Fun Summer Camping Tips!

Summer is officially here and it is time to get outdoors and explore! There is even more fun to be had when you spend the night under the stars. Here are a few fun tips for your next camping adventure.

1. Plan ahead to stay cool. When packing your cooler try using frozen water jugs or containers instead of buying bags of ice that melt and make a mess. Not only can you customize what size ice blocks you can use, as it melts you have nice cold drinking water. Note: Before freezing the water make sure you leave room in the container for the water to expand as it freezes.
2. More than just a S’more. Try banana boats as a fun new campfire dessert option, but be warned it might get a little messy. Needed: Tin foil, whole bananas, chocolate bar/squares, and marshmallows. Keeping the banana in the peel, slice it lengthwise and open it up. Place the chocolate and marshmallows inside the cut banana, wrap it in the foil and put it on the grill or over hot coals until the chocolate and marshmallows melt. Be careful when opening the foil and eating because it will be hot! Feel free to get creative… try dark chocolate or add caramel squares. No nautical experience needed for these boats!
3. Let the sparks fly!  No fire needed to see sparks at night. Bring a pack, or two, of Wintergreen Lifesavers. Wait till it is dark and watch your friend bite down on their lifesaver to see sparks!

To find more great tips and activity recommendations check out our activity area or find a park near you to get started!

Has it been a while since you have camped or is it something you have always wanted to do but weren’t sure where to start? There are also lots of great programs in state parks this summer for first-time campers. The North Face Explore Your Parks program is supporting these programs in 10 states across the country. Many of the states are offering free use of equipment and special programming just for you! Check out http://www.exploreyourparks.com/camping101/ for more information on these programs.