| Camping -- Essentials and the "Leave No Trace" Principles |
From "The Outdoor Zone"
episode TOZ-103 |
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Drinking Water Fresh water is an essential for hiking and camping. When there is access to clear, fresh water near your trail or campsite, you may be tempted to simply drink water straight out of the stream. This not advised, even when the water appears to be perfectly clear. Harmful microbes like cryptosporidium can be present even in clear water, and can cause serious illness. To remove such micro-organisms from drinking water, you'll need a water purification system. These lightweight devices are available from outdoor shops and camping outfitters, and prices for them start at about $20. They use a filter and pumping device to purify mountain stream or spring water. These systems are easy to operate. Simply place the intake tube in a source of clear water, and operate the pump to extract filtered water into your water bottle (figure A). When selecting a water purification system, pick one that removes both protozoa and bacteria. Also, look for one with a flow rate of at least 1 liter per minute.
The 10 Essentials of Camping There are a few critical items that no serious camper should be without . Here's Johnny Molloy's list of the ten essentials of camping: - Trail map
- Compass
- Flashlight
- Extra food
- Extra clothing
- Rain gear
- First-aid kit
- Pocket knife
- Matches or lighter
- Fire-starter
Don't start a camping adventure without these ten essential items (figure B ).
"Leave No Trace" When entering the wilderness, it's vital to be a responsible camper. Adopt the "leave no trace" philosophy of outdoor ethics. Here are some guidelines:
- Plan ahead and prepare. Have the knowledge, maps and essential gear you'll need for a worry-free camping expedition.
- Travel and camp on a durable surface. Stay on existing trails, and use established campsites whenever possible. Hiking and camping off-trail can contribute to problem erosion in wild areas.
- Dispose of your waste properly. Whatever you bring in with you must be packed out.
- Leave what you find. Don't disturb natural features, animals or plant life you encounter in the wilderness. Leave them there for others to enjoy.
- Minimize campfire impact. Use established fire-rings whenever possible, and keep your campfires small.
- Respect wildlife. Appreciate wild animals from a distance. Don't harass them or approach them, and don't feed them.
- Be respectful of other visitors. Outdoor enthusiasts enter the wilderness for solitude and to appreciate natural beauty. Respect the rights of others and protect the quality of their experience. Be courteous, and avoid being loud or disruptive when camping.
Camper's Tip: The Bowline Knot The bowline knot (figure C) is a common and useful loop knot used in sailing and fishing as well as camping. Click here for instructions for tying a bowline knot.
RESOURCES :
Parents' Guide to Hiking & Camping: A Trailside Guide
Model: 0393316521
Author: Alice Cary
Volume from The Trailside Guide Series from W.W. Norton and Company.
W. W. Norton & Company
Backpacker's Handbook, 2nd Edition
Model: 0070653151
Author: Chris Townsend
McGraw-Hill Companies
Website: www.mcgraw-hill.com
Outside magazine
Magazine covering outdoor activities including adventure travel, hiking, backpacking, camping and the environment.
Backpacker magazine
Magazine covering outdoor recreation, hiking, backpacking, camping, equipment, etc.
A Guide to Happy Family Camping: A Little Help to Get Started Camping With Kids
Model: 156148248X
Author: Tammerie Spires
Good Books
Website: www.goodbooks.com
Bear Aware: Hiking and Camping in Bear Country (A Falcon Guide)
Model: 1560444568
Author: Bill Schneider
Falcon Publishing Company
Website: www.falcon.com/
Backpacking Tips (A Falcon Guide)
Model: 1560446617
Author: Bill Schneider (Editor), Russ Schneider (Editor)
Falcon Publishing Company
Website: www.falcon.com/
The Best in Tent Camping: Smoky Mountains
Model: 0897322339
Author: Johnny Molloy
Full title:
The Best in Tent Camping: Smoky Mountains: A Guide for Campers Who Hate Rvs, Concrete Slabs, and Loud Portable Stereos
Menasha Ridge Press
Day and Overnight Hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Model: 0897323815
Author: Johnny Molloy
Menasha Ridge Press
Leave No Trace, Inc.
Leave No Trace, Inc. is a national non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and inspiring outdoor recreation through education, research and partnerships. Leave No Trace builds awareness, appreciation and respect for our wildlands.
Leave No Trace, Inc.
Website: www.lnt.org
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