How To Choose the Best Camping Spot
Andy and Tami McDaniels 11.20.12
But the place which you have selected for your camp, though never so rough and grim, begins at once to have its attractions, and becomes a very centre of civilization to you: “Home is home, be it never so homely.”
-Henry David Thoreau
Remember the time you slept outdoors with the rocks jutting into your back all night? The following day you gimped along, stooped over, and promised yourself the next time you went camping you would give some thought to the spot that would be your home in the great outdoors.
Regardless of the type of camping trip you are planning, I think most experienced campers will agree that when choosing your campsite location, careful consideration should be given to the following:
- View: To quote T. Edward Nickens, “It should have a view that makes you want to leap from the tent and high-five the rising sun.”
- Near water: Ideally, your spot should be about 200 feet or so from water.
- Sheltered from wind: The area should be protected from the worst winds, yet out in the open enough so you will be able to enjoy the view and keep the mosquitoes at bay.
- Hard, flat surface: Instead of a bumpy, soft surface, you should aim for a hard, flat surface. Clear away all debris, rocks, and roots. Fill holes if necessary. Then, before pitching your tent, lay out your ground cloth and lie down on the spot to check the comfort level. Should you have to pitch your tent on a slope, remember to keep the opening downhill to prevent rain from coming in.
- Well-drained terrain: Your goal here should be to find a slightly elevated spot to help avoid puddles in case it rains.
- Away from hazards: The site should be safe. Look for signs of predatory animals. Check the area for poisonous plants and unstable branches or widow-makers. Stay away from stagnant water, a breeding ground for bacteria and mosquitoes.
That seems like a lot to consider, and it is. However, you should keep in mind that your wilderness home is the place you will come to unwind after a long day in the outdoors. It is the spot where you and your companions will gather to discuss the day’s activities and dream up the next day’s adventures. Choosing your camping spot with care will reward you with a big payoff in terms of the kinds of memories you make.
Andy McDaniels is the Sportsmen’s Outreach Coordinator for the National Wildlife Federation’s Vanishing Paradise Campaign. Andy works with hunters, anglers, outdoor media and the hunting and fishing industry throughout the United States. Andy also serves as the Conservation Director of Pro-Staff for Hardcore Decoys and Huntducks.com. He believes that conservation is the cornerstone of hunting and fishing, and he has committed himself to educating hunters and fishermen about the conservation issues that will affect our children and grandchildren. His effort on behalf of conservation and his outreach to hunters, anglers, congressional members, political groups, and citizen action organizations has been monumental. In 2003 and 2004 Andy was recognized for his work on State Wildlife Grants by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. His efforts on the Farm Bill garnered him the esteemed Charlie Shaw Conservation Partnership Award from the National Wildlife Federation in May 2008.
Tami is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma. She is a certified English teacher and freelance writer. She has published numerous articles on a variety of outdoor topics. Her most recent articles on outdoor subjects include 10 Indicators of a Quality Guide, The Anatomy of a Hunting Guide Website, Hunting Guides along the Corridor, and First Steps to Get Kids Hunting and Back into the Outdoors. In addition, she is the web content administrator for three websites. Her volunteer work includes managing web and social media sites, writing grants, organizing fundraising activities, and planning community events.
