Cold Weather Camping

The great outdoors does not hibernate all winter. Some campers love nature and the feeling of freedom so much that they pack up and take a cold weather camping trip in the middle of the coldest season. Planning for cold weather camping is a bit different than planning for summer camping. The fire will be needed for both heat and cooking and the traditional sheer tents will simply not accomplish much in terms of holding in heat. Cold weather camping is best done with a recreational vehicle (RV) or a camper, but that does not mean outdoor camping is impossible.

With RV and camper trips in the winter, the campers can be sure they will be protected from the elements. Winter months are cold and frostbite can be a very real concern. RVs and campers tend to have heating systems that can help to ward off the colder temperatures. If tent camping is the only type of cold weather camping for you, the farther south the location, the warmer the average temperature will be in the winter months. cold weather camping at the beaches of Florida, for instance, can offer warmer cold weather camping days.

Cold weather camping may also require a bit more planning time than summer camping. Many campgrounds close during the winter months. Campers wishing to do a little cold weather camping may have to find a spot where campers live year round. These campgrounds will often keep a few tent spots open during the winter months for campers stopping through. It is important to pack warm clothes, plenty of clothing changes and boots that have been broken in well. Extra socks, jackets, gloves and hats are also important to stay warm when cold weather camping as are extra blankets. The food is the easiest part of cold weather camping because the entire outside space could be cold enough to keep perishables chilled.