9 Spring Camping Tips

Ah, spring camping! There's no better time to pitch a tent, hitch up your camper, or rev up that RV. The birds are singing, creatures are stirring, and spring flowers are blooming. The air is crisp, the waters are clear and the woods are filled with wonderful smells.

Spring can also be one of the trickiest seasons to camp. The unpredictable weather conditions make it difficult to prepare for your camping trip. We've put together this list of camping tips to make sure your trip doesn't end up as a disaster.

1. Check the Weather Forecast

Spring temperatures can range from freezing to balmy. Severe temperature changes can occur within the same day. Rain, thunderstorms and lightning are commonplace. Make sure you pay particular attention to the weather forecast before heading out. It could make or break your camping trip.

2. Check Your Equipment

If you're roughing it in a tent it's a good idea to go through your camping gear beforehand. Check for holes, mold, or rips in your tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, and such. Test all of your camping equipment to ensure it's in good working order. Make sure your sleeping bag and tent are water resistant and intended for use in cold weather.

If you're RVing you'll need a complete inspection before hitting the road. There is a great mobile app, Ultimate RV Checklist, to help you with this. Grab it from iTunes or Google Play.

3. Bring a First Aid Kit

Don't camp without a well-stocked first aid kit. Scrapes and cuts are likely to happen, especially when setting up camp. You'll want to have things like adhesive bandages, gauze pads, sterile wipes, hydrocortisone cream, hydrogen peroxide, tweezers, aspirin and any prescription meds at hand.

4. Get Waterproof Matches

Whether you're building a fire, cooking outdoors or warding away wildlife, you'll want a pack of waterproof matches on deck for spring camping.

5. Invest in a Swiss Army Knife

A good Swiss Army Knife is a camping must have. Armed with a knife, corkscrew, saw, small scissors and more, you'll find many uses for this handy tool.

6. A Tarp is Essential

A tarp is probably the most versatile of all camping essentials. Use it to protect the bottom of your tent from the spring mud, create a makeshift shelter for outdoor cooking items, or protect your tent in the rain.

7. Take a Lantern, Flashlight or Headlamp

You don't want the camping fun to end just because the sun has set. Illuminate your campsite, navigate a dark trail or read a book in your tent with a lantern, flashlight and/or headlamp.

8. Don't Forget the Insect Repellent

The wet weather and standing water that comes with spring is a breeding ground for mosquitos, black flies and other insects. Using a repellent like DEET will also protect you from ticks.

9. Pack Warm Clothing

Spring evenings are anything but warm. A waterproof jacket and boots will keep you prepared for the rain and mud. Dress in layers. If it's unusually warm, you can remove a layer or two. If the weather turns cold, you can always add clothing. Long sleeve shirts and pants will also help keep the bugs at bay.

Don't let the unpredictable weather put a damper on your adventure. Keep these tips in mind to ensure that your next spring camping trip is a good one.

Now that you're primed and ready to start planning your spring camping trip, you'll need to choose a destination. Our seasonal resorts, located in primarily northern regions, are getting ready to open.

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