Summit Camping Gear

Tents for Your Family

2008-02-20T10:43:00.000-08:00

There are so many camping tents on the market it can get confusing trying to find the that will suit your needs.
The first thing you need to consider is how many people you would like to sleep in your tent. Sizes range from very small backpacking one person tents to very large 9+ person tents. Of course the bigger the tent generally the more time you will need to spend setting it up.
You might also consider specialty tents for your pets and kids tents for the little ones to have their own special place on your camping trips.

Down or Synthetic Sleeping Bag

2008-02-19T09:39:00.000-08:00

Are you wondering whether you should get a down sleeping bag or a synthetic filled sleeping bag? How, where, and when you plan on using your sleeping bags will determine which fill is better for your needs.
Synthetic sleeping bags are usually cheaper and many feel they are not nearly as warm, but they are getting better all the time. Synthetic bags pack down easier and dry quicker than down filled sleeping bags. I use this type of bag in the spring and summer and especially on long backpacking trips.
Down sleeping bags is my bag of choice for winter camping. When it is cold outside there is nothing like crawling into a snuggly down bag! Down sleeping bags do tend to cost more, but if you ensure it is thoroughly dry before storing it away it should last you several seasons.

Using Coleman Lanterns

2008-02-18T07:32:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows Coleman lanterns are a handy item for when you are camping, but they come in very useful at other times as well.
Recently ice storms and tornados knocked out power in many homes in the Midwest, coleman battery powered lanterns are very useful in these situations. These lanterns are a great way to safely light your home during power outages without any fear of fire or fumes endangering your family.
Summit Camping Gear, not only carries the complete coleman lanterns line, as well as coleman flashlights, but also a complete line of parts for many of the coleman lanterns made.

Usefulness of Coleman Coolers

2008-02-15T07:29:00.000-08:00

One of our most used camping supplies is used for more than just camping! We own several coleman coolers, and we use them constantly.
The coleman wheeled cooler is the workhorse since we use it for picnics, fishing trips, the minor league baseball games, and so many other weekend activities. The cooler holds plenty of snacks and drinks, while the wheels make getting them from car to wherever so much easier than carrying a regular cooler.
The coleman gallon jug cooler is used several times a week for baseball games and practice. These little coolers and some cups on the bench keeps the kids hydrated while we do our part to save the environment by cutting down on water bottle usage.

Desert Camping

2008-02-14T12:21:00.000-08:00

For those lucky enough to live near a desert, now is a great time to pack your camping supplies and watch the winter get shook off for spring.
The days are a perfect temperature for hiking without any worries of the desert heat. The nights at this time of year can be a little cool, but with good camping tents and sleeping bags you can sleep well after a day of exploring even in the cooler temps.
When camping in the desert also make sure you have plenty of camping chairs and tables. With lots of sand and rock everywhere having a comfortable place to sit as well as a clean place to lay your food makes the trip so much easier.

Easy Camping Burritos

2008-02-13T13:51:00.000-08:00

One of my kids’ favorite recipes when camping is my now famous Chicken Camping Burritos! I would like to pretend they are really extravagant, but they are actually just something I created that is easy to make on top of coleman stoves, and requires little if any dishes.

To make these burritos you need:

1 package lipton instant spanish rice
1 can of chicken breast (usually next to the tuna)
cheese
salsa
sour cream
burrito shells

Make the lipton noodles as directed in a camping sauce pan on your coleman stove, and when almost finished add the can of chicken.
When this is ready fill burrito shells, add cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Roll and eat!

With this recipe I have one dirty pan and one spoon to wash! This leaves more time for me to enjoy my trip with my family.

Inventory Camping Gear Now for Spring

2008-02-12T14:14:00.000-08:00

Spring break is just over one month away, and a quick check on the family camping gear is reminding me I need to get a few things before we can head out on a week long camping trip.
Right now we only have one coleman camping chair for each of us, but it is rare for us to ever get away without some of my kids friends in tow. Since everyone wants a chair a few more would be ideal.
With more people on the trip we also need more camping tents, another for the boys and one more for the girls.
One month sounds like quite a bit of time, but it is never too early to take inventory on your camping supplies and start getting ready for the upcoming camping season.

Caring for Your Camping Gear

2008-02-11T13:53:00.000-08:00

If you are like me you probably have hundreds of dollars invested in camping equipment for yourself as well as your family. If you take care of your camping supplies you can keep them in good shape and they will last you longer. For example, ensure your sleeping bags are completely dry before storing away between camping trips. If you use a Coleman stove, make sure it is clean before putting it away until your next trip. If you take the steps to protect your camping equipment from moisture and excess sunlight during storage, the life of your gear will increase dramatically and you can have more fun camping with your family.

Coleman 5445B556C

2007-08-17T14:59:00.000-07:00

The Coleman 5445B556C is a Coleman 15 PSI Regulator that helps control fuel at a constant 15 PSI. The regulator attaches with an adapter to a POL valve on a refillable bulk propane cylinder. It can also connect directly to propane distribution posts.

Coleman 5410B790T

2007-08-17T14:53:00.000-07:00

The Coleman 5410B790T is the Coleman bulk propane adapter that attaches to the 8 foot hose. The adapter can be used with a bulk propane cylinder with standard POL valves. It is the adapter that will fit the 8 foot hose that can be used with all Road Trip Grills. For Roadtrip grills, you either need the 5 foot hose and adapter, or purchase the 8 foot hose, and the adapter separately.

Coleman 5114A760T

2007-08-17T14:46:00.000-07:00

The Coleman 5114A760T is a Coleman Propane tee that allows you to connect two Coleman appliances to one propane tank. This is the easiest way for you to connect two Coleman stoves to one propane cylinder. Propane tee makes it possible to connect heaters, lanterns, stoves, and grills to one propane cylinder. Save space when camping and use a propane tee.

Coleman 9949-130C

2007-08-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

The Coleman 9949-130C is a Coleman RoadTrip grill light that can be easily attached to any Coleman Road Trip grill. It can be easily attached to any surface up to 1 and 1/4 inches making it easy to attach to tables, propane stoves, and propane grills. Grill your hot dogs, steaks, hamburgers, or boil water, soup, or coffee at any time.

Coleman 9941-768

2007-08-17T11:28:00.000-07:00

The Coleman 9941-768 Coleman RoadTrip Grill is the classic Road Trip grill that friend's and family recommend. With 285 square inches of grilling space, you can grill your steaks, hot dogs, hamburgers, salmon, kabobs, and more. Perfect for backyard entertaining and tailgating events at football, baseball, hockey, and basketball games. Easy to transport and easy to connect to a propane tank with the 5 foot hose and adapter.

Coleman 9940-755

2007-08-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

The Coleman 9940-755 Coleman Roadtrip Party Grill is a compact lightweight grill for easy transport to picnics and sporting events. Grill your hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks, and heat up water for coffee on the Roadtrip Party Grill. Ideal for small groups or a family gathering. Convenient carry bag to store and transport. Use it with a Coleman cooler for your beverages.

Coleman 9928-A60

2007-08-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

The Coleman 9928-A60 Coleman RoadTrip® Pro SS Grill is the largest Coleman propane grill on the market. With 345 square inches of cooking space, you can grill just about anything! Ideal for backyard barbecues, 4th of July picnics, company picnics, or church activities, this portable propane grill can run off a 20 lb propane tank or a Coleman fuel canister. Use it for tailgating, family reunions, and entertaining friend's.

Coleman 533b705

2007-08-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

The Coleman 533b705 is a Coleman 1 burner dual fuel stove that will run on unleaded gas or a container of Coleman fuel. It is best used for the lightweight backpacking as it is compact, and easy to carry. You can boil a pot of water in four minutes... making it easy and fast to make your morning cup of coffee.

How to Enjoy Camping with Children

2007-02-19T08:03:00.000-08:00

By Steve Henry

Many of us have fond memories of our parents taking us camping as children and would like to pass on this experience to our children but are a little daunted by what we see as the unknown, particularly if it has been a while since we last went camping.

The best thing to remember is that children like simple things best and even if they are used to video games and tv they are still captivated by the basics such as learning how to start and use a camp fire or a walk at sunset to see the changing light.

Too many of us see children as people we need to entertain or manage rather than as little eyes that are constantly watching for what it is we do and find joy in.

Hate your job?

Then this is what you are teaching your kids.

Constantly short of money and living in credit?

This is what you are teaching your kids.

Everything we do they watch, even when they are pretending not to.

Get back to basics even if it means changing your job or your income.

Your kids are there to provide you with an opportunity to look at your life and ask yourself “Is this really what I want to be doing as an example?”

Camping with children allows us to take out the clutter from our lives and laugh together at the simple things like catching yabbies in the creek, learning how to be careful with fishooks and knives, being considerate of other campers at night with noise, how to set up tents and swags, waking before the sun rises and going for a walk on the beach, taking a boat out on the river and learning about water and currents and tides and swimming, how to be patient and flexible when the fish aren’t biting or the weather turns to rain, and the million other little things that are what camping is all about.

In the end it is probably not even about camping as much as it is about the basics in life and how short a time we get to enjoy our role as teachers of these little spirits.

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Choosing the Right Camping Gear

2007-02-15T08:08:00.000-08:00

By James Thurman

Choosing the right camping gear is an essential part of every camping trip. Without the right gear, you're camping adventure is likely going to be a struggle. It won't matter if the weather is good or bad, if you're camping in your backyard or the back-country, the right gear is essential to having a good time. But right doesn't have to mean expensive. It simply means right for the task at hand.

Camping is synonymous with the outdoors and that means you will be contending with Mother Nature. And every camper knows that Mother Nature is not to be trifled with. Besides your intended destination, planning for the weather you are likely to experience will be your biggest planning challenge. Here are a few planning tips to help jump-start your next trip:

1. If you plan and prepare for the worst possible weather you may run into, any other weather you encounter will be a walk in the park. If you're planning a winter trip, then you'll have to consider that you may be isolated or immobilized for an extended period of time if the weather really sets in;

2. Plan and prepare for your specific destination. If it's a state park on a local lake, an isolated creek few miles down a fire-road or on top of a mountain, every location presents specific challenges. For example, you may or may not have to plan for bringing along something as basic as your own drinking water;

3. Once you've thoroughly thought about the above-mentioned points, then and only then consider what you'll need for clothing. Pay particular attention if you're going to be working hard. Controlling moisture loss and evaporative cooling (fancy words for sweating) can be a real challenge, especially in cold climates. Pay particular attention to layering your clothes. When working hard, you can stay comfortable by peeling off layers as you heat up and putting them back on as you cool down;

4. The mode of transport to and from your final destination will have a huge impact on what you can bring. If you're driving right up to your camp-site, you can bring as much as gear as you can fit into your vehicle. If you have to walk, well that's a totally different situation; and

5. Never ever forget to inform someone who is not on the trip with you of your plans and whereabouts. This is undoubtedly the most important safety precaution you can take. If something unexpected happens, someone will already be briefed and prepared to take action.

It's not hard to argue that the most important piece of gear you're going bring along is your shelter. We can go for weeks without food, and for days without water. Without adequate shelter, however, we can be done for in hours. When we think of shelter, most people automatically think of something that goes over their head. But adequate shelter begins with what you wear. So if you're going camping, and you want to be comfortable and safe, pay particular attention to what you'll be wearing.

And when buying clothing, don't try to scrimp and save a few dollars. You could literally be gambling with your life. It will likely never never come to that but, for example, it's easy to get a bad sun-burn and have a great trip ruined because of it.

Here are some to consider when purchasing outdoor clothing for camping:

1. Get to know the specific technical details of the garment you might be buying. Things like breathability, wind and water proofing, abrasion and UV A/B resistance are all important;

2. Know how quickly it will dry if it gets wet and, if wet, if it will retain any heat;

3. Look carefully at buttons, zippers and other closures. They are often cumbersome, unreliable and too hard to work; and

4. The more pockets, the better!

If you find something you like and it seems out of your price range, don't despair. A little research will usually land a rock-bottom price. For example, you can wait for it to go on sale or you can ask that the store price-match a cheaper price from another store or from on online retailer. A favorite tactic among the hard-core campers is asking if there is a similar article that has a cosmetic flaw. Cosmetically flawed articles are usually sold at huge savings from full retail.

Camping is one of America's most enduring past-times. With advances in materials and technology, you can find the right gear at the right price for any adventure. Spend a little extra time planning and you'll have memories that will last you and your camping companions a life-time!

James Thurman is a senior writer for the theCampingExperts.com , an avid all-year camper and a recovering gear-a-holic. You can read more of James articles on here: Camping Gear and Supplies

Camping Journals - Preserve Your Camping Experiences

2007-02-06T09:27:00.000-08:00

By Richard Chapo

Camping is a great way to escape the rat race and be one with nature. Alas, your camping experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a camping journal for your adventures.

Camping Journals

Take a minute to give some consideration to your most recent camping experience. What sticks out in your mind? Now think about the first time you ever went camping. Undoubtedly, you remember few things about the geography, people you went with, particular camping routes and spectacular views. The experiences you’ve forgotten are lost to time. If you keep a camping journal, this won’t be the case.

There are famous instances of people keeping journals throughout time. Of course, Anne Frank’s Diary is the best example. In her diary, Anne kept a running commentary of the two years her family spent hiding from the Nazis. While your camping experiences better be more lighthearted, keeping a journal will let you remember them as the years pass.

A good camping journal combines a number of characteristics. First, it should be compact so you don’t have to take up unnecessary space for other things. Second, it should have a case to protect it from rain, spills and so on. Third, the journal should contain blank areas to write your notes. Fourth, the journal should contain cue spaces to remind you to keep notes on specific things. Cues should include:

1. Who you went camping with,

2. Where you camped and if you enjoyed it,

3. Who you met and contact information for them,

4. The geographic and weather conditions, and

5. Any unique things that occurred while camping.

At the end of the camping trip, you should be able to get the following from your journal:

1. Contact information for other campers and people you met,

2. Enough detail to provide you or a friend with a guide if you camp in the location a second time.

3. Memories to reflect upon years later, and

4. Something to pass on to your friends, children and grandchildren.

To get the most out of your camping journal, you should write in it during while you’re camping. Every trip is special, even if you just go out for a weekend.

Camping is a great way to commune with nature. Make sure to preserve the experience.

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of diary and writing journals for backpacking. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more articles about camping and the great outdoors.

RV Camping: The Perfect Way to Spend your Vacation

2007-02-06T09:22:00.000-08:00

By Alfred Anderson

We all need a welcome break from our daily activities to spend some time free from all the routine day-to-day activities. Camping out in the nature has always been a very good idea for spending a perfect holiday. However the idea of camping has changed a lot with the extensive use of recreational vehicles for camping purposes. Camping no longer restricts itself to the time spent with your friends and associates in a tent and spending uncomfortable nights by sleeping on the hard ground. Recreational vehicles have made camping an even more comfortable experience that adds to the enjoyment.

RV camping gives us the freedom to drive anywhere…anytime. Gone are the days when we had to look for a hotel room at our preferred destination and then often ending up compromising with the below par services rendered by their staff. An RV offers the convenience of cooking the food we love to eat, sleeping whenever we feel the need and even take a hot shower in a remote campground.

A perfect RV camping gear is an absolute necessity for the campers. They should make sure to carry all the necessary accessories and equipments needed during their vacation. Adequate cooking supplies, water storage, electronic supplies, heaters and other housekeeping accessories should be carried while on a camping trip to meet the needs from time to time.

Safety is a major concern for the campers and thus proper precautions should be taken beforehand. People who prefer to sleep outside the RV should make sure that they do not place their tent in low-lying areas. Night stay can be risky outside if the area is known to have animals, so plan your trip accordingly. Injuries, cuts and food contamination can further aggravate into serious infections if they are not treated with proper first aids, so it is always wise to carry a medical kit containing topical antibiotics, analgesics and Imodium AD. All the camping members should have proper tetanus vaccine updates before they are out to camp. Make sure to have proper water purification mechanisms in place as water related infections could completely mar the vacation.

People who camp very frequently can also opt for a membership in an RV club. These camping clubs give an opportunity to be with people who share similar interests. This helps to make friends. Apart from that the RV clubs have tie-ups with various campgrounds and RV associations that adds a lot of attractive features to the entire experience of RV camping. RV club members often enjoy attractive discounts and offers on various camping trips that make the camping experience economical.

RV camping is a great experience. However this experience only gets better if you choose the perfect RV that serves your needs. RV motorhomes come in a variety of sizes and designs. It is up to you to make sure that you choose the one that offers adequate water storage, cooking facilities and other amenities that serve your requirements. So just get hold of the perfect RV and zoom out for an enriching RV camping experience.

Alfred Anderson has rich experience in the field of online brand marketing. His interests includes Internet marketing and research on emerging online business trends. Recreational Vehicle

Camping Apparel: What To And Not To Wear

2007-02-06T09:15:00.000-08:00

By Julio Marice

If you take inappropriate clothes with you when you go camping with your family then it can turn out to be a disaster. We can wear the kind of clothes we want, when we are home, which will be suitable for the weather there. On the other hand when you go camping, the clothes that you wear at home will not be sufficient to shield you nor keep you comfy. It is a known fact that nature does not always make things easy for the venturers.

Therefore in order to make sure that you have a pleasant camping adventure, make sure that you are fully clothed against all odds. In the recent years, a lot of camping clothes are available in the market to make you comfortable and protect you when you go camping. Nevertheless, with the excess supply of camping clothes you may get confused as to what kind of clothes are right for you.

Given below are the kind of clothes you should get from the stores in order to keep you comfortable during your trip and the technologies following these clothes. It is essential that you know the features so that you will know how these technologies can help you when you are outdoor.

The materials

The most common material that you can choose when you go camping consists of the technologies that will permit the water to pass through the material yet it doesn’t allow the water to go into it. From the time when man started to produce clothes for camping, trekking and the like; the major crisis that they had to face was to draw away the wetness from the exterior of the skin in order to avoid wearing wet clothes and which can make you comfortable during the bad weather. The new clothes will have to achieve this along with keeping the dampness away from the body. The new clothing is required to have some water-resistant features.

As an answer to this, the producers have revealed three technologies in the field of outdoor and sports attire. These are microporous laminates, microporous coatings, and monolithic membranes. These three materials permit the water vapor to getaway yet preventing the moisture from getting into the skin of the campers. More heat is created when you work hard and as a result, the water vapor is driven away. This is quite a remarkable technology.

It will be helpful if you search for attires with such technologies. You will be dry and comfy and will be able to retain a good temperature particularly during extremely cold weather.

Nylon or Polyester?

One of the most preferred materials among the people for the purpose of outdoor wear is nylon. The reason for such preference is its scratch-proof properties and it can tolerate the deterioration caused by most outdoor activities. Moreover, nylon is light and allows the passage of air and moisture. On the other hand, polyester is also not far from nylon. It is gradually becoming an alternative to nylon since it keeps the person warm and it soak less water as compared to the former material. Always go for the latest variety of the materials. Opt for nylon in order to be on the safe side, the latest polyester types will also do.

Keeping you warm

The one most important requirement for people who are planning to go camping is the kind of clothes that can keep them warm even during severely cold weather. Like we discussed earlier, nylon or polyester in combination with the latest micro pore technology can keep a person warm and comfortable. But in case of an extremely cold weather, you will require additional materials in order to keep yourself away from the cold.

The biggest problem that arises while selecting clothes for camping is whether you should get down or synthetic fill clothes. Down provides the most comfort and warmth and is normally chosen by most families when they go camping. The down-side of down fill clothes is that when it rains, these clothes will take a long time to dry off. On the other hand, synthetic fill clothes will provide sufficient warmth and it can also dry off quickly. The downside of this material is that they are heavier than down fill clothes.

An average material for camping is fleece. In opposition to intuition, fleece can keep a person warm even if it is wet. Fleece keeps moisture away from the skin as well as keeping a person dry and comfy. Moreover, they are soft and comfortable to touch.

Conclusion

While looking out for clothes that you can wear during your camping trip, keep in mind the technologies that are mentioned above. These technologies keep you warm, dry and comfy. Find out about each and every option you have and go for those that meets your camping requirements.

Julio Marice is involved with an online camping project that informs and educates the camping enthusiast through well-written articles. Discover great camping tips, camping tent reviews, camping supply reviews, and much more! http://www.camping-tips.org/

Backyard Camping Trip

2007-02-06T09:09:00.000-08:00

By Susanne Myers

Are your kids begging you to take them camping, but you just can’t find the time to take them on a camping trip? Or would you like to introduce your kids to the fun of camping for the first time, but aren’t sure if they will enjoy it, or might get scared? Either way, camping out in your backyard will be a fun way to spend the evening and night with your kids.

Get the kids involved in setting up camp in your backyard. Have them help you set up the tent. Put them in charge of getting their sleeping bags, flashlights and anything else they may need into the tent. If it’s an option for you, you may even want to make a campfire in your backyard. Check with your fire department before hand if this is an option in your area. If not, just dig out the charcoal or gas grill. Grill some hotdogs and make some foil backed potatoes for dinner, and of course you’ll need some s’mores for desert. If you are roasting the marshmallows over your grill, put some aluminum foil over the grate to keep the melting marshmallow from dripping onto your grill.

Don’t have a tent, or even a backyard for that matter? That’s no reason not to camp out. Just spread out your sleeping bags, or even just some blanket in the living room. Turn off the TV, radio and video games. If you have a fireplace, build a fire. Otherwise, order some pizza and pop some popcorn and you can even make s’mores in the microwave.

No matter where you decide to have your close to home camping trip, take some time to sit together and talk. Telling stories, whether a campfire is involved or not, is always fun. Your kids’ imagination in creating new stories may surprise you. Don’t forget to tell some handed down family tales.

Above all, think back about your favorite camping memories and recreate them with your kids. Do you remember any good scary stories? Are there any games you enjoyed playing? What’s your favorite card game?

Have some fun with this, enjoy your kids and create some memories.

About the author
Susanne Myers is the founder of http://www.kinderinfo.com. Did you find this information useful and helpful? Be sure to sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter so you can recceive our child care tips and family fun ideas right in your inbox! Sign up today at http://www.kinderinfo.com/newsletter and receive a FREE copy of our latest e-book, Summer Fun!

Quick Camping Checklist

2007-01-30T09:48:00.000-08:00

By Gabriel J. Adams

Whether you're a first time camper, or an experienced wilderness explorer, it is helpful to have a basic checklist of essential gear. Of course, don't forget that you may need other equipment, based on the specifics of your trip.

Tent or shelter – Most people will want to take a tent, but you can also use a tarp or other open shelter to keep the rain and dew off of you. If it will be cold, though, you'll probably be thankful for the extra protection a tent offers. Don't forget to bring a fly or tarp to keep rain out of your tent.

Groundcloth – Bring a tarp or plastic keep moisture from seeping up through the tent floor, unless your tent has a built in groundcloth.

Sleeping Bag – Check that your sleeping bag is rated appropriately for the weather you are going camping in. You don't want to take a -30 rated sleeping bag on a summer camping trip, or vice versa.

Stove – Unless you plan to cook over a campfire, you'll need a camping stove and fuel. Of course, whether you use a stove or a fire, you'll need matches or a lighter.

Food – You don't want to be without that!

Water – Bring plenty of water. In some cases you'll need to bring enough to extinguish your campfire.

Apparel – You'll want a coat or raincoat to protect yourself from the elements, depending on the weather. A hat is another essential. Other than that, the main rule of thumb is that it's better to wear layers of clothing, so you can easily adjust for the temperature.

Pack – If you're hiking in to your camping spot, you'll need a pack large enough to hold all of your gear. Otherwise, you'll just need a day pack or fanny pack for day excursions.

Basic gear – You should at least bring: Knife or Multi-tool Saw or axe Rope Compass and map First aid kit Snake bite kit

Keep in mind that this list is just a basic list – you'll find other items that you need as you start camping.

Getting ready for a camping trip? Visit Outdoorsandin.com for all your gear!

Tips For Choosing A Camping Spot

2007-01-30T09:42:00.000-08:00

by Gabriel J. Adams

Planning on going camping? Great! One of the first things you need to do is choose a spot. Here are several factors you should consider when choosing a camping spot, as well as a few tips for finding a good one.

Accessibility
How are you going to get to your camping spot? Is it a “drive up camping spot” or is access via a foot trail. If access is via a foot trail, I would suggest finding a spot with a half mile or less hike for your first trip.

Views / Attractions
What's at the camping spot? Does it have good views? No sense going and camping in a boring place when there are many beautiful camping spots available.

Water
Does your camping spot have access to clean water? If not, you'll have to pack in all of the water you need, including plenty to put out the fire with.

Firewood
Is there access to firewood at the camping spot. If you want a campfire, you don't want to have to carry in the wood you'll need! Be sure that you are allowed to harvest firewood for the area you are going. In most areas, you are allowed to pick up dead wood, but not cut down live trees. Live trees do not burn well, anyway.

Campability
If you're going into “uncharted areas” or plan on camping where there is no established camping spot, be sure that the terrain is such that you can pitch your tent without rolling down a hillside or sleeping on the rocks all night.

Tips for finding a spot
Here are a few places you can start looking for camping spots:
Local state parks
Local national forests
Your local city/county water supply lake
Ask friends who camp
Search online for “camping your state here” etc.

Be safe...and have fun!

Visit Outdoors And In for all your camping gear: http://www.outdoorsandin.com/camping.html

Lights For Camping

2007-01-30T09:29:00.000-08:00

Recently, flashlights which use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) instead of conventional light bulbs have become available. LEDs have existed for decades, mainly as low-power indicator lights. In 1999, Lumileds Corporation of San Jose, CA introduced the Luxeon LED, a high-power white-light emitter. For the first time this made possible LED flashlights with power and running time better than some incandescent lights. The first Luxeon LED flashlight was the Arc LS in 2001.

LEDs can be significantly more efficient at lower power levels, hence use less battery energy than normal light bulbs. Such flashlights have longer battery lifetimes, in some cases hundreds of hours, although the LED efficiency advantage diminishes at higher power levels. LEDs also survive sharp blows that often break conventional light bulbs.

LED flashlights are often electronically regulated to maintain constant light output as the batteries fade. By contrast a non-regulated flashlight becomes progressively dimmer, sometimes spending much of the total running time below 50 percent brightness level.

A common misconception about LED-based flashlights is that they generate no heat. While lower-power LED flashlights generate little heat, more powerful LED lights do generate significant amounts of heat. For this reason higher-powered LED flashlights usually have metal bodies and can become warm during use.

A headlamp is a flashlight worn on the head for hands-free operation. Powerful headlamps mounted on helmets have been used in mining for decades, but general-purpose ones with fabric straps are now also available.

Sometimes a light is mounted to a handgun or rifle.

Most flashlights are cylindrical in design, with the lamp assembly attached to one end. However, early designs came in a variety of shapes. Many resembled lanterns of the day, consisting largely of a box with a handle and the lamp attached to the front. Some others were made to have a similar appearance to candles. It is possible that future developments of battery and LED technology will bring interesting new designs. For instance, one very small light that exists now in 2004 consists of a few LEDs with a switch, designed to be an end cap for a 9-volt battery.

High-quality flashlights go for as much as several hundreds of dollars. Such flashlights are very advanced, using special batteries, have adjustable brightness levels, dive-depth waterproof ratings, interchangeable optics, and are very bright.

Lantern is another important source of light while camping. Some lanterns are battery-powered and have simple light bulbs, but bright and efficient electric lanterns will employ a specialized power supply to operate a fluorescent type. They are easy to use and comparatively durable, but less bright than propane or liquid fuel lanterns. Depending on the design, these lanterns may use disposable batteries, rechargeable replaceable batteries, or permanently-installed rechargeable batteries and either require battery replacement, or if rechargeable and not constantly plugged in must be brought to full charge every few months by plugging in.

Some rechargeable fluorescent lanterns may be plugged in at all times and may be set up to illuminate upon a power failure, a useful feature in some applications. During extensive power failures (or for remote use), supplemental recharging may be provided from an automobile's twelve volt electrical system or from a modest solar powered charger.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant for http://www.WarGear.info. WarGear.info carries the best selection of military clothing, war gear, and combat accessories on the market.

A Safe Camping Adventure Starts With the Right Camping Gear

2007-01-30T09:14:00.000-08:00

by Chris Robertson

No matter what the season, camping can be a wondrous experience and a welcome relief from the cramped confines of city life. With the proper preparation and camping gear, hikes and overnight stays in the outdoors can rejuvenate the mind and body. Unfortunately, poor planning can result in accidents, exposure, and injuries. To get the most out of your camping experience, follow these simple guidelines:

* Expect the unexpected. Before you depart, give some thought to worst-case scenarios and how you would deal with those emergencies. For example, discuss with your traveling companions the options for an encounter with a bear, or what to do if one of you gets lost.

* Communicate. Email copies of your itinerary to family members and post on one your refrigerator. Be sure to sign in and out when using a campground, and sign in and out with a ranger prior to starting a wilderness hike. Should something go amiss, your movements can more easily be tracked. Consider purchasing two-way radios for you and your traveling companions to use on your trip. If someone does get lost, they'll have a way to communicate.

* Bring the right camping gear. Don't let sudden weather changes catch you off-guard. Waterproof backpacks and tents, as well as cold weather sleeping bags, will minimize your exposure and ensure a pleasant camping experience.

* Pack the right clothes. The right camping gear includes the right clothing. Layer clothes for optimum comfort, so you can add or remove layers as the temperature changes. Be sure to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket and pants.

* Know where you're going. Getting lost in the wilderness is frightening and potentially deadly. Make sure you have detailed maps of the area, including a topographical map, and consider taking along a GPS system and two-way radios. Also pack a whistle, so you can signal if necessary.

* Beware of the critters. Insect bites and stings can ruin a great trip. Use DEET-based insect repellent, and re-apply as needed. At the end of each day, check for ticks - especially behind the ears, under the arms, and in the groin area - as they are carriers of Lyme disease. When selecting a site to stow your camping gear, stay away from the berry bushes, a prime foraging area for bears.

* Practice fire safety. Fire is always a potential hazard. Keep your campfire as small as is feasible. If possible, utilize a fire pit that others have previously used. Make sure the pit has a ring of rocks around it, and never build a fire pit where there are overhanging branches. Keep a bucket of water near the fire, and have someone station near a burning fire at all times to keep watch over it.

With the right camping gear and preparation, your getaway is sure to be a success!

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Visit this Recreation Website and Majon's Recreation directory.

Winter Camping

2007-01-30T09:10:00.000-08:00

By Elizabeth Morgan

Winter camping consists of camping outdoors during the winter season. It can be a lot of fun, but is also a lot more dangerous than summer camping. A lot of planning and adequate precautions have to be taken before setting out on a winter camping trip.

The effort put into planning and the precautions taken can be the difference between life and death, in certain circumstances.

Winter camping also requires a certain level of experience and specialized equipment. Being aware of the hazards reduces the risk levels considerably.

Before setting out, it is advisable to spend a good deal of time conducting some research on the area and the conditions to find out how, when and where the trip will work. Here is a checklist for some of things to research.

The route (a trail, off-trail, or both), level of snow (shallow or deep), quality of snow (variable, breakable, powder, or packed), mode of travel (walking, snowshoeing, or skiing), changes in elevation along the trail (whether you'll spend more time going up or down), size, strength, and experience of the group.

One important thing to remember is that everything takes almost twice as long during the winter. Researching emergency plans and other methods to bail out in case of trouble are critical.

The importance of proper clothing equipment cannot be stressed enough. Wool makes for great clothing equipment. It is quite inexpensive and keeps the wearer warm. It can be woven tightly to make it wind resistant. The disadvantage of wool is that it can tend to get quite heavy when wet.

Fleece or Pile fabrics are synthetic materials made out of plastic and contain the same insulating properties of wool. Their design allows them to be worn in many layers. The disadvantage here is that their wind resistance properties are very poor.

All other essential equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, food, water, stoves, and other things should be chosen keeping in mind the cold weather conditions.

Proper protection of the body and the supplies is absolutely critical and all safety precautions must be followed in order to experience a safe trip.

Camping provides detailed information on Camping, Beach Camping Parks, Camping Gear, Camping Equipment and more. Camping is affiliated with Colorado Dude Ranches.

Beach Camping Parks

2007-01-30T08:53:00.000-08:00

by Nina Romanov

Our favorite is South Carolina’s beach Camping Myrtle park, state owned campground. We love sitting outside our van camper watching the sunrise and or sunset over the ocean. It is one of the most awesome sights we’ve ever seen. The first time was so amazing that I forgot to take a picture, even though I had the camera in my hand. Our family thinks we are crazy because we enjoy watching approaching storms.

Until we discovered beach camping my husband and I loved camping in the mountains of the U.S. and Canada. When we discovered the joys of beach camping, especially at Florida beach parks, that changed. These beach parks with their well maintained campground, swimming pools, pristine beaches, full hook ups, boat docks and wireless internet access, the parks rival some of the area finest hotels in amenities at a lower cost.

One of the perks of beach camping parks is that you can enjoy a variety of activities fishing, swimming, water and jet skiing and boating, or you can enjoy a rousing game of beach volleyball. If you prefer you can just lounge on the beach soaking up the sun.

Did you know that there are RV park for folks over 55? So if you want to vacation without having lot of kids kicking up sand and making noise, look for an over 55 beach camping park.

How can you find the right beach camping park I the area you want to visit? Until now you would have to spend days searching the web for links to beach camping RV parks, or else spend money to buy guide books for each state and area trying to locate the perfect beach campground.

Not anymore! There is a new internet subscriber system online, the Lifetime Subscription - World Wide Beach Camping Parks Directory of over 100 beach parks in the U.S. and all over including Great Britain, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and in other part of the world.

My husband found this service and used it to book a site for us at a lake side beach camping park in New York state’s beautiful Adirondack Mountains. We will be going in October so that we can experience nature’s fall foliage show of color and fish in the lake.

Why not make your next RV trip a beach camping park visit. Use this subscription directory to locate the park that best fits your preferences.

With the help of the directory we hope to find a beach park in Florida or California o that we can get rid of the winter blues and relax on the beach while enjoying some sunshine. We also hope to meet up with old friends and maybe make some new ones.

We found the directory so helpful that we have given gift subscriptions to our friends Jack and Nan and for our neighbor and friend Joe and his family.

If you prefer a freshwater campsite to the ocean, consider using the directory to find a freshwater beach camping park. Illinois has some of the best fresh water beach campgrounds in the United States.

Do you prefer tent camping to RV camping? This directory will help you locate beach parks that will accommodate you and still allow you to enjoy all of the park’s amenities.

If you want to find the best beach camping parks that have all the right amenities, I’d suggest you sign up for the Lifetime Access World Wide Beach Camping Directory.

Find more about camping here : http://www.pop-up-campers-trailer.com

Nina is an expert freelance writer. She is a cake decorator and a certified naturopath. Presently she is happily RV-ing with her husband.

Wal-Mart Camping And Other Free Places

2007-01-30T08:43:00.000-08:00

By Steven Gillman

"Do you know about Wal-Mart camping?" We didn't know, but the old man at the campground in Florida insisted WalMart not only allowed RVs and vans to park overnight, but encouraged it. "Free camping," he told us, and we didn't wait long to take advantage of this new knowledge.

Somewhere in northern Georgia we pulled into a Wal-Mart, and sure enough, we saw some RVs off to one side of the parking lot, looking like they were there for the night. We were heading back to Michigan in our conversion van, and free camping sounded good to us. We parked, plugged in our 5-inch T.V., and settled in for the night. Nobody bothered us. In the morning we used the bathrooms inside, and bought some orange juice.

The next night we camped for free again, this time at a "Flying J" truckstop. There were RVs camping there as well. You'll find Flying J Truckstops all over, and they actively court the RV crowd, counting on gas and other sales. We filled our tank there in the morning, and bought some food as well. As long as campers stay out of the way of the truckers, free camping is likely to continue.

Other Free Camping Places

Generally, you can camp free on any BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, unless it's specifically forbidden in an area. This is also true of National Forest lands. In both cases you're limited to a stay of two weeks in one place, though this rule is not always enforced, and the next two-week place might have to be only a hundred yards away. State forest lands are usually open to free camping without permits, but policies vary by state (The two-week rule seems to be common).

We camped in our van for ten days at Williams Landing, east of Tallahassee, Florida, on Lake Talquin. It's a beautiful place, with hot showers. Our cost? Zero, and you can stay up to two weeks. There are free campgrounds scattered around the country. Ask an RVer about this, or buy a Woodall's directory from any large RV dealer.

Note: Wal-mart seems to encourage the campers, except in coastal areas where too many RVer's want to live in a parking lot. Don't roll out the carpet and put out lawn furniture like one traveler we heard about, or you may ruin it for all. Some stay for a week at a time, going out all day to see the sights (and so they don't wear out their welcome). Wal-mart gets business from the campers, but they'll only continue their policy if they don't have problems, so keep it low-key.

To find a Wal-Mart in the area you're traveling to, visit Walmart.com. Scroll down to the "store finder" link to search. Thank you for camping at Wal-Mart!

Steve Gillman hit the road at sixteen, and traveled the U.S. and Mexico alone at 17. Now 40, he travels with his wife Ana, whom he met in Ecuador. To read their stories, tips and travel information, visit: http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com

Camping With Coyotes

2006-11-14T10:47:00.000-08:00

By: Steve Gillman

Van camping became one of our favorite activities when my wife Ana and I bought our conversion van. We had no tent to set up, and no problem with rain or wind. We could explore all day without worries, then find any beautiful spot to park for the night. Our bed was ready in the back.

It is sometime surprising what you find when you explore without any itinerary. There are many forgotten places that few people go to, but are still accessible by van. This is especially true in the north country, like in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Unlike the hiking required to get away from the crowds in popular parks, theses are places where there is true "drive-in wilderness."

It was in October, and we carried a book of county maps with us, so we could find the little dirt roads in the national forests and other lands of the "U.P." Thirty minutes north of the little town of Ishpeming, we came into an area owned by the Mead Paper Company. Mead has a number of tree "plantations," which they generously leave open to the public.

"Grapevine plantation" is where we eventually stopped, in the middle of a thousand acres of three-foot high trees. We found a clearing a hundred feet off the road, and parked the van there. We didn't move it for two days. Two cars went by while we were camping there.

It might seem a strange choice for a campsite. It was out in the open, not near water, and almost next to a dirt road. It was strange, but that was part of the appeal. In any case, there was no traffic, we had woods were nearby for hiking, and it was free. A breeze kept the mosquitoes away, and we had a fire both nights. The silence was amazing, as were the stars. There weren't even any planes flying overhead here.

Our second day we hiked up into the hills and woods to the north. The trees had on their fall colors, and the air was cool. We saw no one that day. We had the woods to ourselves, and even had waterfalls to ourselves. These we discovered when we went off the small trail, and we gave them our own names, since they had none according to the maps we had.

Camping With Coyotes

As we sat by the fire talking that night, I discovered a unique feature of this place. The immediate area was flat, but was surrounded by rocky hills, which created the most awesome echoes. Not just normal echoes, but echoes that rolled on and on.

I howled like a wolf, which scared Ana. Wolves or coyotes howled back in the distance, which scared her more. I continued to encourage the coyotes until my voice was tired. We relaxed and watched the shooting stars, as the coyotes almost certainly watched us from the woods. When at last the fire died down, we climbed into the van and laid watching the sky through the windows. This was van camping at its best.

About The Author

Copyright Steve Gillman. For travel stories, tips and a free Travel Secrets e-book, visit: http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com

Choosing The Right Tent And Enjoy Your Camping Trip

2006-11-14T10:45:00.000-08:00

By: Peter Mack

Whoever you are, whatever your walk of life, camping is a brilliant way to spend your weekends and vacations. After all, camping truly does let you get away from it all. When you are hiking deep in the forest, or fishing by a lake, there are no phones ringing off the hook, or deadlines to meet. On a camping expedition, you are totally free of the pressures and stresses of modern life.

Whether you are a newcomer to camping, or a seasoned ‘old hand’ having the right equipment is critical to enjoying your time in the great outdoors. Choosing the right tent is one of the most important decisions you can make when outfitting yourself for camping.

Before you shop for your new tent, there are a number of things to consider. Firstly, the type of tent you will need varies according to the number of people you are planning to house, and what activity you are involved in. Tents come in a range of sizes, from single person tents, to very large multi-person varieties. If you are planning to hike, you will need to carry your tent whilst you walk, so a small, light weight tent will be required. If you intend to pitch your campsite at a fixed location accessible by car, you could opt for a larger, heavier weight model.

Another consideration will be the season and weather conditions that you expect to encounter. Each tent is designed to maintain a high level of human comfort in a specific type of environment, so you need to be clear whether you will be camping in the winter or summer, mild or inclement weather.

Other factors to consider are the strength of both the structure and the material of your tent. For instance, you can opt for cotton, polyethylene, nylon, rip-stop nylon, double sewn seams, and heavy-duty zippers. Whatever the fabric, your tent must be fit to stand extreme weather, even if you are not expecting to encounter poor conditions. Be sure to buy one that is totally seam taped to avoid leaking in the rain.

Ideally you should select a tent that meets all these requirements, and is easy to erect and deconstruct as well. After all, you want to spend your time enjoying the wilderness, not spending hours pitching a tent!

Talking to staff at your local outdoor outfitting store is a good start to finding the perfect tent for you.

About The Author

Peter Mack writes for http://www.tents-advice.com, a website packed with articles and resources about choosing the right tent

Benefits of Having a Camping Mattress

2006-11-14T10:43:00.000-08:00

By: Morgan Hamilton

There is something about these camps that simply revolts everyone - the uncomfortable sleeping conditions. For some they are the deciding factor, important enough to disuade them from the whole affair of being united with nature for a week. Sleeping in bags can be a hideous thing, it causes back aches, neck aches, let alone the fact that those bags keep slipping so that you spend the whole night being partly uncovered. The second option may be a camping bad: an opportunity, which means that you have to drag the bed to the camp, it takes a lot of space, and may be really heavy. The third option is to have a camping mattress with you.

Are camping mattresses any different, you may ask yourself as a seriously-troubled camper. Well, yes, they can be a bit cosier, but you have to search hard to find the proper type. There are several types of camping mattresses, but not all of them give you the feeling of completion and heavy sleep, which is expected from a sleeping stuff. There are commonplace mattresses. They are with floating air but are quite uncomfortable when it comes to bumping: they make large and uneven bunk, which makes it ridiculous to sleep at all. They are hard to fill up with air as well.

The second type is the inflatable camping mattress, which is somehow easier to inflate. It is cosy, and it takes no space. It can be huddled at the back of your car, and you will never notice it. Inflatable mattresses were somehow expensive in the past, but recently they’ve come in action, so that there are price discounts. You may find them either in markets or on the Internet. You’d better buy an inflatable camping mattress with a separate pump, as this will ease your life. A separate pump means that you can pump it on the camp itself, and all will depend on your will. It is really easy to pump, it takes about a minute to be ready, and about less than a minute to remove the air.

Queen size mattresses are another good option. They are bigger, and even cosier. Whichever type of camp mattress you choose, make sure it is proper for your needs, and it fits in your tent of course, so that it doesn’t stick out of it after pumping with air and expose you to all of nature's pesky pests.

About The Author

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning leisure and recreation. Learn more at Camping Mattress.

Camping Checklist

2006-11-14T10:42:00.000-08:00

By: Kadence Buchanan

Last time I went camping, I wish I had been more resourceful to "spice up" the most exciting adventure I have experienced during my stay at one of the best camping facilities I have ever visited; that of a sandy beach. Although I always leave my house to go camping after checking everything from my list of things I wanted to take and I make sure that my car gas will last for at least some considerable part of the journey, I prefer while being at the camping spot of my choice, not to do plan or schedule anything. Just do whatever I feel like whenever I feel like it.

But people do not always agree with my plans and this is usually the time when each one has to find his or her own tree to place the tent that will host his or her existence for the duration of the trip. This is not a joke. When I reach my destination and check my camping list I try to relax completely and avoid organizing every single moment of my vacations. In case people wish to continue doing so, I have no objection but I will simply not follow if I do not wish to. So, regardless of the kind of camper you are, I would strongly recommend for you to consider making your own camping checklist and use it every time you are getting ready to for your next camping adventure. A little advanced planning will make your camping trip easier and your life simpler. Then it is always feasible to forget the organizational freak you hide inside somewhere across the shore and enjoy your vacations accompanied by your closest friends and partner.

There are several categories of gear you might need, so it is better if you begin by categorizing items according to their main category: basics, fire building, dinning and cooking, lighting, and miscellaneous equipment or extra items you might not think of carrying with until you realize you needed them.

Among the basic items is the tent, a sleeping bag, a simple camping stove, food and water. But apart from the necessary items, other gear can accommodate you during your camping time and help you feel more like home. For example, your list may include, plastic ground sheets, an air mattress, plastic storage boxes, blanket, folding tables and chairs, pillows, a first aid kit, rope and scissors, a well-working knife, a hummer and a shovel, sunscreen, toilet paper, insect repellent spray, towels and washcloths. For your kitchen supplies you might need a can and a bottle opener, cookware, cutlery for preparing food, a lighter/matches, the appropriate fuel for the camping stove, dishwashing detergent, a coffee maker, a thermos, tablecloth, a pot holder, utensils, plastic garbage bags and aluminum foil.

In addition, if you wish to be able to see where you are going during the night it is important for you to bring more than one flashlight and plenty of batteries. Before buying lamps make sure you can carry the gas or liquid they use. Moreover, you will probably need to pack a screwdriver, a bottle and a can opener, a pair of tweezers and scissors. Miscellaneous things include a sewing kit, reading material (I would put this right after the tent), paper and pen (and then this would follow) or a battery-operated clock.

About The Author

Kadence Buchanan writes articles on many topics including Outdoors, Food, and Nutrition.

Tips For Finding Camping Showers

2006-11-14T10:38:00.000-08:00

By: Morgan Hamilton

There is one overriding concern when talking about camping, and that is hygiene. Going camping means that you have to spend several days or weeks with no clear idea what your shower conditions will be. Getting dirty in the open is something that usually happens the first hour you go outside, so camping showers are especially essential when talking about having a good time. Camping always includes a lot of adventure in the wild nature outdoors, and this is inevitably matched with sweat, dirt, mud, and whatever disgusting stuff you can imagine on your body and clothes.

Some public camps do indeed offer you a place for showering. But this means that they are meant to give no privacy in other ways. Camps that include shower service usually put you in the middle of a dozen unknown strangers that are camping together with you. Public camps are by no means a refreshing vacation. You get no privacy, you hear all the noise other campers make, you can go at no place where you are totally sure no-one will spring out of the bushes during you’re on a romantic picnic with your mate. Public camps are only suitable for groups of people, which hire the whole camping site for themselves, they know each other and can enjoy being so close together, as well as fully enjoy the camp showers.

But what would other people who strive for privacy do? Go together deep in the forest and stay barbaric for days? There are some opportunities, which you can avail of when camping together with your friends or family. When on a remote camp, you can make use of the plain bucket of water. It is convenient, water is warmed by the sun and you can fully enjoy cleaning with such an environment-friendly tool. But if you like real shower with pouring water, perhaps you can use another installation. The shower bags, which are filled up with water and hung on a tree bough, were a great option in the past. The water again being warmed by the sun, the shower bag’s bottom had a spigot made to pour the water outside. The switch controls the turning on and off. The whole installation could easily be hidden by a blanket, which ensured some privacy for the shy nature lovers.

But what if there was no sun and the whole vacation is spoiled by cloudy or semi-cloudy weather? Well, your opportunities for getting a shower in this case are the following: either you wait you the rain to come, or you use the sophisticated camping shower models. Their big priority is that they offer warm water for everyone, no matter what the weather conditions are, and no matter how many people are going to take a shower. One camping shower provides pop up sides and a heavy mesh flooring to stand on. The sides are made of mesh that allows air flow, but you cannot see into the camping shower from the outside (which is good when it comes to taking away those revealing blankets and getting some real feeling of being alone). The improvement of camping showers means that there are more and more new showering models being sold. You can really avail of them and enjoy a nice and, what is more, CLEAN holiday in the private camps.

About The Author

Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning leisure and recreation. Learn more at Camping Showers.

Mt. Kenya Climbing and mountain camping experience

2006-11-14T10:35:00.000-08:00

by: Robert Muhoho

Mount Kenya presents the perfect destination for adventure. It is an extinct volcano some tree and half million years old. Straddling the Equator, the mountain offers a unique mosaic of forest, moorland, rock and ice, and is crowned by the glittering twin peaks of Batain (5,199m) and Nelion (5,188m). Believed to be the sacred home of Ngai, God of the kikuyu people, Mount Kenya is Kenya’s highest mountain, a climber’s mecca, the nation’s namesake, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mt. Kenya is a popular destination locally and internationally for a holiday. It lies 175km north of Nairobi and is easily accessible from Nanyuki, through the Naro Moru gate or Sirimon gate. Travelers from the Meru/Embu region can use the Chogoria gate.

The advantage with the Nanyuki side is that it is you can sample the delights of both Mt.Kenya and the Aberdares. Nanyuki is an old colonial town with many holiday facilities that can cater for diverse budgets. For those keen on wildlife viewing, the Mt. Kenya National Park may not be the best as it is heavily forested and harder to see the animals, expect for the occasional encounter. It may therefore be wiser to visit the surrounding wildlife ranches like the Sweet Waters Game Sanctuary which is just 15km from Nanyuki town. The ranch has unique and rare animals like the grevy zebra and reticulated giraffe. It is also Kenya’s only chimpanzee sanctuary.

Other popular attractions include the only known tame rhino in Kenya, called Morani, and this offers a unique chance to touch, hug or even kiss a black rhino. The big five can be seen here on a game drive. Another ranch where wildlife can be viewed easily is the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Isiolo. Lewa is also easily accessible from Nanyuki. It offers a diversity of unique and rare wildlife just like Sweet Waters. Lewa, a community conservation project, is popular for the annual marathon it hosts. Both ranches have accommodation – pricey though – and advance booking is recommended.

The giant forest hog, tress hyrax, white-tailed mongoose, elephant, black rhino, suni, black-fronted duiker, bongo, leopard, Mt. Kenya mouse shrew, hyrax, and the endemic mole rat are found in the Mt.Kenya National Park. However, you need extreme patience and luck to see these animals in the thick forest. The park’s topography requires a 4WD vehicle. Those who want to climb Mt.Kenya can drive to Sirimon gate, which is well labeled, about 16km from Nanyuki. Most of us cannot conquer the mountain within two days of our holiday, a feat better left to the professional mountain climbers. However, the non professionals among us can arrange for a half-day climbing excursion up to some designated point from where we can have a panoramic view of Laikipia and get a feel of the mountain climate.

It is relaxing experience. However, do not attempt it on your own. Let a guide show you the way and assists with carrying of luggage. This gives you a chance to join other enthusiasts and climb as a group, which makes it more thrilling. Nanyuki town has accommodation to suit every pocket – from the five-star Mt.Kenya Safari Club, to Ibis Hotel in the town centre, which offers good meals and clean rooms.

You might opt to stay at the Warden’s Cottage near the Naro Moru gate in Mt.Kenya National Park. The cottage was built in 1972 by former warden Bill Woodley and until 1998, was home to the park’s wardens. These are two bedrooms, one with a double and a single bed and the other with two single beds. There is a bathroom with hot water bath/shower and a tastefully furnished sitting room. You could also stay at the Sirimon Banda, pleasantly situated in open grassland adjacent to the Sirimon gate. It has two semi-detached units in one attractive stone banda. Each unit has two bedrooms, one with a double bed and the other with two single beds. Each unit also has a shower room (hot water) and WC, and a furnished sitting room with a log fireplace and doors leading to a small veranda. The house provides a caretaker, kerosene lamp, bedding, and toiletries. Both houses can be booked through the Kenya Wildlife Service or travel agent.

For those who love to camp, campsite with picnic tables, water and a pit latrine are offered at the park’s entrance gates – Naro Moru, Sirimon and Chogoria. However, you need your own firewood. Road head campsites are offers at Mackinders Camp, Shipton’s Camp, and Minto’s Hut (water and pit latrines provided; no fires allowed). Peak circuit campsite are offered at the Australian Hut and Top Hut and Kami and Two Tarn campsites (water and pit latrines provided, no fires allowed). Other places to stay in the area include Meru Mt.Kenya Bandas; The Serena Mountain Lodge; Naro Moru River Lodge; Mountain Roc Bantu Hotel; Castle Forest Lodge; Rutunda Log Cabins and Sportsman Arms Hotel. Advance booking is advised in most of these.

About The Author

Robert Muhoho is a tour consultant in Kenya and has planned business and vacation safaris for over 10,000 tourists in the East African region. He is a tour operation- major and involved in National tourism policy development in Kenya.

For more information please visit:
http://www.landmarksafaris.com/planner/
http://www.eastafricasafari.blogspot.com/

TENTS – AN INSIGHT INTO CAMPING TENTS

2006-11-14T09:53:00.000-08:00

A camping tent is one of the most important utility items you need to carry if you are planning to spend time in the outdoors. It is important for you to choose the right type of tent. Most camping tents not only vary in quality and color or size but there are specific tents available for specific regions and climatic conditions too. There are some tents, which are extremely effective for sub zero temperatures while others are good for tropical forest climatic condition.

Before you buy your tent, you need to draw up a checklist of points which will help you make the right decision. The first and the foremost deciding factor is the climatic region. You need to identify what are the climatic conditions of the region you are planning to visit. If you are planning to go to the Alps, then you need to choose a tent that will keep you warm and also provide good ventilation. If you are planning to go to Amazon, then you need a tent that will have good ventilation, will keep away mosquitoes and at the same time save you from getting wet in the rain. You can’t use the same tent in Alps as well as the Amazon. But there are tents available in the market, which are multipurpose and can work well in all weather conditions like the Coleman Sundome® Tent.

The second consideration is the number of people traveling. If you are traveling in a group then you will require a bigger tent unless everyone wants to have their own solo tent for privacy. However large capacity tents allow you to accommodate more people while occupying less space in comparison to solo tents. Another thing to consider here is the budget. With Christmas round the corner, it is vacation time and most people are thinking of celebrating it in style. Christmas always heralds the season of sale everywhere. You can pick up most Coleman tents for a good discount. In fact you can even buy a Coleman tent to give it to your friend, family member, and travel mate or to indulge yourself.

Coleman tents have been a leading name where quality and price competitiveness is concerned. Some of the best sellers by Coleman are the Sundome® Tent, Cimmaron® Plus Vestibule Tent, Aries™ 2, Krypton™ 2, Cloudview™ 2, Inyo™ Solo, Red Canyon™, Fossil Creek™ and others. Each tent has its own uniqueness. Coleman tents also offer special Kids tent. For more information or to buy tents online, log on to www.summitcampinggear.com

So if you are vacationing with your family and want to set up camp by the river creek, then you can have separate tents for your kids. The size of the kids dome tents is 6' x 5' and it will accommodate 2 children. It has durable nylon walls with fiberglass frame and has a completely water resistant floor. You don’t have to leave your children with their nanny this vacation; you can take them along and enjoy the true treasure of nature with Coleman tents.

Camping Lanterns -- Experience The Great Outdoors In Style

2006-11-10T12:44:00.000-08:00

By: Luke Cameron
Is your work taking a toll on you? Well, you no longer need to fear for your sanity. There is a sure way for you to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city life - camping! There is nothing more relaxing than communing with nature once in a while. But before you leave for the great outdoors, check all the necessities first. Preparing for a camping trip does not begin and end with getting a tent and a sleeping bag. You will need supplies such as waterproof matches for some warmth and for cooking, bug spray to help you avoid those creepy crawlers, extra clothing , food and water. And don't forget to bring a good camping lantern. Once you have these items, you are ready to take on the great outdoors. In the good old days, people are not very fussy with the supplies they bring during camping. If they have a blanket, a canteen, a knife and clothes on their backs, they're ready for some adventure. However, this is not the "in" thing anymore. More people would want to camp in style. Of course, camping is not camping without some level of roughness and adventure, but right now, camping does not need to be too troublesome. Items such as camping lanterns surely make the trip a lot manageable. It is also very safe, as camping lanterns don't build bonfires. I remember camping when I was a kid. I only had the barest of necessities - a sleeping bag, a box of matches, my knife and a good camping lantern. There really is nothing like having the velvety sky and stars as your ceiling. I still enjoy the outdoors. Although I must admit that I do not go as often anymore. Work has indeed taken a toll on my schedule. But when I do have the chance, I take my family out camping. My young daughter is beginning to enjoy camping, and for our most recent trip, I bought her a camping lantern for her very own use. It's not exactly a lantern, because it is more of a kid's lamp, but it works just as good. So if you are up for some adventure, why not try bringing with you a camping lantern? It's not very hard to find one. There are a lot of camping and sporting goods store that may have camping lanterns in their stock. If you cannot find any such store in your area, well then, what are you waiting for? Since you are online reading this article, why not search for some camping lanterns? There are a lot of many good deals online for camping equipment and accessories - camping lanterns, sleeping bags, tents. Almost every item you need for camping can be found on the internet to make sure that your experience with the great outdoors will be fun, safe and exciting.

About The Author
Luke Cameron is owner of Recreation Booth. - an online magazine offering news, tips and articles on recreation related topics. His website can be found at: http://www.recreationbooth.com and http://www.theoutdoorsmag.com.

How To Prepare For A Camping Trip

2006-11-10T12:43:00.000-08:00

By: Jonathon Hardcastle
Camping is a great outdoor activity that can be enjoyed both by couples, a group of friends or by the entire family. The following are some tips for beginners about how to prepare for their camping trip. Most first-time campers usually being their foray into camping as tent campers or car campers since all their camping equipment is loaded into their car (instead of an RV). Uppermost on their list of things needed would obviously have to be a tent. They don't have to choose and expensive tent as long as it provides adequate weather protection and shields the campers from natural elements such as the wind, sun, and rain. You also need a secure tent that can keep you away from flies, mosquitoes and other pests. Your tent will also be, in all likelihood, your best place for privacy and where you will store your clothes and camping gear to keep them safe from the weather Sleeping under the stars can be great sometimes, but sooner or later you will want a tent. The same can be said of sleeping bags. It should have enough padding to cushion you comfortably against the hard ground. Make sure that all the inflatable pads and closed-cell pads are working properly. If you plan to do most of your camping during summer, a lightweight and inexpensive rectangular sleeping bag will do. And don't forget to bring a pillow. Plan what you will be eating. Experienced campers or backyards chefs will likely have lots of recipes for outdoor cooking. It's also possible to get on simply a cooler of drinks, sandwiches, and snacks. Thankfully, you can find a grill and picnic table at most public campsites. If grilling is your thing, you will be best-served by bringing a bag of charcoal and a spatula and you'll be ready to cook your steaks, hot dogs, and hamburgers on the grill. For prolonged period of camping or for your next camping trip, you might like to try bringing a propane stove, a skillet and a few pots so that you can expand your cooking choices. Before you embark on any camping trip, it is best to have a checklist of things to do so that you don't forget anything. Another useful thing to bring along is an experienced camper. You can easily learn everything you need to know from them.

About The Author
Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles for http://theoutdoorslifestyle.com/ - In addition, Jonathon also writes articles for http://recreationandmore.com/ and http://thetravelinglifestyle.com/.

Camping – Do You Love It Or Hate It?

2006-11-10T12:40:00.000-08:00

By: D Ruplinger
In my family, we have camping lovers and camping haters. My husband, kids, and I love to go camping. My mother just stares at me every time I talk about an upcoming camping trip and asks why I want to leave my brand new home that has a brand new bed with a brand new mattress so that I can go sleep in the woods on a mattress I fill with air. Being the articulate person I am I say, “Because it’s fun.” It’s hard to explain to a non camper how relaxing it is to be out in the open air all day at a campground with miles of trails to hike and bike; or by a lake to go swimming, boating, or fishing in. I tell my Mom how it’s fun to explore the area trails; looking at the views, the vegetation, and the wildlife. For example, during a recent camping trip an evening bike ride brought me within 10 feet of a baby deer out with its mother. It’s hard to explain how fun it is to be able to see something like that. But instead my Mom asked me how bad the bugs bit and if I got sunburned during that day’s hike. Then I try to explain to her about how much fun it is to sit around the campfire at night. It’s a great time for casual conversation and to have a beverage and maybe a few toasted marshmallows or S’mores. I love watching the flames and listening to the wood crackle and pop. My mom asks how we keep the mosquitoes away (lots of tiki torches and mosquito repellant) and says, “Doesn’t it get boring after a half hour?” Again, being the articulate person I am my answer is, “Ummmm, no.” I try to explain the food cooked outdoors just tastes better. Campfire coffee along with bacon and eggs is hard to beat. And those little S’more makers you can buy in the store are nothing like the delicious S’mores you make over a real campfire. And if you’ve never had a pudgie pie made over a campfire, you’re missing out on one of the best camping foods there is! But when I explain to my Mom how good camping food is, she wonders if the bugs buzz around the food we’re trying to eat and asks if I miss my dishwasher. Thanks Mom! My pop-up camper doesn’t have hot water so I have to do things the old fashioned way and heat the water I need to wash dishes. When it comes to camping though, most non campers could deal with sleeping in a tent or a pop-up camper and wouldn’t mind cooking their food outside. But the one sticking point for many non-campers is the bathroom and shower facilities at campgrounds (unless you’re lucky enough to have a camper with its own bathroom and shower facilities). Camping is not like staying at a 5 star hotel. The bathroom and shower amenities take a little getting used to. Some people will wait as long as possible to go to the bathroom because they want to avoid using the pit toilets at the campground any more than necessary. My sister-in-law doesn’t mind the pit toilets as much as she minds the spiders that are usually in them. Camping is what you make of it. Nobody says you have to like it. My Mom doesn’t but I sure do. It’s a way to get away from the daily stresses of your normal life, kick back, relax, and enjoy yourself for a few days. You’ll have responsibilities no more taxing than deciding what clothes to wear that day, what to eat, and whether you want to go for a walk or a bike ride or just sit in a chair and relax by the campfire.

About The Author
D Ruplinger shares her camping experiences and advice at http://www.campingearth.com. Make sure you get her outstanding camping newsletter for great camping tips and campfire recipes - http://www.campingearth.com/newsletter/.

Air Mattresses

2006-11-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

by Max Bellamy

Air mattresses are inflatable mattresses used for camping or for overnight guests, since they can be easily rolled and stored. Air mattress can also be used as additional mattress beneath a normal mattress to add comfort for a good night’s sleep.

Air mattresses have improved from being a temporary bedding and camping option to a more desirable and top option bedding preference because air mattresses are now designed with air chambers between the fabrics that gives a gentle cushion feeling to your body. One of the major characteristics of an air mattress is that it moulds the body contour to give proper alignment to the spine. The air chambers allow the mattress to distribute your body weight evenly and acts as a pain reliever for those who suffer from back pain, shoulder pain, hip problems, and also as pressure points in various parts of their bodies.

Gone are the days when these mattresses used to look like plastic inflatable sheets. Now they are compatible to any innerspring mattresses. Air mattresses give the flexibility that most people are looking for such as the option to adjust the level of comfort and firmness of the mattress according to their likes and needs. These adjustments are done by a remote control that allows you to inflate or deflate air as much as you need to. What’s even more fantastic is that it allows each side of the mattress to be adjusted independently -- really great for couples with differing sleeping needs. Air mattresses are relatively cheaper compared to other types of mattresses and are available in single, king and queen sizes.

Air Mattress provides detailed information on Air Mattress, Best Air Mattress, Camping Air Mattress, Memory Foam Air Mattress and more. Air Mattress is affiliated with Adjustable Air Beds.

Boating: One Of Life’s Great Pleasures

2006-08-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

by: Robert Vassos

There is a lot to be said about getting out on the water for some well deserved recreation. The interesting thing about boating is there is some ancient gene that we all carry that dates back to a time when folks thought the earth was flat. And just like Columbus exploring the boundaries of the known world people today are still drawn to the water by some magical unexplained pull. And why not - in this fast paced world of office towers and pavement there is certainly something soothing about stepping on to a gently rocking boat at the dock and firing it up to venture out on the open waters.

The other great thing about boating is that this form of recreation offers so much versatility. Think about it. You can fish, water ski, tube, tour around, swim off the boat, sunbath, entertain friends, visit friends on the lake – not mention that boats can be utilized for work type activities as well, and they are a valid form of general waterway transportation for many.

The other interesting thing is that boating isn’t as expensive as you might think. As a first step you might consider renting before you purchase and many marinas offer reasonably priced boat rental packages right from their docks. Recently a recreation cost comparison was done by www.discoverboating.ca and you might be surprised at how inexpensive boating can be in when you compare costs against theme parks, hockey games, live concerts, golf or even an evening at the theatre. The bottom line is there is a boat for every family budget and a selection of boat types and models that is even more far ranging than cars. Generally speaking, the bigger the boat, the larger the horsepower and the more options that you choose will determine the overall cost and the best value match for the individual or family. Some boats are built for versatility and some boats are built primarily for one use e.g. fishing or wake boarding. The point is, if you look around you can find the right boat at the right price to suit your needs. Many boat manufacturers offer financing terms that are attractive and financial institutions are certainly willing to spread payments over 5 years with the longer terms translating to lower monthly payments.

But some would say there are more important considerations than the cost aspect of owning and operating at boat. It can be summed up in one word “lifestyle”. If you seek freedom and relaxation there is nothing like a day on the water that comes close. It means leaving a lot of the daily stress that we all experience behind at the dock. In a 2003 Impulse Research study, nearly 2/3rds of boat owners made their boat purchase and found it brought their family closer together. Another portion claimed it allowed them to lead a more romantic personal life. That has to be reason enough to want to own a boat right?

There are almost, 3 million watercraft in Canada and one in six households owns at least one boat. Boating contributes over $7 billion into the Canadian economy every year. You might expect this in Canada. After all - we are surrounded by oceans and Great Lakes and most of our provinces are dotted with lakes and rivers throughout the interior.

Robert and Colleen Vassos own a waterfront marina called Wedgewood Marine & Recreation (www.wedgewoodmarina.com) in the Haliburton Highlands of Ontario about two hours north of Toronto. They sell a wide variety of boats including the full line up of Starcraft boats (bowriders, pontoons, deck boats and fishing boats), Svfara performance ski boats, Legend, Thundercraft and Doral boats as well as Yamaha PWC’s. They also rent Yamaha Waverunners and various other boats ranging from runabouts and ski boats to pontoons and fishing boats right from their waterfront facility on Twelve Mile Lake. “We are seeing a big move to deck boats” says Colleen Vassos. “Families are looking for the versatility so they have both the entertainment space of a pontoon boat and the ability of a sport boat to plane so that water skiing, fishing or just hanging out can be accomplished in one watercraft” adds Colleen. “We often rent boats to customers before they buy” says Robert Vassos. If you are new to boating, renting is a wise option. It gives the newbee boater an opportunity to ensure that they get the right fit and the right product to suit their individual or family needs. Seems like an ideal lifestyle to be selling and renting boats from a waterfront facility but those visions were shattered when Colleen & Robert mentioned that they are so busy putting clients in boats that they rarely have time to do what they would really like to be doing – going out for a boat ride!

Golf Basics – One Golf Grip At A Time

2006-08-24T09:15:00.000-07:00

by: Jeff O'Brien

I would like to focus the jest of this article on the basis of the golf swing… the grip. With spring in the air and golf on our minds let’s get this year off to a good start by not overlooking the basics.

Unquestionably the biggest mistake I see in people’s golf swing isn’t in their golf swing itself.

Nope. Not at all.

More often than not the mistakes happen before the swing even begins. The first mistake is made in how the golfer holds the golf club. After that the next mistake usually comes in with how they stand up to the ball. Poor posture. Then after having two strikes against them, they then finish the job of making it almost impossible to hit a good golf shot by improperly lining up to their intended target.

Of course, after hitting several (possibly several hundred) balls with only a minute few being what they think is acceptable the tired frustrated golfer asks… what am I doing wrong with my swing?

For the purposes of this article I want to discuss the very first part of the proper golf swing … the golf grip. In fact, let’s be even more precise here; the left hand grip on the golf club. Oh sure… there’s much more than just the grip including the aforementioned posture and alignment. But there’s only so much typing I can do at one time so let’s stay with the grip for this communication.

The position of your club face is greatly influenced by your grip. And this is especially true as your club face enters the impact zone and contacts the ball. Certainly there is an abundance of golf swing peccadillo’s that can occur that can cause those woeful golf shots. You know the ones I’m talking about: the banana ball, the smothered hook, skied, skulled, and chili dipped. Ok, I’ll stop… If you’ll stop trying to correct your golf swing by in incessantly hitting ball after ball trying to make every physical adjustment known to man (and some that aren’t) within your golf swing itself and begin by using a fundamentally sound grip.

So you’re going to continue on with me… great! Let’s talk about the left hand (right handed golfers) first and foremost.

The left had should come in contact with the grip of the club in such a manner that the grip cuts a diagonal across the palm of the left hand from the crook in the index finger down and across to the bottom right pad of the left hand.

When you close your left hand, your club should be held in the first to fingers and your palm.

The key that you look for out of your left had grip is quite simple. As you address your ball and look down, you should only see two knuckles of your left hand. As an instructor standing directly across from you, I too should only see the same. If I don’t see EXACTLY two knuckles of your left hand then we take a step back and re-grip until we get it right. And don’t try to cheat and re-grip club just as you begin to take the golf club away and into your back swing. FOUL I say. And I will stop you.

Ok. I certainly haven’t given you that much to remember here. But seriously golfers, resign yourself to go through a quick, short checklist before you begin the journey we call the golf swing. Start with your grip. Get used to it. A proper grip will feel awkward to you particularly if your grip has been way off. Stay with it. Know that it’s the right way to grip the golf club. Piece by piece let’s lay the foundation for a good swing.

The Woman Golfer and Improving the Short Game

2006-08-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

by: Sean Cochran

The short game for the professional, amateur, junior, or woman golfer is an integral part of golf. A good short game can be the difference between a good score and great score. Often times golf fitness exercises, the woman golfer, and short game are not connected. The reality is golf fitness exercises can be a great benefit to the short game of any woman golfer.

The short game does not necessarily require the power associated with tee shots where golf fitness is a benefit, but rather in a different set of requirements. The short game requires a great deal more finesse. Finesse in terms of finite control of the distance, spin, and carry of every shot. This type of finesse requires more motor control from the nerves and muscles of your body. Increasing the motor control (i.e. the ability of your body to execute finite actions) can occur through the utilization of golf fitness training.

The specific type of golf fitness training that can improve the motor control is classified as balance training. This type of golf fitness exercise trains both your nervous and muscular systems of the body. As a result these exercised improve the interaction of your nerves and muscles. One of the benefits of this type of golf fitness training is the ability of your muscles to control movement more efficiently. As a result the ability to control finite movements becomes much easier. This lends itself to improvement in your short game.

In addition to improving the motor control of the body for short game shots, balance training can in addition improve your “feel”. Feel is a term used to describe the ability of the woman or any other golfer to know where their “body is in space”. This concept explains how a golfer can feel the club head, know the position of the body, be aware of weight shifts, and body angles. All of which are important aspects of developing a good short game. Balance training exercises within a golf fitness program can improve the “feel” within in your short game.

One of my favorite balance training exercises for golf is the airplane rotation. Before performing this or any other golf fitness exercise, make sure you are in good health, and cleared by your physician. Begin this exercise by placing your feet together, bend at the hips so your back is flat, and chest is parallel to the floor. Extend your arms straight out from the shoulders, keeping eyes focused on the floor. Lift the right foot off the floor and balance your weight on the left foot. Once the weight is balanced on the left foot, extend the right leg back from the hip. The right leg should be parallel to the ground. Attempt to keep the right leg straight throughout the entire exercise. Begin the exercise by rotating the left arm downward towards the floor. At the same time, rotate the right arm upward. Continue to rotate to a position where the left hand is directly above the left foot, and the right hand is pointing straight up. Return to the starting position and repeat.

Outside of improving motor control and “feel” golf fitness exercises can benefit the short game and woman golfer in another area. It is well known short game shots require “more” from the hands and forearms. Short game shots require acceleration of the club head through the ball, bouncing the club on sand shots, and at times moving through thick rough.

All of which ask more from these body parts. As a result increasing the strength in the hands and forearms can benefit the short game. Golf fitness exercises can do just that! These types of golf fitness exercises develop increased levels of strength in the muscles of the hands and forearms. As a result the ability to hit chips and pitches from the rough, the bouncing of the club in heavy sand, and accelerating through the shot becomes much easier.

Some easy to perform hand, wrist, and forearm golf fitness exercises to improve your short game are ball squeezers and towel wringers. Both of these simple to perform golf fitness exercises will improve your strength in these integral parts of the body for the short game. As with airplane rotations before attempting these or any other golf fitness exercise make sure you are in good health and cleared by a physician.

Ball squeezers can easily be performed with either a tennis ball or racquetball. Simply place the ball in your palm and squeeze with your fingers. Hold the “squeeze” for 2 seconds and release. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions and proceed to towel wringers. Grasp a towel in your hands and “wring” the towel. Perform the wringing of the towel in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. Again, perform 10-15 repetitions of this golf fitness exercise.

To summarize, the short game for the woman, junior, amateur, or professional is of great importance. Improving your short game can mean the difference between a good round and great round of golf. The finesse required in the short game can be improved through the utilization of golf fitness exercises. Balance exercises within a golf fitness program are the type of exercise that can improve the finesse of your short game. Additionally, the short game requires high levels of hand, wrist, and forearm strength. Simple to perform golf fitness exercises can improve the strength in these integral parts of your body for the short game. So remember, utilize balance and strength exercises in a comprehensive golf fitness program to improve your short game.

How To Become 'The Luckiest Fisherman On Earth!'

2006-08-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

by: Tim Richardson

Have you ever wondered why one 'lucky guy' seems to catch the biggest fish again and again, while the majority of other fishermen just seem to get the average catches? Why is that?

Many of us would love to catch those big catfish, carp, bass, trout etc, every time we go fishing. It may just be that the guy is a genius angler, but real fishing success is often simply about using bait that is more effective than most other anglers baits at getting round fishes natural fears and resistance to eating it!...

But how can we achieve this? Well here’s a few of some of the best most proven methods of increasing your catches, especially for carp and catfish, but can be applied very effectively to many other species:

1. Try taking a look at the most popular baits where you fish and eliminate any similarity your homemade bait has with them. This especially applies to your own unique fishing bait recipe or formulas. This removes the fishes ‘danger reference points’. This gives your bait a massive ‘edge’ because the fish will not associate your bait with danger, anything like as much as with the baits everyone else are using - afterall , the whole point of a bait is simply to fool the fish into taking a hook into it’s mouth!

2. Make your bait different sizes, odd shapes, density, colors, flavors, with different attractors and additives, the more different to the usual bait the fish experience, the more effective your bait will be potentially be. Making your own bait puts the odds back in your favor and the power back into your hands - literally!

3. Absolutely pack your baits with “powerful ‘free amino acids’ (the type bodybuilders use as a liquid protein food supplement.) Even if you’re making a proprietary bait using a ‘commercial base mix’ that anyone can purchase, this will really set your bait apart and make it preferable to fish!

4. Pack bait with minerals, vitamins and trace elements - get a health tonic supplement from your local drug store. Very few people realize that these are in fact amazing attractors in their own right! An astounding edge is to massively increase the attractiveness and soluble nutritional message leaking from your bait, by soaking your hook bait in a mixture if fresh liquidized sweet corn, molasses and liquid protein food (so-called ‘free amino acids.)

5. It has been proven that when tested carp were provided with a number of complete foods providing all their nutritional requirements, preferred the food that had been sweetened. Eg, try sweetening honey and molasses , fruit sugar (fructose), or saccharin.

6. Add Sea salt to your bait - this is one of the most proven and unbelievable fish feeding triggers, and a great nutritional taste enhancer full of minerals. Nearly every animal and fish cannot live without salt!

7. For many fish including catfish and carp, pack your bait with fresh good quality digestible protein - it doesn’t need to be a large proportion, no more than a third of your bait. Ingredients such as trout pellet powder, meat and poultry meals, blood meal, fish meals and shellfish meals and liver powder are great. Add energy rich carbohydrates to provide balanced nutrition and binding. For example, soya flour, semolina, or even ordinary white or brown wheat flour. For carp try adding some wheat germ it has excellent properties!

8. Add a small amount of oil to your bait for a balanced nutritional value. For catfish this could be you favorite fish oil. For carp the best is probably pure cold pressed hemp oil -it’s natures ‘super food’ and is one of the richest and most healthy and nutritional oils known to man and fish!

9. Give your bait some protein that’s been ‘predigested’ or ‘hydrolyzed.’ This is easily achieved by adding a small amount of proprietary powder, like predigested liver, fish meal or shellfish extracts to your bait; available from bait companies all across the worldwide web. This method is incredibly effective, improving the fish attractive ‘amino acid profile of your bait. Fish are extremely efficient at detecting and utilizing amino acids, and you may well find that with the higher the rate of inclusion of these highly fish digestible ingredients, your catches and numbers of bigger fish soar too!

10. Allow your bait to ‘cure’ for 3-4 days prior to use; this allows your bait to start to ferment and lets bacterial enzymes release alcohols, sugars and increase the level of predigested proteins in your bait; all amazingly extremely good fish feeding triggers and attractors. See the difference this makes to your catches!

11. If you use ‘boilies’ rather than paste or dough baits, try chopping edges off your hook baits as if other fish have been ‘playing with your bait and taking small chunks out of it; this can really make the bigger fish ‘feel’ safer when they sample your hook baits - try piecing your hook baits right through to release the maximum attraction even from the center of your bait; it really works!

12. Try wrapping your bait and your hook (except the point) in a paste or dough. Try a mixture of ordinary flour, marmite, parmesan cheese, garlic granules, curry spices, sea salt, eggs and liquid amino acids - this mixture is pure ‘dynamite’ and really makes ‘em bite!

13. One of the most successful paste / dough baits of recent times is made from a mixture of fish meal and a couple of predigested ingredients like predigested fish meals, or predigested shellfish extracts. Try binding them together with just ordinary flour and loads of liquid amino acids / protein food supplement. ( But no eggs.) Experiment with different proportions to get your dough / pate to hold and last on your hook for different times. When you ‘bait up’ or ‘chum your swim with free baits like this, to attract the fish - hold on to your rod/s!!!

14. Add natural ingredients to your bait, for example, bird foods contain all kinds of fantastic foods fish love, like insects, seeds, grubs and worms. Many times, these encourage smaller fish to find your bait, and these can lead the bigger ones to your hook...

15. Add a ‘crunch factor’ to your bait - many fish have food detectors inside their gills, and allowing fish to experience eating your bait like it was natural food, eg, like shrimps or snails or mussels, is a great way to ‘turn them on’ and get more confident feeding and more bites!

16. If you use ‘boilies for carp catfish, etc there is a simple method of improving them: If you buy your baits frozen in a bag, then open them up and let them defrost and ‘warm up for 3-4 days in advance of fishing. This gives bacterial enzymes the time to start breaking down your baits and releasing very attractive alcohols, sugars and amino acids for example. It really works well for better catches and can even promote quicker bites!

Making and adapting your own and readymade shop - bought baits to make them different to the rest, and far more effective than normal is a science, and a very satisfying 'art'. When you have armed yourself with a range of great baits, the confidence you feel is awesome, and especially satisfying when you’ve ‘designed them and make them yourself!

I could show you many real life examples of how using edges like these and others, have resulted in fantastic big fish catches.

I love researching and writing about fishing bait because it is one of the fastest short-cuts to success! I am into bait in a big way, having even researched the subject with a PhD biochemist to reveal the reasons why and how baits really work to catch fish. I’ve found that a little bait knowledge can catch you more fish, but the more you know - the more consistent your catches can become - and the more big fish you catch!

The truly amazing thing is, any angler can achieve truly amazing catches with just enough of the right bait knowledge!.. Then other anglers will wonder what his ‘secret to success’ is...

Sport Hunts and the Right Equipment

2006-08-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

by: Marvin Ellison

Most of us who are avid hunters keep up on the modern equipment as a sport hunter should. Some of this information may or may not be helpful but here it is.

First off, equipment is important. Such as weapons, clothing, cleaning equipment, lures, game calls, and repellants. Choose the weapon best suited for what and where you are hunting. In other words, if you are hunting rabbits at short range you would not use a high powered rifle. High powered rifles are made to shoot long range, larger calibers are for large game as is smaller calibers are for smaller game. If you are an inexperienced at what you are hunting, do a little research. Hunting sports shops are willing and happy to assist you. Just don't let them sell you gear that you do not need. Talk to other hunter’s around clubs and shops, they always like to talk about hunts and equipment.

Clothing is important. You want to dress for the weather to be as comfortable as possible. Colder weather may require more layers of clothing, use the camouflage best matching the area you are hunting. Footwear is very important and comes in a wide range of styles and insulation factors. Your feet are very important in the woods so you need to take care of them. Types of socks and footwear should be worn so that your feet are protected from heat and dampness as well as the cold. Underwear should be worn the same way as far as type, layers, and density. Remember you want to be as comfortable as possible.

Always carry a quality hunting knife, keep it sharp and well protected. A guthook knife is a great choice for larger game, for field dressing. Lures and calls are another thing. They come in a larger variety of types and styles from a lot of different manufactures.

Calls do not always work the same for every individual so you may have to try several to get one that works well for you. Talk to other hunters in the area you are hunting to see what works best. Experience is a good teacher so sometimes it is better starting out by talking to other experienced hunters.

Lures are also made in a wide range by a wide range of manufactures. Sometimes trial and error applies to using them. In warmer months you should use some type of repellant, and then again talking to other hunters will help you decide on which ones to use for mosquitoes, flies, and other unwanted pests.

Well that’s all I have for now. I hope this information will help some of the less experienced hunters. A hunter’s safety course is very helpful. Look for more of our advanced hunting articles in the near future. Thanks and good luck.

Marvin Ellison

Golf

2006-07-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

by: Marc Singford

Golf is a game where a person hits a little ball laying on the ground with a stick called a golf club into a small hole, also in the ground. This type of ball game does not have a specific area of play but the game is played on an area of land that has been mapped out for this specific game. This area of land is called a golf course.

A hole refers to both the hole in the ground into which the ball is hit as well as the total distance from the tee, the area where each player initially hits the ball, to the green, which is the area surrounding the actual hole in the ground. After a player first hits the ball at the tee, he continues to do so from the fairway, where the grass is cut low enough for easy play, or from the rough, where the grass is longer and more difficult to play, until the ball enters the hole, or cup.

The grass on the area immediately surrounding the hole, commonly referred to as the putting green, is cut extremely short so the ball can roll easily. When a player hits the ball into the cup, he has completed play on that hole. The object of the game is to hit the ball into the cup in fewer strokes than an opponent. Skilled players require fewer strokes to hit the ball into the hole.

Golf is not an easy game, and it takes much more than just hitting a little ball into a hole to play the game right. There are also many hazards on golf courses such as sand traps, ponds, trees and woods and so on. Players who hit the ball in these areas have to hit the ball where it has landed so they try to avoid the areas as much as possible. If the ball can't be played from where it is, it can be moved to a better location but it will cost that player and one stroke penalty. Another rule when a player hits the ball into a hazard is that their club cannot touch the ground before hitting the ball, not even for a practice swing.

The hole is classified by its par and is determined by the distance from tee to green. Par is the number of strokes an expert golfer should take at hitting the ball into the hole. Par three holes range in distance from 100 to 224 meters, four holes from 225 to 434 and five holes is 435 meters and up.

Binoculars – For That Faraway Look

2006-07-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

by: Lisa Sparillo

Binoculars are essentially used in astronomy, birding, hunting, marine spotting, sports, and a host of other outdoor activity. These are one of the handiest and most widespread of all optical instruments these are essentially two eyeglasses put together to give you a combined view as a pair of glasses does. Only the distance of focus and clarity is a lot more. There are as many users and manufacturers, as there are uses for these.

Bushnell has manufactured a variety of waterproof binoculars for use in sports, nature spotting, in water sports and many more activities and these are all in the price range $37-$999. Zeiss is renowned for its configuration and technical specifications that meet the highest demands and leave absolutely nothing to be desired it is designed for higher-powered low-light usage, such as long distance hunting both on land and at sea. Their range is completely waterproofed for submersion, and dry-nitrogen cleansed to prevent fogging on the inside$. Price s range around $319 - $1,420. Zhumells’s most well known product is the pair of binoculars with a compass for marines’ use which costs $249.Meade has a binocular with a digital camera that costs $299. There are several other established products for you to choose from.

The prices depend on the specifications like the purpose of the binos, size distance to be viewed and the features it offers. All these manufactures have a pair to suit any of your requirements, as do many others. The advantage of buying these online is that you not only get to compare the product and its specifications but also the price, thus ensuring you get the best bargain and value for the money you pay for the product. It’s wise to do your basic groundwork before you buy this product since it’s going to literally see you a long way.

How To Catch More Crappies Then You Want

2006-07-03T09:27:00.000-07:00

by: Robert W. Benjamin

Crappies are one of the best tasting fish I have ever eaten, I like them better then trout. The meat is pure white and is firm and full of good mellow flavour. Crappies are a panfish, similar to bluegill and sunfish. When I was a young man, a lot of local fishermen called crappie, ' calico bass '. Luckily for us fishermen they are considered a panfish and are not restricted in most areas, like other bass are when it comes to fishing laws. Here in Pennsylvania we are allowed to catch 50 crappies a day with no size limitations.

Crappies are ' little hellions ', they are full of energy and despite their small size they can make a normal fishing rod bend to the breaking point and cause a reels drag to become active, the energy and taste are two reasons why crappies are such a great fish to catch.

Crappies come in two types or varieties, there are black crappies and white crappies. Crappies live throughout the U.S in many ponds, lakes and streams, I guess if other panfish or even bass can thrive in the water, then crappie can also. Crappie look similar in size and shape to other panfish, except they are a lot more silver colored, with black spots, and they have upturned noses. They are actually a very nice looking fish, and the silver or shiny color shimmers in the sunlight.

Crappies can be caught year around. In the spring and fall months they move near the shore areas, and in the summer they move out in more deeper and cooler water. They are probably the most active in the early spring months when they move towards the shores to spawn, they become very aggressive and tend to bite and attack anything that is cast or moves near them or the nest, making it pretty easy to get a stringer full of crappies in a short time in the spring season. The nests look like hollowed out depressions or dishes in the mud or gravel on the bottoms of the ponds and lakes. If you walk slowly around the edges of the water, you can see these nests and often see the crappie in and near them. Once you spot one of the nests, casting your bait near it will usually produce a quick strike.

In the summer or warmer months, they often hang around stumps, trees, and other debris areas and underwater structures for shading and protection. Casting near these areas in the summer and warmer months will often be very productive for catching a mess of crappie. In the fall time of the year, they move towards the shores and become more aggressive again in their feeding and biting. This aggressive feeding and biting continues throughout the cold winter months, which makes crappie a great fish to catch while ice fishing in the winter.

The best time to catch crappies is during the daylight hours, with early morning after sunrise and in the late afternoon towards early evening hours being the best times. Crappies love minnows with a passion, and when it comes to live baits there is no better choice than a small minnow. If you don't have or cannot get live minnows, then use jigs or any such lure that looks as realistic as possible to a live minnow. But when you use an artificial minnow make sure you keep the lure pretty active, so it simulates a live minnow as much as possible, if the fake minnow just sits still, crappie have been known to look and then just pass by, they seem to prefer live minnows and bait instead of dead ones. Crappies have a abnormally soft mouth, so be aware that if you jerk your rod too hard, to set the hook, you can rip it right out of the crappies mouth, resulting in losing the fish.

There is Computer Software that is made for crappie fishing as well as catching any type of fish. After keeping a few past records of fishing trips, this software will help you to easily calculate what days will be a great fishing day ! The software is called: ' Fishing Buddy ', you can download and try the software for free from this website address:

http://www.rb59.com/fishingb

By Robert W. Benjamin

Copyright © 2006

You may publish this article in your ezine, newsletter or on your website as long as it is reprinted in its entirety and without modification except for formatting needs or grammar corrections.

Bass Fishing For Fun

2006-07-03T09:25:00.000-07:00

by: Ted Belfour

Bass fishing in the USA is a great combination of sports, adventure and recreation. Bass fishing ,means pursuing black bass, a type of fish. Bass fishing has caught the fancy of Americans. You will find morning shows on TV about bass fishing. You will find thousands of websites exclusively on bass fishing. Bass fish is not about catching and eating. It is about catching and releasing.

Bass fishing is a great sports which doesn't need the skills possessed by a football athlete or the resilience of an acrobat. You need to be obsessed with the 'catch'. Hours of practicing can elevate you to the level of being called a pro. Bass fishing is about catching various species of bass - large mouth bass, small mouth bass, Kentucky bass, spotted boss, etc. Experts opine that the beginners should start bass fishing in smaller ponds. They should avoid large lakes for this purpose. Once you have gained enough confidence, then only move to deeper areas in lakes. Bass fish loves to play hide and seek. Their natural habitat is behind rocks or plants or any such structures in the water body. Look for bass in such places. It is not necessary that the fish will be around large structures only. In fact, you have an equal probability of finding fish near a smaller structure.

Bass fish have a great vision - they can easily see in the night as well. Their see and feel organs work simultaneously. Bass fish are also supposed to have taste buds outside their mouths and inside too. This can help them avoid any unwanted situation. These characteristics make bass fishing such an exciting sports activity and a great pastime for people in leisure time.

One needs a set of equipment for bass fishing. This includes a pole, reel, hook and baits. Baits are available in many varieties chiefly, jigs, crank bait, spinner bait and plastic worms. It is recommended to beginners to start with crank baits and then advance themselves through spinner baits to plastic worms. Plastic worms need the most skills and practice. While Crank baits are suitable for beginners, it is the spinner baits which are popular among experienced anglers and seasoned fishermen.

There are many tournaments of bass fishing. Premier among these are American Bass Anglers Fishing Tournament, Superbass tournament, etc. Enthusiasts from all over the country take part in the tournaments. Bass fishing brings so much excitement today that it has become the most valuable freshwater sports industry.

Horse And Rider Safety

2006-07-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

by: Trish Haill

There is no beating around the bush - horse riding is a risk sport. Apart from the obvious dangers of falling off when mounted, these large animals have always got to be treated with respect when handling them on the ground and in the stable.

Riding need not be any more dangerous than any other risk sport, as long as certain precautions such as those listed on this page are followed. Horse Rider Safety should always be borne in mind when riding or near horses.

Safety for Visitors on the Yard

Horses are large prey animals and have been designed through evolution to protect themselves from things they do not understand! Anyone standing behind them is in danger of being kicked. Horses characters can vary greatly - some can bite (either if they are in a bad mood, or if they genuinely believe the hand reaching out to stroke their nose is actually a carrot!) Visitors to a Riding Stables or Livery Yard, especially with young children, are asked to remember this, and keep their children under control at all times! Riding stables are not playgrounds, and children running round corners unexpectedly can cause a horse to rear.

Riding Hats

Riding hats or helmets MUST be worn at all times when riding, and are paramount to horse rider safety. They are also advised to be worn at other times when handling horses. Riding hats come in various designs - some designs suit one shape of head better than another, and of course some designs are more appropriate to your favoured riding discipline.

The most important thing about a riding hat is that it much be fitted correctly ideally by someone who had attending a hat fitting course. It must also conform to standards PAS 015 or EN 1384. Hats cannot prevent serious injury in all circumstances, but help in the majority of cases. Your skull is fragile - it is not worth taking a risk with.

If the hat suffers a severe impact, either as a result of a fall or a drop onto a hard surface it MUST be replaced. Riding hat prices start from around the mid £30s, and you can spend up to over £100.

Hats do not last forever as the protective padding gradually compresses with use, and the hat becomes looser on your head. You should purchase a replacement hat as soon as this happens.

Riding Hats and the Law

It is a legal requirement that children under the age of 14 MUST wear a riding hat which conforms to the appropriate standard when riding a horse on the road.

Body Protectors

Horse rider safety can be helped by a body protector which can give protection to the chest and back area if you fall from your horse. These are particularly useful if you fall onto a hard surface (such as a jump), or if your horse stands on you after a fall. Body protectors can help prevent serious injury.

There are three standards of protection, and each has a different coloured label in the shops to identify the level of protection offered.

Level 1 Black label

Protectors providing a lower level of protection that is only considered

appropriate for licences jockeys.

Level 2 Brown label

Protectors providing a lower than normal level of protection that is only

considered appropriate for use in low risk situations. These DO NOT include riding on roads or other hard surfaces, riding over jumps, riding young or excitable horses, or riding while still inexperienced.

Level 3 Purple label

Protectors providing a level of protection that is considered appropriate for normal horse riding, competitions and for working with horses. Protectors to this level should:

Prevent minor bruising that would have produced stiffness and pain.

Reduce significant soft tissue injuries to the level of bruising.

Prevent a limited number of rib fractures.

When first using a body protector it will feel very strange and restrictive. Most protectors mould to your body's shape, and do so more easily in warm weather than in cold. Although the body protector feels uncomfortable at first you really must persevere with wearing it. After a few times of wearing it when riding you will find you feel naked without it, and it will become second nature to put it on and use it every time you ride.

Body protectors cost from £60 up - a good investment for something that may save your life!

Body Protector Fit

Fitting is of paramount importance and a visit to a properly trained retailer is recommended, for example anyone displaying the BETA Safety course attendance certificate.

Ensure that you are wearing the correct size of body protector and that it is adjusted to give a close fit to the body, and that no RED VELCRO is exposed at the shoulder or waist closures. If RED VELCRO is visible the protector is too small or is incorrectly fastened.

The body protector should be tried on over light clothing. Check that is comfortable to wear in all simulated riding positions. The garment should fit securely and reasonably tightly to avoid movement during activity and to ensure that it is in place in the event of an accident.

Footwear

It is essential that you ride in appropriate footwear. Serious injuries can be caused if you fall off and your foot gets stuck in the stirrup. Proper riding boots are recommended - these have a heel to stop your feet sliding through the stirrups. Boots can be short (jophur boots) or full length. The most comfortable footwear is often short boots and half chaps - chaps keep the stirrup leathers from chaffing and bruising your legs. However, what you choose to wear is personal choice and how much you can afford (long leather riding boots can set you back around £100 up).

It is not appropriate to ride in trainers as they have no heel and can be dangerous.

Safe Tack

You are now equipped with riding hat and body protector, and proper footwear. Now it is time to turn to your horse!

The object of riding and of horse rider safety is to stay on top of your horse - your riding apparel may help protect you if you fall off, but really you want to avoid doing this at all costs! You do not want to part company with your horse due to faulty tack!

Tack needs to be checked regularly so you can spot a problem before it occurs.

Leather tack needs to be kept clean and well conditioned so that it remains supple - stitching needs to be checked to ensure there are no points of weaknesss. Buying quality tack in the first place is essential. You may find bridles costing little more than £20, and wonder why you should pay over £100 for the similar item. However, the more expensive bridle is undoubtably going to be made of better leather, and with good care will last you longer and be more reliable. The last thing you would want is for your reins to break when your horse is in mid gallop!

Tack can be repaired, but don't skimp here. If it is in bad condition, replace it! If your girth breaks you will fall off your horse and may suffer serious injury - is it really worth risking it?

Buy the right tack for your riding discipline. Also make sure the tack fits your horse properly for the comfort of both of you.

Finally it is good if you can develop a relationship with your tack supplier - for example, having the person who provides your saddle come out and check the fit regularly. They will be able to advise you on things that you may have missed.

Visibility on the Road

Wearing hi viz protective clothing when riding on the road can make you more visible to a car driver approximately 3 seconds earlier than would otherwise be the case. These seconds could be vital in saving the lives of you and your horse.

It is not always in poor or dark conditions that hi viz equipment is necessary - on a bright summers day the driver's vision may be hampered by bright sunlight!

Slogans on tabards, such as 'Pass wide and slow' also help remind drivers of the need to take care when passing horses. Unfortunately too many drivers nowadays seem unaware that horses cannot be depended upon in the same way as bicycles, and often come far too close and too fast.

Equestrian Road safety also includes thanking drivers who show consideration for horses and their riders - this encourages them to be as thoughtful in future. Sometimes riders do not help themselves if they ignore couteous behaviour! A simple 'thank you' can go a long way - so remember every time!

At any time in your horse riding career you may part company with your mount when you least expect it (or less politely get dumped!). Being prepared can help you get back into the saddle as quickly as possible, with little or no serious damage!

Horses weight half a ton or more – they must be respected!

Boating Basics: Books to Read Before You Set Foot in a Boat

2006-07-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

by: Aldene Fredenburg

No one is suggesting that a novice boating enthusiast can learn everything there is to know about boating by reading a book, but the fact is that picking up a volume from an expert with years of boating experience can potentially save newbies a lot of false starts and, potentially, some dangerous situations.

Boating 101: Essential Lessons for Boaters, by Roger Siminoff (International Marine / Ragged Mountain Press, 1999) covers basic knowledge needed for every kind of boating, recreational and otherwise. From boating etiquette on the water to using navigational charts, from docking to anchoring, and even warnings about adverse weather conditions, this handy book answers a lot of questions that beginners may not even have the background to know they should ask. A great book for a beginning boater, it also has wisdom to offer those who’ve been boating for years.

The book Sailing Fundamentals, by Gary Jobson (Touchstone, Revised Edition, 1998), is billed by the publisher as the “fastest, easiest, most systematic way to learn basic sailing and basic coastal cruising.” Approved by the American Sailing Association (ASA) and The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, this is the perfect book for beginning sailors. Author Dobson was part of the winning 1977 America’s Cup crew and lends an enormous amount of expertise to all the basics of learning to sail. This book is a great assist for sailors who want to qualify for ASA certification.

There’s probably not a sailing enthusiast alive who doesn’t eventually want to own his or her own boat; the book Your First Sailboat: How to Find and Sail the Right Boat for You, by Daniel Spurr (International Marine / Ragged Mountain Press, 2004), will set you on the right path. The book covers the various types of sailboats available, discusses the differences between them and the ways they handle, and gives the reader lots of information designed to decide what sailboat design meets the needs of the individual sailing fan.

While the books mentioned above certainly don’t take the place of actually getting out on the water and gaining hands-on, practical experience, the information contained in them certainly takes some of the mystery out of the sailing experience and saves the beginning boater a lot of time, and perhaps even steers them away from some deadly errors.

Golf: How To Practice Effectively

2006-06-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

by: Richard Rigor

Even with lessons, instructional videos and store-purchased aids, your golf game will continue the way it has been without consistent and efficient practice. Consistent because practice sessions involve exercises that are meant to develop muscle memory. Efficient because pacing your energy to the kinds of exercises you’ll do is important as well.

Simple as this point may sound, it is one that is easily overlooked. Many golfers think that for as long as they spend enough time on the practice range, their score will improve. Unfortunately, that is not necessarily so. To get a better game, it is important that your practice sessions be as regimented as the way you play the game itself, if not more.

Before you groan about how boring practices are, it might help to think that practices are what build good playing habits when you hit the greens. And if you approach your practice sessions as more than chores and see them as yet another fun aspect to your game of golf, the results can only be a game all the more fun than it already is.

First of all, think of your practice session in three parts consisting of:

- the warm-up,
- the fresh stage
- and the fatigued stage.

In these three stages, you will carry out different sets of exercises that when done in the right stages will make your practices more effective giving you results you can see on the greens as you play.

- Warm-up:

Many are deceived into thinking that golf requires no strenuous physical activity as it only involves swinging and walking. Nothing could be further from the truth. The very nature of swinging causes your muscle groups to work in ways not common to everyday routine.

Your upper torso, arms, as well as your lower back muscles are the groups most worked when playing golf. Which only shows then that it is important to warm up with some stretches. Start from the top of your head and work your way down to your feet. Flexibility and getting your muscles’ full range of motion is your goal. If you are unfamiliar with stretches, you may consult a trainer or the instructor in your club for some tips.

- Fresh Stage

After your warm-up, start working on exercises that build on a skill you haven’t mastered yet, or on parts of your game that’s been causing you higher strokes. This could be anything from putting, chipping or driving.

The idea is that when you work on these problem areas while you’re still fresh and limber from a stretch routine, your body responds more positively to the exercises you’re subjecting it to.

The thing about most people’s idea of golf practice is simply spending time on the driving range without even considering whether or not driving is their waterloo. But if you’re aware that your short game is what’s giving you problems, then you’d do best to hit the greens to work on your putts as soon as you finish warming up. (As an aside, it has been observed that more than 60% of a player’s strokes take place on the green. Unfortunately, this fact is overlooked by many players thus resulting in poor practice habits.)

- Fatigued stage

Once you start feeling winded from the earlier exercises, move on to work on facets of your game that simply need reinforcement. Since your body already knows this motion, this stage in your practice serves as maintenance to your form.

If any correction is necessary, your stressed out body isn’t as pressured to master a difficult form. As in the previous example, only after working on your problematic short game can you then go to the driving range to give positive reinforcement to your drives.

Finally, here are some more observations and suggestions in carrying out your practice.

- To be able to see continuous improvement, a good practice-to-play ratio is about 2:1, which means giving twice as much time to practice as to what you would spend in playing.

- However, give yourself sufficient time to rest in between exercises and in between stages. While it is a work out, you should not be winded down by the activity. Doing so may actually do more harm than help.

Your game should see improvements as you give your sessions a more defined structure. Be consistent and note the results of your exercises to step up that game one stroke at a time.

I've also developed golf conditioning workouts that you can get instantly at http://freefitnessworkouts.com/golf.

Catch and Release Fishing - Ensuring Fish For Our Future

2006-06-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

by: Craig Fiske

Know the proper technique for catch and release fishing. Keep those big ones healthy and strong. Your kids and grandkids will thank you!

There is nothing more enjoyable in this world than a great day on the water. If conditions are perfect and the fish are active things don’t get much better. Well, maybe catching big fish can add a level of excitement that is hard to match.

Fish populations across North America are, in general, suffering. Stocking efforts and recovery programs are happening virtually in every jurisdiction. Some areas are suffering more than others. Think about it. How often have you heard someone say, “The fishing just isn’t as good as it was a few years ago”. That goes for a number of lakes and rivers right across this continent.

The good news is you can do something about it. Catch and release fishing is one of the keys to help populations recover. It is pretty straight forward – keep only what you are going to eat. And just as importantly, let go the big one’s (they lay many times more eggs during the spawn).

Too often we see anglers keep more fish than they will eat. Often this is done out of ignorance of the impact to the water system. Unfortunately too often it is done out of lack of respect for the fish and water they are taken from.

This has an unbelievable impact on fish populations. Think about it. A good fishing location that has red-hot walleye fishing in the spring for eight weeks can have as many as 100 boats a day visit it. Particularly if the lake is accessible by road. Assume that each boat has 3 anglers in it. Also assume that the limit for walleye is 5 per day.

8 weeks x 100 boats x 3 anglers x 5 walleye = 12,000 walleye! If you are rolling your eyes at that number, don’t. There are many lakes that are under tremendous pressure like this and our fish population is taking a pounding!

Catch and release fishing is a key to helping our fish populations recover. The key to catch and release is to reduce the mortality rate of the fish. There are things you need to consider. Use a barbless hook. It makes the time the fish is out of the water much shorter. It is also much easier on the fish as the barb can often get caught in the throat or the gills making the odds the fish will live much longer (plus it is a lot easier on you as you take the hook out).

Try to land your fish quickly. The less energy they spend on the way into the boat, the faster they will recover. This is a key element often not thought of during catch and release practices.

If you can keep the fish in the water as you remove the hook, this is a huge advantage for the fish. If you need to pick up the fish, wet your hands first. Try not to squeeze to hard as you hold the fish while you remove the hook. If you can hold the fish upside down, quite often this will immobilize it, and give you a chance to quickly remove the hook! Above all, be gentle!

Often you will need to hold the fish in the water as it “catches its breath”! Be patient, this is an ordeal for any and all fish species. When catch and releasing a fish, do your best to release it in slow water.

If there is a current, make sure the head is facing upstream. This will give it a chance to regain its strength and equilibrium. It also forces water through the gills helping the fish realize much needed oxygen. If there is no current, slowly move the fish forward and backward in the water to get the water through its gills! Make sure you don’t release an exhausted fish until it appears the gills are working properly. When this happens, the fish will usually swim out of your light grip on its own.

It is the responsibility of every angler to take care of our fish population! Limit your catch. Let go the big ones go, and ensure a productive resource of fish for generations to come!

For more information visit http://www.freshwater-fishing-canada.com/catchandreleasefishing.html .

Thanks for reading!

Good luck out there!

A Few Tips For A Successful Fishing Charter Site

2006-06-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

by: Dan Mccart

Many times I have heard from a Captain that they can catch fish all day long but they aren't so good on this computer stuff. While this doesn't present a problem for some Captains, it does for many. The question you have to ask is "Do I get all the customers I want from the internet?". For a few the answer will be yes because they are word of mouth, are good at computer stuff or have selected a good person to run their internet site. For the rest of the Captains the answer is probably no.

There are 4 basic things you must do in order for your Fishing Charter site to be successful and get you clients. How successful depends on how well they are done. This equates to time and money. You should always compare internet results to print advertising results. You get a print ad and put it in a magazine and you don't spend much time... but you spend a lot of money. You can spend much less money for your internet results but you have to spend more time. So let's talk about what things must be done for your site.

Your site must work. This sounds obvious but you wouldn't believe the sites I see where some of the links, buttons don't work or it is just so slow I won't wait. So someone has to be responsible for making sure it is still working and fixing it if it doesn't. Typically you are responsible for making sure it keeps working and your web person is responsible for fixing any problem you find. Don't hand this one off to someone. This is a core part of your business. Do you check your print ads when they come out? Well consider your website a print ad that comes out every day.

Your site must get links for success. In order to be listed as a good search site on Google or the other search engines you must have links to your site. This means if you go to another site you can find a banner or a text link that you can click and take you to your site. First you must have a way to add other site links to your site. This is critical. How good you are in the search engines is very dependant on this. The best solution is for your web person to create you a way so you can add links to your site. This will make sure it happens and will save you money. This is one of your biggest jobs for your site. Keep adding your site to other sites

Fishing Directory For Fishing World Wide Water

2006-06-28T09:35:00.000-07:00

by: James Zeller

The easiest information obtained about fishing can be found online in the largest fishing directory in the world. Fisherman from every continent depend on a common source for fishing guides, fishing reports, new gear, fishing history or just to log onto a fishing forum through their favorite fishing directory.

Fishing has surpassed all other hobbies as the number one outdoor event that captures our time and money. Fishing categories can usually be disseminated with the use of a fishing directory. There are four major methods of fishing and all have adamant endorsers who seldom cross over to the other three. Cane pole fishing, spinning, bait casting and fly-fishing are the four most used methods worldwide.

Fly-fishing is the newest trend and requires the most practice and talent. With a fly fishing rod, a fly fishing reel and fly line you can add your bait which is called a fly that has a very small hook for trout. There are flies that land on top of the water and don’t sink called dry flies. There are flies that are designed to travel underwater like a swimming insect that are called wet flies. There are larger lures for saltwater fishing and tournaments for the largest fish caught on a “fly”. The use of a good fishing directory can yield fly fishing tips, fly tying techniques, gear and manufacturers.

Cane Pole fishing is the most primitive of the 4 methods using a single pole made of bamboo with a line tied to the end and a hook. In most cases this was our first experience of fishing, catching blue gills and bream. Cane poles are inexpensive and sometimes homemade using other materials at hand. Cane poles have also been improved to be a two-piece rod for easier storage and transporting. A red and white bobber added to the line increases the entertainment as we wait for the bobber to disappear and the line to race through the water. Antique bamboo poles have a subcategory in the best fishing directory.

Spinning reels with accompanying rods are as much a favorite to some as General Motors are to some automobile owners. A classy open face reel that has a bail that initializes the casting of the line and lure. Spinning reels are less likely to have a backlash that ends in line tangles. The spinning rod and reel can be used on saltwater and fresh water. The fishing industry has also developed micro-spinning reels and rods for small fish and more action for the fisherman. Most of the hundreds of manufactures of reels have separate categories in a fishing directory.

Casting reels are the foundation of mechanized fishing reels. The reels have been designed as small as a thread spool to the huge size of a small basketball to accommodate deep-sea fishing behemoths of 1000-pound fish. The disadvantage is a casting reel has a tendency to tangle the line. This cuts down on fishing time and amount of fish caught. Some professional fishermen have mastered the casting reel preferring it to the spinner. Websites featuring parts for casting reels and professional repair shops list their sites in the best online fishing directory.

Why You Should Buy An Air Mattress For Indoor And Outdoor Comfort

2006-06-28T09:30:00.000-07:00

by: Chris Warmwell

Air mattresses are not only perfect for overnight guests and for visiting friends and family, they are also ideal for camping, weekends away, for vacation homes and some people even use them every day, in place of a regular air mattress.

In the last few years the variety and popularity of the air mattress bed has increased. For instance, many air mattress beds now offer built-in support systems, these have valves which enable you to control how much support you need. You are able to adjust how hard or soft you need the air mattress bed to be, to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. This can be helpful if you have back problems and are often used in the home as an extra bed.

For weekends away and camping, the camping air mattress can now include built in sleeping bags and internal insulation. When choosing a camping air mattress, the size and weight of the mattress can be an important consideration. Nowadays, however, there are many modern mattresses that are both light and provide good insulation and comfort. If you are planning to go camping in warm weather it’s now possible to buy an air mattress that weighs less than 20 ounces.

For flexibility (and those cold mornings!) it’s may be better to go for a medium weight insulated air mattress.

Inflating your air mattress is now very quick and convenient too, battery pumps mean some mattresses can be inflated in less and a minute and deflated in seconds. Those of us old enough to remember inflating an air mattress with a foot pump will appreciate the difference!

The battery powered air mattress pumps are usually rechargeable, some are cordless and with some you have the option of running the pump from the car battery lighter socket. You can also get standard electric plug-in pumps.

There are some extremely light air mattresses available now. In the past it used to be a choice between a light but hard air mattress, or a bulky and heavy but comfortable mattress. However with modern air mattress beds it is possible to have both comfort and a reasonably low weight and size. This gives them the flexibility for use in both camping and home.

To find the best air mattress for you answer these quick questions...

What size air mattress bed will you feel comfortable in? Do you want a large bed so you can roll over or do you want to save weight and space with a smaller bed? Do you want multiple air chambers to adjust the firmness of different areas? Is an inflatable pillow needed?

Before buying an air mattress it is recommended that you research first on the internet before heading to the stores to get a feel for size, weight and comfort levels. When deciding what air mattress to buy you need to consider what you will be using it for. Take into account factors such as the weight, durability, ease of inflating and deflating, what level of insulation and comfort it will provide, and whether it has any extra features.

Triple Option Football Explained

2006-06-26T08:17:00.000-07:00

by: Matt Zavadil

Triple option football has all three elements of the different styles of running attacks - quickness, finesse and power.

Homer Rice is given credit for inventing triple option football. He retired as Georgia Tech's athletic director in 1997. Before that, he was head coach at Kentucky, Oklahoma, Cincinnati and Rice. Mr. Rice also worked as athletic director at Rice and North Carolina as well as a brief stint as head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals.

But it was when he was coaching high school in the 1950's that he came up with triple option football. The two usual triple option styles are the wishbone and veer.

The main idea behind this offensive set is to leave the defensive tackle and end unblocked in order to double-team the linebackers with extra offensive lineman. This brings an element of power to this basically finesse type of running attack.

The "Wishbone" style of triple option football gets its name from the alignment of the backs. You have a quarterback, a fullback directly behind him and then two halfbacks split behind the fullback. At the snap, the quarterback turns and puts the football in the fullback's gut as he reads the defensive tackle.

If the QB sees the tackle taking outside responsibility, he hands off to the fullback. If the tackle takes inside position, the QB keeps the ball and the fullback blocks the tackle. Now the quarterback's attention turns to the defensive end. If the end comes in to tackle him, he pitches out to the halfback who is trailing behind the play.

The quarterback has much responsibility in triple option football. He must first make sure there is no confusion with his first option (whether to handoff to the fullback or not) in order to prevent a fumble. He must also make a good pitchout to his halfback. Further complications can arise if the QB makes the wrong read on the defensive tackle or end.

Here's one way to teach the quarterback to read the end - If he can see the end's number, he should pitch the football as the end is probably coming in to tackle him. If he sees the end coming across the line of scrimmage focusing on the halfback, the QB should keep the ball. The quarterback should also keep an out for further pitch opportunities to his halfback even as he's making his way downfield.

The "Veer" style of triple option football adds a passing element. Bill Yeoman invented the veer in 1965 as coach of the Houston Cougars. That's why you'll hear it also called the "Houston Veer". Yeoman replaced the fullback with a wide receiver and split out an end.

Now the QB's first option is to a diving halfback (no fullback). The pitchout option then goes to the other halfback in the set. The tight end helps get the defensive end wide by taking a wide split. At the snap, the tight end arcs around the end (remember, the end is left unblocked) to block anyone trying to tackle the quarterback (usually a safety). The wide-out takes on the cornerback.

Looking for finesse, power and quickness? Try using triple option football.

Fishing in Canada - Many Reasons to Go!

2006-06-26T08:14:00.000-07:00

by: Craig Fiske

For beautiful scenery and an amazing outdoor adventure, freshwater fishing in Canada is a perfect setting. Canada fishing trips are are central to many people’s vacation plans. This is for good reason. Remote water systems in Canada provide some of the best fishing opportunities on the planet.

Times are busy. Getting a break in a remote region of Canada is often just what the doctor ordered. In the north, the fishing is unparalleled on the continent. You will experience not only big fish, but aggressive fish. The fast moving waters, deep lakes and amazing rock structures provide the perfect setting for this outdoor experience.

For serious anglers there are a large number of fishing locations right across the country. Freshwater fishing in Canada offers the incredible water systems of Ontario and Quebec along with the amazing rivers of British Columbia. With the points in between, there are countless untouched waters in Canada. This means spirited battles from fish that grow in strong numbers and sizes!

British Columbia offers some of the most remarkable trout and Salmon fishing found anywhere. Fly anglers from all over the world congregate to this province hoping to land that river bound lunker. You want to talk about panorama? How about embarking on a Canadian fishing vacation that is situated in a scenic mountain region? There are slow and fast moving waters throughout the province with an abundance of fish! This province will certainly test your fishing skills. Fishing in BC is something you will never forget!

Moving east, the Canadian Prairie Provinces are more than just prairie! Don’t let their moniker fool you. From Alberta through Saskatchewan and into Manitoba there is a vast stretch of Canadian Shield. This area is spotted with over two hundred thousand lakes and dazzling scenery. Picture being tucked into a lake deep in the Canadian Shield where there is nothing but your lodge and amazing fishing. Many folks swear by the northern Prairie Provinces and they revisit every year.

Further east, Ontario and Quebec continue to offer outstanding freshwater fishing. The different regions to choose from while fishing Canada’s 2 largest provinces truly is a marvel. Ontario alone has over 200,000 lakes, and is home to more types of fish than anywhere else in the country. From pike to salmon to walleye and muskie, there is something for you in these 2 beautiful provinces.

Anglers from all over the world look forward to freshwater fishing in Canada each year. Walleye fishing in Canada remains the centerpiece of many Canadian fishing vacations. Their spirited nature and great taste make them the most sought after interior fish in the country.

There is a wide variety of trout species in Canada that lure anglers every year to test their skills. Rainbow trout, lake trout, brown and brook trout are are sought after on both flies and spinners. Seeing a rainbow spring its body completely out of the water during a gritty battle is worth the price of admission. Trout are caught in both lakes and rivers across Canada and are the prize many fishermen seek while freshwater fishing in Canada!

The muskie and northern pike are perhaps the two most aggressive freshwater fish in Canada. They wait under structure and in standing weed beds waiting to assault unsuspecting prey as it swims by. These ambushes frequently result in a violent strike and a strong-willed fight you had better be ready for. Each year pike well over 30 pounds and muskie over 40 pounds are caught on freshwater fishing trips in Canada. If it’s a battle you want – these fish are for you!

No matter the province you select for your Canada fishing trip, you are in for some of the best meals of your life. Nothing beats the taste of fresh fish (especially if caught that day). Many Canada fishing lodges offer the chance to experience shore lunches. Fish right out of the water and into the frying pan is a big reason many fishermen come to Canada for their fishing trips. Eating your tasty catch on the shore of an uncharted island holds something special for every angler.

When looking for a place to stay while freshwater fishing in Canada, you have many options. Canadian outfitters can supply a wide assortment of services. Everything from a straightforward boat rental to a full service guided fishing excursion can be arranged. Many outfitters go to great lengths to “pamper” their guests. Some full service fishing lodges provide daily maid and linen service, all meals and even the use of hot tubs (to end your day just right).

As fishing in Canada continues to grow in popularity (particularly in the north) the planning cycle for these trips is starting earlier. Many anglers begin booking their Canada fishing trips one year in advance. Don’t be asleep at the switch. Make your bookings early! Check out the solid advice at http://www.freshwater-fishing-canada.com/.

There are a number of great reasons to start a tradition freshwater fishing in Canada. Find yours today! Get your family and friends together and try it out. You’ll be glad that you did!

Skydiving Schools: Picking the School and Training That’s Right for You

2006-06-26T08:12:00.000-07:00

by: Brooks Patton

Perhaps you’ve considered actually jumping from a perfectly good airplane, from time to time, in your past. Perhaps you are the unwitting recipient of a skydiving gift certificate from a friend. Whatever the case, despite the good advice to the contrary from sane people all around you, you’re actually going to go through with it…..

So now what? Finding a top-notch skydiving school can seem like a daunting task. Every skydiving school web site you visit seems great at first blush, but then you start to see a trend develop, namely, they seem to all claim to be the best, friendliest, safest, and highest-jumping drop zones in the world. Though your friends, still coming to grips with your decision, might argue that you clearly have no common sense, you know full well that you do. That same common sense is telling you that not all of these schools can actually be the best. So how does one actually choose? How do you read through the hype and come away with the best thrill of your life?

It’s a good question, and deserves a good answer because you only get a first jump once in life. Here then, is the answer to that question, a short guide to selecting the best skydiving school for you. The best way to begin is by actually defining what your desired end result of this experience is to be. Seems like a no-brainer; the end result is to simply jump out of an airplane and float to the ground, right? Wrong. There’s a lot about how you get from air to there that can influence your experience and ultimately your opinion of the sport.

The first step to making this decision is in understanding the types of jumps that are available to you. I will explain each, along with the pros and cons.

1) Tandem Jump:

A tandem jump is a method of jumping where you exit the plane not with a parachute strapped to your back but an entire instructor. This is the most popular choice for new divers and is highly promoted by drop zones. The reason for this is multi-faceted; there is no responsibility on the new skydiver’s part, they simply go with the flow and the instructor does all the work. This diminishes nearly all new-diver fault risks but also has a higher profit margin for the drop zone. Given the responsibility-free nature of a tandem jump for the new skydiver, the ground portion can be done in an hour or less, and requires only a one-to-one instructor/jumper ratio, where Accelerated Free Fall initial jumps require two instructors and far more ground school. If you are simply jumping to be able to buy the tee shirt from having done it once in your life, this method is for you. The relief of putting all the worry into the hands of a capable pro is terrific. If, however, you think you may want to take up the sport beyond this first jump, it might be well worth your while to consider investing your money into the first required dive of your AFF (Accelerated Freefall) certification. Your tandem jump, in most cases, will not apply towards this series of jumps, making your investment in the tandem jump somewhat of a waste if you pursue licensing. Only you know the answer to that question, and as long as money isn’t an issue (and if it is you might want to find a cheaper sport) you can just do the tandem jump anyway.

2) Static Line Jumps:

While not as popular as tandem and AFF, Static line jumps offer an option that combines the thrill of piloting your own chute without the concern of deploying it. Though the methods can vary, basically you jump from the plane at a much lower altitude, around 3000-5000 feet as opposed to 12-14,000 for tandem and AFF. As you jump, a line attached to your chute deploys it as you exit and fall away from the plane. In an AFF or tandem jump chutes are typically deployed around 5000 feet, hence this flight altitude for static line deployments. There is literally zero freefall on a static line jump.

3) Accelerated Freefall (AFF) Jumps:

Accelerated Freefall courses combine ground school classes and a series of jumps taken with two instructors, maintaining progressively less hand contact with you on each subsequent jump. This leads up to a completely unassisted solo jump where you will demonstrate basic maneuvers. While these jumps are typically taken to receive your USPA (United States Parachute Association) license, it is not (usually) a requirement that you perform the subsequent jumps in order to do the first one. While the price of that first dive is higher than a tandem jump (far more ground school and two instructors per diver), it also offers a bigger thrill and substantial feeling of accomplishment. Most skydiving schools will have you complete your ground school and first AFF jump in a single day. If you continue on with your training, you‘ll eventually receive your USPA licensing after you have met all requirements and taken the required tests. This licensing is required by nearly all drop zones in order to jump solo.

Armed with this information, you can now start narrowing down the selection based on your skydiving requirements. Look for schools that are USPA-member drop zones. Take the time to research the drop zone and get a feel from other divers about your drop zone(s) of choice. Most drop zones are typically very warm and friendly, and give newcomers as much attention as their regulars. There are, from time to time, skydiving schools/drop zones that cater more towards one end of the scale than the other. User opinions and reviews can reveal this if you take the time to do the research. This is easily accomplished at the website referenced below.

The most important thing of all, however, is that you have fun. Despite all of the advice from your well-intentioned friends, that fact is that your desire to pursue this sport puts you in a whole different category than those folks. Fear of falling is primal; we all feel it and are genetically predisposed to it. The dividing line is between those who fear, but have enough courage to control that fear and transform it into an incredible experience, and those who fear, shrink from it, and declare that anyone who doesn’t is insane. Put your fears aside, dive into human flight and enjoy the thrill of a lifetime!

Golf Fitness Exercises for the Woman Golfer

2006-06-26T08:08:00.000-07:00

by: Sean Cochran

It is well known in professional golf how integral golf fitness exercises are for success at the highest level of golf. Men on the PGA Tour and women on the LPGA Tour understand the benefits of golf fitness exercises in achieving success. Outside the circles of professional golf many questions exist about golf fitness exercises. Questions such as; what are the best exercises to improve golf fitness levels, are flexibility exercises and stretches better than other forms of golf fitness exercises, and what are the benefits of golf fitness exercises for the woman golfer?

These and many questions surround the topic of golf fitness. This article is to provide some answers for you on the topic of golf fitness exercises for woman. It has been well documented in magazines and television how LPGA women such as Annika Sorenstam utilize golf fitness programs to benefit their play on the golf course. Is there a difference between the LPGA player and the amateur woman golfer in relation to golf fitness training? The answer is no. Yes, the women on the LPGA Tour are the best women golfers in the world, but the physiology of the LPGA player and amateur are the same. The skeletal, muscular, and neural systems are the same. The professional golfer has the same number of muscles in their bodies as the amateur. The woman’s professional golfer has the same skeletal structure as the female amateur, and nervous system as well. Granted the LPGA player has more refined and efficient swing mechanics, but the body is the same.

As a result of the body being the same, the principles and structure of a golf fitness program for any woman is similar. Before discussing the specifics of a golf fitness program for women it is necessary to understand a few important principles. The first principle to understand about a golf fitness program is sports specific. Sports specific is a term describing the type of training utilized in a golf fitness program. Sport specific training simply states the program utilized by the woman athlete is geared towards improving them in their chosen sport.

A second principle closely related to sports specific training is cross specificity training. Cross specificity training is the utilization of exercises to develop the woman golfer in the positions, movements, and actions incorporated in the golf swing. The goal of cross specificity training is a transfer of training effect to the field of competition. Simply stated, a transfer of training effect is the ability of exercises utilized to train the female golfer having a direct benefit on their performance during a round of golf.

For example, golf fitness flexibility exercises will attempt to improve the flexibility within the woman golfer. As the woman golfer improves her flexibility parameters in relation to the golf swing. She may be able to create a bigger shoulder turn, which may increase the distance of her drives. This benefit is an example of a transfer of training effect onto the golf course. In summary, the three principles that assist in the development of a golf fitness program for women are; sports specific, cross specificity training, and transfer of training effect. Many additional principles exist that are used as guidelines in the development of a golf fitness program, but these are three essential ones.

Outside of the guidelines governing the development of a golf fitness program for woman. Specific physical components within the body are needed within the body to execute the golf swing correctly. Remember, it is the body performing the biomechanics of the golf swing. In order for the golf swing to be executed correctly and efficiently certain levels of flexibility, balance, strength, endurance, and power are required. These are the actual physical components within the woman golfer a golf specific fitness program looks to develop and enhance in relation to the golf swing.

The golf swing requires the body to move through a long range of motion for an efficient movement to occur. Much of this is contingent upon the ability of the core to coil and uncoil during the swing. In order for these two biomechanical actions to occur efficiently, the development of proper flexibility in the core is necessary.

We utilize flexibility exercises that are cross-specific to the movements in the golf swing to develop flexibility. The majority of these flexibility exercises are rotational and dynamic.

The golf swing is a dynamic movement, indicating that the body is in constant motion. It is crucial to develop a range of motion for the swing in a dynamic rather than a static (not moving) method. The goal of these exercises is to create a range of motion in the core for the golf swing. Flexibility is the first physical component requiring development within the woman golfer.

One needs to maintain, dynamically, a stable body throughout the entire swing. We have all hit balls at the range and know what happens when we do not stay balanced during the swing. Improving the balance and stabilization capabilities of the core translates into a better golf swing. Better Balance equals a Better Swing. Even subtle movements are consistency killers; thus we need to develop and maintain balance for a consistent swing.

Balance is connected to the efficiency of the nervous system and strength of the muscular system working together. The development of greater balance in the core and swing is the result of two types of specific exercise. The first challenges the nervous system creating greater efficiency. The second are exercises that create increased strength in the core. The combination of these two types of exercises permit for the body to maintain posture, promote efficient weight transfer, and create power in the swing. The result is a more consistent, accurate, and powerful swing. This is the second component included with a golf fitness program for women

Remember that the golf swing is a repetitive movement. The mechanics of the swing repeat with each stroke. This process can be repeated hundreds of times in a round of golf. Ever go to the range and hit two buckets of balls? At some point the body starts to tire, and shots scatter.

Proper endurance training enables us to repeat a sound swing. We produce this through a series of exercises developing endurance in the entire body. This nets us a consistent swing through eighteen holes. Increasing endurance leads to lower scores. This is the third physical component of the golf fitness program for women.

Club head speed is a function of power. The more power generated by the body, the greater speed at which a club head impacts the ball. More power to the ball equals longer drives. Developing higher levels of power within the muscular system of the body is achieved through the implementation of power exercises. These types of exercise assist in creating higher power outputs of the muscles involved in the golf swing. Power training is the final component found in a golf fitness program for women.

In summary a golf fitness program for the LPGA or amateur woman golfer is relatively the same. Golf fitness exercises for the woman golfer are sports specific. The exercises contained within the golf fitness program are cross-specific to the movements, positions, and requirements of the golf swing. The exercises within a woman’s golf fitness program induce a transfer of training effect onto the golf course. The golf swing requires certain levels of flexibility, balance, strength, endurance, and power to execute correctly. A golf fitness program for women will look to enhance these physical components of the body. The end result is an improved golf swing equating to lower scores and more enjoyment on the golf course.

Choosing The Perfect Guide On Your Fishing Trip

2006-06-26T08:06:00.000-07:00

by: Sintilia Miecevole

"Do I really need a guide?" is usually one of the first questions asked from anglers going on their first fishing trip. It's impossible to accurately answer that question with a "yes" or a "no", but we can give you the information you need to know to answer the question by yourself.

Guides can be worth having as long as you know exactly what you're getting. For example, most people don't realize hiring a guide is no guarantee you're going to catch a trophy fish. The guide will take you to the places known to have fish, but catching them is still up to you.

If you don't know what you're doing, the guide can only help you so much. However, if that's the case, a guide may be well worth it to you. Since you will be arriving at a lake you've never been on before, and you only have a few days to catch fish... a guide can really be a big help. Without a guide, you could spend days just trying to find out where the fish are.

Most guides are great anglers themselves. They spend all spring and summer on the lake and know what works and what doesn't. Here are some things to discuss with any potential guide so you can see if you want to hire him:

-The type of fish you want to catch
-Whether you're looking to catch lots of fish, or just trophy sized fish
-Has the guide ever fished for the species you're after?
-What technique will the guide expect you to use?

This is what you'll typically get when you hire a guide:

-Expert advice on the best locations to fish
-Expert tips on how to best catch your fish
-A well prepared, delicious shore lunch

You must decide if the above is worth paying the price for a guide.

Not to be overlooked is another option to considered. You can hire a guide for just a day or two (be up front about this) and then use his (or her) advice on what to do the rest of your fishing trip. This will save you money and still get you that expert advice you're looking for.

Now, if you're going on a fly-in fishing trip to a lake that you know (from your research and talking to others) is full of fish... you probably don't need a guide! There, I even answered your original question for you. That's because lots of the remote lakes have so many fish that even a beginner couldn't help catching all they want.

How much does a guide cost? You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 per day plus a tip of around $25 per person. So, it simply becomes a matter of how much help a guide can be to you, and whether you're willing to pay for the service.

There, now you can decide if you want to hire a fishing guide. Here's to you and fishing!

Kingfish Fishing Bait

2006-06-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

by: Kenneth Poulsen

Kingfish is a beautiful fish and on the list of many fishermen as their favorite. Kingfish are also known as whiting or sea mullet. These are fish that swim in surf making fishing a totally extraordinary experience. They live and move in schools of thousands and of course if you caught one, then you are in the middle of it.

Kingfish are small fish with even smaller mouths. They love clams, worms and crabs – mostly things that are found on shores. The angler can use any of these things as baits, but should always keep in mind that it should not be lowered too much so that other fish or crab steal the bait. Spinner hooks work very well for catching these fish. So are Styrofoam floats adapted on rigs with shank hooks, or Sea Striker gold hooks.

The best bait, the bait which the kingfish simply cannot resist are expensive and almost royal, i.e. the bloodworm. The angler can use one or two worms alone on the hook or in combination with some other bait like strip of pork, mullet or even squid. If you cannot have the bloodworm, you can use its closest substitute, the night-crawler. Though nothing can really give the results the bloodworm gives, a good combination with night-crawler and strips or squares of squid work pretty well. Do not let the night-crawler get washed out however; the kingfish will not touch it.

The baits should be smallish since the kingfish are small biters and do not really go for any big chunks, even if they look wounded and tasty. Use happily spot, mackerel, squid, mullet or any combination of these if you do not have bloodworms. Kingfish are also very attracted to fillets – so if you like to use mullet, use de-scaled finger type fillets. It is a little known fact that sand flies make just as good effective baits for these fish and with a little patience and free time, the angler can get them for free (catch them themselves).

Keep the bait on the move as the kingfish are attracted to on-the-move type of bait. However, move it slowly and tantalizing just as in cat-and-mouse game for best results. The mostly swim around the shore so the angler should best concentrate his efforts there. Kingfish cannot resist baby clams – though it is not easy to get them, these bait are sure-fire ways to catch kingfish.

In the sea the kingfish always tends to swim towards the shore – so that is the best way to position yourself to catch them. In lakes/ oceans the best time to fish for kingfish is early in the morning till about 10.00 am and late evening after 6.00 pm.

Golfdust - Impact Indicator Training

2006-06-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

by: Jim "Chip" Green

It has happened to all of us. Your game is going pretty well, when out of nowhere you start shanking balls every which direction. The more you chase the problem the worse it gets. No matter what you try to do you can’t seem to get the problem sorted out. Obviously, you aren’t making square contact with the ball, but how much should you adjust? How far from the sweet spot was that last swing?

Wouldn't it be great if you could tell exactly where your golf club made contact with your golf ball on every single swing? This information could be very valuable in helping you determine the cause of that last errant shot. Knowing the exact point of impact on the face of your golf club will help you make the necessary beneficial adjustments to your swing to get you back on top of your game. Small changes in your stance or grip, or the length of your clubs, can have a major impact on the point of contact with your club face and your ball trajectory.

That is where Golfdust comes in. Golfdust is a revolutionary new golf training aid that is taking the golf industry by storm. Golfdust is a handy, spray on alternative to the time tested impact tape method of determining your contact point. You simply spray Golfdust on the face of your golf club, wait about ten seconds for the product to begin to tack up, then take your normal swing. Afterwards the exact point of impact will be revealed right on the face of your club. No more guessing. You know what you need to adjust, and can then use this information to adjust your swing accordingly.

Keep a can in your golf bag to check your swing while at the driving range, or on the course. If you have picked up a small glitch in your swing this product just might be that extra little edge you've been looking for.

For more information about Golfdust Impact Indicator Training , and other golf training aids, check out http://www.golfdust.infoaboutgolf.com.

Badminton – The Sport Everyone Loves

2006-06-23T07:57:00.000-07:00

by: Adoz Lizzat

It’s fast! It’s fun! It’s so easy to learn that even five-year-olds can delight in playing it. More than just a game for families, badminton will soar you to the Olympics if you choose to perfect your skill level!

Badminton has captivated the hearts of the multi-generational family for decades, as the young toddler who hasn’t reached pre-school can play, as well as the grandfather and even the great-grandfather. Even the first-day novice can feel comfortable playing.

In England over 2 million people actively, regularly, play badminton.By combining skill, speed and subtlety, one can become a top pro.

The tools of badminton are simple: a shuttlecock often referred to as the ‘bird’ or the ‘shuttle,’ and a racket that is strung either with gut or synthetic fibre. The racket is usually about 26 inches long and only weighs about 5 or 5 ½ ounces. And, toddlers can handle the same weight racket as the parents -- if their hands reach around the handle. The cost of equipment?

A pack of shuttles and rackets can be purchased for less than $10 each or you can have yours custom made for quite a bit more. The ‘bird’ is super-light, weighing only 4 to 5 grams. The fourteen to sixteen feathers are fixed onto a kid-leather skin,which is then put into a cork head that is about one inch in diameter. The feathers are what slows the bird down toward the end of its flight across the net.

Winter winds blowing don’t stop the badminton lovers. Played indoors with a net, the sport is a year-round possibility. An empty basketball court suffices, and players are ingenious in finding one that is available. Schools have found that even students who are not athletically inclined can enjoy learning and playing badminton.Many schools offer classes from kindergarten on through high school,increasing the skill level as the students grow.

Hand-eye coordination increases, as does depth perception, concentration, and spatial awareness. Older students learn organizational skills and coaching techniques. And after the school years, adults traveling around the globe can find a large Badminton Club in every major city.

Fast! That’s one word that describes the game itself. That little ‘bird’ can travel in excess of 100 kph. Players lurch, twist, jump, run forwards, backwards, and sideways while lunging to flip the shuttle back to the other side.

The pros will travel more than a mile during a match, and cover almost every inch of the court. Because both the shuttle and the racket are so light, the slightest twist of one’s wrist can direct where the bird will fly.

Fun! Delightful fun! Badminton brings much joy and laughter to the players. When they miss a shot and the bird falls to the floor, the standard excuse is, “There’s a hole in my racket!”

Badminton – The Sport Everyone Loves

2006-06-23T07:44:00.000-07:00

Quick And Easy Way To Your First Salmon Fishing Adventure

2006-06-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

by: Sintilia Miecevole

Your First Fishing Rod:

The most important piece of equipment is a fishing rod and the best place to purchase a rod is at a real pro shop or bait and tackle shop. Pro shops usually have a really good return policy. If you get a rod that is not comfortable for you, too stiff or too flexible, too long or too short, they will usually exchange it for a rod that will work better for you. They want your return business for things like bait and tackle.

The Place:

The best place to fish for salmon is in the river when they come up to spawn. The local pro shop should be happy to provide you with the best times for fishing salmon. Salmon spawn at different times and come up the rivers at different intervals throughout the season, so planning is important if you want to fish when the salmon are spawning.

The Boat:

Best to have a flat bottom river boat, but those are expensive. It may not be a good idea to take a regular "V" hull lake boat into the river because the depths can be too shallow and unpredictable.

The Guide?

Another exciting way to experience your first salmon trip is by hiring a guide. You'll learn more from the guide then on your own. It can be pricey, but it's worth it. Something to think about.

Shore Fishing

No boat? No worries. Fishing from shore is a wonderful way to experience this fantastic hobby as well.

The Bait:

Ask the at the pro shop what works best in your area or the area you are going to fish. They usually suggest salmon eggs. They are cured in many different ways and everyone has their favorite. The reason why you would want to use salmon eggs is because after salmon spawn, the parent fish stay around the nest to protect the eggs from predators like trout.

The currents will also carry the eggs away. When this happens the parent fish gently pick the eggs in their mouth and bring them back to the nest. So, when you dangle salmon eggs in the water after the salmon have spawned, they will see the eggs and assume that some have floated out of the nest. When they go to retrieve them, they get hooked!

The Catch:

Take along an ice chest filled with ice to keep your catch fresh. You may want to have a couple of five gallon buckets as well. One bucket for cleaning your catch. Another bucket to keep the ready-to-eat gutted and cleaned salmon in. If you clean it before you take it home, you avoid the smelly bloody mess in your kitchen. A third bucket could be used to save salmon eggs gutted from a female. You can save the egg sack and cure it later. You can learn more about how to cure the eggs, or roe, online or talk to someone in your local pro shop for suggestions.

The Filleting:

You can cut your fish in two ways, steaks or fillets. Salmon steaks are the easiest way to cut them up. Filleting takes a little more practice. You will probably destroy the first few you try to fillet. Don't worry, all those little mangled pieces can be smoked and turned into a salmon dip. Mmm good!

The Cooking:

There are many ways to cook salmon. Pan fry, BBQ, roasted or even smoked. If you do decide to smoke your salmon pieces, be sure not to dry them out too much.

Here's a simple recipe for salmon dip.
One cup smoked salmon
Two 8 oz packages of cream cheese
Half cup chopped onion
Salt, pepper, garlic, to taste

Now you have it; go out there and catch some salmon!

Take Some Time Out

2006-06-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

by: Paul Hegarty

We live in a most beautiful world. A world that with all intense and purposes is magical in every way. Today we are so busy that we miss out on the very thing that supports every breath we take. The balance of life is delicate. Watching the news day in and day out it is easy to get down. A lot of what one hears about is terrorism, war, crises after crises.

Our children in schools are constantly under the pressures of becoming something. I could give numerous examples both positive and negative, but it leads to much of the same thing. Our relationships with one another and the world that we live in, are diminishing.

The reason this is happening is because we are so caught up in ourselves. No one denies the necessity of physical survival, but the physiological quest for me and my glory, is leading to a constant drive for personal becoming. This personal becoming is quenching the flame of humility, of compassion, of care.

Take time out for a walk. Take a minute to look around you. Take a minute to help another. With all the distractions it is easy to get consumed, but remember when you are out of touch with the planet, with your fellow human being, you are not truthfully living. You merely exist in a day to day rat race. Home to work, work to home. Without the world neither you nor I could exist, we could not live. Without one another we would be nothing. This is all relative. Break the routine, take some time out. Do it today.

Boating: One Of Life’s Great Pleasures

2006-06-22T09:18:00.000-07:00

Will My Golf Ball Choice Improve My Game?

2006-06-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

by: Troy Degarnham

Choosing the right type of golf balls can make the difference between a bad game and a great game. And if you think that all you need to do is use the same type of balls that Tiger Woods uses, you may be in for a surprise. When it comes to golf balls you need to choose the right types of balls for you. When you choose the wrong golf ball you may be adding a handicap to your game that you can avoid by playing with the right balls.

There are three different styles of golf balls that you can choose from:

- 2-piece ball
- 3-piece balls
- high performance balls

If you want to improve your distance shots you’ll want to use a 2-piece golf ball. If, on the other hand, you’re focusing on accuracy, you’ll want to use either a 3-piece or a high performance golf ball.

If you’re a beginner you’ll find that 2-piece golf balls are perfect since they’re less expensive than other golf balls. This is one way that you can save a bit of money while you learn all about the sport of golf and how to play the game. 2-piece golf balls are also a good choice if you’re slow a swinger since the rubber core of the inner ball is quite large, allowing for a faster speed.

For those golfers who have an accuracy that is inconsistent a 2-piece ball is the better choice. This is because a 3-piece ball won’t forgive all those inaccurate hits that you make in one game. And if you’re an inaccurate hitter you won’t want to use high performance balls since these golf balls are meant for professional golfers who have mastered their game of golf.

Golf balls are something that you’ll want to pay attention to as you learn the game of golf and become more proficient at your game. Having the right golf balls can improve your score and put you into the competitive playing field.

Beginning Golf Instruction Tips: Getting A Feel For The Approach Shot

2006-06-22T08:53:00.000-07:00

by: Blair MacGregor

After mastering the concept of the tee shot, the next step as a golf instruction beginner is to move on to the short game and what are known as approach shots.

For most people, these shots will be increasingly more difficult because they require more skill & patience than a simple tee shot.

There are a variety of approach shots, all of which are used in different situations depending on where your initial shot lands on the course. However, your intention with these shots is always to land on the green.

The pitch shot is an approach shot that is played from farther away than the other shots. Using a wedge, the ideal pitch shot is the perfect combination of enough swing momentum to carry your shot through, but not enough to send it sailing over the green. Trajectory will be low to average depending on how far you are from the cup and you want to make sure the ball doesn't roll too far.

You must start off with a slightly open stance, positioning your right foot directly across from the ball. When following through on a pitch shot, always make sure to keep your backswing as short as you possibly can. Failure to keep your backswing in check will usually cause you to instinctively put the brakes on your shot while accelerating, which is a definite no-no. You want to have enough confidence in your wedge to let the club do the work for you: don't think you have to assist the ball through the air.

Another approach shot is known as the chip shot. You'll need to use a chip shot once you're within about 30 yards from the green, usually after a fairway drive or tee shot. The idea is for this shot to have a much shorter trajectory, so you will need to use a less lofted club. Proper weight distribution is paramount to getting off a decent chip shot. If you're a right handed golfer, you want to put the majority of your weight on the left side and hold this position through the duration of your shot.

There are generally two kinds of chip shots that we want to concern ourselves with. The first one is what's known as the bump-and-run shot, and the second is a flop shot. The Bump And Run is usually taken with an 8, 7 or 6 iron club and with the clubface hooded. That way your shot will have have less loft. You also want to have just enough power in your backswing to follow through. The flop shot is used when you want to get over an obstacle like a rough patch or a sand trap, so you're going to want to have a much higher trajectory in order to push the ball over. Open up your stance and follow through as far under the ball as possible to try and pop it up, and you'll keep your ball away from the danger zones with a good position for a subsequent shot.

Golf at its Best

2006-06-22T07:44:00.000-07:00

by: Susie Drake

Arguably, the most coveted victory in professional golf is the presentation of the green jacket to the winner at the Masters Tournament. This year the tournament will be held April 3-9 and, as always, will be at Augusta National Golf Club in the beautiful state of Georgia. It is an event that has evolved since its beginning in 1934. The Masters-a vision of golf at its best and most competitive-began with Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts and continues today.

Over the years, the course has undergone improvements and this year is no exception. Changes will be made on 6 holes. In order to play, a golfer has to meet at least one of 17 requirements for participation, which in the end creates a competitive field unmatched by any other golf tournament. This year a total of 99 golfers will participate in the tournament, which includes 57 US and 42 international players. Five amateurs will be participating. Of the 99 golfers, 14 will be playing the Augusta course for the first time.

The usual standouts will be in attendance, however the Masters often features surprise breakthrough performances from those who are lesser known. The qualifying rounds are on the first 2 days. The top 44 players of the group will go to the final round and after it’s all over, the 24 top finishers are automatically invited back for next year’s competition.

The Masters is as rich in history as it is in talent. In 1934, when the first Augusta National Invitation Tournament was held at Augusta National Golf Club, Bobby Jones had just finished overseeing the completion of the course with the help of Dr. Alister Mackenzie as the course architect. It was renamed the Masters Golf Tournament in 1938.

The initial tournament also featured its first playoff, which was won by Horton Smith. In 1935, Gene Serazen and Craig Wood tied and then went on to battle through a whopping 36-hole playoff with Serazen winning by five strokes. 1942 saw Byron Nelson earn a one-stroke victory over Ben Hogan in a shorter18-hole playoff. Other great players who have won the tournament include Henry Picard (1938), Ralph Guldahl (1939), Jimmy Demaret (1940), Herman Keiser (1946), Sam Snead (1949), and Ben Hogan (1951, 1953).

During World War II, the Augusta grounds were used to raise cattle and turkeys for the war effort. Arnold Palmer showed up in the 1950’s and began his consecutive run of 50 straight appearances, which ended in 2004. It was then that a new generation rose to replace the men who had become legends, including Palmer (multiple winner), Jack Nicklaus (multiple winner), Gay Brewer (1967), Gary Player (1961, 1974), Billy Casper (1970) and Raymond Floyd (1976).

There have been some interesting golf milestones over the 72-year tradition of the Masters Golf Tournament. In 1936, Horton Smith became the first 2-time winner, and three generations later in 1999, Jose Maria Olazubal ended up being the 14th multiple winner. The first four-time winner was Arnold Palmer, only to be topped by the only six-time winner, Jack Nicklaus, in 1986. At the age of 36, Nicklaus’ last win made him the oldest Masters champion.

More recently, the green jacket went to the youngest man to win the tournament-Tiger Woods, who notched the lowest 72-hole total in the history of the contest while creating the largest winning margin. Gary Player was the first international player to win the Masters. In 2003, Canadian Mike Weir became the first player from his country to prevail at Augusta as well as the first left-handed player ever to receive the green jacket. In 2004, Phil Mickelson won the tournament with a birdie on the last hole to join 3 other champions who had done the same.

The green jacket is the trademark of the Masters and its color represents the beauty of rich, healthy turf. It was first awarded to Sam Snead after his victory in 1949. Members actually began wearing them in 1937. They are never removed from the club and those members who work on the tournament are referred to as "The Green Jackets." Also, the men who wear this special emblem are considered part of golf’s elite, and even though some don’t play as well as others, they all share their love and dedication for the sport.

Originally, golf was considered a sport mainly for the wealthy until the common man’s general, Dwight D. Eisenhower, became a member in 1948. When he became president, it was transformed into a great pastime for the middle-class. In the past few years, there has been controversy over the inclusion of women in the tournament, which is a subject that still remains open for debate.

Like every sport, golf has its superstitions too. The Masters carries the curse of the Par-3 Contest. Sam Snead was the first winner of this mini-tournament in 1960. Since the implementation of this competition, no one has ever won the Masters and the Par-3 contest in the same year. This so-called curse has continued for 45 years.

So what can we expect in 2006? Seven days of golf’s finest players vying for top honors on one of golf’s most beautiful and challenging courses. Each of the elite 99 will be pursuing their individual dream of wearing the triumphant and symbolic green jacket of the Masters.

Let The Games Begin - Taking Your Sporting Passion Online!

2006-06-22T07:33:00.000-07:00

by: Madison Lockwood

Sports fans just may be the most loyal, enthusiastic, and excitable fans around. It does not take much for a football fan to start talking about their favorite team, a hockey fan to recount the best play of the year, or a baseball fan to rant about an upcoming season. And if it is a basketball fan, don't even get them started on March Madness!

Come March, you can bet that everyone who follows college basketball is scouring the media to find out as much as they can about the twenty-day tournament that is also called "The Big Dance." The fanatic groupies are devouring all the information they can--from the players' stats, the hottest team gossip, and who, at the moment, is expected to take home the trophy--and even the mild enthusiasts are hungry for the latest news on the championship teams.

To get the full scoop, these fans will undoubtedly turn to a sports website. Designed for the hardcore followers and the casual observers, a sports website can be as specific or as general as you want it to be. For example, a basketball website may have a special section on March Madness that includes:

-interaction with sports fans around the world through a blog, forums, chats, and messaging

-up-to-date bios of the March Madness stars

-photos of the most heated moments in the tournaments

-histories of the teams

-a schedule of televised games

-March Madness trivia

-stats

One of the best things about a top-notch sports website is that fans can access it before, during, and after different games to get the latest breaking news. Do you have a rival team? Log on and find out what others are saying about them. Curious about a certain player's strategy? Subscribe to a blog through a website and find out what another aficionado thinks. Really, a sports website is the most efficient way to share, swap, and celebrate sports information - all within the comfort of your own home. Best of all, you're your own announcer, so your team is always the home team.

Sports fans deserve a website that is as stimulating as they are, especially during the seasons' wildest and craziest events such as March Madness, the Superbowl, the Kentucky Derby, and the World Series (to name just a few). A well-crafted and entertaining website is just what they need to stoke their fire and keep the heat on.

Many sports websites today focus on just one team or a single sport. Certainly, this is a great way to gather a tight-knit, excited group that will be eager to share even the tiniest tidbit of related trivia. But, a website can also be all-encompassing and cover sports of all kinds. In this way, a wider variety of fans will interact with each other.

So, if you would like to have a hand in establishing a virtual athletic community, consider putting up a sports website. Before you know it, your site could have a following that rivals the NCAA, and logging on to it may become a national pastime in its own right.

A Few Tips for Camping Newbies

2006-06-22T07:26:00.000-07:00

by: Donald Vanderlugt

A little forethought and organization will payoff in a great memorable adventure for that next outdoors excursion you may have planned.

* Depending upon your adventure [ hiking/canoeing/car camping ] don’t take along every thing including the kitchen sink, that’s why you go camping in the first place; to get away from it all !…….but always allow for the worst thing that could happen because sometimes it will; freezing cold, sick kids,pouring rain,insect pests,strong winds can all spoil a great time if you are not prepared for the worst and always take along the sunscreen/hat and mozzie repellent.

* If you need to travel light you may be better off carrying food types that don’t need to be cooked; the midday meal should be quick and easy for everybody especially with canoeing activities etc and keep the cooking for around the campfire or portable stove at night; try to minimize the eco impact and keep to the established cooking areas.[ be aware of fire bans ]

* Make sure you have all the requisites for a good nights sleep like a mosquito net,mosquito coils and a quick fill air mattress or pad, nothing worse than a bad nights sleep.

* Be eco friendly and take your rubbish away with you unless there are rubbish facilities available and when going to the toilet if you need to dig a hole, make it nice and deep and away from the beaten track;think of your fellow campers.

* Always be considerate of fellow campers,don’t smoke out your neighbours with your camp fire or camp too close and keep the noise down to a minimum as we all enjoy a quiet nights sleep and a little privacy , if you must use a generator for electricity be mindful of the eco impact of both noise and spillage of fuels and oils.

* At packup time your camp site should look as if you were never there;make sure your gear is packed correctly , nice and dry, otherwise you will need to dry it out when you get home , because any damp material gear will get smelly and mouldy and possibly rot away .

* Obviously these notes are only a very broad outline….but you have to start somewhere……..

Tips For Buying Your Next Set Of Skis

2006-06-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

by: Gray Rollins

New ski equipment can be expensive, and even used ski gear costs a pretty penny, so it is important to make sure that you have found the perfect pair of skis before you take out your checkbook. The right skis will feel almost like an extension of your body as you zip down the slopes with ease, whereas the wrong skis can be cumbersome and uncomfortable, weighing you down and keeping you from reaching your full athletic potential.

The key to finding your ideal gear for hitting the slopes is research. The more you know about the different kinds of skis available, the better you will be able to select the best option for your needs.

Before you purchase your own set of skis, it is a good idea to spend some time trying out various models and makes of skis. Most people learn to ski on rented equipment, and trying out a variety of different kinds of skis through a rental agency is a great way to get a feel for your personal ski preferences. Investing some funds in renting a variety of different skis for research purposes can actually save you quite a bit of money in the long run, as the more you know about what you like on the slopes the more likely you will be to purchase a pair of skis that will help you ski at your best. Following the old adage “try before you buy” can be the key to taking home the perfect gear for your physical build and skiing style.

Once you have determined what sort of skis you feel most comfortable on, spend some time thinking about what kind of a skier you want to become in the future. Because skis are such a serious investment, you will want to purchase a pair that will grow with you as you become more accomplished. When in doubt it is better to buy skis you are not quite ready for rather than skis you will quickly outgrow. In addition to your level of accomplishment, consider what kind of skiing style you hope to be able to master.

Before you buy a pair of skis, it is vital to decide whether you plan to pursue only a single form of skiing, or whether you will need a pair of skis that are versatile enough to take on many different kinds of courses in varied situations. Skiers who only plan to tackle resort slopes are usually best served by Alpine skis. But, some athletes with bigger ideas in mind will need a set of gear that will be equally at home in both downhill and telemark scenarios.

The perfect pair of skis will be able to bridge the gap between the skier you are today and the skier you hope to become. Many beginners make the mistake of buying the skis that are best suited to their current skill level, but smart shoppers are well aware of the fact that a pair of skis should open up the possibility of further advancement rather than stunting the athlete’s progress. It is vital to your enjoyment and safety to buy skis that you can use today, but it is also important to choose a pair that will still suit you tomorrow.

Sports For One

2006-06-22T07:22:00.000-07:00

by: John Kortex

The word sports for many conjure up images of teams competing against one another for the honor of winning a game. But there are many sports individuals can participate in and find very rewarding. Fishing, hunting, cycling, golfing, jogging and hiking are sports that an individual can enjoy alone, just to name a few.

There are many benefits to any sport, but sports for one benefits are defined by the individual. For some, sports are a means of exercise and there is no other reward. They make it a part of their daily routine simply to be physically healthy. This in fact fits into their diet plan to help maintain a healthy weight. In this instance many times there is no enjoyment and the sport becomes drudgery.

Another and probably greater reward of sports for one is a mental benefit. Sports can and do make a person feel better which in turn affects one’s health. But the mental relaxation one finds when getting out in the open and participating has far greater rewards. Our minds are too busy with everyday activities and taking the time to participate in a sport gives us a rewarding feeling and a break from daily stresses for our minds. There are many that take advantage of their sports time to listen to the news, read, or listen to a book on tape. For many this multitasking is even more rewarding.

Sports for one is a great way to take time for you whatever the reason, mental, physical or both. So get out there and reward yourself, you deserve it!

Unity in Sports

2006-06-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

by: John Kortex

Sports have been bringing people from all over the world together since the first Olympics in Greece many years ago. Sports bring people a since of accomplishment but more importantly, unity.

When playing a sport, whether it is with multiple people or by yourself, you have to be able to communicate with team members and coaches. If you are playing the sport by yourself, chances are you have a coach there at your side somewhere. Communication is extremely important when it comes to unity. It allows you to tell your other players or coach what is going on in a particular game situation in order to play as the game well.

In a team setting, you know your team is unified when there is trust on the field or court. You have to be able to trust your teammate will make the important catch to get you the first down or trust in your teammate to score the winning basket to win the championship. Sometimes you get the important super star on your team yet your team cannot win. It is because his/her players cannot communicate with him/her and therefore they cannot trust him. This team lost the game before they ever started because without trust talent means nothing. Trust brings unity and is the key to winning games.

Additionally, sports have created unity amongst small towns, big cities, and nations all over the world. When certain events such as the Olympics or the World Cup are played people will gather at the event, in a bar or at a friend’s house draped in their nation’s flag or wearing their favorite team’s colors. Without unity sports wouldn’t be any fun and no one would play them.

How To Really Ride A Scooter

2006-06-20T10:22:00.000-07:00

by: Charles Edwin

You have all see them around the town where you live. A grown man or woman, riding a two wheeled scooter.. Wearing tight clothing, helmet and gloves, they look more alien than human as they ride around in strange attire and what looks to be a most uncomfortable position.

So what is going on with bikers? Why do they wear weird looking clothes? Is all that gear they have really necessary?

A biker is always in a constant struggle against wind resistance. It is a battle that can never be won. Everything from the bikers helmet, shorts, shoes and bike are made to make the fight against wind resistance easier.

A rider's position on the scooter bike is designed to reduce the area of the body that comes into contact with the air. The more aerodynamic the position on the bike the less power the cyclist has to produce to maintain, or achieve, a given speed.

Motorcycle shorts have always been the brunt of many jokes from those who do not understand the function they serve. The shorts are skin-tight to reduce the air resistance and to keep the fabric from rubbing and moving next to the skin which may create a sore spot.

Of course, what may be the most desirable feature of cycling shorts is the padding which is built into the seat. Because the scooter bike is built in such an aerodynamic form, the seat is made to be as slim as possible. This does not make it very comfortable to sit on which is where the padding in the cycling shorts makes a difference.

Your ability to pedal into the wind resistance is what propels you down the road. Many cyclists use a special shoe and pedal combination which helps deliver a more efficient pedal stroke to the bike. The shoes clip into the pedal via a cleat on the bottom of the shoe that connects firmly onto the pedal mechanism. This allows the cyclist to focus more power on the pedal and can both pull up and push down on the pedal stroke.

Helmets are necessary due to safety concerns. However, the shape of most helmets are built so that they are as aerodynamic as possible. The front of the helmet is rounded toward the side and back. Numerous air vents are built in to the helmet for comfort on hot and humid rides.

Motorcycle gloves are worn to help absorb the road shock. The gloves have padding built into the palm. Most bicycling gloves do not fully cover the fingers. The reason for this is it makes it much easier to grasp fully the brakes when needing to slow down or stop. The gloves do not necessarily help with aerodynamics, but they do make the ride more comfortable, which gives you more energy to ride and fight the air resistance.

Bikers love to ride. They may look different in their gear, but it is out of necessity that they wear what they do. The fight is against wind resistance. They look no stranger than a football player or race car driver in their gear. The difference is a biker has to use the gear in public every time they venture out to ride his bike and wage the battle against air resistance.

The Greatest Sport On The Planet - Fastpitch Softball!

2006-06-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

by: George Phillips

Welcome to the greatest sport on the planet - fastpitch softball.

Fastpitch softball now ranks near the top of team participation sports played in the U.S.. There is special appeal in fastpitch softball that has allowed it to steadily grow in popularity through the years. Once a person chooses to become involved in fastpitch softball, the sport seems to dominate their lives. I know it did mine, I pitched this game for 35 years, over half of my life was devoted to this sport! I pitched this game for 35 years, over half of my life was devoted to this sport! Starting from never having picked up a softball, to Regional most valuable pitcher, to our team finishing 7th in the nation.

I would rather watch a good exciting fastpitch softball game anyday, than a world series baseball game. Fastpitch softball games move faster, have more action, and you'll soon see how hard it is to hit that big old ball. The windmill motion of a fastpitch softball pitcher can send the ball to the batter at speeds equal to major league baseball pitchers. Now its pretty clear why it is hard to hit a fastball or a fastpitch softball: the batter doesnt have much time to decide!

Fastpitch softball is often characterized by a minimal numbers of runs, desperation drag bunts and delayed steals, just to score that winning run!

Due to the fact that fastpitch pitchers were so hard to find, another form of softball quickly emerged, slow pitch. Slowpitch softball, which does not require the dedication, or travel, or skill of fastpitch, became hugely popular and remains so even today. Most of the differences between fastpitch softball and slowpitch softball are designed to give the batters more dominance, and make fielding more important.

There is a vast difference between when I first started playing fast pitch softball, and todays players. When I started, back in 1958, we didn't have training videos, dvd's and cd's to show exactly how to pitch. We had to learn by trial and error, and hope we could talk someone into slipping us a few secrets of how they threw their rise ball or drop ball, or whichever pitch we wanted to learn. This is another reason for the shortage of decent fastpitch pitchers over the years, which led to slow pitch leagues being formed.

Today there is a video or dvd available that will teach you every phase of pitching, batting, coaching, and almost everything else you would want to know about playing this fantastic sport. How to be a power pitcher, how to throw a rise ball, how to throw a drop ball, how to throw a change up, how to throw a curve ball, and much more. Now anyone with the determination and desire, can quickly grasp the how to information and cut the learning curve down drastically!

For many new players just wanting to get into fastpitch softball, the place to start is getting involved in a local fastpitch softball league. Most major cities have fastpitch softball leagues, some even have both, mens and womens. Many local teams are looking for new players who have above average skills and some knowlege of the game of Fastpitch Softball.

Right here you need to decide whether you want to just play for the fun and exercise, or whether you are up to the challenge of serious competition in fastpitch softball. You will find both types of teams usually in your local leagues. It's a fun and competitive way to particpate in fastpitch softball.

Funding a "First-class" fastpitch softball program can be very costly. If you already have a fastpitch softball team, and looking for a good sponsor, you might want to consider car dealerships or companies involved in mining and exploration, as I have found both to be very receptive for sponsorships.

One last tip, for a new pitcher wanting to become an outstanding fastpitch softball pitcher is... Team up with an outstanding catcher, who knows the game, That will make you many times more effective!

Where fastpitch really shines, is at the college level... where womens fastpitch is a very competitive sport. You may have caught some of the games broadcast by ESPN showing tournament action.

Some people find the transition from recreational softball to fastpitch to be too intimidating, but don't let that happen to you!

You will be missing out on the thrill of a lifetime.

Tips For Buying Nature-Viewing Binoculars

2006-06-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

by: Kurt Hagemeister

How to Select The Optimal Binoculars for Watching Nature in Your backyard and Out In The Field.

Many people who want to buy binoculars for watching birds and nature are bewildered by the variety of models available. Certainly, there are many fine binoculars on the market that are excellent for nature-viewing. But, what DOES define a good binocular for watching birds, animals, butterflies, and even reptiles? First, there is NO best binocular for any purpose. Every model of binocular has its pluses and minuses. Even an awesome top-of-the-line binocular from Leica or Swarovski has a disadvantage – price. They’re just too expensive for some people.

But, here are some tips on what to look for in your search for great nature-viewing binoculars:

Basic Specs – First, a brief definition of the basic specification for any binocular, e.g. 8 x 40, or 8 by 40, is in order. The first number is the magnification power of the binocular. It will make an object appear that many times larger than the naked eye. So, an 8 power binocular magnifies an image 8 times. The second number is the diameter of the larger, or “objective” lens in millimeters. This is the lens that gathers in the image of the object you’re looking at. So, an 8 by 40 binocular has a 40 millimeter objective lens. The larger this lens size, the larger the binocular body. This can be a factor if you can’t carry around something very heavy for several hours outside.

Compact vs. Full Size – Basically, binoculars with an objective lens smaller than 30 mm are considered “Compacts”, while ones with lenses larger than this are described as “Full Size”. In most cases, I recommend people to go with a full size binocular for watching birds and nature. One reason is that they are just a lot easier to look through. A reason for this is compact binoculars have correspondingly smaller exit pupil lenses (the smaller lenses you actually look through) that sometimes make it hard to see the whole field of view. Another reason is that full size binoculars are brighter when compared to a compact model of similar optical quality. This results in sharper, clearer images most of the time. So, look for binoculars in the 35 mm to 45 mm range. The only time compacts may be desirable is when traveling dictates carrying around the smallest possible binocular. Larger size lenses (50 mm or more) result in heavier, bulkier binoculars that may be harder to carry around. But, if you don’t mind the larger size, these larger lens binoculars can offer very good brightness and ease of use.

Magnification Power – This can often be a subject of debate among birdwatchers. Most hand-held binoculars are in the 7 to 12 power magnification range. 7 and 8 power are considered a general-use range because they usually have a larger field of view, which is the maximum angle a particular model of binocular can see. This is usually expressed as a number of feet in width that can be seen at a standard distance from the binocular (usually 1000 yards). A good range for field of view is 350 to 400 feet. Higher magnification binoculars (9 to 12) have relatively lower field of views – lower 300 feet range. But, if you’re mainly using them for birdwatching, this is not often a big problem. So, if you want to use binoculars for a wide range of uses (nature viewing, sports events, scenery, etc.), a lower magnification is fine. If you mainly want to use them for birdwatching, a higher magnification binocular will enable you to see more detail. Besides field of view, another tradeoff of using higher magnification binoculars is that the image will often shake a bit more, especially if you have unsteady hands.

Close Focus Distance – This is the shortest distance that a given binocular model can clearly focus on an object. In recent years, some optics companies like Eagle Optics have come out with some models with extremely short close focus distances – on the order of 5 feet! This can enable you to focus on close up wildlife like butterflies or amphibians for instance. If you want to do this with your binoculars, look for ones with a short close focus distance. Every binocular model is different, so you just need to try them out.

Eye Relief – If you wear glasses when you use binoculars, this number is important. If you don’t, it isn’t. Eye relief is the distance (in millimeters) behind the exit pupil lens (the one you look through) where you can still see the full field of view of the binoculars. Wearing glasses artificially increases the distance between this lens and the pupil of your eye to a point where it’s beyond the optimal distance the binocular was designed for. So, a eye relief is better – 12 millimeters or more. Every binocular is different, so ask for this number when looking at each model.

Optical Quality/Lens Coatings – The quality of the glass, construction, and lens coating system makes the biggest difference in the price of the binocular over any other factor(s). Better quality binoculars will present much sharper, brighter images to the viewer, which makes it much easier to identify whatever wildlife you’re looking at. You want binoculars with fully, multi-coated lenses and BaK-4 glass where possible. Some of the best features are ED (extra low dispersion) and HD (high density) glass. Basically, you should buy the best binoculars your budget can afford. In the long run, you will be far happier with your decision.

Other Features – Finally, binoculars come in either the Roof Prism or Porro Prism design. Generally, the Roof prism is more desirable, but can be more expensive for the same quality glass and optics compared to a Porro Prism. But, the more streamlined design and more rugged hinge design makes it worth it in most cases. Water Proof and Fog Proof are also desirable features if you’re going to possibly be using the binoculars in areas where you get a lot of moisture (like a damp forest) or where you may accidently drop them in the water (like canoeing). These can add to the cost, but may be a very good investment.

So, the key is to try a lot of different models to find the binocular that feels right in your hands and is easy to look through for your specific vision. This way, you can find a great pair that you will be very happy with for years.

Bullheads And Catfish - Names That Bring Joy And Disgust

2006-06-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

by: Robert Benjamin

When it comes to fishing, there are two names that make the sport great to me, 'bullheads' and 'catfish', no other freshwater fish get such a bad rap as these two old friends do. If I am at work or in a store or some other place, all I have to do is mention 'I caught some bullheads or a catfish, and it's like I am talking about some horrible skin disease. People frown or shake their heads in disgust, and start talking about how nasty they are and how they are bottom feeders. Let me tell you what I think about bullheads and catfish.

I think they get a back rap because they are ugly to most folks, I mean they are dark, they have whiskers by their mouths, and they have sharp spines at the dorsal and pectoral fins. Mishandle a bullhead while removing a fishhook or when placing one in the live well, and you can get horned or pricked with one of the sharp spines. The spines contain a poison that often hurts worse than a bee sting, and the pain and soreness can last a week. Bullheads and Catfish can actually use the sharp spines to attack other fish, I have seen this myself here in my home. I have a freshwater fish aquarium, in it I once had a bluegill, goldfish and a small bullhead. I noticed one day that the goldfish had a sore or bloody area near it's tail. I soon learned how the injury had happened. I saw the bullhead literally ram the side of the goldfish and stick it with one of it's spines. The goldfish went nuts, swimming around fast, later it appeared to be ok, except for another bloodied spot or wound on it's side. I am sure if the bullhead continued attacking and pricking the goldfish in the right spot, enough times, it would of killed it.

I once was trying to remove a hook from the tough mouth of a bullhead I had caught, when I accidently got pricked by one of the spines, the area swelled up and it hurt for days, I was always a lot more careful when it came to handling bullheads after that. The poison contained in the bullheads sharp spines, can make even a small baby bullhead very painful if your not careful when handling it. The poison glands are common throughout the catfish and bullhead species.

Despite the appearance, there isn't a more mellow and better tasting fish than a bullhead or catfish. There are numerous ways one can prepare them for a meal, but all I ever do, is gut them out, remove the dorsal and pectoral fins, spines, head and the skin, leaving the tail fin intact. Then I just get me a large skillet and pour a good amount of cooking oil in it, and get it good and hot. Then I roll the bullhead or catfish meat in flour, and gently place them in the hot oil and fry them. I eat them hot with a little salt and pepper, and dip pieces of the meat into ketchup. Bullheads and catfish have the large backbones that make them the easiest fish to eat without filleting.

I think people just get the idea that they taste bad because they are bottom feeders. This means nothing really, a catfish and bullhead will eat or bite on a worm just like a bass or perch will. They may tend to stay or feed near the bottom of lakes, ponds and rivers but they really eat no crap or other junk. They like feeding near the bottoms because that is where one of their favorite meals live, crawfish, and clippers. The bullheads and catfish actually push small rocks and stones, logs and other debris on the bottom to look for the crawfish and clippers, along with other live water creatures, and bullheads and catfish nest and burrow into mud and banks

It is true that large catfish may be muddy tasting, but that can be simply cured by not eating the large ones. Some catfish have a dark stripe in the meat that goes the length of the fish, this area is sometimes strong tasting, again, just avoid eating this part and you will be fine. I have caught and ate bullheads and catfish all of my life, and I love them more then any other fish, including perch and bass.

Most of the bullheads I have caught here in Pennsylvania in the ponds and lakes are the black bullheads, once in awhile I catch a brown one, But there colors can vary a lot, I have caught some bullheads that were yellow or a nice shade of green. I believe it depends a lot on the amount of algae and other plants in the water, and also the time of the year, water temperature, and other factors.

I have been told by a lot of different fishermen that the best times to catch bullheads and catfish is at night. I have found that this is not always the case, in fact most of my best bullhead catches occurred during the daylight hours. I have fished at night and have not even gotten a bite, other times I have been at the pond at 3:00 PM, the hottest time of the day, on a clear, sunny, summer day, and have caught a whole stringer of bullheads. Sometimes something strange happens that seems to awaken bullheads, making them bite a lot or to suddenly stop biting. One time I was fishing during a nice sunny afternoon, when the sky clouded over, it wasn't the dark clouds, just the grey ones, as soon as the sun was gone, the bullheads stopped biting just like someone had turned off a switch. Another time, I was fishing on a sunny day when all of a sudden a thunderstorm hit, it got dark and started to rain, and thunder, all of a sudden the bullheads started to bite like crazy, then the storm passed and the sky cleared, when it did, the bullheads stopped biting. So whether it's a sunny day, cloudy day, or night, it seems there is a lot of factors one must take into consideration when catching bullheads and catfish. I have learned that either they are going to bite or they are not, whenever you go fishing, no matter what time of day or night it is.

There is Computer Software that is made for fishing. After keeping a few past records of fishing trips, this software will help you to easily calculate what days will be a great fishing day ! The software is called: ' Fishing Buddy ', and you can download and try the software for free at this website address:

http://www.rb59.com/fishingb

By Robert W. Benjamin

Explore Less-Traveled Paths in Camping Comfort

2006-06-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

by: ARA Content

Innovations provide the power to enjoy RV amenities miles beyond the last electrical hookup.

(ARA) - If you've already experienced the serenity and fun of camping with your towable recreational vehicle (RV), you know the freedom of getting away. Now you can travel even farther and discover your own quiet haven in nature. Without leaving every convenience behind, your family can dine amidst tall pines, identify constellations in clear night skies and then flip on the lights to enjoy a favorite novel before turning in. New products such as quiet, dependable power sources can make comfort and security part of your travels, wherever the trail may lead.

"The U.S. Forest Service includes 192 million diverse acres across the nation that are waiting to be enjoyed," says Jim Miller, dispersed recreation program manager, USDA Forest Service. "Most campsites in our system do not have electrical hookups and many forests offer even more primitive or 'dispersed' camping opportunities. Depending on local forest regulations, campers can travel off main roads and pick out their own sites along less-developed routes, as long as they do so responsibly, with respect for other visitors and as little environmental disruption as possible."

Miller notes that dispersed sites tend to appeal to experienced campers who are looking for their own quiet spot. What they often find are breathtaking vistas, colorful sunrises and close-up looks of surrounding nature. "Many choosing dispersed sites stay near favorite hunting or fishing spots," Miller notes. "Mountain bikers or hikers also prefer to camp close to favorite trails for easy access."

Camping -- Not Roughing It

Even without electrical hookups, piped water or toilets, campers can enjoy many comforts from home when they travel in a camper carrying its own power source. Onan's new compact generator, Camp Power, provides big-RV power for smaller trailers, folding camping trailers and truck campers. The generator's fully enclosed design is quiet enough to operate in many national parks, although park authorities should always be consulted regarding local regulations.

"Towable RVs can be compatible with rustic or dispersed campsites, where it's highly important to tread lightly on the land," says Joyce Drinnin, marketing manager, RV marketing, Onan. "Since most toilet and cooking facilities are available in towables, it's easier to leave natural surroundings undisturbed. With an unobtrusive power source, campers can enjoy a hot cup of coffee and a hearty meal without building a fire. Plus, in some camper units, you can even cool down in air-conditioned comfort after a long, hot day on the trail."

For other benefits, Drinnin points to added security from dependable campsite lighting and communication systems that provide advance warning when stormy weather is on the horizon. "Today's active families build strong ties when they spend time together camping," she adds. "These extra safety features can reduce stress and enhance the time busy families enjoy together."

Be Prepared

Preparation for remote camping experiences is key to ensuring a pleasant camping experience, says Miller. His recommendations for campers are:

Contact the U.S. Forest Service in the area you plan to visit for current campsite information, since rules and regulations vary around the country. Motorized equipment is not allowed in designated wilderness areas.

Pack water filters or purification tablets for purifying lake or stream water, in case you need more water than you've brought along.

Follow local campfire regulations. If fires are permitted, build only small ones, never leave them unattended and always put fires dead out, especially when retiring for the night.

Use the portable toilet facilities in your towable. Other options are to bury human waste in decomposable layers of soil, normally at least 6 to 8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water, paths and campsites, or use toilet devices that allow you to sanitize waste for safe disposal when you return from camping.

Pack out everything you bring in. Always leave campsites the way you would like to find them.
For more information about U.S. Forest Service camping, visit www.fs.fed.us or www.recreation.gov. The U.S. Forest Service is listed under the U.S. Department of Agriculture in phone directories. For additional information about Camp Power, visit www.funroads.com.

SIDEBAR

Remote Camping Adventures

Pack your camper and experience nature in U.S. forests across the nation. Here's just a sampling of the adventures that await.

White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire and Maine. Spectacular foliage is a key fall attraction for visitors. The forest includes Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, and a variety of wildlife, ranging from moose and black bears to peregrine falcons. Visit www.fs.fed.us/r9/white or call 603-528-8721.

Superior National Forest, Minnesota. Nearly 2,000 lakes and streams offer unmatched canoeing, boating and fishing in northeastern Minnesota's north woods. Trails for novice through advanced hikers meander through 3 million scenic acres and include access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Visit www.superiornationalforest.org or call 218-626-4300, ext. 2.

Dakota Prairie Grasslands, North Dakota and South Dakota. Four separate grasslands, including the Maah Daah Hey Trail, offer rare views of wildlife and opportunities for hiking, canoeing, fishing, hunting and backpacking. These diverse sites range from tallgrass prairie on rolling hills to stark badlands. Visit www.fs.fed.us/r1/dakotaprairie or call 701-250-4443.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, Colorado. Located on the western slope of the Colorado Rockies, these three forests offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the mountain range. Sites include Bridal Veil, the tallest waterfall in Colorado; Grand Mesa, the world's largest flattop mountain; and Dry Mesa Dinosaur Quarry, home of the world's largest dinosaur bone fossils. Visit www.fs.fed.us/r2/gmug or call 970-874-6600, ext. 6676.

Custer National Forest, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. This ecologically diverse area includes elevation ranges of less than 1,000 feet up to the 12,799-foot Granite Peak in Montana. Other highlights include ancient sand dunes covered with grasslands, rugged badlands and fields of alpine wildflowers. Visit www.fs.fed.us/r1/custer or call 406-446-2103.

Angeles National Forest, California. Not far from bustling Los Angeles, Angeles National Forest offers diverse topography, ranging from 10,000-foot mountain peaks to 1,200-foot canyon bottoms. Forest trails wind through 800 miles of rugged backcountry, scenic ridges and tree-lined canyons. Visit www.r5.fs.fed.us/angeles or call 626-574-5200.

Willamette National Forest, Oregon. This 1.6 million-acre forest stretches 110 miles along the western slopes of the Cascades. Trails, roads, campgrounds and viewpoints allow visitors to enjoy the forest's abundant rivers, streams and lakes. Seven major volcanic peaks are part of the Willamette, along with the forested Cascade Range of mountains. Visit www.fs.fed.us/r6/willamette or call 541-465-6521.

Camping in Lead King Basin

2006-06-19T07:56:00.000-07:00

by: Sandin Phillipson

The first Summer that I lived in Colorado provided me with an opportunity to spend six weeks camping in the western Rocky Mountains, during June and July. In preparation for a summer in the outdoors, I acquired an eleven-year-old1985 Dodge Ramcharger, a model famous for its 4x4 capability and ruggedness. Just the thing for negotiating the wilds of the West Elk Mountains. I cruised south from Glenwood Springs, turned short of the road to Aspen, and passed the beehive coke ovens of Redstone to the town of Marble. In some ways, Marble is a modern ghost town, with dirt roads and weather-beaten cabins, but as it hosts a Post Office and fire department, it retains its "living" status. True to its name, the local quarries provided some of the highest quality stone for monuments in Washington.

Pavement rapidly disappeared as I headed up the steep, one-lane road from Marble. I passed the U.S. Forest Service road sign that advised "4WD Only Beyond This Point" and my pulse quickened. I took the right fork and jounced slowly over twin ruts, the former road to an actual ghost town located some miles from Marble. As I rounded a bend blasted through granite, just wide enough to accommodate a horse-drawn wagon, I braked suddenly and gasped. The road in front dropped off into a steep pile of rubble that clung to the side of a mountain, high above the roaring Crystal River. Even the twin ruts degenerated into a jagged surface of jumbled boulders and cobbles. At the base of the steep bank of talus, off the road, a dented, burned-out Chevy pickup rested in the weeds, a derelict from a previous adventure in decades gone by. I shifted into 4-Low and dropped the automatic transmission into "1", such a low gear that even at engine idle the Ramcharger jerked forward and crawled to the tune of rhythmically whining gears. Two feet from the edge of the road’s drop-off, and mindful of the Chevy’s fate, I began the bouncing, swaying descent. Momentarily, the speedometer needle rose slightly from where it bottomed out at 5 mph, and it gently tapped the brakes. Too fast, perhaps 3 mph was more suitable. I crept down the ancient road, imagining how teamsters had once negotiated wagons over this treacherous track.

At last I reached the bottom, where the road was pot-holed and covered with dirt, presumably settled-out flood sediment from the roaring Crystal River, whose whitecaps danced at a level only slightly lower than the road. After some time, I ascended a rise and came opposite a weather-beaten, yet picturesque mill perched high upon a jutting promontory of granite above the river. Giant wooden beams, shed from the structure after a punishing winter, whirled in the vortex at the base of the millrace, smashed to splinters as the thundering current relentlessly pounded them into the unyielding granite. Beyond, the town of Crystal crouched alongside the road. Through town, the road had completely degenerated into a rutted, rocky, jouncing misery even at 5 mph. Rugged log cabin-type structures lined the street, constructed of rough-hewn square timbers notched together, boarded up and nailed shut. Aha, but I saw that this wasn’t strictly a ghost town! The last house on the edge of town had a somewhat cared-for appearance, with a circa 1974 Ford pickup parked in front that prominently displayed a bumper sticker that advised "51% Nice Guy, 49% SOB. Don’t Push It." No problem there, I’m just passing through.

As I continued out of town, the lush, green valley of Lead King Basin was sprawled out before me. I had broken out of the woods along the river bottom, and thick green grass sprinkled with yellow, blue, and white flowers swayed in the mountain breezes. All around, majestic, snow-capped granite peaks rose toward the sky, and the steep, jagged cliffs of the distinctively colored Maroon Sandstone jutted into the air. This is the same rock formation made famous in Colorado postcards of the Maroon Bells. I climbed the narrow jeep trail, carefully driving over a series of berms that, from the look of the surrounding prospect pits, had been piled up by a bulldozer to keep out the casual gawkers when prospecting had been more lucrative. I took a sharp left, and had to gun the engine to climb the steep, one-lane trail that ended at the boundary of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. What a gorgeous sight, as the classic U-shaped glacial valley spread out before me. The daily afternoon rainshower had begun, and so I elected to remain in the shelter of the Ramcharger’s backseat for the night. The giant windows afforded a spectacular view of the surroundings, and I gasped in awe as lightning bolts crackled from the snow-capped, granite peaks across the valley at my very eye level.

The rain gradually diminished and ceased by mid-morning, and it was time to continue on my way. I rolled out of my parking spot, back onto the shallow, twin ruts that would lead me the short way back to the main jeep road. Suddenly, apprehension gripped me as I noted that the ruts, so easily climbed the night before, had a pronounced tilt from my present approach. I had been proceeding at a relatively sedate 15 mph, but apprehension turned to panic as I felt the Ramcharger begin to slide sideways as gravity tied to pull it down the deceptively shallow, but increasingly steep slope into a shallow gully. For a split second I considered making a controlled, soft landing, but quickly realized that by the time I slid to the bottom of the shallow gully, the truck would be on its side with no hope of recovery. As an automatic reaction to avoid danger, I stepped on the brake and was horrified to feel the truck speed up as the tires broke loose on the wet grass and greasy mud. I could hear the slithering slap of wet, leafy fronds on the tires and felt my momentum increase, bearing me toward the declivity, as I screamed Oh, Dammit NO! Counter to panicked intuition, I clutched the ball of the transfer case lever and pulled it back sharply from 2-High into 4-High as I goosed the accelerator. Trying to slow down had nearly been disastrous, and my heart was pounding as I desperately hoped that the engaged front wheels would pull me back up onto the treacherous, deceitful twin-rutted path. By now leaning crazily, the spinning front tires found purchase and arrested my lateral slide into the gully, as the Ramcharger regained the shallow, muddy ruts with a final fishtail. As I began to relax, I realized that within five seconds I would have a more serious problem. I had regained enough momentum to climb back onto the gently tilted trail, but as I crested a slight rise, I stared straight down, past the adjoining main jeep trail and out into space past the edge of the cliff. While congratulating myself on avoiding one disaster, I was now rapidly speeding toward another, since I now had enough momentum to careen down the hill, shoot across the jeep trail, and fly off the cliff. Recalling my Wisconsin winter-driving experience, I shifted the automatic transmission into neutral to disengage drive to the wheels and began gently tapping the brake pedal at a furious rate. As the cliff edge loomed, I felt the truck slow and knew I had regained control. I crept down the steepest part of the rutted trail onto the main jeep road at the dizzying speed of about six inches per second. My heart was pounding, and my entire body was so tensed that I could barely command my leg to press the brake pedal, or my arm to shift into Park. I idled on the jeep road, as the adrenaline spasms rippled through my body and I tried to catch my breath. When I finally regained control of myself, I crawled along the greasy, shale-slicked road in 4-Low, and considered myself lucky to be leaving Lead King Basin.

Let There Be Light, Part 1 – The Camping Lantern

2006-06-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

by: Nick Smith

The only thing worse than setting up a tent in the rain is setting up a tent in the rain in the dark. That is a lesson I learned all too well while trying to set up camp in the middle of the night during a cold New England thunderstorm. Having the right camping lantern can be the difference between a camping trip you'll never forget and one you wish you could.

A good camping lantern is usually one of two styles - gas or battery - and the right one for you depends on the type of camping you'll be doing, the amount of gear you can afford to take, and what you'll be doing while you're camping.

Gas Camping Lanterns

Gas-powered lanterns typically provide the brightest light of the two types, though most are adjustable so you can conserve fuel when you don't need as much light. They usually do better in the cold than do battery-powered lanterns. There are a number of different types of fuel available, including propane, butane, dual fuel, and kerosene. If you live in an area where white gas (butane, propane, etc) is not readily available, dual fuel lanterns are probably the best option because they allow you use unleaded gas. You usually can't go wrong if you choose a lantern that uses the same fuel as your camp stove.

Though it may seem obvious to most, it is worth mentioning that all of these fuels are extremely flammable, and any time you change or refill tanks you should be far away from any open flames or flame sources. Also, because of the nature of system, gas camping lanterns can become very hot, and while in use they should be kept out of children's easy reach.

Necessary equipment besides the lantern and fuel includes spare mantels and a way to light the lantern. Most new lanterns come with electric ignitions, so you won't have to worry about including matches or a barbecue lighter in your supplies for the lantern (don't forget them if you plan on having a fire or cooking something!). You'll need to get a protective carrying case as most lanterns don't come with one included. Optional equipment includes a lantern reflector to redirect light escaping out of the back of the lantern, and a stand to hang your lantern in a central place in camp. Gas camping lanterns are not practical options if you'll be hiking to where you'll be camping, so you'll need to consider another lighting option.

Battery-Powered Camping Lanterns

Battery-powered camping lanterns make up in convenience anything they may lose in other categories. With a little bit of searching you'll be able to find lanterns that use every size and type of battery, and you will be hard pressed to find a gas station or convenient store that doesn't sell batteries. Though not as bright as their gas-powered counterparts, battery-powered lanterns put out plenty of light. On many you can adjust the brightness.

One of their biggest advantages is that they are safe to take inside tents, cars, or other enclosed space. You should never take a gas-burning lantern into a tent or car because of the risk of fire. Depending on the type of light bulb, battery-powered lanterns don't ever get very hot, so they are safer to use around children. They don't do as well in the cold as gas lanterns, so if you're planning any cold weather camping trips, you'll need to consider whether you should have a gas lantern available.

Battery-powered camping lanterns, though sometimes less bulky than gas lanterns, typically are a little larger than you would ever want to carry with you on a hike. Some flashlights feature a lantern option - you sacrifice quite a bit in the way of brightness, but you lose a lot of the bulk, which makes them good hiking options. Additional equipment you should have on hand in addition to the lantern includes extra batteries, spare light bulbs, and optionally a lantern stand that you can put in a central spot in camp.

Which Brand Should I Get?

The brand of lantern you should get depends on what you need and how much you're willing to spend. There are a lot of quality camping lanterns out there. Some have a few more bells and whistles than others. Some cost more than others. The best way to shop for a lantern is first, decide which type of lantern you'll need; and second, shop around for the best price. You'll usually find the best deals online, though retail stores and outdoors warehouses also have great prices sometimes. The most important thing to remember is to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, even if it's dark.

Camping Makes the Weekend Perfect

2006-06-19T07:50:00.000-07:00

by: Chuck Fitzgerald

Do you have a weekend without anything to do or a weekend when you don’t want to do anything? I know what I’d do. I would pack up the truck and head for the woods. Sitting by a camp fire with your favorite people solves many problems, so you shouldn’t wait too long between fires. My favorite thing to do on a weekend is to camp. Are you looking for an easy way to camp? How about car camping? I love it!

First of all, let’s define car camping? When you can drive your vehicle right up to the camp site, that’s called car camping. Even if you’re driving a truck it’s still called car camping. The advantage of car camping versus primitive or base camping is that you can take anything you want with you. If you want to take a hammock or huge grill or a stack of magazines, you can. Load your car or truck with food, clothing, shelter, bedding, games and anything else you want to take along and get going. It’s really that simple.

So where can you car camp? Just about anywhere. National and state parks don’t allow car camping except in designated campgrounds, other than that, you can car camp virtually anywhere on public lands. The internet is loaded with websites that can help. Start looking at www.backcountrytoys.com/education.htm. Our Education Center is loaded with up to date camping information.

Here are some things I take along when I car camp: hiking gear, bird watching binoculars and field guide, a radio for music and weather updates, tent, cot, sleeping bag, grill, shovel, fire starting gear, lots of food and drink, first aid kit, a stack of reading material – this can also be used for building a fire – such as newspapers and magazines, rain gear, hammock, dogs and dog food, folding chairs and table, stove, table service and utensils….you get the idea. I take all that I need to be comfortable. If you don’t have these things, don’t fret, all you really need are food, shelter and common sense.

Camping is a great way to renew and strengthen relationships. Take your spouse, your children, your siblings, your friends. Without the distractions of television, telephone, internet and alarm clocks, you will have a wonderful time. I’ll always remember something a dear friend of mine told me years ago, “Time spent in our great outdoors is time added to your life.” That sounds like a good reason to go. Use this information and you’ll Get It Right The First Time.

Camping Equipment Essentials

2006-06-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

by: Robin Shortt

The following is a list of equipment that you likely want to take on a camping excursion.

Tent
Spare tent stakes
Sleeping Bags
Ground pad or air mattress
Stove and fuel
Lantern and fuel
Flashlight and spare bulb and batteries
Cookset
Dutch oven or Reflector oven
If taking a reflector oven- cake pans,
pie plates, muffin tins
Griddle or frying pans
Toaster
Pot holder
Can opener
Cooking utensils- spatula, large spoon, fork
Mixing bowls
Dishpan
Dish cloth and towels, Dish Soap
Plates, cups, knives , forks, spoons
Repair kit
Rope
First Aid Kit
Matches
Pocket knife
Saw
Moisture proof bags
aluminum foil
Food supplies
INDIVIDUAL GEAR
Water bottle
Toiletries
Soap
Towel
Insect Repellant
Hat
Rain gear-jacket and pants or poncho
Socks
Shirts- Cotton and wool
Sturdy shoes or boots for hiking,
lighter shoes for camp
Underclothing Long pants- cotton and wool
Sun screen lotion
Camera
binoculars
medications etc.
I hope this list has been of assistance in preparing you for your camping excursion.

Camping With Man's Best Friend

2006-06-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

by: Robin Shortt

Man's Best Friend

Man's best friend your dog , and you, can go camping and have lots of fun.

Look at it as a walk that doesn't end, during which he gets to spend all his time with you.

For us campers, it can give us another means of security and another way of bonding.

Things You Need To Do

For those of you who are wanting to get involved in this great adventure with their pet, there are some things you need to do to make this as fun as possible for both of you.

Bring Him Along Slow

First time camping pooches should be shown the wonders of nature slowly.

City or urban dogs need to be brought along slow because of their tender pads on their paws, and they need to get used to all open spaces and wonders of nature.

Start with taking them on some day trips to state, county and conservation Parks

The Great Outdoors

The wide open spaces will help your dog get used to unpopulated areas.

He wll also find new odours and sights in this stress free environment.

Going on nature and hiking trails will also help your dog gain muscle strength and fitness before you go camping.

Being A Responsible Dog Owner

As we enjoy the companionship of our dogs, they become a member of our families.

Going with us on family outings, walks, trips around town, just about everywhere we go they tag along with us.

Thats fine because we care about them so much.

It's not always the same with camp owners who feel dogs are not man's best friend in their camping area.

They have good reason to be.

A lot of dog owners are not very good in keeping their pets leashed or cleaning up after them.

They also don't abide by the camp rules the way they should, but many irresponsible dog owners feel the rules don't apply to them and their dogs.

Of course because of these pet owners , we all suffer, thus there are now many campgrounds not allowing dogs.

Check ahead to see if the campground you' re going to allows dogs, and if so, are they allowed on the trails, or have special trails set aside for dogs.

Also some campgrounds charge two dollars a night for dogs as well.

Taking Care Of Your Dog

As loving, caring, pet owners, we need to find a way to take care of our dogs while we go out on the trails with our other family members.

We could take turns dog sitting with family, friends, other campers with dogs.

One thing we need to do is make sure we are good responsible pet owners. Check ahead before you go camping with man's best friend.

Here Are Some Pre-Camping Tips

Try to take your dog for a pre-camping visit for possible needed shots, and a Rabies shot tag for his collar.

Look at a possible Lyme disease vaccine.

Take with you a current copy of his records and his vet's phone number.

Pick up a proper dog license & ID tags for your dog with their name, your name, ect.

Microchips, tattoos and pet registries can be used.

Bring medications and a copy of prescriptions.

Try to get a site with some shade for your dog.

Supervise your dog closely around children, other visitors and other dogs.

Keep your dog quiet. Frequent and continued barking disturbs the wildlife and other campers.

Let your dog have time to adjust to his new surroundings. Give him time to rest.

Try to use ziplock bags to pick up after him and properly dispose of it in appropriate trash containers.

Keep an eye on how weather conditions effect your dog, heat, cold, rain etc.

Consider use of a crate for travel and short term restraint, while you are near. Your pet could be stolen if not watched carefully.

You should be aware that your dog will have increased exposure to ticks and fleas.

Take the proper tick/flea collars, repellants or use Frontline applications.

Other diseases can also be transmitted by wild animals and insects.

The Curse of Camping

2006-06-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

by: Ed Williams

Now that we’re into the spring and summer months, lots more people are starting to get involved in a variety of outdoor activities. I’m talking about things like sports, sunbathing, starting gardens, and the like. Most of these activities I can understand, and with most of them I can easily see the appeal. But there’s one outdoor, spring/summer related activity that I just can’t understand for the life of me. It’s best brought forward for discussion by quoting a comment a close friend made to me the other day that went something like this,

“Ed, guess what? Me and Charlene and the kids, we’re goin’ camping this weekend!”

Camping...considering a list of things I really don’t want to do, like have an operation, watch other people’s vacation videos, kiss a woman with bad teeth, or listen to Perry Como, camping has to fall in there somewhere right close to the top. I hate camping, I don’t understand camping, I don’t want to understand camping, and here’s why:

You have to sleep on the ground in a sleeping bag. For the true camper, this is supposed to be fun, supposed to be one of the real highlights of the camping experience. Why? Sleeping on hard ground with maybe an inch or two of padding is fun? I would think that you’d wake up from six to eight hours of that all stiff and stove up. Sort of bent like a human pretzel. And don’t even try to tell me that if you have a lady friend in the bag with you that it’s better. Two grown adults sweating like pigs inside a sleeping bag while the male destroys his knees is something that I don’t even want to think about. And God forbid if a sudden pain hits you around three o’clock in the morning while you’re all zipped up tightly in that sleeping bag....

While you’re out camping and sleeping on the ground, you’re available for inspection by various and sundry forest creatures and animals. That’s bad and potentially dangerous, if you think about it. What if a wolf or fox sniffs you out late one night, thinking you’re a potential main course for its dining pleasure? Or worse yet, what if a snake slithers up and decides that it likes the warmth of your sleeping bag? Personally, if I woke up and realized that a snake was in there with me, I’d proceed to simultaneously release every single bodily fluid that I’m capable of manufacturing. And then some. And don’t even ask me about the fun possibilities inherent if a squadron of fire ants happens to be close by in the area where you happen to be sleeping...

To me, there’s something both nasty and cumbersome about having to haul a bunch of food and equipment out into the woods in order to eat it there. Throwing food into some coolers isn’t the cleanest thing in the world to do, and look at what all you have to haul with you - either a gas grill that you have to have hooked up to some source of gas, or a conventional grill along with several bags of charcoal. And don’t forget the lighter fluid and matches. On top of all that, if you happen to have some kids with you, the safety potential of this whole deal becomes even sweeter. And don’t forget when you fire that grill up that all the smoke that wafts out from it sends a message to the afore-mentioned wolves and foxes and worse that are lurking around out there that‘s its supper time. Personally, I haven’t managed to stay alive to this point of my existence by occasionally offering myself up as a snack for various fur covered predators.
These are only a few of the reasons I don’t like camping. For me, the most vivid camping experience I’ll ever consent to is spending the night in a Motel 6. Having to bend over in the shower to get my hair wet until my head is level with my stomach is about all the camping I’ll ever need to do. And, if I really want to experience the call of the wild, I’ll just visit their check-in desk at around two or three o’clock in the morning....

Great Tips for Car Camping Enjoyment

2006-06-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

by: Chuck Fitzgerald

Camping is one of my favorite activities and my favorite type of camping is car camping. However, there are many other types of camping such as base camping, canoe camping, RV camping, tent trailer camping and back yard camping. Regardless of how you spend your time out of doors or how much time you spend out of doors, there is always more to learn. I have compiled an extensive list of camping tips and this installment is for car campers. Here are my favorite tips for getting the most out of your car camping experience.

Organize your gear before you go. The basic principle is to organize or categorize your gear by "when" and "how quickly" you will need it. When I get to the campsite, the first thing I do is prepare shelter. So my tent and shade awning are the easiest pieces of gear to get to.

Plan your campsite. Understand how vehicles, wind, sun and rain will enter the campsite. For example, if the wind is coming out of the west, you’ll probably want your tent and kitchen west of any campfire to reduce smoke nuisance.

Always have a first aid kit in camp. Everyone in camp should know where it is, have access to it and know how to use it. I keep mine in plain sight in my kitchen. If it’s locked in my truck, no one can get to it except me.

Every camp needs a shovel. I believe a shovel is the most important tool in camp. You’ll use it to manage your campfire, leveling sleeping spots and countless other uses. Don’t leave home without it.

What tent should you use? I recommend a tent that is bigger than you think you’ll need. If inclement weather sets in, you’ll have a spot out of the elements for reading and playing games. My tent is big enough for two people, two cots, two chairs and two dogs.

There is nothing wrong with having a checklist. Things frequently forgotten are: extra batteries, trash bags, kitchen towels, hats, reading material, sleeping pillows, hiking boots and pet food.

Your most important camping gear should always be on your body. Not in your pack, not in your tent or in your vehicle. Whenever you leave camp always have a watch, a whistle, a cell phone, a flashlight and a knife on your person.

Some neat tidbits I’ve picked up over the years are: a golf towel is perfect for hanging in your kitchen because it comes with a grommet, you can never have enough zip lock bags, you won’t find me camping without a flare – it’s perfect for lighting wet firewood, my camp chairs have side tables attached to them, I pre-cook baked potatoes at home and warm them up in the camp fire, in good weather my hammock gets lots of use.

Car camping allows you to take virtually anything with you when you camp. But the most important of all is good company. Take along good friends and family. When you do, it doesn’t really matter if you have the best gear or the best techniques, the one thing you will have is the best of times. Use this information and you’ll Get It Right The First Time. Get Outdoors!

Conversion Van Camping Advice

2006-06-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

by: Steve Gillman

Conversion van camping doesn't give you the luxury of life in an RV, nor the discomfort of sleeping in a tent. It can be tough to safely heat a van at night, but it's cheap compared to an RV, and you can go places they cannot. We spent more than 25 nights sleeping in our conversion van last year.

Life In A Conversion Van

Make your van into something that's useable for you, especially if it's going to be your residence for days or weeks at a time. For my wife and I, this meant having space to move around. We took out the two middle seats which, I convinced Ana, would be good armchairs for the living room. Then we had enough space for dressing or cooking. The bench-seat in back folds out into a comfortable bed, so we were all set for camping.

When traveling, you need a system of organization to keep your space inside the van livable. After our first long trip, we noticed the many things we never used. We got more efficient after that. We're also able to keep the space open, despite carrying many things, by using plastic storage tubs you can buy almost anywhere. They stack well, and if you need more room at night, you can put them on the roof. They're rainproof with the lids snapped on.

Heating A Conversion Van

Camping in a van can be cold at times, as it was for us in the deserts of Arizona last winter. We started the van and cranked up the heater once in a while, but only for brief periods. The danger of carbon monoxide poisoning is just too great to leave the car running while you are sleeping.

We also cooked to heat up the van. Our propane camp stove burned very clean. Any time it was cold, it was time to cook dinner, breakfast, or tea. This heated up the van nicely. Again, because of carbon monoxide, I wouldn't recommend ever sleeping with a propane burner going. Still, sometimes a quick warm-up is all you need before you crawl under the blankets for the night.

The secret to heating a conversion van when camping is to give up. Enjoy meal time warm-ups, but unless you have electric power, I don't know of a safe way to heat a van all night. Instead, you can heat yourselves. Wear warm clothing. Bring more blankets than you think you'll need. Prepare a thermos bottle full of hot coffee each night, so it will be waitng for you in the morning. You get to warm the van when you make it, and warm up yourselves drinking it for breakfast.

Advantages Of Conversion Van Camping

Traveling and camping in a conversion van costs less than in an RV. The initial cost is a lot less if you buy used, as we did, and the cost of driving it is substantialy less. We averaged 18 miles per gallon on our last cross-country trip. Most recreational vehicles are lucky to get half of that, and they're very expensive to maintain.

Compared with tent camping, a van is much more comfortable. Even if you backpack, you are probably going to drive some kind of car to wherever you go. With a van, you can come inside if it starts to rain. If you're backpacking a long way from home, you can save on motels on the drive to and from the trailhead.

Camping can be more comfortable in an RV, but not in all ways. It's nice, for example, to park anywhere. We've taken naps in parking lots, and nobody was the wiser, thanks to tinted windows, curtains, and the inconspicuousness of a van. At a free campground in Florida we got the best spot, on a bank overlooking Lake Talquin, because our van was small enough to fit there, unlike most of the RVs.

It's great to be able to drive anywhere. In the conversion van, camping wherever we are when it gets dark is no problem. Finally, some larger RVs drag a car around because the big rig just isn't practical for daily driving. Our coversion van is a second home AND our primary vehicle for shopping or going to work. That's flexibilty.

Camping Journals – Preserve Your Family Camping Experiences

2006-06-19T07:29:00.000-07:00

by: Rick Chapo

Camping is a great way to escape the rat race with your family. Alas, your family camping experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a camping journal for your family adventures.

Camping Journals

Take a minute to give some consideration to your most recent camping experience. What sticks out in your mind? Now think about the first time your family ever went camping. Undoubtedly, you remember few things about the geography, people you went with, particular camping routes and spectacular views. The experiences you’ve forgotten are lost to time. If you keep a camping journal, this won’t be the case.

There are famous instances of people keeping journals throughout time. Of course, Anne Frank’s Diary is the best example. In her diary, Anne kept a running commentary of the two years her family spent hiding from the Nazis. While your camping experiences better be more lighthearted, keeping a journal will let you remember them as the years pass.

A good family camping journal combines a number of characteristics. First, it should be compact so you don’t have to take up unnecessary space for other things. Second, it should have a case to protect it from rain, spills and so on. Third, the journal should contain blank areas to write your notes. Fourth, the journal should contain cue spaces to remind you to keep notes on specific things. Cues should include:

1. Who you went camping with,

2. Where you camped and if you enjoyed it,

3. Who you met and contact information for them,

4. The geographic and weather conditions, and

5. Any unique things that occurred while camping.

At the end of the camping trip, you should be able to get the following from your journal:

1. Contact information for other campers and people you met,

2. Enough detail to provide you or a friend with a guide if you camp in the location a second time.

3. Memories to reflect upon years later, and

4. Something to pass on to your friends, children and grandchildren.

To get the most out of your camping journal, you should write in it during while you’re camping. Every trip is special, even if you just go out for a weekend.

Camping is a great way to commune with nature. Make sure to preserve the experience.

Yellowstone Camping In The Fall

2006-06-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

by: William Smith

Soon, the busy summer tourist season will be over in Yellowstone National Park. If you are interested in enjoying one of the world's most unique geological wonders without the traffic, and crowds, it is time to start planning a trip.

Fall in Yellowstone is a very special time with light frosts on chilly nights, and pleasant warm days where you can breathe in the earthy scents of the Park. Bugling Elk, roaming herds of Buffalo, and lazy days spent touring the spectacular thermal features make fall one of the best times to visit Yellowstone.

Normally, you have to make a reservation at one of the five major campgrounds well in advance of arrival. After Labor Day you probably will not need a reservation, but it is wise to call ahead.

There are five major reservation only campgrounds: Bridge Bay, Canyon, Fishing Bridge RV Park, Grant Village, and Madison campgrounds. The first-come, first served campgrounds will be far more accessible after Labor Day and include: Indian Creek, Lewis Lake, Mammoth, Norris, Pebble Creek, Slough Creek, and Tower Fall campsites.

While in Yellowstone National Park, you will be inside the caldera of the largest active volcano in the world. There are more thermal features in Yellowstone than the rest of the world combined. There are over 15 miles of boardwalk for visitors to keep them safe from the dangerous thermal sites, and to minimize the inevitable human damage caused to the area. The park is a singularly impressive place and most of it resides above 7,500 feet elevation.

Wildlife viewing is superb to say the least with buffalo, elk, and black-tail deer sightings a common occurrence. Moose, bear, coyote, and wolves are spotted less frequently. We enjoyed filming a giant moose scraping the felt from his antlers late one evening near the south entrance of Yellowstone.

Hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, and touring the spectacular thermal features are a few of the many things to enjoy in Yellowstone. The beauty of the landscape is breathtaking and the clean smell of sage permeates the clear air.

One of the unadvertised features of Yellowstone is the night sky. A few of us old-timers remember the rich texture of the night sky from our youth. Reflected light effectively blocks clear viewing of the night sky in much of the United States, but at night in Yellowstone, the stars are displayed in their full majesty in the rich, dark sky.

Camping For Fun

2006-06-15T08:57:00.000-07:00

by: Ranger Bob

Camping for fun is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and relax. But before going camping you will need to purchase camping equipment one of the better places to get the gear you need is at camping world.

To go camping does not have to cost a arm and a leg. With the basics found in your home you could go today. Lets see first you will need some type of shelter a plastic trap 8 by 10 will make a good tent some rope 50 ft will be lots the ¼ inch nylon rope will work. Tie the rope between two trees and place the tarp over the rope. Stake down each side of the tarp with screw driver numbers need 6 to 8 I buy them at flea markets and garage sales. If you have a second tarp place it on the ground under the tarp tent be sure not to place the ground tarp outside the tent if you do any rain water may flow in on the ground tarp and you may get wet.

Ok we have a shelter now we need bedding you have blankets and pillow on you bed at home so use them they will wash up. If you have no air mattress then use two folded blanket placed on the tarp them make up you bed on top of them. Sleeping is now taken care.

We have some place to sleep now what about cooking. You have pots and pans in the kitchen. Us the fry pan , small 1 qt pot 3 qt pot and the biggest pot you have great for heating up water. If you have a tea kettle made of metal take it. Most campsite have a fire pit with a steel grill to set the pots on. If there is a campfire ban in place you can use a portable barbecue. Take the utensils from the kitchen if you have bbq tools take them.

Not doing to bad we have a place to cook and to sleep. If you have kids you will need a few more tarps and make them up a tent beside yours. Take you deck chair to sit on if you have no chairs then when you get to the camp site look for log blocks they make great chairs can be found at the wood pile.

Your chuck box can be a cardboard box with a lid or folding flaps. Put you dry goods in to this box salt ,pepper, cereal, potatoes, and What ever else you remove from the kitchen cupboard. Can goods beans, canned fruits, Kraft dinner you get the idea.

Your cooler can be another cardboard box but this one you will line with a trash bag. Place the bag in the box and position it in the corner with the excess fold over the top of the box on the outside. You will need ice to keep the frozen foods cool. Save up you milk containers plastic works best wash out and fill ¾ full of water an place in the freezer. When you have a few frozen containers you now have the ice that will keep your food cold.

Place at least two in the bottom of you ice box then place the frozen meats, milk, juice into the box. You should place vegetables on top if there is room place a third frozen milk jug at the top of the box. You will need a lid for the ice box take another box and fold the flaps inside and slide the box over the top of you food box. Remember to keep this ice box out of the sun and you will find the ice will last about 4 to 5 days.

Other things to bring candles will work if you do not have a flash light but be very careful as a candle can start you tent bedding on fire and will cause a forest fire so never leave a candle un attended. A roll of tin foil will be needed the thicker the better. works very well for cooking in .Bring a plastic pail to carry water in. A plastic basin will work to do dishes and wash up little dirty faces and hands.

There are many things you have in the house that will make the camping trip fun use you imagination. An get out and explore the parks and lakes in your area

Camping For Fun Begins With The Right Supplies

2006-06-15T08:56:00.000-07:00

by: Ranger Bob

Camping for Fun begins with making sure you've taken along all the right supplies. Use this checklist to be sure!

Camp cooking
Hot dog stick you may not cut any thing down to make them
Folding chairs
Plastic table cloth
Lighter and matches in a water proof container
Screened tent room for over the picnic table (optional)

Binoculars
Bungi cords
Plastic clamps
Bug spray
Camera
Cards
Compass
Cloth pins
Duct tape
Flash light with extra batteries
Frisbee
Fishing gear if going fishing
Kites
lantern and extra fuel and mantles
Camp shower and rope at least 50 ft
Whistle
Sun block
Pen and paper
Radio
Knife and axe
First aide Kit

Shelter and sleeping essentials.
Tent
Screened tent (optional)
Sleeping bags
2 plastic tarps or ground sheets.
Pillows for all
Air mattresses or sleeping pads for all

Cooler box Dry no ice
Salt and pepper
Herbs and spices
Cooking oil
Pot holders
Paper towels
Trash bags
aluminum foil
Plastic silver ware (I prefer to buy a set of metal flat wear at the dollar store)
Plastic bowls plate etc.
Cups to drink from and plastic glasses
Dish soap
Zip lock bags
Can opener If you forget this you can use a sturdy knife to open cans.

Cooking Essentials
Water
Food
Cooler one with wheels is nice
Water
Food
Camp stove and fuel
Mess kit
Charcoal and barbecue portable one.
Rope 50 ft for a clothes line

Cloths I will leave for you to decide but be sure every one has a warm sweater of coat as the evenings in the mountains or on the prairies can get cool. Be sure every one has a hat to protect them from the sun.
Cleaning items
Detergent of dishes
1 Plastic bucket
Dish cloth
Broom

You will need to remember to bring personal hygiene stuff for everyone even T.P. as soon places run short on busy weekends. Any medication that is needed as well as aspirin make sure you have a good first aide kit. This is but a short list of things you will need but you get the picture. You will find more stuff that is needed after your first trip. Be sure to bring marshmallows a bag or two depending on how long you will be going for.

The public and private camp ground are the most popular. The public campgrounds are run by a government agency this will include all in the national parks and the state parks or provincial parks Most will require you to make reservations on line in advance .How ever there are still the one that work on the first come first served So do some research and find the campsite for you and you family.

The public owned and private owned camping grounds are on the inter net and can also be found at any tourist bureau in the areas you are looking to go camping in. Most government run parks are funded by the governments of the state or the province and will be the first to fill up on the summer holidays .The private parks will fill up very fast as well so you may have to plan your trip well in advance of the time you will leave in. With more people out and about in the summer time planning will allow you to find a site for you and your family.

I find that the kids with there skills on the computer can find all the camping site for you pretty fast So start a new adventure go camping

New Jersey Camping & You: Perfect Together

2006-06-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

by: Eric Stephenson

Why the heck would I want to go camping in New Jersey?

I get asked that question just about every single day and I'm pretty tired of it after all these years. So I'm going to answer that question right here for the last time.

There are literally hundreds of reasons to go camping in New Jersey, but there is one large, and I mean really large, reason:

Where else in the country can you drive less then 3 hours and go from the mountains, to the shore, to the marshlands, to 3 different major metropolitan areas to several major lakes and everywhere in between?

Camping in New Jersey is literally the best of all worlds. There is just about nothing you cannot do while you camp in New Jersey. You have your choice of over 120 campgrounds and State Park facilities to choose from not to mention thousands of acres of public land to explore.

Just about every one of the privates campgrounds in the state have craft activities, pools, fishing ponds, sports activities and so many other amenities I can't even count. Most of them are clean, modern and well suited to just about any type of camping. They are all within a decent driving distance of dozens of cultural, sports, historical, recreational and children related attractions.

Canoeing, hiking, biking, birding and unlimited recreation activities can also be found at campgrounds around the state and many sites are within a short drive of some of the state's premium attractions and fabulous Atlantic Ocean beaches and boardwalks.

New Jersey is literally a kaleidoscope of natural, picturesque landscapes filled with some of the best and exciting camping experiences anywhere in the Northeast part of the country. Personally I think camping here in New Jersey is as good, if not better, then just about anywhere in the country.

More than 25,000 sites/cabins/yurts/rental trailers await your visit, sites of all shapes and sizes that can accommodate campers with everything from tent sites to pop-ups to fully equipped RVs.

From the Delaware Water Gap to a view of the Statue of Liberty to wooded campgrounds in the Pine Barrens to the sandy beaches of the Jersey Shore, the ideal camping experience is close at hand.

No matter what type of camping you choose, tenting, RVing or cabin rentals, New Jersey has something for you. Pick a region to begin investigating where you want to camp:

Atlantic - It's no wonder the Atlantic Region is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. Atlantic City and its world-famous beach and boardwalk, luxurious casino, non-stop gaming action, the hottest entertainers, the best in dining, and quality sporting events. New Jersey Camping in the Atlantic Region gives you access to this great area!

Delaware - It's where history was made. And where nature rules. It's where the arts come alive and stately mansions reign. New Jersey's Delaware River Region is all of these and more. It's a unique region that can provide you with many things to do and see on your next vacation. New Jersey Camping and you, perfect together!

Gateway - Live with action, the Gateway Region has everything for your perfect vacation including New Jersey Camping activities, New Jersey State Parks and New Jersey Campgrounds.

Shore - Mention the Shore Region, and certain images immediately come to mind: more than 60 miles of pristine beaches from Sandy Hook down to Holgate; surfcasting off Seaside Park; perhaps some bodysurfing off Bay Head; or maybe a moonlit walk in Surf City. Anything you want can be found in New Jersey Camping.

Skylands - Gentle mountains. Skiing. Rock climbing. Horseback riding.Would you believe you're in New Jersey? New Jersey Camping and you, perfect together!

Southern Shore - Walk along 30 miles of wide sandy beaches. Experience the warmth of a Victorian inn. Take a stroll through history or enjoy the fresh bounty of the sea at a gourmet restaurant. New Jersey Camping offers a wide variety of ways to take advantage of this area.

So, whether it's a cabin by a lakeshore, an RV minutes from the Statue of Liberty or just a sleeping bag amidst the rugged mountain wilderness, New Jersey Camping is perfect for you.

Let's Go Camping!

2006-06-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

by: Guy Jieslip

Looking for a fun and cheap vacation? Camping maybe the solution for you. Camping is a great way for the whole family to chip in and participate, even in the daily activities. The kids can go catch fish for dinner, or help set up a tent. Camping only costs about $400. If you need camping gear, then plan on spending at least $600 dollars more. Even still you can have a lot of fun for a family of 4 for under $1,000 dollars.

Hiking, fishing, there is so much to do when camping. Some camping grounds even offer swimming and show movies at night. Another great camping perk is watching the sunset or start glazing. Since most camp grounds are away from city lights, the stars will be amazing.

Like all vacations, you'll need to plan a camping one too! First you have to decide on shelter. Are you using a tent, a RV or a cabin? I would recommend a tent for first time or light campers. Tents only cost between $60-$200 dollars. They provide protect against bugs and rain. Next I would bring a sleeping bag. You'll need something to keep warm at night. And then I would take a pad. Pads are soft and bring comfort to any camping trip.

The last major camping item is food. Depending on what your planning to eat, you can bring a variety of things. The most basic is a cooler and a bag of charcoal. Cooler for drinks and charcoal for a grill. You can make basic camping food such as steaks, ribs, hot dogs and hamburgers. If you plan on making dishes then you can bring a propane stove and a skillet. With it you can make a lot of stove-top meals. If you're really skilled at camp cooking, then you can bring a Dutch Oven for baking.

To make your camping trip smoother, plan a few months ahead of time. It may not seem like that much goes into a camping trip, but after just figuring out what to bring, it begins to be over welling.

Figure out everything you're going to need and write it down. There's nothing worse then getting to the camping ground and realize you forgot to pack a tent.

Camping is an excellent vacation filled with all sorts of fun things to do.

Camping For Fun While Gold Panning

2006-06-15T08:44:00.000-07:00

by: Ranger Bob

If you want a good camping vacation and want to find gold I have just the spot for you. Princton BC was noted for the gold found in the late 1880’s. You will find Granite city which is now a ghost town. Lots of gold and platinum was found in the area.

To get to the gold camping ground from Vancouver BC take the number one highway to Hope. Be sure to spend some time exploring the area as the gold miners used hope as a jump of point to the Caribou. As you leave hope you will that route 3 towards Manning Park. After arriving at manning park for a short stop you are only 40 minutes to the camping site.

The park has lots to offer including a restaurant, visitor’s booth, restrooms, and park tables on green grass for you to rest. You will find a dog play area as you turn off the highway and enter the park it is just on the right side as you enter. Be sure to pick up after your pet the park supply’s containers for this.

As you leave the west gate on the highway you will find a gas station with a small store the ice cream cones are extra large. From the west gate you are about 30 minutes to you campsite.

This road changes from four lane to two lane as you go down the mountain. Watch for wildlife you will see lots. The campsite is just 30 miles away watch for the sign Elk Ridge Outdoors on the right hand side of the road if you shoot past the turn in there is a place to turn around just up at the next corner but be very care for on coming traffic as you turn.

As you enter the camp road you will see a road that goes straight and a road to your right. If you have a smaller rig you can go straight and check in at the main house the road is bumpy and the turn around at the house is not very big.

If you have a large rig, take the right hand road and follow it all the way down the side of the ridge. Note use low gear as the road in is very steep and bumpy with some very tight turns. In some places you will be right along the edge of the road which goes straight down for a few hundred ft. If your passenger is nervous get them to watch you and not the road. This is a dirt road be aware of traffic coming up as the road is narrow in some places.

If you are towing a car behind you motor home un hook the car after you turn in to the main campsite road and get your second driver to go ahead of you or drive the car down and get a good look at the road before you take you rig down

Once down at the bottom you will find A large A framed lodge and 6 smaller cabins which are all for rent by the day or week. The cabins are all new as of 2004. You will find 12 sites along the river and some set back in the trees with some out in the open. There is an over flow around the back of the A-frame.

Amenities are primitive as they have pit outhouses and you will only be able to get water when the generator is running. The showers should be up and running by 2006. They have a large wood fired hot tube just above the beach The scenery is absolutely fabulous you will find gold in various quantities all along the river. All gold hunting must be by hand no power equipment allowed

Good fishing is found all along the river and the swimming is great with shallow rapids to tube on. They are on the net at www dot elkkridgeoutdoors dot com.

Camping… a Way Of Life!

2006-06-15T08:36:00.000-07:00

by: Ravi Dabbiroo

More and more people are traveling these days for different reasons. Some travel for adventure, some to be close to nature and some for just a rejuvenating weekend getaway. A definite upcoming trend is more and more people seeking untouched locales and wilderness.

Camping is a great way to enjoy amazing outdoors and be close to nature. It is not just another holiday; it’s a way of life. While camping out, one is surrounded by nature and serenity. The experience might be missing urban comforts that one is used to… but in return one gets to explore a lot that is absolutely different from the usual city life.

In the hustle bustle of the fast paced life that we live in, we tend to lose touch with our own selves. Camping is a wonderful way to get in touch with one’s inner self. I have had some amazing first-hand experiences with life whilst camping and so have my fellow travelers who have ever since been hooked to it.

Apart from being submerged in wilderness, an important component of camping is the interaction with the localities, villagers and natives. These native guides know the unexplored places, the less traveled paths, the unknown facts, myths and stories about the locations. Camping allows the travelers to understand the way of life, being with the localities and expose them to close and unique multi-cultural experiences.

Most of the camping breaks are clubbed with adventure sports such as rafting, rock climbing, trekking etc.

- Useful Camping Resources: Find below a list of useful resources to plan and prepare for your camping holidays.

1. Camping Equipments (http://www.rei.com/)

2. Camping Magazine (http://www.acacamps.org/campmag/0507.php)

3. Camping Reviews (http://camping.about.com/b/a/185165.htm)

- Camping in India

India is one of the most attractive camping destinations for travelers worldwide. Thousands of tourists visit India every year to enjoy camping holidays in India. Imagine yourself in a house of wood at a snow peaked mountain surrounding a deep forest, occasionally accompanied by rains.

If you are new to camping, the first thing you should do is to become familiar with the basic idea of what camping is.

At Zice Holidays, along with providing options for exotic and untouched locales, we provide all the necessary elements of camping holidays such as the tents that you live in, sleeping bag that you get into, the food that you eat and the locals who interact with you and guide you.

Getting Ready To Go Camping

2006-06-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

by: Ranger Bob

So you want to take your kids camping just like you did as a child with your parents of grandma or grandpa. Opps the camp ground they took you to is now condos on the lake .

Let assume you are new to camping but you have some experience as a child. You will need to become familiar with camping gear. If you have a friend that camps a lot you can go with them to learn the basics.

Ah go with a friend and show him he is smarter then me not a chance. For I would never hear the end of it.

The first thing you will need is some type of shelter for you and the kids. Then you will need some thing to sleep in a sleeping bag and something to cook with. Pots and pans portable barbecue hey I know how to use that. Already you are on the road to your first camping trip.

What Gear Do I Need?

Most first timers start out with a tent. The first tent should not be to expensive but it should provide good shelter in the wind and rain. With all the models out there spend some time looking them over do not get one that requires a masters degree in engineering to set up. Stay to the basic needs as you get more experience the tent can be given to the kids as you will upgrade to a fancy one.

Remember you are camping on a budget no use in spending thousands of dollars for all the gear only to find the wife , kids, or your self hates camping. The tent should shield you from bugs sun and the rain.

More than 600 easy to do money saving tips in the 10-Minute Tech The Book.

There are bugs our here in the wilderness so be ware. The tent should have a good screen to keep the little varmints out and yet be easy for the kids to open.

The tent will be some place to sleep and store your cloths. If the weather turns bad them the kids can play or read in the tent under supervision. It is nice to sleep under the stars but you will have to get a tent sooner or later.

So choose one that has enough room for you and the family and all the gear you will want to put in the tent while you are out swimming. Your tent should cost between 100 to 200 dollars depending on the style you pick for your family

If you want to sleep in a tent or under the stars up should have some type of padding The ground is not comfortable to sleep on. You will find padded mats made from plastic with air bubbles, vinyl cover stuffed pads and the good old air mattress.

I prefer the air mattress as it also doubles for the family to float around on the lake. If you go with the air mattress remember you will need a pump to blow them up a large foot pump works best.

Sleeping bags

If you are like most people you will be camping in the summer and early fall so do not buy a sleeping bag rated for -20 weather this will just be extra money that could be use for some thing other thing you will want.

The light rectangular sleeping bag will do If you and your spouse want to sleep in the same sleeping bag just zip them together and you will have one large sleeping bag. Do not forget your pillows but if you do roll up your towels they can make not a bad pillow.

Be sure to have at least two ground tarps at least the size of the floor of your tent. Place on down on the ground then set your tent on it. The second one may be used as a shelter above the picnic table.

Campground Cooking

All of use love the smell of food cooking outside whether it is at the camp ground or in the backyard. If you barbecue a lot at home you all ready have the basic now how to camp cook. Most public camp grounds and private camp ground will have a picnic table and a cooking pit at each camp site.

Take a portable grill with you and you will feel right at home. Pick up a gas stove and a set of pots and pans and you are ready to be a camp chef, remember a coffee pot as the nearest coffee shop may be 20 or so miles away.

Depending on you level of cooking skills you will now be able to prepare meats as if you were at home.

When shopping for gear go to the local big box store as they will carry every thing you need. Some will have tents set up if so climb in ask yourself is this roomy and will every one fit in comfortable. along with all the stuff you will take with you.

If the tents are not set up mark out a piece of the floor at home with tape this will be the same size as the floor of the tent call a family meeting and get every body to lay in the tape lines you laid down is it the right size? If not reassess your needs.

That's it...you are that much closer to have a fun camping trip for all!

Unique Camping Gift Ideas for Christmas

2006-06-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

by: Rick Chapo

As November passes quickly, it is time to start thinking about buying Christmas gifts. Here’s a primer on unique Christmas gift ideas for people who like to go camping.

Unique Camping Gifts

Camping enthusiasts love to get away from the rat race and just take in the majesty of Mother Nature. If you’re shopping for a person that likes to go camping, here are a few unique camping gift ideas.

1. National Parks Pass – Some of the best camping locations are in the United States National Parks system. Yosemite, Glacier Park and so on provide simply stunning scenery and absolutely tremendous camping opportunities. The National Park Pass grants admission to all of the National Parks for one year. The National Parks Pass costs $49.99. 80 percent of the proceeds go to the preservation of the parks.

2. Play & Freeze Ice Cream Maker – This cool little gadget lets you make ice cream on the fly while camping. In the form of a plastic ball, you simply add rock salt and ice to one end and provided ice cream to the other. Seal it up and start rolling it around like a soccer ball. Before you know it, you’ll have ice cream. This very cool gadget will run you $30.

3. Fold Away Food Covers – While getting back to nature is a blast, insects become annoying. The Fold Away Food Covers act as a little tent you can put over food to keep the little buggers off. The covers fold up and easily stored making them the ideal camping accessories. Coghlan’s covers are the best. You’ll spend $5 or so for the covers, a very small price for keeping food insect free.

4. Nomad Camping Journals – A little self-promotion here. Nomad Camping Journals are compact writing journals that let campers keep notes and a record of their camping trips. Really great for creating a record of who was on the trip, how the trip went, other places to try and so on. The camping journals are great keepsakes for adults and something to do for kids during down times. As the trips add up over the years, you’ll enjoy reading about past trips. You can click the link at the bottom of this article to see them and expect to pay $25 for the journal with case.

Camping is a great way to escape the chaos of daily life and provides plenty of gift buying ideas. Get out there and enjoy the world!

Camping Critters and What To Do About Them

2006-06-14T09:12:00.000-07:00

by: Steve Czuchra

AH! The great outdoors, fresh air, sunshine, open spaces, critters.

Yes critters…you know those uninvited little guests that can turn a fun camping trip into a less than pleasant experience. But despair not; with a little common sense and a few precautions you can keep the vermin at bay.

Mosquitoes, Flies, and other flying insects

There’s probably no other pest that can wreck a campout like these guys. They’re more tenacious than a piranha in a gold fish bowl.

Keep these guys where they belong, using a bug spray or lotion if you going to be away from camp products with deet work very well.

Citronella candles around the campsite will work but effectiveness decreases after a couple of yards or so.

If you don’t like to use one of the chemical preparations like deet many campers rely on the natural approach using products that contain essential oils from plants, for some this seems to do the trick.

Bees, Wasps and Hornets

The best thing to do for these guys is don’t panic, run, swat, throw stuff etc.

More times than not they will buzz around for a while and just leave.

A common mistake I see campers and people in general make here is leaving a can of soda or a drink uncovered. Bees and such just love climbing inside of an unattended drink (hey they’re thirsty too!). A word of advice …buy yourself one of those thermal cups with a top on it, they can be used for hot or cold beverages and they keep the bugs away. Don’t forget the trash containers, ones with a top will do wonders for keeping flying insects away from camp.

Ticks

By now everybody knows that ticks can carry Lyme disease. The best protection against these is to stay out of tall grass and brush. Applying a bug repellent will work to some degree but wearing clothing that covers exposed skin is better yet. During warm weather this may not be possible, so check yourself often.

If a tick is found remove it, being sure to get the head out.

Scorpions

If you happen to live in the southwest you already know about the all to common scorpion. A bite from one of these is guaranteed to ruin your day. When found it is best to leave them alone if it isn’t near camp. If it’s in your tent or immediate surroundings you’ll have to take action and remove it. They do have a supply of venom in their tail that is used to immobilize their prey, and they elderly and the very young are the most at risk. Capturing them or getting them to leave is somewhat tricky; the general idea here is to persuade them to crawl inside of a container so they can be removed. Be careful and use common sense to avoid the stinger in the tail.

Snakes

As with the scorpion, snakes get more active when the weather turns warm.

Just because that guy on the TV show picks them up and plays with them doesn’t mean you should. The best rule of thumb is to leave them alone.

While hiking remember that snakes are often found on the backside of logs or in crevices. If encountered in camp or on the trail back off. If bitten get immediate medical attention.

Chipmunks, ground hogs, skunks, squirrels etc

But they’re so cute you say? That may be true but they can bite if provoked and may carry rabies. Take your photos but don’t attempt to make them the camp pet. Make sure your trashcan has a cover on it, I have awakened in the middle of the night by the sounds of loud rustling noises only to find out a raccoon or skunk was going through our neighbor’s garbage.

With a little common sense, awareness & cooperation your camping trip will be without incident. Remember WE are intruding on THEIR homes.