Camping and Picnics: The Perfect Combination

Picnic outside the Jimmy Buffet concert (Photo credit: ShaneRobinson)

Are you looking for a fun and exciting way to spend time with your family, with your friends, or with your romantic partner? If you are, have you taken the time to examine camping? Camping is nice as it is occasionally referred to as a recreational activity that is affordable. As nice as camping is, did you know that you can do much more, like have a picnic? In fact, when you think about it, camping and picnics really are the perfect combination.

One of the many reasons why camping and picnics are the perfect combination is because it seems as if they are designed for each other. For instance, if you were to go camping, there is a good chance that you would choose to do so at a state park or a public campground park. When examining these popular camping destinations, you will find that many of them have picnic areas, many of which may be right on or near your campsite. It is common to find parks and campgrounds that already have picnic tables installed or you can choose to bring your own picnic blankets to use.

Another one of the many ways that camping and picnics make for the perfect combination can be seen when you examine popular picnic locations. What is nice about having picnics is that you can have them in your own backyard and at local parks. While some of the local parks that you may be interested in having a picnic at may be “traditional,” in nature, it is possible to find parks that also have onsite camping available. Often times, you may find that camping is included in the cost of your admission. If the cost of camping is not included, you may be surprised with just how affordable the extra cost it.

When having a picnic, many families, friends, and couples, do much more than just eat. That is one of the many reasons why camping and picnics tend to go hand in hand. Many popular picnic activities, depending on the location of your picnic, tend to include boating, swimming, fishing, and hiking. These are many of the same activities that are associated with camping. In fact, you will find that many state parks and public campground parks have swimming pools, lakes, or other bodies of water, as well as great hiking trails.

As much as camping and picnics make the perfect combination, many individuals do not make this association. One of the reasons for that is because many individuals associate picnics with a few hours worth of fun. Although picnics can last a few hours, there is no need to rush. Many families and couples have their picnics last hours upon hours. If you are interested in doing the same and if you would like to picnic in a public location, like a state park, you may want to consider adding camping to your fun list of activities. Even if you aren’t familiar with camping, it is something that you should enjoy and many of the needed supplies are easy to come by, as well as affordable.

As outlined above, camping and picnics really make for the perfect combination. If you have a little bit of free time in your future or if you are looking to take an affordable vacation, you may want to examining combining a picnic with a camping adventure, as you can have an unlimited amount of fun when doing so.

Related articles

• 
  Camping Out for a Holiday Weekend
  


• 
  Top Family Campgrounds Near Pittsburgh
  


• 
  Assateague Island National Seashore
  


• 
  A Guide to Having the Perfect Picnic
  


• 
  Lake Louisa State Park
  


• 
  Lake Guntersville State Park Celebrates Campground’s Grand Re-Opening
  


• 
  Campground Signs For The Perfect Outdoor Experience
  


• 
  Travel Guide: Rickett’s Glenn Waterfall Trail, Pennsylvania
  


• 
  !Outdoor Ground Mat for Picnics, RV, Beach, Camping (9×12 Feet), Checker
  

Camping and Picnics: The Perfect Combination

Test Post from Camper Gear

Test Post from Camper Gear http://www.superwebcollider.com/campergear.net

Day 6 - Camping Gear and Food

Camper Gear

Using Camper Shells For Additional Storage

Nowadays, more and more people would like to have extra storage in their vehicles to haul essential things when traveling. They would also like that their vehicles can also be used as a rooms for sleeping.

Camper shells are one of the essential add-ons or accessories used for trucks and other types of vehicles for many people who would like to have additional storage. It carriers attached to vehicles. It has rear and side windows and also consist of locks and tailgate.

Camper shells are sometimes called caps or toppers. It can convert any truck or vehicle into a camper which serves as additional storage for food, camping supplies, and can also used as a sleeping room. It is also an ideal shelter whenever there needed especially during extreme bad weather during travel.

The most common materials used for camper shells are aluminum, steel, thermoplastic and fiberglass. This vehicle accessory is attached on top of the rear bed of a pickup truck. Some models are bigger and have an extended size overlapping the top portion of the cab.

Fiberglass camper shells are not recommended for four wheel drive vehicles because it can easily crack due to impact. The most favored are those made of thermoplastic materials because they are more durable and lightweight.

Fiberglass camper shells are the most versatile because they can be manufactured with different designs and styles. There are also custom made camper shells designed according to the exact size and paint of the truck. Many modern type camper shells come with carpet kit and foam padding.

Most truck owners use camper shells to change the physical appearance of their vehicle but the most practical reason is for the convenience of having ample space of storage for hauling groceries, food and camping tools and equipments.

If you plan to have your truck installed with camper shells, you must remember that this accessory is not totally secured even if it has locks so you must not leave any of your valuables for a long period.

Though manufacturers provide warranties with their products, it still important to take care and maintain your camper shells in order to protect it from damage and help to prolong lifespan.

The rubber collar used to separate the cab from the camper shell should always be cleaned and maintained. Inspect it regularly for any damage and replace immediately when necessary.

Also do regular cleaning with the surface of the camper shell by using soap and water. You must also dry the shell after washing so it will not leave any unwanted spots on its finish. During the winter season, as much as possible remove any snow which builds up on it.

When you purchase your camper shell, do not apply any wax for about 60 days in order not to fade the paint of the body. Use the same brand of wax to your camper shell and your truck. For scratches, use recommended rubbing compounds for your type of camper shell.

The moving parts of the camper shell must also be lubricated with lithium based grease to maintain its functionality. Do not use penetrating oils for the door lock.

Make sure to do a regular inspection on the camper shell to ensure the safety of your vehicle as well as all the goods and equipments stored in the cab.

When purchasing your camper shell, buy from the leading manufacturers who provide the best in quality with longer warranty period.

For more information on Caring for Your Camper Shell and Camper Shells & Roof Racks, please visit our website.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Camper Deck and Food Plot Update

Camper Gear

Camper Trailer Tips: Camping Equipment

Camper trailers provide a unique way to venture out into the wilderness for a weekend of camping with the entire family. However, despite the bevy of features many of these units have, there will still be plenty of equipment that you'll want to be sure you have on hand to ensure that your vacation doesn't end early due to bad luck or inclement weather. The best practice is maintaining a list of things that you want to have with you at all times, and as you are packing up (both before and after you've enjoyed your weekend), you can double-check the list to be sure that you have everything accounted for. Preparation is the key to successful camping trips, so consider the following items as "must-haves" and include a few of your own - in the end, you'll be glad you did!

First Aid

The most important supplies you can have on an outdoor excursion is a first aid kit. Everything from antiseptic to bandages, there are more than a few obvious reasons to have one of these on hand. If you are venturing deep into the wild, consider any common venomous snakes, and consider bringing anti-venom with you. In all likelihood, you won't need to use it, but when you do, you'll be happy to know that you have everything necessary to neutralize a bad situation. Many medical kits can be purchased that are designed for specific camping environments, so look into the options and be sure that your first aid box doesn't leave your campsite!

Cold-Weather Sleeping Bags

While we realize that you may be heading out in the spring, some areas will significantly drop in temperature as the evening sets in. Never judge the expected night-time temperatures by the day-time highs. If you understand the area well, then you are likely already prepared. But, don't be lured into the "unprepared" trap by assuming that the weather will be warm throughout the night. Further, if rains set in, this will also require a bit more warmth. Be prepared for this contingency.

Food Storage

If you are in an area in which there could be several large animals that take a liking to your food, be sure that you have food bags to properly store any unused food. Many camper trailers will have a "food storage door". If this is the case, use sealed bags to limit the attraction of wild animals and store everything in a closed trailer door. This will greatly reduce the chance that an unwanted guest wanders into the camping area.

Extra Fuel

If you're like many Australian campers, you want to venture out into the wilderness and not look back for days. This is a great way to relax, but requires something that many other camping trips do not - fuel. Extra fuel tanks can be very helpful should you get lost and require extra gasoline to make it back to town. Nothing can hinder a camping group's enthusiasm like knowing that you are stuck in the middle of nowhere with no way to get back into town besides your feet! This is an item that will likely never be used, but again, when you need it, you'll be thrilled to have it. It is also recommended that you "rotate" the fuel to ensure that it never expires.

Camping trips with off road camper trailers are a blast, and giving everyone some time away from town can be invaluable. However, supplies are necessary, so our recommendation is that you laminate your list, use a dry-erase marker to check off items, and once you reach the campsite, wipe it clean and use it when you pack up. This will ensure that nothing ever gets left behind.

We bought an off road camper trailer and have had some fantastic weekends away offroading and are looking forward to our annual offroad trip to central Australia. The tent and trailer have been into some pretty rough areas on weekends away and have handled the terrain without a single problem. All round the camper trailer has been great value for money and I would not hesitate in recommending the GIC camper trailers to any prospective buyers.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

CoDventures - REAL-LIFE CAMPERS, BK RANDIES, AND COD FAST-FOOD.

Camper Gear

Food Allergies Go to Overnight Camp!

Sending any child away to camp for the first time can be daunting - and this is all the more true when that child has life-threatening food allergies. Most camps, these days, aim to be nut- and peanut-free, but how can you be sure that the overnight camps on your short list truly take allergies seriously? Browsing each camp's published literature and web site can only take you so far. There is no substitute for a direct conversation with the directors, since they are the ones who make - and enforce - the camp's policies. And once you have the director on the phone (or, in some cases, in your home) here are some questions that will help you determine how safe the camp may be for your child:

What information (and supplies) does the camp require in the case of campers with life-threatening allergies, and how do they handle the information and supplies, once the camper gets to camp?

Overnight camps should request detailed information about life-threatening allergies. But be sure to ask what they do with this information, too. Are counselors made aware of all allergies in their cabins? Are kitchen staff informed, and are photographs of children with allergies posted prominently, where food is served? Camps should also require that parents send at least two Epipens - one to be kept on the camper at all times, and another to be stored with the camp nurse.

What steps does a camp take to ensure that their entire facility remains peanut- and nut-free?

Most camps ban peanuts and nuts in their kitchens, as far as is possible. But what about the rest of the camp facility? Does the camp ban campers and staff from bringing these products onto camp? Do counselors check with their campers as they unpack, to ensure any snack products are peanut and nut free? And do they check more than just their food? Many shampoos, hand creams and other personal care products do contain nuts. All these need to be checked, especially in facilities where washrooms and showers are communal.

Most camps may be prepared to ban peanuts and nuts from the site, but if your child has a different life-threatening food allergy, what steps will the camp take to ensure their safety?

With allergies to foods not regularly used in camps (such as avocado or shell fish) it may be reasonable to ask the camp if the product could be excluded from all meals for the duration of your child's stay. Our camp has certainly done this for campers on many occasions. If your child has a life-threatening allergy to a food other than peanuts or nuts, then you will need to put together a careful action plan with the director, to ensure your child remains safe at camp. What plans can be put in place to ensure your child's safety, on days when the allergen is served? While it is impossible to remove all risk, certain strategies will minimize the chance of a reaction. For example, if your child is permitted to go first in buffet lines, then there is less chance of cross-contamination of foods. Your child's plate and cutlery can be washed and stored separately from others. In the case of food additives, you can endeavor to provide the camp - and your child's counselor - with detailed information on which products may be of concern. Discuss other ideas with the camp director. Remember than most directors will have encountered this issue many times before, and will want to work with you to keep your child safe.

How does the camp handle allergies when campers are off site?

In the case of day trips, does the camp take the time to scout out the location of nearby hospitals, and do Epipens - and the camp medical personnel - accompany campers on the trip? If your child's group is to be supervised by an individual other than their camp counselor, is that person made aware of life-threatening allergies? Perhaps most importantly, are campers permitted to purchase snack foods during the day trip, and if so, how does the camp ensure children do not inadvertently come in contact with allergens? Out-tripping presents a whole other set of challenges, and you may want to ask questions about how the camp ensures the trip is safe for a child with life-threatening food allergies, and how far from medical help the group will be, should a problem occur.

Don't forget to ask about the care available, should your child have an anaphylactic reaction!

Are camp staff taught the necessary procedures, such as how to administer an Epipen? Is there a health care professional on site with sufficient expertise to help your child? And how far away is the hospital? You may want to ask how long the camp anticipates it would take for emergency vehicles to arrive in the case of an anaphylactic reaction, and whether the camp keeps a back-up supply of Epipens. This may help you determine how many Epipens you will want to send with your child.

But talking with the director can help you find out far more than the answers to the questions above. It will help you decide how seriously the director takes the issue of food allergies. The most extensive camp policies mean little if the director is haphazard in ensuring they are implemented. You may get answers to all the questions you ask, but the most important thing is to get a feel for the director herself. Do you believe she will take the needs of your child seriously? Making sure that your child is in the hands of a director you trust is the most important part of ensuring a healthy, successful camp experience for him, and a worry-free summer for you.

Julie Hartley is the co-director of Centauri Summer Arts Camp, an overnight camp in the Niagara Region of Canada that has successfully welcomed young people with food allergies for the past 16 years. You can find out more about the camp at http://www.centauriartscamp.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Camper Food Reviews | Joel Ross Tennis & Sports Camp

Camper Gear

Food Tips While Camping

Camping is a great family activity. It is a great opportunity for children to learn about nature. It is also an incredible bonding opportunity. A chance for you to spend some quality time with your children without competing with the television, video games or other gadget that steals their attention away.

Before the campout even begins, plans for what to food to eat, how to store food, and how to prepare it are very important. Depending on the age of your child, you may want to have him assist you with this planning. Not only is this a good learning experience for your child, but it is a great activity to get your child excited with anticipation for the upcoming camping event.

Planning should start with a menu. There are numerous recipes that can be cooked on a campfire. You may also think about investing in a propane stove. This will make cooking even easier and safer too.

Once a menu has been set, you need to ensure that all of the food will be well stored. You not only want to make sure that no food spoils, but you also want to make sure it is sealed well to prevent bugs and animals from eating it. It is important to mention that you should never feed wild animals. It is best to keep your food locked in the car while unattended or sleeping. Don't store food in a tent. I know that this may seem to be impossible if you are camping with younger children. But it is much safer because animals are always hungry for campers' food.

Once you have made a list of everything that you are going to pack, make a shopping list for everything you still need. I definitely suggest taking your child with you shopping for your camping needs. This will really get your child excited about the camping trip. It will also make running the errands more enjoyable for you.

Alright on to some tips to make your life easier while camping.

1) Pack fruit that is firm fleshed (oranges) so that it doesn't bruise easily.

2) Use tortillas for sandwiches instead of bread. It will hold up better.

3) Prepare some foods in advance. Cut vegetables, grate cheese, cook meats and sauces.

4) One large cube of ice (water frozen in a container) will keep longer than ice cubes. Use an old milk container or two liter pop bottles

5) Powdered drinks are easier to pack than pop.

6) Put vegetable oil used for cooking in a spray bottle.

7) Use Pringles instead of chips in a bag to prevent crushing.

8) Prepared bags of salad are quick, easy and healthy.

9) If you use any mixes, such as pancakes, choose ones that you add only water to (no eggs or mild required).

10) Stock your cooler with what you will need for the day. Then restock it in the evening for the next day. This way you won't have to carry extra food and drinks.

11) Make sure that you have large water containers if you will be in an area that doesn't have water piped in.

12) A two burner propane stove makes preparing meals and clean up much easier.

13) Paper plates and paper cups can be easily disposed of in a fire.

14) Use the boxed meals that don't require much preparation.

15) Invest in a large container for all the kitchen utensils.

16) Before placing a pot in a campfire, rub dish soap (with a paper towel) on the outside of the pot. It really makes clean up a snap.

Whether you use a propane stove or campfire, make sure you always observe proper safety rules. Your children are watching you and will do what you do. Teach them to be safe.

This article was written by Sandy. I am a parent who is concerned with giving my children the best start in life. Since my first child didn't come with a manual, I have found other parents' advice invaluable. I would like to pass on what I have learned and hope that other parents would like to do the same. I have recently been reminded of how important my family is and that my family should always come first. Please visit my blog at [http://www.TheFamilyComesFirst.com/]. Hope to see you there.

Sandy

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Backpacking Food

Camper Gear

Freeze Dried Camping Food - What You Need to Know

Most sportsmen are aware that some types freeze dried food is available to reduce the weight of traditional foods. But there are now a wide assortment of freeze dried camping food available to satisfy just about any palette.

It used to be that your choices were limited as to what you could purchase for backpacking, cycling, or canoeing in the freeze dried department. You would find freeze and dried spaghetti and stews as well as a desert or two and many sportsmen would look to MRE's or meals ready to eat to give themselves a variety. Now campers and sportsmen can find just about any of this type of food they desire.

You can find freeze and dried beef patties similar to those you would purchase in the supermarket. Then you will simply rehydrate or reconstitute them and cook for a minute on each side. You can also find chunk chicken that you will add hot water too and will be ready in about 10 minutes. You can then use the chicken as you would traditional chunk chicken to make a pasta dish or eat plain.

You can also find freeze and dried campers deserts such as strawberries, apple pie and others. As far as dairy products you will find those as well, such as eggs, cheese and milk that can all be ready with a bit water.

Camper freeze dried food is packaged differently from the emergency food storage and is less expensive. You will find it in pouches that have been vacuum packed and are easy to open. Emergency supply of this type of food is stored in enamel coated cans so that the can does not disintegrate with time. These types of packages can last well beyond 30 years and come in a better variety than campers freeze and dried foods.

There are plenty of items your campers and sports enthusiasts will enjoy as gifts such as different types of campers chocolate bars, nutrition bars and a variety of easy to make freeze dried campers food. There are stroganoffs, stews, lasagna, freeze dried chicken breast and potatoes and many other camper foods that are great for any sports enthusiast gift ideas. Most people have found that these camper foods are better than something traditional foods they would have to bring and offer better nutritional value as well.

You can find camping food at most sports stores such as REI and also direct from your internet. In fact many of the online stores will offer great prices and free shipping if you order enough freeze dried foods and campers gear. You may find the prices are better online due to the low overhead of these camper supply stores.

Enjoy your outdoor camping, hiking, biking and canoeing with freeze dried camping food in lightweight easy to open packaging. Find out more tips about freeze dried food at http://freezedriedfood.referenceguidetips.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com