For many campers Memorial Day Weekend marks the opening of the camping season. Use these camping tips for an enjoyable camping experience over the Memorial Day Weekend.
Food Safety
Utilizing two coolers allows campers to store raw food and cooked food separately. Use a solution of water and bleach to sanitize dishes and utensils that come in contact with raw food to prevent cross-contamination.
Campers should be sure to not leave food within reach of wild animals that may inhabit the areas near the campgrounds. To be safe, store food in locked vehicles or coolers.
Campfire Safety
Campfires provide campers with warmth, light and a heat source for cooking. Campers should use the rock ring or metal fire ring provided at many campgrounds. Clear the ground close to the fire ring to prevent sparks from catching anything on fire. Keep a water source nearby to douse flames if the fire gets out of control and always make sure the coals are cool to the touch before leaving it unattended. All campers should be aware of the campfire restrictions within each campground they visit.
Weather
The month of May usually brings enjoyable temperatures but cool weather is always possible. When taking the family out on a camping adventure, make sure to pack cold-weather clothing like a jacket and hat to keep children warm on cool nights. During the day protect children with sunblock and hats to prevent sunburns.
Keeping Kids Busy
The key to an enjoyable trip with children is keeping them busy. Camping bingo is a great way to keep the kids busy and introduce them to new sights and sounds of the outdoors. Create a card with 10 squares. In each square write in something for them to find, see or hear, such as birds, fish, rocks, bugs, flowers, spider webs and a frog. Cards can be tailored to match children’s age levels.
Camping etiquette
Be courteous to your neighbors. Cutting though someone else’s campsite is considered rude. Excessive noises such as blaring music and excessive dog barking can ruin a quiet evening. Be mindful of your campsite noise levels and obey quiet hours. Pets should be kept on a leash and any pet waste should be picked up and disposed of immediately.
When leaving a campsite, leave it better than you found it. Pick up all trash and dispose of it properly. A good way to teach children to pick up trash is to pay them a penny for every bottle cap, can or napkin they pick up. If leaving extra firewood for the next camper, neatly stack it next to the fire ring.
Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial kickoff to the camping season. Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and introduce children to the wonders of the outdoor world.