Longing for the great outdoors? Before you take a walk on the wild side, you should learn the basics. Read on to find out everything you need to know about how to camp.

• If you are new to camping, before you set foot outdoors you should learn the basics, including: what to pack, how to find a good camping spot, how to set up your camp and how to clean up when you are finished.

1. Decide how you will camp out. Either:
   1. In a tent.
   2. In an RV.
   3. Under the stars.
2. Buy your camping equipment. Equipment may include:
   1. Tent.
      • A tent should protect you from weather and pests.
   2. Sleeping bag.
      • You may also want to buy inflatable pads to cushion the ground.
      • Don't forget to bring a pillow.
   3. Sturdy shoes.
   4. Appropriate clothes.
      • Don't forget to consider the weather when planning your outfits. Clothing may include:
      1. Jeans.
      2. Long-sleeved shirts.
      3. Short-sleeved shirts.
      4. Shorts.
      5. Socks.
      6. Sweatshirts.
      7. Windbreaker.
3. Buy cooking supplies. You don't need many supplies but you may want to bring any or all of the following:
   1. A food cooler.
   2. Charcoal.
   3. Cool packs.
   4. A spatula.
   5. A propane stove.
   6. A skillet.
4. Buy your food. Food may include:
   1. Hot dogs.
   2. Hamburgers.
   3. Smores.
   4. Plenty of water.
5. Other necessities, such as:
   1. Bio-degradable soap.
   2. Toothpaste.
   3. Toothbrush.
6. Make a checklist so you don't forget any thing.

• Choose a public or private campground. The easiest way to decide on a location is to research online. Consider:

1. National Forests.
2. National Parks.
3. State Parks.
4. State Forests.
5. RV Parks.

• During heavy camping seasons, you may need to make a reservation in advance. Call ahead and plan accordingly.

1. If needed, check in at the campground office.
   1. Let them know if you have a reservation.
   2. Fill out a registration form.
   3. Pay the fee.
   4. Find out what the rules are.
   5. Ask for a map.
2. Pick your camp site.
   1. Look for high ground.
   2. Look for a nearby water source.
   3. Look for shade.
3. Find the garbage cans.
4. Find the cooking area (or designate a cooking area).
5. Set up your tent and sleeping bags.
   • For more information, check out Mahalo's How to Pitch a Tent.

1. Clean your gear.
2. Pack your gear.
3. Clean the site.
   1. Throw away garbage.
   2. Leave nothing behind.
4. Put out the campfire.

• Once you know what to expect, you'll be able relax and enjoy communing with Mother Nature. Be prepared for every eventuality and you are sure to have a great time.

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