Some Camping Recommendations For Men Or Women Camping For The First Time
September 8, 2010 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
There are many of you who wish to camp. Can we offer you some camping advice? Well, we are going to. Here are some ideas for you. Keep reading and you will be ready for that camping trip that you want to take. Here are some ideas to get you started along the way. Are you ready? We are sure ready to share them with you.
First of all, it makes sense to know first aid. Many like to think that the people that they are going camping with will know what to do if there is an emergency. It’s always wise to know a few things just in case they don’t know. We have found this to be true. The more knowledge you have, the better off you are. This way if something happens, then you will find that you will be able to help.
Along with that, there are things you can do to ready yourself. For starters, if you aren’t sure about what you should take, then you should locate the campsite that you are going to camp at to find what they have. You might be happy that you have done so. When this happens, you will know that they have this and this. You should then bring this and this with you.
Along with those things that you want to pack, water should be the biggest thing. There are times when you can’t get near clean water. There are times when you will need clean water. Such as when you cook and when you need to clean a wound. You don’t want to use dirty water for these and these are things that you need to remember.
We have other ideas for you as well. For instance, another tip we have for you would be to make sure you have duck tape with you. Some of you might laugh at this, but you might also find that in many instances, this could come in handy. The reason that this is is because duck tape will actually help you with fixing things that break. Just ask a guy and they will tell you.
The last tip that we have for you who wish to go camping is that if you haven’t been camping before, it might be wise not to go alone. Anything can happen your first time camping. So, the first few times, why not go with someone that you trust and who you can depend on. Make a weekend trip of it and then after a while you can go on your own.
When you use these ideas, you could most likely help yourself when you get in some sticky situations. This is something you need to remember. However, not many people follow these. Don’t be one of those people. There are other tips, but we thought these were pretty important to remember and were ones people wouldn’t tell you
Hiking In The Berkshires
September 4, 2010 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
recently coming back from a camping trip in the Berkshire mountains in MA, I am sore and weathered from the many hiking, climbing, and swimming journeys that my pals and I went on. These mountains have, in my opinion, some of the most visually striking attractions I have seen. I can see why everybody on the trip was always urging to reach our next misadventure. From the summits of the mountains, to the wilderness trails, to the lakes and streams, there is relaxation and fun to be found just around the bend.
The first place that we traveled to was an area named Tannery Falls, where there were hiking trails along a few scenic streams and waterfalls. When we got to the first and tallest waterfall, my friends and I stopped for a much deserved rest by wading waist deep in the cool collection of water below the falls. I don’t think five minutes went by before we were all climbing up the waterfall, resting in the small grottos on the way up to the pool at the top, also known as “The Oasis.” Once at the top of the falls, we spent all day there eating, swimming, throwing rocks into the water below and once and a while striking a pose for photos snapped by hikers on the actual trail.
Our second journey was a lake somewhat in close proximity to our campsite in Savoy. It was definitely not the largest lake that I have ever seen, but it was so relaxed and inviting that I had to swim again. In the center of the lake, there is a rock shaped like a seat that raises out of the lake about a foot. As we all discovered, fits four comfortably. This rock is where we took in the sunset of our second day camping, and let me tell you, it was one to remember.
Our third and last adventure destination was an area named the Windsor Jambs. The Windsor Jambs is a long stretch of stream, bordered by cliffs and enormous stones that are just right for climbing. We walked down the hiking trail over to the bottom of the Jambs and got ready for our adventure back up through the cliffs and waterfalls. a few times I had to consult my Nikon 8×40 binoculars to view which things lay ahead, and correctly make a way to safely climb them. As well as being extremely fun, the Jambs are somewhat dangerous, but very stunning.
After our three day camping trip packed with fun days and crazy nights, I can positively say that I want to go back again. I highly advise you to experience the Berkshire mountains in Mass the first opportunity you have. Take your family for a camping trip, or just make a couple days for you to just relax and lose yourself in nature. Whatever excursions or relaxations you choose to indulge in, I guarantee you will be amazed by the beauty and freedom of these mountains.
Consider Camping In Pennsylvania
November 5, 2009 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
The next time you go camping in PA (Pennsylvania) there are some things you should consider. When you think of camping and the outdoors most think of Yosemite Yellowstone and large famous parks. Pennsylvania, though not on the top of the list has other attractions that you should be aware of.
Most state parks are open seasonal. Pennsylvania has three state parks that are open year round. These parks include Little Pine, Promised Land, and Ole Bull. Since this location is in the upper northeast, these parks get a taste of all the different seasons.
At one particular park Promised Land has a 422 acre lake, which fishing is a common pastime. During the winter season ice fishing is also a big hit among visitors. That is not the only attraction during the long winter months. Campers in Pennsylvania enjoy cross country skiing and twenty three miles of snowmobile trails.
The seasonal state parks have just as much to offer. The top seven state parks are Champan, Parker Dam, Gifford Pinchot, Shawnee, Pine Grove Furnace, Prince Gallitzin, and the huge Pymatuning. Each park has a different flavor. Records show that Pymatuning is one of the most visited parks in Pennsylvania. It is by far the biggest state park in Pennsylvania being 21, 122 acres. The park has one of the biggest lakes that is well over seventeen thousand acres.
Before any camper voyages to their campsite, they must know the rules and regulations. Pennsylvania parks have textbook rules. These are rules such as no unauthorized fires, this is a for obvious reasons. No alcoholic beverages are allowed at the campsites or the state parks. This may be a bad thing for a few campers, though there are plenty of campsites outside of the state parks where having alcohol is legal. On the up side, the state parks allows pets on premise as long as it is a dog, cat or small caged animal.
Beware of leaving out food around the campsite. Pennsylvania has populations of black bears and coyotes. Hunting and game is another activity that can be done in the state park system. You will need the proper permits paper work and hunt during the right season. The most usual game include wild turkey, whitetail deer, grouse, and pheasant.
If hunting isn’t on the menu, but observing wildlife is you can visit an elk range. Elk are larger then deer and males can weigh up to a thousand pounds. You can drop by one of the ranges near your campsite.
Wonderful Surprises Await You When You Go On A Camping Holiday In New Jersey
October 28, 2009 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
Camping in New Jersey this season is going to be a real trick or treat as Halloween is just round the corner. Imagine visiting a haunted house or Halloween hayrides which are only some of the events that have been prepared when you choose to go camping in New Jersey this season.
If you are adventurous then there is a host of opportunities to explore. You can come with your RV or hike a tent and there are also rentals like camping cabins available as well as camping space. Give the NJCOA a call and they will provide you will information and will also take bookings.
When setting up camp in NJ there is something for everyone to do. Let’s have a look at a few things which one could do. There are foot path trails through the Appalachian Mountains which have breathing taking scenery and you can also experience wild and cultural lands. Then there is the spectacular Delaware National River which is one of four national parks.
If you would like to experience the home of a famous person you can visit the Edison museum Site. Have you ever wondered where your ancestors came from and would like to trace their line visit Ellis Island National Monument? Or you can just relax and go fishing, cycling or participate in team sports as well as explore nature at the Getaway. A wonderful coastal heritage can be found at the Morristown National Historical Park.
New Jersey Pinelands National reserve is a must as it is an exceptionally special place. And for those that appreciate being silly from time to time should not miss the Doo Dah Parade.
The Cape May restaurant which is situated in a historical site is a wonderful place where you can wine and dine. There is really just so much that one can do and enjoy in New Jersey when camping. Beachcomber is a very popular camping resort where you can enjoy many different recreations and visit the local attractions.
If you want to go and set up your camping spot in New Jersey if one of the finest spots and will assure you of amusing and amazing things to do. You will never be bored and the weather is great. It is guaranteed that you will return yearly after having had the experience of camping in New Jersey.
Store Aisles Are Overflowing With Various Kinds Of Camping Gear
October 27, 2009 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
Whether you are an experienced camper or a first timer looking for camping gear can be overwhelming. It is up to you to decide what is right for you and your family when it comes to camping supplies.
Camping is becoming more popular because it is a great way to spend some good quality time together as a family no matter what your age may be. Older couples may enjoy RV’s while younger generations may prefer a tent no matter which route you go I am sure that you will have guaranteed fun. Camping allows for family time, relaxation and is all inexpensive.
It doesn’t matter what type of store you go into to look around rather it is a sporting goods store, outdoor store, camping store or a retail store the aisles are full of different camping gear and accessories it all varies on how much you want to spend and what you are looking for.
Many families purchase a few larger items such as tents, sleeping bags, lanterns and camping stoves and take the smaller items such as pots, pans and toiletries from home to save some money but everyone is different and likes to do it various ways. It’s up to you to determine which one is better on you and your family.
Buying all the little things add up such as pots, pans, containers, food and much more but if you invest one time then chances are they are yours for the life of your camping adventures. A lot of people purchase camping supplies and pack them up so when they are ready to hit the road they are ready too.
Most families for instance keep all their camping together packed up and kept in a closet, storage shed or garage so they can pull it all together in a hurry. It saves time because you can throw together a camping trip in a matter of hardly any time.
Any type of camping gear that you purchase is a great investment because it is durable and is made to withstand any type of weather and climate. Tents, stoves, sleeping bags, pots, pans, toiletry items, tables and air mattresses are just a few items that can be purchased before a camping trip.
The time spent with your family and friends roughing it are something that you can’t place a price tag on no matter how hard you try. The feeling of warmth as all of you sit around a campfire and enjoy each other’s company is great.
Trek More Miles with a Lightweight Backpack
October 22, 2009 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
Anyone who has ever hiked over 20 miles in a day while carrying a backpack will know that weight is a really significant factor. Most experienced backpackers will know that you can reduce your weight by concentrating on the three most important items: your backpack, your sleeping bag and your shelter.
So you will want to leave your huge 10 pound tent and snug 5 pound sleeping bag at home and get yourself the lightest backpack you can find.
Believe it or not you can find some exceptionally high quality backpacks that weigh in at less than five ounces. That’s no exaggeration. Most bags like this will have a capacity of around 1500 to 1800 cubic inches which will enable you to carry about 15 pounds of equipment. This should be enough for your lightweight sleeping bag, a tarpaulin for some shelter, a basic first aid kit and some energy food. And of course an adequate amount of water.
When packing your kit for a lightweight trek you’ll probably find that the water you need is the heaviest item in your backpack. You can reduce the amount of water that you need to carry with you by planning your route to take you via locations where you can refill.
One key benefit of going ultra lightweight is that much of the equipment is so much less expensive than the more robust, heavier duty items. You will even find some bargain lightweight backpacks in various discount stores, often sold as day sacks costing only a few dollars. They can be a very simple in desgn with only a few, if any, external pockets. They may be low cost for they can be ideal for lightweight backpacking trips.
If you are lightening your load it’s really worth paying some attention to your clothes and footwear. Forget your all weather outdoor clothing and instead go for an ultra lightweight rain and wind proof fold-up cagoule and some light weight sports shoes rather than heavy walking boots.
When kitted out with only light weight clothing and equipment you’ll find that 20 miles over hills and through valleys will seem like no distance at all.
Get Ready For Nature: Be Ready For Anything When You Go Camping In Scenic New England In The Fall
October 12, 2009 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
When you go camping in New England between the months of September and November you should be prepared to see some of the most immaculate scenery images in the world. With the trees giving you a vibrantly beautiful show of color against the crispest, blue skies of autumn you might find that you just don’t see a need to go anywhere else for some of nature’s most impressive shows.
New England states have a very unique and interesting charm about them. It is derived in part from the cultural history as well as in part by the rich natural history of the area. Camping in New England means coming face to face with people and nature that can literally be so stunning that it can change your perspective on life forever.
There are simple fairs, like pumpkin festivals and sheep and wool festivals to all out Oktoberfest fairs that bring out the beer drinker in all of us. Each fall festival celebrates and honors something unique. Each one is held on different grounds and each brings something new to the honorable traditions that have kept these festivals alive and well for generations.
Camping in New England during the fall months also brings you head to head with some of the most impressive country fairs and festivals. From Connecticut to Maine there are celebrations breaking out all over which create a party atmosphere attributing everything from fall gourds to the fiesta of Oktoberfest.
With New England’s small country charm you and your family are simply bound to have a great time. There is something magical about the crystal clear lakes and rivers you can fish for freshwater rainbow trout (or your choice of fish) and bring it back to the campfire for a whole new experience in fresh fish. Anyone who loves to experience the outdoor lifestyle should never pass up the chance to go camping in New England during those early fall months.
Camping in New England is beautiful, littered with historic significance, and brimming over with experiences and people that you just won’t find anywhere else. However, it is important to remember that the beauty of fall in New England is often accompanied by the unexpected chill that can easily be brought in on a fast moving cold front.
Always heed all weather warnings and make sure that you are able to receive regular weather updates to make sure that you aren’t about to find yourself smack dab in the middle of the changing weather unprepared.
Camp In France And Get To Know The Country
October 12, 2009 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
Taking a holiday in France has changed a great deal in recent years and if you want to camp in France today, you will find a great many very well equipped facilities. Mobile homes and family tents are luxurious to say the least and site offer everything the holiday maker needs to have relaxing and entertaining time.
Relaxing and being entertained is easy when you are in France, they cater for a huge tourist industry, and many very attractive camp sites in both country and coastal setting are available. Moving from site to site when you are camping is also easy, you just pack up and move to a newer more beautiful place.
Resort-like campsites are well organized and maintained, they have every facility you would ever need, and are great value for money. Careful planning could find you camping in a spot where you have access to both the coast line and the interior countryside. Exploring both these options really makes for an exciting holiday. If you have your bicycles with you, even better, you don’t have to drive, and you get exercise too while you camp in France.
All areas of France cater for campers, from the Alps to the Vendee, and even the Cote d’Azure! Take Granny and Granpa with you as well as the kids, and make it a real family holiday.
Royan and Gascony are only two of the areas worth a mention, every where in France has something special to offer. Sea-shores, protected by high dunes, surrounded by the pine forests of La Coubre, has to sound like a wonderful landscape to anyone. The Valley of the River Charente is popular with campers and it is a Congnac making area. Oléron is an island accessible by bridge and it has great beaches as well as being home to a fantastic ancient Citadel.
Great seafood and wine are served in the many restaurants that cater to families and if you save money camping, then you can eat out with the best of them. No cooking for you! If you really want to taste some good wines, a visit to the Médoc peninsula is highly recommended when you visit the Royan.
Just south of Bordeaux, you also find one of the most important oyster farming regions in the whole of France. Yes oysters are farmed, but perhaps in not the conventional sense! Bordeaux is also world renowned for the fine wine it produces and while the kids are entertaining themselves with organized activities at your campsite, you could be off enjoying some seriously adult fun, wine tasting!
Good Advice for Buying a Good Tent
October 11, 2009 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
Unlike earlier times, camping these days doesn’t necessarily mean using a tent to sleep in. Yet there are plenty of people who think that the ultimate in camping can only be reached by spending the night in a tent. The following are some guidelines to help you shop for a great tent – one with all the modern advantages, without the drawbacks of older times.
Before you buy a camping tent it is important that you have a clear idea about the function of a tent. The role it serves is to offer you privacy and also afford protection from the wind, rain, and cold. All sturdy tents can handle the privacy issue, but keeping bad weather out is another story. Dealing with rain is among the principal concerns in getting a good tent. It’s not only that it is not enjoyable to get wet, but if the temperature should fall as well, it can be harmful to your health. However keeping dry isn’t hard if you have a well made tent.
While nylon is the standard material used for the majority of tents, the quality can still vary. The fabric ought to be thick and strong, and ought to be treated with a waterproof sealant to prevent leaks during wet weather. You will need to take full advantage of the sealant that comes with many tents nowadays. You put the tent up, then spray the seams to ensure they are entirely watertight. The floor ought to be just as waterproof, sturdy, and keep away the cold and the heat.
There are two essential types of tents, inner frame and outer. It is less challenging to set up the internal frames, whereas the external kind is tougher and is better able to withstand windy conditions. In both instances, it’s beneficial if they’re well designed. A flap that can be zipped up is useful for blocking the wind. Also look for a tent that features a good number of places around the base where you can tie it down to prevent gaps.
When buying a tent you should know that they are categorized according to their size and shape. But you should take note that a four-person tent fits just a couple of adults if you don’t want to be crowded. Tents that are round or dome shaped, also called geodesics, not only are functional however they also look fashionable. This style is lightweight and a snap to assemble, and the design is intended to distribute tension on the surface equally, which makes them better able to withstand the weather. Their inside space, though, isn’t particularly ideal. When you think about that your sleeping position is rectangular, a circular area is not very efficient.
Perhaps the most important tip of all is that you get what you pay for, so when you think about what’s involved in a well made, durable tent, remember you might have to pay more to get it. Modern tents are greatly improved over what was available one or two decades ago, and it’s always preferable to pay a bit more and purchase something that will last.
A tent is a staple when it comes to camping, but you need to make sure you have all the gear you need. Visit Camping Equipment Online for information and shopping on essential camping supplies.
The Camping Food Packing List
October 6, 2009 by admin
Filed under CTL Contributors
Going camping can be extremely fun. It’s a time in the outdoors. It’s a time to connect with nature. It’s a time to get the whole family away from the television and the telephone. The big task of each day is cooking the camping food though. You need things that are pretty simple and don’t require much to make them.
The first thing that works wonders is foil paper when you are camping. This helps the camp food from burning. It’s also a great way to add flavor without losing the flavor. Never leave home without this.
The next thing that everyone craves when it comes to the camping food experience is hotdogs. That’s pretty simple to pick up. Normally, people can woof down about two or three of them. Something we loved to have also while we camped was popcorn. You listen to ghost stories and as you are entranced by the story teller you are eating popcorn that was popped in aluminum foil.
Since you wont’ have access to a refrigerator or one would assume you need to have dehydrated products. Who said you had to give up your favorite meals? With things like dehydrated milk and eggs they won’t go bad so you can have eggs for breakfast and you can make meatloaf and all of those things. There are ways to be true campers and have the camping food you like. That’s what is great about camping. You’ll love the food and the outdoors. It’s not everyday you get to see the true beauty of nature in this aspect.
Trail mix is something else that we love to have as a snack when you do a full blown camping event. The reason this is so great is all you need to do is add a few ingredients, put them in a plastic bag, and you are good to go. This is great when you are hiking as it’s packaged and you can pull it out at any time.
Last, but not least, you need to bring pots and pans. Now, you can’t put this over the campfire, but they do have portable stoves that you can get. This will allow you to boil water easily and more. So if you are looking to improve your camping experience and have great camping food this is how.
Get with the program. Sure camping is supposed to be old fashioned, but who says you can’t get cool cooking toys? Give them the meals they deserve and you could have a grand old time. Here’s to camping food and the stuff you love to make!

