Setting Up Your Campsite

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Setting Up The Campsite

You've finally arrived at your camping destination and you're scoping out the area to see which spot looks best for setting up your campsite to maximize your stay. What sort of thing should you be looking for?

Head For The High Ground
Finding good level ground at the highest point in the area considering is your starting point. Place your tent on a slope and just might roll out of your bed roll. If you have to camp on a slope find the lowest point and be sure to place your head on the up side of the slope.
Investigate the Closest Water Source
Water is essential for camping; you'll need it for all your drinking, cooking, and cleaning up. Minimize the distance you have walk to get water to your camp site in a five-gallon container.
Plan For Your Cooking Area
Cooking in your tent is never an option. You should be at least 20 feet away from any leaves, twigs or brush that may catch fire. With all the bad fires in the western US this season never leave an unattended campfire burning. Always build a fire pit with rocks around it or a shallow hole. This provides a natural fire break and good fire management.
And Another Area For Cleaning
Be sure to use bio-degradable soap verses the stuff you use at home as it might kill the flora with the hot, soapy water. Take the time to locate and use the designated areas to dump your gray water where it will do no harm.
Be Sure and Don't Forget The Garbage
Keeping your site clean and organize will extend your outdoor experience. Be sure and collect all your litter and keep it away from your tent in a designated campground disposal area or in a location out of reach of any of the local critters or bugs.
Things That Will Add A Little Extra
It's always nice to have a shady spot to relax in during the heat of the day or while relaxing at the campsite. Setting up your tent on a bed of pine needles (be sure to remove the twigs and sticks) can add to your sleeping comfort. Also bring your firewood with you if you can. It will save time and the forest.