Warmer weather means it’s time to start planning your camping trips for the spring! But before you head out into the wilderness, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Here are our top tips for camping in the spring.
Choose the Right Location
One of the most important things to consider when planning a camping trip is where you’re going to go. When choosing a campsite, make sure to consider the weather and terrain. If it’s been a wet spring, avoid low-lying areas that are prone to flooding. And if you’re camping in an area with lots of trees, be aware of the potential for falling branches or limbs.
You should also think about what kind of activities you want to do while you’re camping. If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, choose a campsite that’s farther away from civilization. But if you want to be able to take advantage of amenities like showers and toilets, opt for a campsite that’s closer to those facilities.
Pro Tip: When camping along the Kern River during springtime, be aware that the water levels can rise unexpectedly based on temperature. Run-off normally occurs in May — but it can happen earlier than that. If there are a few warm days in a row, this will encourage the snow to melt at higher elevation — which increases run-off in creeks and rivers. This is even better reason to camp at least 200 feet from water (both for environmental and safety reasons)!
Prepare Your Gear
Once you’ve chosen a location, it’s time to start getting your gear ready for the trip. First, check your tent to make sure all the poles and lines are in good condition and that there are no holes or leaks. Then clean out your sleeping bag and air it out so it will be fresh and clean when you use it.
If you plan on doing any cooking while you’re camping, make sure all your pots, pans, and utensils are clean and pack them in an easily accessible place. It’s also a good idea to bring along some non-perishable food items like granola bars or trail mix in case you get hungry while you’re out exploring.
Keep Learning: How to keep food cold while camping
Be Bear Aware
If you’re camping in an area where bears live, it’s important to take some precautions to avoid run-ins with these potentially dangerous animals. First, never leave food or garbage unattended — not even for a minute! Bears have an excellent sense of smell and will be attracted to anything that smells even remotely edible.
It’s also a good idea to sleep in a tent rather than under the stars. Bears are more likely to approach humans if they can’t see them clearly, so being enclosed in a tent will make you less likely to be noticed by one of these animals. Finally, keep your campsite clean and free of food smells by properly disposing of all garbage and cleaning up any spills immediately.
Start Planning Early
If you want to camp in popular areas or during peak times, it’s important to start planning your trip well in advance. Many popular camping spots fill up fast, so if you have your heart set on a particular location, make sure to book early.
Keep Learning: What to look for in a campground
Be Prepared for Weather Changes
The weather in spring can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures. Pack layers that you can mix and match depending on the conditions. Additionally, always check the forecast before heading out on your trip.
Keep Learning: How to camp in the rain
Bring Bug Spray
Mosquitoes and other insects can be more prevalent in the springtime, so don’t forget to pack bug spray! No one wants to spend their trip swatting away pesky bugs, so make sure you’re prepared ahead of time.