RV Camping, Camping Tips and Camping Gear
How to find free campsites in the U.S.: using Forest Service Motor Vehicle Use Maps, BLM field offices and maps, free developed campgrounds, state and county lands, overnight parking rules, online maps and apps, how to scout a free site, the 14-day limit and what to bring when there are no services. Continue reading How to Find Free Campsites: Maps, Agency Tools and Scouting Tips for Free Camping in the U.S.
A step-by-step guide to dumping RV holding tanks: the difference between black and gray tanks, the gear you need, the right order (black first, then gray), rinsing the black tank, when to dump, where to find dump stations, hookup tips, etiquette, cold-weather notes and the mistakes that cause clogs and smells. Continue reading How to Dump RV Tanks: Black and Gray Tank Steps, Gear, Dump Station Etiquette and Mistakes to Avoid
Solo camping safety tips for camping alone: leaving a written trip plan, choosing campgrounds versus dispersed sites, satellite messengers and personal locator beacons (and NOAA registration), first aid, wildlife and weather planning, personal security at camp and a solo-specific packing checklist. Continue reading Solo Camping Safety: Trip Plans, Communication, Campsite Choices and What to Pack When You Camp Alone
How to choose a safe campsite and the best spot to pitch your tent: checking for dead trees and widowmakers, avoiding flash flood zones and low spots, lightning and wind exposure, distance from water, wildlife and food storage, ground surface and slope, plus a quick arrival checklist. Continue reading How to Choose a Safe Campsite: Where to Pitch a Tent and What to Avoid
Tick prevention and removal for campers, based on CDC guidance: where ticks live, EPA-registered repellents and permethrin-treated clothing, how to do a full tick check, the right way to remove a tick with tweezers, what not to do, symptoms to watch for and how to protect dogs at camp. Continue reading Tick Prevention and Removal for Campers: CDC Steps for Repellents, Tick Checks and Safe Removal
What to do if you get lost while camping or hiking from camp: the STOP method, when to stay put, how to signal with whistles, mirrors and bright colors, calling or texting 911, staying warm and hydrated, teaching kids to hug a tree, and how to avoid getting lost in the first place. Continue reading What to Do If You Get Lost While Camping: The STOP Method, Signaling and Staying Safe Until Help Arrives
