Prepare for Fall Camping in the Northwest
Overcrowding can be a problem for Northwest campers looking for a quiet outing during the summer months. However, once fall starts to set in, most people head back home, giving campers who seek a more secluded retreat the perfect opportunity to enjoy nature in a more peaceful, serene setting.
Advantages of Camping in the Fall
Fall camping offers a number of advantages, despite the lack of sunny weather. For one, camp fees are normally lower due to less traffic coming through. The lower temperatures can also be advantageous, since campers won’t find themselves sweating in the sweltering summer heat, which means longer and more enjoyable hikes.
Also, the assortment of colors is particularly lovely; as the leaves change color and start to coat the ground, one can really experience the changing of the seasons. You will also notice more animal activity as critters prepare themselves for the coming winter months. For these reasons, the mystique of the forest truly comes alive in the midst of fall.
Prepare for Your Fall Camping Trip
If proper preparations are not made, camping in the fall can quickly turn unpleasant. The fall camping gear you need isn’t much different from what you would bring on a summer trip, but here are a few important things to remember:
Cold weather. You’re more likely to encounter chilly nights and bad weather, so include extra warm clothing, blankets, tarps and rain gear among your camping equipment. Always pack more warm clothing than you think you’ll need in case you get wet. Some camping gear essentials include a wool hat, layered socks (ideally a thin insulation layer under a thick wool sock), thermal underwear, gloves, and waterproof boots. Be prepared for plenty of rain and have some fun activities ready in case you end up tent-bound. Pitch your tent on a high spot in the campground to prevent water from pooling.
Shorter daylight hours. Night comes sooner in the fall, so bring plenty of extra matches and firewood, as well as satisfactory LED flashlights and lanterns for illumination. Make sure your firewood stays dry by storing it in your vehicle or keeping it wrapped in plastic.
More critter activity. Bears and other animals are storing food and preparing for winter, so it’s especially important to exercise good camping safety practices. Keep your food in airtight containers away from your tent, preferably in the car. Also, discourage animals from visiting your campsite by keeping an LED lantern or some other type of light on all night. Include a fully stocked first-aid kit in your camping gear in case of any injuries.
