While it might be easy to look at your phone or a temperature gauge, did you know that crickets can help you calculate the temperature? Yes, and this is just one of those weird facts that you can learn while camping. More on that later. In the United States, each year it’s estimated that around 40 million people partake in camping activities around the country. With the plethora of camping sites around the country and located within every state, you’d think that more people would take advantage of these facilities. But, this only means that there’s more space for you and your family. Believe it or not, camping doesn’t just include pitching a tent and roasting marshmallows. Most campgrounds are in recreational areas, which typically have numerous activities to choose from. If you’re planning a camping trip and you can’t decide on what to do, the following will list a few ideas.
Fishing
Maybe you’re looking for a brand new tackle box and you also want to test out your gear. Well, going camping and fishing at the same time is a great way to experience nature and get acquainted with all of your new fishing tackle. Campgrounds are often located near waterways such as rivers, streams, lakes, and along the shoreline. So, you need to look no further than a campground that lists fishing opportunities when you’re trying to find a place to go camp. In addition, fishing is a relaxing activity. And, so is camping. Studies have shown that partaking in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing will increase serotonin production along with melatonin. These have the effect of reducing stress and make you feel better about life and about yourself.
So, if a stress-free camping trip sounds like it’s up your alley, what are you waiting for? You can also combine fishing with next two activities.
Remote Backpacking
This type of activity isn’t for everyone, but if you’re the adventurous type, a trip into the backcountry might be just what you’re looking for. The United States has millions of acres of wilderness, much of which is rarely explored by our citizens. While you could stick to “car camping” and gazing at scenic overlooks among crowds of people, when you get into the backcountry you’ll find some of the best scenery, and you’ll have it all to yourself. Most remote hikers take a few days to hike out several miles, usually by foot. This requires above-average knowledge of wilderness systems, the right gear, topography, and survival skills. If you’ve never done anything like this before, it’s best to travel the backcountry with a partner (don’t go alone) or even better, with someone that has some experience.
Kayaking
If you want to get some exhilarating exercise in, see parts of the country that aren’t witnessed by many, and even get some fishing time in, kayaking is the perfect activity to do while camping. There are plenty of campgrounds around the country which are situated on rivers, and most of these have kayak or canoe outfitters nearby, and these rental facilities usually let kayakers go out in groups. While you don’t have to be an expert to kayak, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the art of kayaking and the waters before you venture out, just to be safe.
The best kayaking experience, if you’re a beginner, would likely be on a lake. This way you’ll be able to go at your own pace and be a little lazy if you want to, all within sight of your campground. Basically, you might want to save that Class 5 rapid trip for when you’ve gained a little more experience. A bit more challenging, especially because of the weather (winds/waves/currents) is sea kayaking. But with the right guidance and a few sea kayaking tips it can be an amazing experience.
So, how do you tell the temperature with the help of a cricket? Simply count the number of chirps you hear in a timeframe of 14 seconds. Then, add 40 to that number to get the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit.
If you think that’s pretty neat, just imagine all of the other weird facts you can learn while camping.