A camping trip might seem like just a trip to the outdoors with a tent, but it can be a terrible experience if you don't adequetly plan it out. Finding the right location is the easy part. The right information and gear is a safety issue unless you are an experienced hiker or camper. When you have found a site that you wish to travel to, find out all of the information that they can provide for you in advance. Most parks have a tourist center that is happy to help you out and provide information. Reservations are always a good idea and there are some differences in campsites that are available. Parks with waterfront sites fill up quickly. You can always cancel a reservation, but you can't make one when it's too late. The park service can also let you know if campfires are permitted or not. Other good questions to ask about are the weather conditions, so you can plan your clothing and gear needs.

Planning a list of the gear you would like to bring is very important. Less is better, but don't skimp on something you really want. Electric items should be kept to a minimum because they are not usually very portable or weather proof. Battery operated radios and lanterns are great and don't take up much space. Televisions and refrigerators are cumbersome items that will cause a lot of work. There are great coolers available that can take ice or be plugged into a 12 volt outlet to cool or even heat. Portable stoves are usually allowed anywhere and they will offer an easy alternative to cooking over a fire. Open fire cooking can be hard with out some direction. Simple cooking utensils are great, remember that you don't have a kitchen for clean up. Plastic place settings is also great because they can be washed or thrown away.

This also brings up another important item, bring trash bags. They are useful beyond trash, so they are always good to have. Even hikers swear by having some on them at all times. A large tent can also be a little too much for camping. I recommend a adequet sized tent and a picnic shelter. This way there is a great covered area for activities and meals away from the clutter of sleeping bags. Most shelters are portable, easy to set up and even offer optional screens to keep the bugs out. Other than these main items, pack comfortable clothing and throw in a deck of cards. This is the smallest form of entertainment that I have found anywhere, and it can save you when anyone gets bored. Happy trails!