We know you work hard and look forward to your vacation time here with us. That’s why we want to make sure you don’t forget the most important things you’ll need to make for a great camping experience.
We found a few camping checklists that are good for keeping track of what you’ve packed and what you still need before you get here. Check them out here:
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These lists are great, but we think they are missing a few things. We think you’ll never regret bringing along:
Your Sense of Adventure
There is plenty to see and do while you’re here and it’s not all just for the kids. You just might enjoy jumping back on the ole bicycle and blazing a trail through the trees yourself. Letting loose of your inner explorer can expose you to things you haven’t tried. You’ll have great stories to tell back at the office and isn’t that what it’s all about? Making memories?
Your Fun Side
While you’re here it’s ok to act a fool. You can sing, dance, run, jump, cheat at a game of crazy eights, eat ice cream for breakfast, and just about any other thing you don’t get to do in your everyday life. Be a kid again. It’s ok. We love seeing it and your family will too.
Your Inner Chef
Go ahead and try that tinfoil packet recipe you’ve seen on Pinterest. Everything tastes better over the campfire. We love whiffing the yummy smells of our campers’ meals on the grill and we have seen some very creative combinations. Give it a try, and if you create something delish, let us know about it so we can try it too.
Your Let-it-Go
No, not from the movie “Frozen”. The kind of letting-go we are talking about is your work, your worries, and your frustrations. They’ll all be there when you get back home so, for now, leave them behind and let yourself just enjoy the moment, the day, or the week.
That should do it. If you bring these other highly important items with you, you’ll return home refreshed and ready to take on the world. We look forward to seeing you and watching you have the time of your life.
There is just nothing like the smell of breakfast being cooked in that family cast iron heirloom coming from your campsite. We never tire of waking up to those sights, sounds, and smells.
You just never know what minor injuries or illnesses you and your family may incur while you are camping. It helps to bring a well-stocked first-aid kit with you to alleviate any of the bumps or bruises that appear as quickly as possible.
Folding military type shovel. These are easily folded up and stored when not in use. They come in very handy when you are attempting to put your campfire out or want to move hot wood or coals. They are compact and inexpensive, one of those tools that really come in handy from time to time and if they have a built in hatchet it’s all the better.
Fire resistant gloves. You’re going to be around a lot of hot stuff at the campsite. Either the grill, a stove, or a campfire. Having a pair of these on hand will certainly save your fingers from getting burned. Keep and extra pair on hand in case one gets lost – as one glove typically does.
A headlamp. This hands-free lighting option comes in handy over and over while you are camping. Whether you are walking to the restroom at night or just wanting to read in the tent, a headlamp makes everything easier. You’ll have both hands free to hold the hands of your little ones or to work on whatever it is you are trying to do.
Extra batteries. Bring a variety of them. These days it seems most everything needs batteries and you don’t want to get caught short. Just grab a multi pack and be on your way. You’ll be glad you did.
A First Aid Kit. You can buy one pre-assembled or make your own but do bring one. At some point in your camping experience someone will need a bandage, an ice pack, an antihistamine, or a sliver removed so you may as well be prepared. Also, make sure to pack prescriptions for your family and your pets. 
We’ve all heard the jokes about making sure your awning is in, your steps are up, and your spouse is on-board before driving away from the campground. There is truth in jest, however, and these things do happen. That’s why it is smart to make a departure checklist and run through it just like an airplane pilot does. We list a few items to get you thinking about what should be on your list.
Most every camper uses sleeping bags in one way or another whether they are in a tent, an RV, or a cabin. They are often used for more than sleeping and they take a lot of wear and tear so we offer some tips on choosing the best sleeping bags for your particular needs.
It can be surprising to find how many items need air when you are camping. From the smallest of the water wings to that huge blow up mattress we know you’d rather not use your breath to get them all inflated. An air pump can be pretty handy around the campsite. You will use it for the pool inflatables, bike tires, and things you haven’t even thought about when you were packing. Below, you’ll find some tips for getting the best air pump to match your needs.
Who knows what you might end up doing with your grill this warm summer? If you choose to bring your friends or family for camping and using the grill there are a few things you need to know. First, your grill might be a mess if you had used it previously and you need to clean it. That’s where a metal grill brush comes in handy but you need to be careful about it.
If you’re going camping and planning to take a hike while you’re there, you should be prepared for some blisters. Well, there are a few ways to avoid such damage to your feet and enjoy hiking on the natural trails in your campsite. Here’s what you need to know.
This new pop up style tent has become popular for a reason. They make it just about as easy as can be to set up your tent. New campers can be intimidated by the thought of setting up a tent and getting their camping gear in order but this new style of tent takes away all those concerns.