Every camp site is unique, but if we remember these 6 W’s as considerations in selecting a campsite our experience will be much more enjoyable:
Wind– Camp in an area that is protected from the wind. This requires knowing or guessing at the normal wind direction (hint look at the direction trees are leaning and the current wind direction) and selecting areas that are sheltered by trees, hills, rocks etc. You should also secure your tent with pegs and/or tie it to trees to prevent this:
Water– Fresh water should be available for drinking. Beware of camping in areas where water drains, areas subject to flooding and other water related hazards. Marshy areas can have a high mosquito population that can make
camping miserable.
Weather– Knowledge of the weather patterns of an area can help you decide the best location for the camp site.
Wild things– Beware of signs of large mammals such as bear, wolves, and mountain lions. Also watch out for the small wild things such as snakes, spiders, ticks, biting flies and mosquitoes. You can’t get away from all wildlife (what would be the point of camping) but not pitching your tent on an anthill is a good plan.
Wood– Adequate wood should be available for a campfire, and no dead wood or rocks above sleeping area. Survey the trees to make sure that they will not fall on you in strong winds. A father and daughter were killed in their tent by falling rocks from the cliff above their tent in 2013 north of Vancouver, so this is important advice.
Willingness– Make sure the owner of the property (public or private) is willing for you to camp on it. Make sure you have the proper permits for camping areas.
This tips apply to tenting and RVing both.
