancy like James Bond, but actually smart. Sleep in layers (yes, even socks and a beanie) so you can regulate your temperature through the night.
3: Heated Rock Trick: Warm up a smooth rock by the fire (not too hot!) and put it in your vestibule or near the foot of your tent to keep the space toasty and dry all night long. This really works like a champ!
This dock is NOT kindling..ha! But it is a sweet spot to camp, alone.
4: Bring Kindling: Don’t rely on damp campground wood — pack your own dry kindling so your fire lights fast.
5: Axe > Hatchet: A sharp axe makes quick work of splitting firewood and keeps you from spending half the night cursing at wet logs. And it keeps you in good shape too.
6: Double-Check Your Gear: Fall means earlier sunsets and longer nights, so pack an extra headlamp and fresh batteries.
With a wee bit of prep you’ll be the one in the morning with hot coffee in hand and your feet up by the fire, while everyone else is still shivering.
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