When you find your camping spot, put the tent up on top of the patch of ground that is flattest and softest. An area that is sloped or rugged won’t make for the best place to put your tent. In addition to looking for soft ground, lay down a tarp to prevent moisture from soaking into the bottom of your tent.

Newspaper can serve many different purposes while camping. You could, of course, read it, but you can also use it for a number of applications as well. If the wood you are trying to light is damp, newspaper can make the task a bit easier. Make sure that your camping packing includes more than enough beverages and food. If you will be camping in areas where bears live, store food away from sleeping areas. Burn your garbage and any left over food so bears are not attracted by the smell. Not only are oranges a great snack for camping, but they also serve as a natural mosquito repellant. Just keep the peels in a plastic bag after you eat the orange and then use them to rub on your skin as the sun begins to go down. It is a cheap and effective way to keep the mosquitoes at bay. When planning for a camping adventure with kids, be sure to speak to them about camping dangers. You can all get together and check out pictures of various plants that are hazardous so they can learn what they can’t touch when they’re looking around.

Following campground etiquette is important if you are at a public site. The rules may be posted near the entrance of the park, or they may be unwritten. Be courteous to campground neighbors and stop any loud music or partying by 11 PM.