Do you love camping but hate sleeping on the ground? If so, the Grand Trunk Travel Hammock Ultralight Hammock is a savvy product to take camping. This hammock is very sturdy and remarkably comfortable for both kids and adults. Installation is simple and can be completed in minutes with only one person on the job. The nylon fabric allows the hammock to breathe and not get too hot in the summer, and it dries quickly if there is any rain on the camping trip.
As far as specifications, the Grand Trunk Travel Hammock Ultralight Hammock is made for just about everyone. The hammock is made out of 100% polyester taffeta and weighs only 12 ounces. This makes taking the hammock along on both long and short trips quick and easy. It also has an attached sack for condensed transport. The ultralight hammock comes with a pair of 10-foot pieces of 4.5 mm accessory rope that is pre-knotted. For trouble-free hanging, it comes with attached stainless steel S-hooks and a stuff sack that’s attached for compressed transportation. The Grand Trunk Hammock dries quickly and is mildew resistant. Along with all that , it also comes with a 10-year warranty.
The Grand Trunk Travel Hammock Ultralight Hammock is by far the best deal as far as camping hammocks go. It’s great for both children and adults, and the nylon fabric allows the hammock to breathe in the warmer seasons so you stay cool. However, in colder seasons it may not be so warm as some other, thicker hammocks.
This hammock has a weight capacity of 250, which leaves just a very small portion of people who cannot use it. Besides that, it weighs a measly 12 ounces and folds up small enough to fit into a bag that’s attached to it so you can easily stow it away in a camping bag and never feel it. In addition, setting up this hammock is a one-person job and can take as little as two minutes. It also comes with everything you need to hang it up, including the stainless steel S-hooks and pre-knotted rope.
If you are a serious camper or backpacker, the Grand Trunk Travel Hammock Ultralight Hammock is without a doubt for you. Its lightweight, compact size and sturdiness is ideal for adventure tripping in the great outdoors.
Camping trips with babies rarely go perfect the first time but you can avoid a lot of serious complications with a bit of practice and planning. In the long run, camping with babies can be a blast as they are generally adaptable and sleep more than toddlers.
The Practice Trip
The wise parent will make the first camping trip with a baby a short two night adventure near your home. This allows your baby the chance to become comfortable with the outdoors without over-doing it.
A longer trip can become disorienting for the baby as the little one has to adapt to the longer car ride. This takes training and patience and you probably don't want to start off your first camping trip with a screaming baby. Another word of advice is to pick a spot without extreme temperatures. Even tiny babies can put up with almost anything you might expose them to, but you will have to work harder to keep them comfortable.
Heat seems to be the extreme to avoid. You can keep a baby warm on snowy nights but it's hard to cool an unhappy baby in 95 degrees Fahrenheit and infants under 6 months of age should not wear sun screen unless your pediatrician recommends it. Even a baby kept in the shade can be exposed to a great deal of reflected sunlight.
Remember, babies require a great deal of equipment and supplies. If you forget something dire or realize that something you left home would really be handy you can always go home and get it if your first camping trip is close to home rather than 200 miles away.
Camping with a baby is always entertaining, but it may be quite a bit different than the trips you are used to taking. Give yourself a chance to get used to the changes. Plan to arrive at your campsite long before dark as even babies need time to acclimate to their new surroundings. You will also need time in the daylight to set up your tent and get situated. Even if you have set up your tent 100 times you may find it more difficult with your new addition. It is wise to have a tent that one person can set up alone if it becomes necessary. A leisurely evening in your campsite will allow your baby to feel comfortable and secure.
When packing for your practice trip go overboard. Pack more clothes than you think you will need. More formula or baby food, more diapers, more wipes, etc. You can never have too many diapers or wet wipes. If you haven't already discovered how handy having wipes can be, you'll find out on a camping trip. Disposable diapers aren't environmentally sound, so PLEASE throw them into a trash can or dumpster WITH a lid.
This is your chance to see what you'll really need. Worry about packing space on your next trip. It is recommended that you pack lots of clothes but not too many items that are really heavy or bulky. It is better to layer lighter clothing.
Temperatures will fluctuate throughout each day and it is easier to add a layer or remove a layer of clothing when the climate changes than to re-dress your baby five times a day. Snap-crotch garments for your little one are a real plus here as it is difficult to change the diaper of a camping baby without them and they will stay warmer on cold nights if they don’t need to be stripped down for every diaper change.
When thinking of feeding your baby, think safety first. Pre made formula is expensive but sterile. Powders are convenient but can be hard to mix at campground faucets and some campgrounds have questionable water sources. The biggest concern is keeping prepared formula cold. If you are in an RV with refrigeration it's no problem, however, tent campers, please be careful!
Keeping bottles clean can present another problem. I suggest a bottle with a disposable liner. If you use regular bottles don't forget a bottle brush!
So you have had a successful first camping trip with your baby, taken notes, made adjustments and are now ready for the real thing. For your first real camping trip away from home it is recommended to choose a campground where you have camped before. This way you will know what facilities the park offers and there won’t be any surprises. Plan your trip with plenty of time to spare. Just getting to your camping spot will usually take a lot longer than you may anticipate. With a baby diaper changes and an occasional stretch are a requirement. The best thing about camping with a baby is watching your child's reactions to the elements. A tree, a cloud or a flower can keep a baby happy for hours and provide great photo opts for mom and dad. So don't plan a day full of activities and hikes, just relax and enjoy, take lots of pictures, go to sleep early and be prepared to get up at dawn. No matter how late you put your baby to bed, they will always get up at sunrise when you camp!
Even though you try, you can't always control your baby’s moods and other campers simply don't want to listen to a screaming baby. Do your best to be a good neighbor and try to figure out what your little one is trying to communicate. PLEASE DO NOT let your baby cry and cry and cry. Keep your cool and don’t get frustrated. Sometimes the baby’s portable bassinet or car seat that they are already used to is a good and secure sleeping place for your baby and both fit nicely in the tent.
Let the little ones age 6 months – 3 years sit in their stroller around the campfire. This will allow them be a part of the activity and also keeps them safe and in a familiar environment as long as you ensure the sparks and smoke from the fire are not blowing in their direction. Do not let youngsters get over tired while camping. To the best of your ability, keep them on their home routine of taking naps, eating regular meals and observing regular bedtimes. This will help reduce the crankiness that can result in the crying/noise for those around you.
Make the camping experience fun by allowing the baby to get dirty and messy. It is hard on everyone if everything is off limits and someone is always saying don't touch that, don't get dirty, don't, don't, don't. Enjoy your kids when they are small, they don't stay that way long.
Jenny Jump State Forest is located in Warren County along the stunning rolling terrain of Jenny Jump Mountain Range. Panoramic vistas of the Highlands and the Kittatinny Mountains and Valley to the west, and scenic views of the Great Meadows in the east dramatically greet the visitor who climbs the narrow path leading to the top of Jenny Jump Mountain. Rocky outcroppings and boulders line the trail – evidence that great glaciers once covered what is now known as Jenny Jump State Forest.
These Glaciers receded from Jenny Jump Mountain near the end of the Wisconsin Ice Age, about 21,000 years ago. Exceeding a mile in thickness, the ice advanced southward from Canada, gouging out valleys and rocks from mountain tops, incorporating sediment, boulders and debris into its mass. Much of this debris was carried by the glacier or transported by melting water to the edge of the ice where it was deposited in huge ridges known as moraines. The dramatic effects of this can still be seen in Jenny Jump State Forest.
Camping in the Forest
There are twenty-two tent and trailer sites with fire rings and picnic tables located in Jenny Jump State Forest. Showers and toilets are within walking distance. The camping facilities are open from April 1 through October 31 and rent for $20 per night.
In addition there are two group sites available with a capacity of 25 campers at one site and 40 at the second site. Fire rings, picnic tables and pit toilets are located on these sites. Open from April 1 through October 31 one site rents for $25 per night – Capacity 25 campers and the other for $40 per night – Capacity 40 campers.
The forest website also lists eight shelters although from the description they sounded more like cabins. I suggest checking with the park office for complete information regarding these sites.
Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.
Highlights of Jenny Jump State Forest
UACNJ Observatory is located in Jenny Jump State Forest. The United Astronomy Clubs of NJ (UACNJ) leases property from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection and in 1995 completed the Greenwood Observatory. The UACNJ provides public programs on Saturday evenings from April through October, 8:00 to 10:00 pm, at which an astronomy presentation is followed by an observing session, weather permitting.
Trails in Jenny Jump State Forest offer eleven miles for hiking and three miles for hiking/mountain biking all with magnificent views of the mountains and scenic Mountain Lake. The Summit Trail, at an elevation of 1,090 feet, offers a view of the Delaware Water Gap and the Pequest Valley.
Fishing, Boating and Canoeing is available and there is a car-top boat launch at Ghost Lake which provides access to excellent largemouth bass, sunfish and catfish fishing and additional access to Mountain Lake is available for shore line fishing. The Division of Fish and Wildlife stock trout at Beaver Brook four times during the spring trout season.
Hunting is permitted in designated areas within the forest and is subject to the Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations. The forest contains a favorable habitat for deer, turkey and small game and therefore offers an excellent hunting opportunity for the sportsman.
Picnicking is provided in a small picnic available in a quiet, shaded area of the park. Tables and grills are provided for the patrons. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Bear Alert!! Jenny Jump State Forest has frequent sightings of black bears. An educational brochure is available at the forest office.
Location:
Warren County
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 150
Hope, NJ 07844
DMS 40 54 79.30” N 74 55 32.10”W
Size: 4,324 acres
Fees: No entrance fee.
Directions:
Take Route 80 to exit 12 to Hope. Turn onto Route 519 north at blinking light. At third right, turn onto Shiloh Road. Approximately 1 mile, turn right onto State Park Road.
Think of your Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent as your home away from home, with a lot less stress in setting it up and maintaining its condition. Much like your home, the Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent is designed with your needs and wants in mind. Let’s talk further about its advanced and easy design, special features, the cost of your Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent, and what you’ll need to know about refund and warranty items.
Advanced & Easy Design
The Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent is quite environmentally friendly, with its 100 percent recycled polyester fabric and dye-free color. Its Silicon treated fly and floor are also constructed of 100 percent recycled, dye-free ripstop polyester, containing a protective waterproof polyurethane coating. The Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent’s manufacturers have ingeniously incorporated NSL poles with press-fit connectors that use an anodization process in order to be significantly less intrusive on the environment. With recycled plastic clips to attach the body of the tent to the frame, and waterproof fly and floor seams that contain solvent-free polyurethane, there’s not much in their design that isn’t green.
Special Features
This three-season backpacking tent offers extra spread with its expansive space around the head and shoulders area and a side-door, dry-entry vestibule that can be staked out and used as an outdoor awning. Not only does this allow easy entry, but it brings the beautiful views and that wonderful outdoor freshness into the Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent for all to enjoy. Well ventilated with its four fly vents, it also has reflective webbing on its corners for after-dark visibility, so you can protect yourself from any uninvited and unwelcomed guests that may be wandering right outside your Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent. Of course, if you need to make a quick getaway, the hob-pole design offers tear-down in just seconds.
Price & Protection
Expect the cost of the Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent to be around $350; a real bargain for all its special features and dynamic design. Not owning a Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent could actually cost you much more than simply spending the money for a stronger built, waterproof tent. Cutting corners can cause drastic results as you get out on the trail and experience major issues with no immediate resolution except to grin and bear it. Cost is not the only thing to consider; there’s safety and comfort at stake—literally! Of course, you could decide on a minimalist shelter and simply use the rainfly poles and footprint, which is sold separately from the Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent.
Refund & Warranty
These change with every store or every online dealer, so be sure to ask the seller for specifics regarding their refund policy and warranty limitations. Whether you plan to have your Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent shipped from a local supplier or will be purchasing it online, be sure to check the box when it arrives for any obvious possible damage in shipping. It’s always more believable to correct the problem when you have a witness to its arrival condition. The affordable price, the outstanding quality, and the wonderful features will be so appreciated as you sit beneath the vestibule awning of the Big Agnes Salt Creek 2 Tent sipping on your favorite beverage, eating food that always tastes better when cooked out in the open air, and swapping somewhat questionable camping stories.
Winding River Campground is located on the Egg Harbor River, which makes it a great place to be if you love to stay close to the water. The campground prides itself on secluded campsites, which means you won’t feel like you are sitting right on top of your neighbor. Its location by the river makes it a prime spot for water-based activities. Visitors can canoe, kayak or tube down the river. Of course if you don’t have the equipment for your chosen activity the campground will gladly rent it to you. You can also boat or fish on the river, or just set up a chair nearby and enjoy the breeze coming off of the water. There is also a heated swimming pool and a game room with planned activities for times when the weather just isn’t conducive to being out on the river.
If your tastes run towards a bit more action, don’t worry. The Winding River Campground is located close to the Sands Hotel and Casino. This makes it an ideal location if you want to be able to to get in a few hands of poker in between kayaking and fishing. The park is also close to Storybook Land which is a great place to go with younger kids. Storybook Land is a lot of fun and there are many rides and attractions based on different classic storybook scenes and characters.
The Winding River Campground has an online reservation system, making it easy to reserve your site days or even weeks before you arrive. This takes the stress out of wondering if the campground will be full if you arrive during a peak time. They do require a 2 or 3 day stay on weekends and holidays so be sure to figure that into your travel plans.
The view from High Point Monument, at 1,803 feet above sea level and overlooking three states, is a spectacular panorama of rich farmland and forest, soft hills and lush valleys. The blue line of the Delaware River divides the verdant ridges of New Jersey from those of Pennsylvania. High Point offers superb trails for hikers and skiers and quiet spots for campers and anglers.
The land for High Point State Park, donated by Colonel Anthony R. and Susie Dryden Kuser, was dedicated as a park in 1923. The pleasant landscaping was designed by the Olmsted Brothers of Boston, a prominent landscape architectural firm of that time. The brothers were the sons of the eminent Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed Central Park.
Camping in the Park
There are 50 tent sites (no trailers) along Sawmill Lake with fire rings and picnic tables at each site. Flush toilets are within walking distance. The sites are open from April 1 through October 31 with a charge of $20 per night.
The Park offers two group campsites. Each site accommodates 25 to 35 people and offers drinking water and pit toilets. These sites are open from May 15 through October 15. Site A – $35 per night, Site B – $25 per night.
There are two cabins available at High Point State Park, each with a furnished living room that has a woodstove. They also contain three bedrooms -one room with a double bed and two rooms with twin beds. The kitchen has hot and cold running water an electric stove and a refrigerator. The bathroom has a shower, toilet and sink. Electricity is available in each cabin. Located on the eastern shore of Steenykill Lake, each cabin accommodates six people. With prior permission from the superintendent, two additional people may be accommodated. The cabins are open from May 15 to October 15 and rent for $65 per night or $455 per week.
In addition to the above, there is one group cabin available in the park. The group cabin has a living room with a woodstove, full kitchen, two bunkrooms with double bunks, bathrooms and showers. It accommodates up to 28 people and is open from May 15 through October 15 with a charge of $155 per night and a two-night minimum stay is required.
Alcohol and pets are prohibited in overnight facilities.
Highlights of High Point State Park
“Homeowner Firewood Program” is a program to help you keep warm this winter by cutting your own firewood in designated areas of the park. The program is available at seven state parks and forests statewide for $20 a cord while supplies last. Homeowners are responsible for cutting and removing their own firewood. Advance reservations are required and can be made for any two consecutive days.
Special Deer Hunting occurs each November when High Point State Park allows hunters to participate in a deer hunt in a designated area of the park (Deer Management Zone 67). To participate, hunters must purchase a Zone 67 permit from a licensed agent or via the Division of Fish & Wildlife’s Internet license sales. The bag limit is unlimited antler less deer and ONE antlered deer. The hunter’s first deer must be antler less. Successful hunters may then harvest an antlered deer if in possession of an Antlered Buck Muzzleloader Permit. Any antlered deer taken in Zone 67 must have at least one antler with three antler points. A total of 350 permits will be available.
High Point Monument was built through the generosity of the Kusers, in honor of all war veterans. Construction was started in 1928 and completed in 1930. At the top of the 220-foot structure, observers have a breathtaking view of the ridges of the Pocono Mountains toward the west, the Catskill Mountains to the north and the Wallkill River Valley in the southeast.
Park Programs offer a variety of interpretive and educational programs on a year-round basis with nature hikes, stream walks and talks conducted by the park naturalist. The park maintains a Calendar of Events for High Point State Park's which lists the current programs.
Swimming is available in the spring-fed waters of the 20-acre Lake Marcia which is cool and refreshing for swimmers. The beach is protected by lifeguards and there is a bathhouse and food concession adjacent to the beach. Inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices are not permitted in the swimming area. Only Coast Guard approved life jackets are permitted. Pets are prohibited on the beach.
Boating is available and boats may be launched at specific locations at Sawmill Lake and Steenykill Lake. Boating is permitted subject to New Jersey's boating regulations and NJ State Park Service rules. Check with the park office for launch sites. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices are required for each boat occupant. Power boats are limited to electric motors only.
Fishing is excellent and can be found in High Point's many lakes and streams, which are well-stocked with trout, large mouth bass and other species. Please refer to Division of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
Dryden Kuser Natural Area (1,500 acres) is situated 1,500 feet above sea level, and the Atlantic white cedar swamp in Dryden Kuser Natural Area is the highest elevation swamp of its kind in the world. A self-guided trail booklet for those who wish to hike the swamp trail is available at the park office. Endangered species include the three-tooth cinquefoil and Cooper's hawk. The Dryden Kuser Natural Area includes a distinctive bog, locally called the Cedar Swamp. The Cedar Swamp Trail makes a one and a half mile loop around the bog. The trail guide corresponds to numbered posts on the trail and describes the spring-summer vegetation and other features of the bog and the surrounding area. As you enjoy the natural beauty of this area, please remember to leave it undisturbed for future visitors.
Trails are available throughout the park. Consisting of over 50 miles of trails, High Point State Park offers visitors a variety of trail options throughout the year. Designated multiple-use trails are available for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding and snowmobiling. Trails vary in length from one half-mile to 18 miles and take visitors through unique and diverse landscapes including an Atlantic white cedar swamp, mountain ridge tops with 360-degree views, dense forests, fields and wetlands.
The Appalachian Trail to the south follows a rocky ridge which offers many scenic views of the valleys and mountains surrounding the area. To the north, the trail drops off the ridge through hemlock gorges into former agricultural fields with a view of the surrounding countryside and the High Point Monument in the distance.
High Point Cross Country Ski Center operates during the winter months. Here cross country skiers will information on 15 km of groomed trails in the park half of which are covered by artificial snow. Cross-country skis and other winter sports equipment are available for rent. A blazing fire, hot soup and other hearty food greet visitors at the center on Lake Marcia. For information, call (973) 702-1222 (973) 702-1222.
Picnicking may be found in several picnic areas with table and grills located throughout the park. For larger groups, we also offer three picnic shelters that can be reserved for a fee and can accommodate up to 75 people each. In addition, group picnic Shelter #1 has playground equipment and Shelter #2 offers play fields and playground equipment.
$55.00 per day, plus applicable parking fees
Memorial Day through Labor Day
$80.00 per day
Day After Labor Day to Friday Before Memorial Day
50 percent of Fee
Group Picnic Cancellation Fee
Groups of 20 or more people shall reserve picnic facilities at least five days in advance. Such group use is not permitted on Holidays except as authorized by the Superintendent. Reservations for picnic areas are handled by the individual park area offices.
Reservations can be made over the telephone using a credit card, or by mail using the Group Picnic Reservation form
Location:
Sussex County
Mailing Address:
1480 Route 23
Sussex, NJ 07461
(973) 875-4800 (973) 875-4800
GPS Coordinates
DMS 41° 18’ 23.04” N 74° 40' 14.78 " W
Size: 15,827 acres
Fees: Entrance fees are charged per vehicle from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
$ 5.00
weekdays
$10.00
weekends
N/A
walk-in/bicycle
Directions:
Take Route 23 approximately 7 miles north of the town of Sussex, NJ, or 4 miles south of Port Jervis, NY.
The Coleman Tent Kit will come in handy throughout your entire camping trip. The mallet is a perfect fit for the stakes, and the stake puller pulls them out without bending them. The broom and dust pan are moderately helpful if you have a small mess or a little bit of dirt, dust or sand in your tent. It all comes in a little carrying case that doesn’t take up much room but helps keep everything together and in one spot so it is easy to find whenever you are in need of it.
This is a complete kit with everything you will need to set up your tent and keep it clean throughout your camping trip. The kit comes with four brawny 10-inch tent stakes for all four corners; a firm rubber mallet for hammering in the stakes into the ground; a whisk broom and dust pan for cleaning your tent; a tent stake puller that pulls out the stakes one by one without bending them; and finally a mesh bag in which to store all of it. In all everything weighs about three pounds, so it is not too heavy to carry around with you on your camping expeditions. This kit houses everything any camper might need to first put up a tent, clean it while in use, and then break it down in one simple kit.
Many enthusiastic campers have bought this useful kit without many expectations, but most found that the contents of the kit were very helpful. However, there have been a few instances where the mallet handle has fallen off the rubber part. Also, there were reports that the stakes bent the first time they were hammered into the ground and that the stake pullers were found to be just a waste of time. The same goes for the whisk broom and dust pan, as many people found that the combo was simply too small to do much good around the campsite and either a regular dust pan and broom was necessary. But overall most buyers were pleased with this purchase.
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to keep your tent clean, pull your stakes out more quickly, and have a few extra stakes around, this Coleman Tent Kit should be the right fit.
The things most people worry about when camping with children are wolves, bears, and the possibility of drowning. These worries should actually be much less than the higher risk injuries such as sprained ankles on river portages, lacerations playing “Junior Woodsman”, burns caused by the campfire and so on. The same dangers that can happen doing regular activities at home! Try to and allay the child’s fears, and yours, with knowledge, and by all means avoid the scary stories.
WHAT ABOUT BUGS?
Yes, there are bugs in the outdoors. Try and be calm when you explain about biting insects and remember in most cases, although uncomfortable, they won’t kill you. Always carry bug repellant that you are sure you and your child are not allergic to. Even if it doesn’t work it makes the child feel better. Set a good example for your child by dealing with the bugs yourself in an adult manner and your child will probably mirror your behavior and not have a problem.
THE SCAREST THING IN THE OUTDOORS – THE BATHROOM!!
Many children will have questions and issues with where and how to go the bathroom when camping. Toilets may be quite scary to a child. A pit toilet may seem like a perfectly normal thing to you, but your toddler may not agree. These toilets can smell pretty bad and it's easy to see why some children are afraid of falling in. When you tell your child about camping, be sure to include information about the bathrooms. Some of the flush toilets can be loud and are not like the potty at home. If your child will still use a potty chair you may want to bring one along – just in case. Camping trips can also be a real chance for a breakthrough in the area of potty training as there are no “accidents” on your rug or your furniture and a potty chair can be set up anywhere in your camp site so your child won't feel isolated. You will have more time with your child when camping, and this can be the most help of all.
From your child’s point of view the toilet paper may seem yucky. Most camp bathrooms have industrial quality (sand paper) toilet paper. Your young bath roomer may refuse to use this stuff. Some camps provide little squares of paper. A parent may be able to use this stuff but a young child might have some problems. Additionally, many of the toilet paper dispensers make it quite difficult and sometimes impossible for a small child to get the paper off of the roll. This is actually intentional. The harder to obtain the less paper is used. Many former park employees think this is the silliest thing they have ever seen as the bathrooms always end up with bits of paper all over the floor and people break these irritating dispensers all the time. Your child may not even be able to get the paper off of these rolls. The biggest problem of all is an empty dispenser. You will find this every busy weekend you camp. The easy solution to the toilet paper problem is to bring your own.
Bathing and showering can also be scary for children. Camp showers can be a test of your patience. The temperature may be hard to adjust (or impossible) and the water may run cold for some time before getting warm. Most camp showers require quarters to operate – and some campers complain of running out of money in the middle of shampooing their hair. Children who normally take baths at home will not appreciate a camp shower. Many camp grounds do not offer bathing facilities at all. If you plan on camping for any length of time you will have to adapt and teach your children to do the same. Some ways to adapt are Sun Showers (a large black bag with a shower head) are great for camping. You can use them at home a few times to allow your children to become used to the idea. Just set up the sun shower in your back yard and let the kids try it out with bathing suits. Most kids just think of it as an interesting sprinkler and a sponge bath can work quite well, especially if you are camping in cold weather.
Enjoy camping fun and exciting times with your children and make a life time of memories.
Getting your campfire started can be one of the most frustrating outdoor activities, especially when the kids are waiting for their Smores with roasting sticks in hand. Following is a summary of various types of home-made Fire Starters. You will find a little thought and preparation goes a long way when getting your campfire started.
Use pine cones covered with wax**
Place a piece of charcoal in each section of a paper egg carton and cover with melted wax. ** Tear apart and use as needed. You can also use sawdust, dryer lint or Pistachio shells instead of the charcoal.
Take 100% cotton balls and thoroughly rub Vaseline into them. Keep in a zip lock bag and use as needed.
Use newspaper cut into strips (3"-4" wide). Roll up and tie with string and cover with melted wax. **
Use lint from your dryer as a fire starter.
Bundle about 10-12 Diamond brand "strike-anywhere" wooden kitchen matches together with waxed dental floss. The heads of the matches should all be pointing in the same direction. Generously soak the bundle of matches (except heads) in melted paraffin wax** to waterproof and to provide a long burn time. Dip the match heads, lightly only, into the wax to waterproof them. Simply strike on a flat rock to ignite.
Cut a cotton cord into 1" lengths and soak in melted wax. ** Let dry and store in empty film container or zip lock bag.
These are called candy kisses. Use the small 6" emergency candles and wrap them in waxed paper. Tie/twist both ends of the waxed paper to seal in the candle (looks like a salt water taffy candy). Light an end when you are ready to start your fire.
Cut waxed milk cartons into strips to be used as kindling for your campfire.
Stuff paper towel or toilet paper rolls with paper.
Newspaper crumbled into a ball. Don’t ball the paper too tight and use several pieces and be sure it is very dry.
Use dried pine needles.
Soak a piece of charcoal in lighter fluid and coat with wax. **
Use small condiment or "sample-size" cups. Add a long wick to each cup and fill with melted wax. ** You can also fill them with sawdust.
Use stacks of small pieces of cardboard covered in wax**
Waterproof your matches by dipping them in wax** or coating them with clear nail polish.
Use cotton string about 3-4" long, put in a wax paper bathroom cup with about an inch hanging over the edge. Fill the cup nearly to the top with saw dust and pour melted wax into the cup. The saw dust will compact and become waterproof. The extra string length is a wick to start burning the starter, but can also be tied to another starter string through a pack loop to carry outside your pack.
*Never use liquid igniters such as gasoline or lighter fluid on your campfire
** When melting wax, only use a double broiler set up consisting of two pots, one which sits on top of the other. The bottom pot containing boiling water, the top pot contains the wax. You can improvise a double boiler by placing the items to be cooked in a metal bowl, which is placed over a pot of boiling water.
Melted wax can easily ignite so always have a fire extinguisher handy in cause of emergency.
They’ve thought of everything in this light and durable, ultra comfortable Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves to hike and always wishing for just one more pocket, your wish has been granted. Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack has definitely designed their 420 advanced Composite Textile VaporTight™ nylon pack with the avid sportsperson in mind; probably the only pack you’ll ever own where there will be pockets to spare. It’s also quite easy to pack all your gear and clothing using the convenient top-loading main compartment with the dual-stage roll top closure. Climbers who hope for moisture-free mountain gear won’t be disappointed either, with the Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack because of its weatherproof VaporTight™ nylon casing. Even the zippers and seams act as water barriers for worry-free containment. Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack brings a whole new meaning to “no fear” sealed for those of you needing the warmth, comfort, and freshness of dry item storage.
The Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack is as comfortable as it is convenient, including adjustable sleeves that create a truly personalized, custom-made fit, and you’ll feel like the pampered camper when you notice the reservoir sleeve with an opening for your drinking tube. Not only is your water easy to reach, but so are all the items you can stash in your side-access kangaroo pocket and your zipper top pocket. The best thing about the Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack is that you won’t have to suffer hours of discomfort when you load it to the max, because of the Transfer Disc™ that provides quick release action from your pack along with a motion range that is far superior to most other packs in its price range. The Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack offers hip belt suspension that allows optimum motion—all you do is give the Transfer Disc™ a gentle twist to tighten or release, and viola, the weight of your pack sits snuggly where it belongs.
With the Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack, you don’t have to sacrifice quality and durability for comfort; instead, you can be assured that the enjoyment you’ll experience will be for many trips to come. Taking a look at the molded components and a unique suspension system, it’s obvious to see the care of the Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack manufacturers, but their over-the-top design has raised the bar in quality and excellence by laminating and bonding it for a long-lasting, waterproof hold. The MonoFrame™ bag with EVA foam and two aluminum stays is just one more reason to choose the Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack—you might say they have created the pro pack for those on the go.
For those of you who are challenged by climbing snowing cliffs, it’s good to know you won’t be challenged by your pack as well. The Axio™ ice-tool holder accommodates an ice axe with rip-and-stick fasteners, snowboards, skis, camping gear, along with all your clothing, and all can be attached, zipped, or fastened while wearing heavy gloves. So, for you “go fast” kind of guys and girls—a trip to your local sports store–$15! Purchase of the Arc’Teryx Arrakis 50 Pack–$450! Its guaranteed protection—priceless!
Winding River Campground is located on the Egg Harbor River, which makes it a great place to be if you love to stay close to the water. The campground prides itself on secluded campsites, which means you won’t feel like you are sitting right on top of your neighbor. Its location by the river makes it a prime spot for water-based activities. Visitors can canoe, kayak or tube down the river. Of course if you don’t have the equipment for your chosen activity the campground will gladly rent it to you. You can also boat or fish on the river, or just set up a chair nearby and enjoy the breeze coming off of the water. There is also a heated swimming pool and a game room with planned activities for times when the weather just isn’t conducive to being out on the river.
