Summer is my favorite season by far and knowing that a camping trip or two is on the calendar just makes me happy! There is something about getting outside and just “being” that does my soul good. What I have found though is that without some planning and preparing a camping trip can have a hard time getting off the ground. So, here are three tips to help make going camping this summer both a reality and a success (and a free camping checklist printable too)! Because after all, what’s better than sleeping under the stars and eating s’mores and telling stories around the camp fire?
Make a Plan and Reservation
Start by blocking out the days on your calendar. Consider how long you want to camp and what would be a good fit for your group. We find that if we don’t plan our camping dates then we are less likely to make it a priority.
Also, campsites can fill up quickly, so make a point to get online or call to reserve your spot. I found that the online registration was really easy. It was also nice to be able to pick a campsite that had a lake view and was also near the bathrooms (but not too close!). There are so many fabulous options of where to camp. Spend some time on google and check out the reviews, this will help to narrow down your options. We landed on Quail Creek Campground near St. George, Utah.
Make a Back-Up Plan
I’m speaking from experience here. A few summers ago we drove to South Dakota and camped near Mount Rushmore. Well on our second night it rained ALL night long. And when I say all night, I mean it.
Now, we are not “serious” campers and as tent sleepers we were not prepared for a severe rainstorm. This event led to an early morning departure where we had to shove all of the drenched camping supplies into the car. The worst part was we had planned to visit Mount Rushmore that day and when we arrived to see the site the low clouds made it impossible to see the sculptures. Oh well, I guess we’ll need to make a trip back!
So, look at where you might be able to stay should the weather and/or conditions not be conducive to a positive experience. Having a plan B is always a good idea!
Make a Camping Checklist
We have a goal of camping at least once each summer. Therefore, as we continue to camp we also continue to fine tune our prepping and planning. (There have been more times than I can count when we’ve come up short with supplies!) Because there are so many supplies necessary to help make your camping experience fluid, I finally created a full checklist.
This is a camping checklist for tent camping, but it could be used for any type of adventuring. You may personalize and add/delete things as required. I found having this detailed camping list made our packing and prepping so much easier! If you’d like a copy for yourself please head HERE to join the community and get access to all kinds of great organizing printables.
Getting away and into nature is good for the soul. As is having a flashlight when you need it and a clothesline to dry your towels. Wishing you a beautiful rest of your summer and may you find some rest too! And just to clarify…we always camp at campsites that have restrooms and fire pits. We like to rough it, but not too much.
Happy Camping and Organizing!
