Cold Weather

Camping in the snow can be the best camping adventure. If you are ready for it. As the Boy Scouts saying goes "BE PREPARED"!

Why go camping in the Winter

The common thing you hear from everyone is "Why would you go camping during the winter. It's COLD!!!" Well, yes, it is cold. But with the cold comes some very big positives.

  1. No bugs. You don't have to worry about the misquotes, bees, snakes, and other critters that are a problem during the summer.

  2. Solitude. It's quite. You might find a couple people on the trails during the winter, but it is rare you find alot of people camping or out beyond the evening hours. The wilderness is yours and you don't have to share it with anyone other than your companions.

  3. Lots of water. You don't have to worry about not having water. It's everywhere (when there is snow). You just need to have lots of fuel or fire to melt it or you can cut a hole in a lake if you have the means.

  4. A new experience. Every winter camping trip is different. One time you might be under clear skies watching the Milkway and the next in a blizzard. Both experiences are different and potentially exciting.

  5. Fire hazard. The hazards are greatly reduced. If you know the skills to build a fire during the winter, have one. But follow leave no trace principles so you aren't leaving a leftover mess during the summer months when the snow melts.

  6. Bragging rights. Please like to hear stories and what better stories to share than roughing it in extreme conditions. You don't have to let them know you had a great time.

Prepare your campsite.

The first thing you do is find out where you want your shelter.

  1. Look up. Are there any trees above you that look weakened by the snow or are drooping? You don't want a tree or a large amount of snow to come piling down on you when you are in your tent.

  2. Be aware of your surroundings and know where you are. Are there trees in the area? Could you be setting up camp on a frozen lake?

  3. Look at the terrain. Slopes? Are you in an avalanche prone area?

  4. High or low? Heat rises so why would you want to set your shelter up in the bottom of a valley. That's where the cold air is going to settle at night.

When setting up your