Camping is fun and enjoyable when you do it right.

When you go camping in the mountains, it's a lot different than low land camping. Mountain nights, for example, are a lot colder and the needs you have at higher elevations are, well, different. Let's take a look.

First, make sure you have a good tent. Cheap, flimsy tents won't do much for you, especially if it gets windy or rainy. Your sleeping bag will need to be insulated as well. If you're going to get an air mattress make sure the area is clear before setting it up. Puncture holes ruin sleep. Coats, sweaters, and sweatshirts will help you enjoy those chilly nights, even if you are around a fire.

Try to remember a tool bag as well, in case something breaks you'll be able to take care of it. I can't tell you the number of times I wish I had done this one thing. A few screwdrivers, a hand ax and a hammer or two will go a long way.

And while you don't have to pack enough kitchen stuff to outfit a small work crew, you want to make sure you have enough to take care of all of the cooking you'll be doing. Keep it at two or three pots or pans and a couple of fry pans and you should be good to go. And for cooking, a camp stove would be your best bet, but going old school and cooking straight over an open fire is awesome as well, and tasty!

Make sure, too that all of your fishing equipment is ready to go. Check to make sure you have extra line and hooks.

And finally, if you plan on hiking while you're out there make sure you have a compass. Spending hours trying to figure out where you are and where you camped can completely ruin the trip.

Enjoy your mountain camping experience, and watch for wild animals!

 

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