Camping Lessons Learned

Most of the time, camping is a relaxing experience easily enjoyed by all involved. When I met my husband, though, I will admit I was a camping virgin. The closest I had come was Girl Scout Day Camp in elementary school, and all I remember was being made to carry a cup on a string around my neck. Since then, thanks to Chris, I have become a little more accustomed to spending a night or two under the stars without my computer, a/c, or morning comic section from the newspaper. However, even experienced campers arrive home less than relaxed after certain trips.

Chris decided we should camp for the weekend not long ago. He had to work Friday, so we spend Saturday morning gathering supplies and packing clothing, tent, air mattress, doggy camping supplies for our two furry children, etc. We had scouted out state parks in our area and finally set out around 1 p.m. in an SUV brimming with dogs and stuff. Upon arriving at our destination (with no alternative plans), we were told by the oh-so-cheerful park ranger that the park is full.

We ended up at a local river outfitter, who, thankfully, was willing to take our two very large lab mixes along with our camping fees. We chose our campsite and commenced tent pitching. One hour and four heated "discussions" later, we had the tent up, but the rain fly was stubbornly uncooperative. After another thirty minutes, we finally figured the rain fly was good enough--after all, forecasted rain chances were low.

Later that evening, after taking the pups swimming in the river, the (pterodactyl-sized) mosquitoes were out in full force--yes, even mosquitoes are bigger in Texas--and a thunderstorm started to roll in. By the time I convinced my husband to head for the tent (with two soaking wet dogs in tow), the drops started to fall. Had it only been a brief, light shower, we probably would have been fine; however, an hour long steady rain left us apprehensively watching water roll down the insides of tent walls and staring at each other through a fine mist that was slowly engulfing the interior of the tent and blanketing our stuff in a layer of moisture.

The night passed eventfully. Following the storm, the humidity rose to approximately 200% and some campers by the river decided midnight was the perfect time to set off fireworks. It was this moment when I decided our "fierce furry protectors" have courage levels inversely proportional to their sizes, for my husband and I spend the next hour trying to keep our fairly dry air mattress from becoming soaked by wet dog. I wasn't so successful and ended up sharing part of my side with the larger (and therefore most fearful) and wetter of the two.

Morning came and brought with it a breakfast of cold toaster pastries and water. Without hesitation, we packed up and headed for home. While my husband drove, I contemplated something my grandmother used to say--"nothing ventured, nothing gained"--that seemed to fit.

Well, here are a few lessons that I gained:

Lesson #1: Always check to make sure your chosen destination has room for you BEFORE you leave, and always have a plan B. Also, ask if plans A and B can include pets.

Lesson #2: Make a "dry run" with your tent. Be sure you have all the parts and are comfortable with the directions. Also be sure to pack a hammer and sturdy tent spikes--the ones that come with your tent may not be suitable for the ground you choose.

Lesson #3: Don't ever "figure" the rain fly is "good enough", and be sure all seams on your tent are waterproof. (You can test this during the dry run with a water hose.) A good water seal for can be found at most camping supply stores

Lesson #4: Bug spray. Lots of bug spray. Look for a type that leaves behind little residue so it's not as gross to wear.

Lesson #5: Consider a screened enclosure if you don't like bug spray.

Lesson #6: Travel with your own camp soap and toilet paper.

This just proves that you dont have to be a newbie to make mistakes. So, stay dry and happy camping.

Now, where's that anti-itch stuff

Marie Graham lives in central Texas and writes occasional articles for CG Camping

On her spare time, she teaches high school math and enjoys her two furry, four-legged children.

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