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Why Your Fitness and Overall Health is Important For Camping
Depending on how comfortable you are with camping, it can be a physically demanding activity. For example, if you like harder hikes, mountain biking, rafting, or any other camping activities it can really require a lot from you. That's why it's important to stay fit and healthy before, during, and after camping. Here's exactly why it's important to stay healthy and fit for camping and some tips to help you.
Exercise
Exercise can help you with camping in a variety of ways! It can increase your stamina and endurance so you can do harder hikes with a sort of ease but challenge yourself at the same time. Increasing endurance will help you keep trekking along without getting tired so easily. One way to help improve stamina is to do a daily run. Doing a daily run can help get your body used to more movement. You can do this outside or even on a treadmill.
Another way to help with hiking and other more demanding outdoor activities is to lift some weights. I'm not saying you need to be extremely muscular, but putting on some muscle can help with rafting, having more powerful legs on hikes, and make you feel better in general. Consider working regular workouts into your schedule to help you excel at camping activities.
A Healthy Diet
Eating healthy is another great way to prepare and do well camping! Having a healthy diet can also help with maintaining stamina on a hike or doing other activities. A healthy diet will also help you keep you at a high energy level and ready to take on anything. To keep a nice healthy diet be sure to eat a balance of all the different food groups. For energizing healthy foods eat foods with high protein to fuel your body and keep you going throughout the day. You can also eat fruits like bananas, apples, and oranges that will give you a boost of energy!
Conclusion
For more intense camping experiences and activities, it's important to have your body ready! The best ways to prepare your body are to make sure you exercise regularly and eat a healthy balanced diet. Doing this will ensure you have enough energy, stamina, and strength to take on more advanced hikes and other outdoor activities. Even just working out a little bit will help contribute to a less challenging camping experience when it comes to physical activity. You will enjoy camping more because you are fit and just feeling better overall. You will also have a clearer and more relaxed mind while staying fit and eating healthy which will bring your camping trip to a whole new level. Trust me when I say putting in the effort to exercise and stay on a healthy diet will elevate your camping experience and make it overall more enjoyable.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/why-your-fitness-and-overall-health-is-important-for-camping
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Camping in the Rain
Fall is upon us, and with Fall comes a little bit more rain! Don’t let that scare you though, camping with some rain can be a ton of fun still! You just have to prepare for it. There are also some fun outdoor activities that you can only do in the rain! So, let’s go over what makes camping in the rain a special and memorable experience.
Preparation
It’s no secret that it can be a bit of a problem if you and your things get wet from the rain. Luckily for you, it’s actually really easy to stay dry! First off, invest in a nice raincoat or rain poncho. Make sure it has a hood to keep your head dry as well. The rain should just roll right off your coat. Another great investment would be a rain cover for your backpack. This will keep your belongings dry especially if you want to go on a rainy hike. Lastly, be sure to bring waterproof shoes. There’s usually quite a bit of mud and puddles around campsites, so waterproof shoes will do you good and keep your socks and feet bone dry.
Rainy Day Camping Activities
Fear not when it’s raining at your campsite! There’s an abundance of activities you can do all while enjoying your time in the wild. First and foremost, you can simply take in the views. If it’s raining and maybe even a bit foggy, it makes for some beautiful scenery. I honestly prefer it over a sunny backdrop on the mountains.
Next, you can go for a rainy day hike. There’s something about walking through the rain that is actually really relaxing. It should also be quite a bit cooler as well to keep you from getting too hot like you would on a sunny day. Feel free to be a kid again and jump in a few puddles for some extra fun!
The rain and fog can also create some amazing photo opportunities. The beautiful scenery takes on a different look and feel when its raining. You can also do closeups of raindrops on leaves or flowers. It’s also a cool effect to shoot photos through different objects like a paper towel tube, a glass window covered in raindrops or a picture frame. Use your imagination and see how creative you can get.
Now I know when you’re camping you want to spend most of your time outdoors, but there’s nothing wrong with taking cover in one of our AdVANture Vans and playing some board or card games. It can be a really great bonding experience playing some games with the family while watching the rain come down outside. This is especially true if you’re not too keen on getting wet.
Conclusion
There’s no reason that the rain should stop you from going camping this Fall. If anything, it could possibly enhance your experience giving you a new perspective on camping. You just need to make sure to do a little more preparation than normal to make sure you have everything you need to stay dry! Be sure to bring a few board or card games to keep entertained if you do stay inside for a bit! However, don’t be afraid to get out and have fun in the rain!
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/camping-in-the-rain
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The Best Camping Drinks
On last week's blog we talked about the best camping snacks, so this week let's get into the best camping drinks! There's a ton of drinks to choose from these days and most are very tasty. However, some drinks have more of a purpose in certain situations than others! So let's go over some of the best camping drinks and some of their benefits.
Water
While it's not very exciting, water is by far the most important drink you can have while camping. One of the most important things for your health while camping is to stay hydrated, especially on a hot day. Staying hydrated helps keep you healthy as well as more energized and alert which is super important while camping. Be sure to constantly be consuming water throughout the day. However, there are some other more delicious ways to stay hydrated.
Powerade, Gatorade, and Other Electrolyte Drinks
Gatorade and Powerade are drinks with electrolytes that help replenish the hydration that you lose in sweat. I find that it's always a good idea to bring some along for a hike. They also come in a ton of great flavors. My favorite is grape, but I tend to try new flavors just to switch it up. They are always coming out with new flavors as well. There are also zero sugar versions, if that is something you are concerned about. So be sure to keep your energy and power up with some help from these electrolyte drinks!
Stovetop Coffee
There's nothing like a cup of coffee in the great outdoors, and it's always better to me if you make your own while isolated in the wilderness. Luckily for you it's and easy task, and our AdVANture vans come with a stove top. Just heat some water on the stove top in a pan or tea kettle, and add to your favorite coffee. You can even make individual single serving packets with coffee and coffee pot filters. Just place in a mug and add water like a tea bag, It's that easy! Coffee is always nice when you want to sit back and relax before getting your day started. It also gives you that caffeine boost you may need to get ready for a hike or other outdoor activities.
Evening/Night Drinks
My favorite thing to drink after a nice day of camping is some hot cocoa. Similarly to the coffee it's very easy to make and simply delicious. Just heat water on the stove top until boiling, add your cocoa powder, then add to a mug and enjoy. I always add marshmallows and whipped cream on top for some extra sweetness. Hot cocoa is the perfect drink to have while conversing by a nice campfire. If alcohol is more your thing, I recommend keeping it simple. Just bring canned drinks such as beer or seltzers. I suggest cans because they are lighter than glass and can be compacted to take home to recycle. If you're a wine person it's easy to just pack a wine bottle and travel wine glasses. These are all great options to sip on by the fire.
Conclusion
No matter your drink preference, the most important thing is to constantly stay hydrated! That doesn't mean you can't sip on the good stuff though! You can stay hydrated with some great flavors of electrolyte drinks. In the morning make yourself a cup of coffee and just enjoy the beautiful scenery to start your day. To end the day, whether you want a sweet treat like hot cocoa, or a cold alcoholic beverage, it's sure to be a great camping experience.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/the-best-camping-drinks
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Animal Tracking is a Fun Activity for Kids
While camping, it's important to keep your children busy and engaged. Children today are so reliant on technology such as TV, phones, and tablets for entertainment that it may be hard for them to disconnect while camping. That's why it's vital to find some outdoor activities to show them other forms of entertainment that don't include technology. One of the best outdoor activities to share with your kids is animal tracking. It's fun, informative, and a perfect way to connect with your child.
The Basics of Animal Tracking
While animal tracking, it's important to note that you may not actually find any animals, and that's okay. It's just as fun to find tracks and try to identify the animal that left those tracks without ever seeing it. Let's go over some of the ways animals leave tracks behind.
Animal Prints
Many animals leave behind a kind of foot print. Look for these while on a hike or around your campsite. Prints are left easier if it's a little wet or muddy, so be sure to focus your attention on areas by water. Once you do actually find some prints, it should be fairly simple to identify what kind of animal left them. There's plenty of resources in books and online that show the different kinds of animal prints. Just compare the print you found to a resource and boom, you have your animal.
Animal Droppings
Yes, we're going there! While it may be kind of gross to think about, you can identify an animal just by its droppings. Much like the prints, you can find charts and diagrams that show the different kinds of droppings and which animal they belong to. While I don't recommend messing with the dropping, you might be able to see what the animal was eating by inspecting the droppings. Different animals eat different things, so this may help you get a better idea of what animal you are tracking.
Disturbances in Nature
Another more advanced way to track an animal is to find things in nature that look out of place. This includes things like trampled grass, broken branches, and even rubbings or scratches on bark. Although it's not likely you will be able to tell which kind of animal left these disturbances, it's still interesting and enjoyable to find these out of place things and guess what happened. Make up a story with your child about what you think happened to make this disturbance occur. It's also worth your time to just sit and listen. You can gather a lot of information by just listening to the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, or the snap of a twig.
Conclusion
Tracking animals is a great way to bond with your family while keeping the little ones actively engaged. Once you explain to them what to do, they should be focused on finding tracks, droppings, or other evidence of animal life. It will keep them busy and having fun with a sort of informative scavenger hunt. Just a reminder, if you do happen to actually run into some animal wildlife, be sure to keep your distance. Observe from afar so you don't disturb them in their home.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
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Camping Snacks
To be honest, one of my favorite parts of camping is snacking while relaxing in the wilderness. A lot of the time I only purchase and eat specific snacks for camping. Nowadays, there are so many snacks to choose from, you just don’t know where to start. In this blog I will walk you through some of my favorite different types of camping snacks.
Shelled Nuts and Seeds
I’m not quite sure what it is, but there is something quite satisfying about snacking on shelled seeds and nuts while camping. Some of my favorites to bring along are sunflower seeds and pistachios. I love looking for different flavors of sunflower seeds and trying a new one each time I go camping. Some of my favorite flavors are pickle, spicy, and ranch. They are just delicious! Pistachios on the other hand can be somewhat addictive (in a good way). It’s almost impossible to eat just one. One of the most underrated shelled foods is pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds usually get a backseat compared to other shelled seeds and nuts, but they are just as great. They are also packed with protein!
Snacks to Keep You Going
Camping can be very active and sometimes you just need something to fuel your body. The best way to do this in my opinion is with protein bars and granola bars. They are just so easy to pack and are stuffed with great nutrients and flavor. Just throw a few in a backpack and eat them along a hike to keep your energy up. There are a near endless amount of flavors to choose from as well. My favorite protein bar flavor is cookies and cream while my favorite granola bar flavor is honey! Another great option that’s comparable to protein bars is jerky. You just can’t go wrong with this delicious snack that also has tons of protein. With jerky there’s now various meats and flavors to choose from. My favorite is teriyaki beef jerky.
Snacks For Your Sweet Tooth
Who doesn’t love some sweets now and then? There’s always room in your stomach for a sweet satisfying snack! For camping, I think it’s best to bring something pre packaged just to keep things simple. For me I always make sure to bring Rice Crispy Treats. They are all pre package and easy to eat or share with others at a moment's notice. Another treat I always bring camping is some sort of candy! I always bring along some gummy bears and chocolate for my sugar fix. By the way, chocolate can double as an ingredient for S’mores.
Conclusion
At the supermarket, there are just so many snacks to choose from that it can be overwhelming. Especially if you need specific convenient snacks for camping. Hopefully this blog helps you narrow down what you should be looking for. Get some fun snacks that you can snack on for long periods of time like shelled nuts and seeds. Make sure you get some snacks with high protein to fuel all your adventures. Lastly, don’t forget about your sweets. It’s never a bad idea to bring some snacks along to satisfy those sugar cravings. Have some fun and experiment with what snacks you bring each time you go camping.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
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Plan Early to See the Autumn Leaves Changing Color
Seeing the leaves change for fall before they descend to the ground is one of the highlights each year for any outdoor enthusiast. However, it can be a little tricky trying to figure out where and when you should go to see this beautiful sight. So let’s talk about it! I’ll help you find some of the best spots in Colorado you should check out this fall and some dates you should block off to get the best possible experience.
When Should You Plan Your Trip?
Leaves in Colorado usually start changing between mid-September to mid-October, and once they start changing they start falling off the trees fairly quickly. This means the window to experience this amazing sight is fairly small. It’s hard to predict when exactly the leaves will change because it’s a little different each year based on temperature and some other factors. However, according to farmersalmanac.com, the best time to make plans to view the changing leaves this year is October 5th-14th for Colorado. Just a reminder, this is just a prediction so take this with a grain of salt and pay attention to local news channels and websites to get some other predictions as mid-September gets closer.
Where Should You Go?
Now let’s figure out where the best places in Colorado are to get a picture-perfect view of the warm-colored leaves. There are dozens of places to go in Colorado to get a great experience, but here are a few of my favorites.
Aspen, Colorado
Yupp! The name speaks for itself. Aspen, Colorado is filled with majestic aspen trees that just look absolutely magnificent when the leaves turn a golden color. Just outside of Aspen is Maroon Bells. You will want to bring your camera to this location! Maroon Bells has a reflective lake with plenty of aspen trees around. A perfect combination if you ask me! There are multiple hiking trails and a campsite. Be sure to research Maroon Bells to make a plan that best suits you.
Three Island Lake Trail
This is a hike located near Clark, Colorado! Get ready for a spectacular hike with some fantastic scenery! This out and back hike featuring a lake is absolutely stunning with the leaves changing all around. There are plenty of places along the trail to just sit and take in all the views. Being a moderate hike at a total of 6.3 miles, this trail is definitely worth your time.
Trail Ridge Road
Want to see the trees while staying in your car? Consider the Trail Ridge Road. This highway covers 48 miles between Estes Park and Grand Lake. This road offers you breathtaking scenery at high elevations all from the comfort of your car. You cover a lot of ground, all the while taking in some views of some gorgeous trees mid-color change. This relaxing drive is perfect to see the changing Fall leaves with little effort!
Conclusion
There are plenty of places to see the fall leaves in Colorado, but the most important thing is that you just go somewhere! It’s an experience everyone needs to experience once (and as many times as possible). Whether you decide to just view, hike, or drive to see the Fall colors, you definitely will not be disappointed. Just be sure to check wherever you plan to go to make sure they are open and if they have any restrictions.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
If you're interested in reserving an Outdoor AdVANtures Campervan for your tour to see the autumn leaves changing, please be sure to check availability and make your reservations early. https://www.outdooradvantures.com/reservations
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The Benefits of Connecting With Nature
Let's be honest, life can be really stressful at times. Every day there are things that cause us humans stress, anxiety, and lack of focus. All these things can really start to wear on you and really get you down. However, what if I told you one of the best ways to combat these everyday issues is connecting with nature! Yes! Connecting with nature and spending time outside is one of the best ways to destress and take a mental break from everything going on in your life. Here are some of the ways that you can start to release some of the tensions in your life just by being outside!
Getting in Tune With Your Surroundings
Here's an interesting technique to help reduce your stress and anxiety. When going on a hike or walk try to really get in touch with your surroundings. By this I mean really get in tune with all of your senses. Really pay attention to the beauty that you are seeing around you. See what sounds you can make out and where they are coming from. Take a mental note of how the sun feels on your skin and if there is a breeze running across your face. Lastly, see if you can make out any smells, like fresh rain or maybe the smell of a flowing river. This is a proven technique to distract your mind and focus on more positive things and be in the moment. In return, you end up feeling more relaxed and comfortable. Try this next time you go for a nice hike!
Fun in the Sun
There's nothing like getting some good ole' vitamin D. Hanging out in the sun actually gives you a boost of vitamin D. Did you know that sunlight and vitamin D can actually make you happier? Well, it's true! Sunlight is known to improve your mood and also help lessen depression symptoms. Keep this in mind next time you are feeling a bit down!
Get Those Creative Juices Flowing
Feeling like you can't focus or like your brain is in a slump? Make sure to plan some time to take a break and simply get outside. When being outside it is said that you can focus much better and become more creative. Think of it as natural caffeine! It's a great idea to plan a camping trip when you are feeling burnt out from work. The trip will get you back in tip top shape and ready to really focus on work when you return!
Conclusion
Everyone gets burnt out and stressed sometimes! It's perfectly normal, but it's the steps you take to recover that are important. My recommendation to recover would be to plan a camping trip and hike or bike ride. Just being outdoors and in nature away from everyday life has so many natural benefits. It will automatically improve your mood and get you back on the path of being productive and focused. So next time you are feeling stressed, don't hesitate to take a much needed break and revisit nature.
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Bug Off!
Let's face it, pesky bugs like mosquitoes, flies, and other biting insects can really put a damper on a camping trip. They can be a real annoyance especially if they are really after you. Then once they bite you it can flare up and be really itchy. However, all hope is not lost! They're many ways to combat these bothersome creatures. Below I will go over some ways to make sure these bugs don't interfere with having the best possible time on your trip.
The Most Common Ways
One of the best ways to repel bugs is also probably the most common. Bug spray! There's a ton of different kinds of bug spray so be sure to find one that suits you best depending on where you're planning on going. Another thing you may want to pay attention to is whether the bug spray has DEET or not. Some people don't mind DEET while others do. If you don't want DEET in your bug spray there are all natural alternatives. Just get what's best for you!
If you don't want to coat yourself in bug spray you still have plenty of options! You could try those bug repellent bracelets. Just slide it on your wrist and you are good to go! In my experience, these work a lot better than I thought they would. You can see a mosquito coming toward you, but as soon as it gets close it immediately makes a U-turn. I prefer this method because I honestly don't care to have bug spray on my skin all day.
One other fairly common option is to get a bug repellent candle or torch. These are especially good if you're staying in one place. Just light the candle and bugs steer clear. In the evening or night, these also add a source of light and really set a relaxing mood. Double use! Light up multiple to really set a bug free perimeter.
Other Ways To Prevent Bug Bites
Although this may seem obvious it's not a bad idea to try to cover all your skin by wearing long sleeves and pants. This way the bugs can't get to your skin to bite it. Although this may be harder to do on very hot days, (You would have to resort to some of the other repellents listed) It's an easy quick way to make sure you don't get bit!
Another way to plan ahead for fewer bugs is to choose a campsite that is not located by stagnant water. Mosquitos lay eggs in these still waters and that's why there are more mosquitos and bugs located by them. If you choose a nice dry campsite it's very likely there will be much fewer bugs and mosquitoes.
An additional way to keep those troublesome bugs at bay is to do something you probably were already going to do while camping, light a campfire. The smoke from a campfire makes it harder for the bugs to breathe therefore they don't want to come near the location of a campfire.
Conclusion
There are an abundance of ways to repel mosquitos and other biting bugs, and most of them are easy to do. That means there is no reason these irritating insects should get in the way of you having an amazing time on your camping trip. Just try a few repellent methods to see which is right for you and stick with it. You'll be having such a great time BUG FREE!
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
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Lake Camping
It has been nonstop heat here in Colorado, but don’t let that stop you from camping! All you need is a little relief from the heat while you enjoy the great outdoors. One way to do this is to find a campsite right next to a lake. There’s plenty of fun activities you can do on a lake all while cooling down a bit!
Fun Lake Activities
Okay so let’s say you have found a campsite right on a lake, now what do you do? Well, let’s go over some of the exciting things you can partake in.
Swimming
You just can’t beat good old fashioned swimming. When the heat is beating down on you, it’s such an amazing feeling to take a dip in some cool water. Whether you’re actually swimming or just hanging out in the water, it’s such a fun way to spend some time. Bring some pool noodles or some inflatables to make your time in the lake even more relaxing.
Paddle Boarding
Here’s a way to really chill out, physically and mentally. Paddle boarding has been increasing in popularity lately and for good reason. It is so relaxing to just coast on your board while on the lake. Use this soothing activity to really take in your surroundings and get lost in nature’s beauty. If you don’t own a paddle board it’s very easy to rent one. If you really enjoy it, you can buy your own down the line.
Fishing
If the lake allows it, why not do some fishing? Sure you’re not necessarily getting in the water, but you should still be able to get a nice cool breeze off the water. Fishing is another all around relaxing activity. There’s plenty of downtime to enjoy the scenery or have a nice chat with the family. Be sure to check into any required permits or licenses required by the state.
Take a Stroll
It might be a good idea to take a nice walk around a lake. Along the same lines as fishing, even though you’re not directly in the water, the air is usually much cooler just hanging around a lake. I would recommend going for a walk in the evening, that way you might be able to catch a glimpse of the sunset and take photos for your Instagram posts.
Rentals
If you’re lucky, some lakes rent out more things such as jet skis, canoes, tubes, and more. These are all great ways to have a blast in the water. Just be sure to do some research to see if and when the lake you are going to offers these sorts of rentals.
Conclusion
No matter what activities you choose to do involving a lake, it’s sure to be a fun time. You just might always have to have a lake nearby every time you camp going forward. There’s just too much excitement when you throw lake activities into the mix of camping. Not to mention the refreshing cool off the water can provide. Just be sure to check and follow the lake’s rules when it comes to what you can and cannot do.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/lake-camping
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You Should Try Night Hiking Next Time You Go Camping
Have you ever been hiking at night? It offers many benefits that you just can’t get while daytime hiking. It may seem similar, but it is a whole other experience. Below I will go over all the benefits there are to night hiking as well as some tips to consider while night hiking.
The Benefits of Night Hiking
Sometimes it is just too hot to go hiking when the sun is high in the sky. An easy way to get around this is to go night hiking instead. This way the sun is not beating down on you draining all of your energy. You can get out in the cool night and have a more enjoyable hiking experience.
Another benefit for night hiking is that the views are just naturally different from a daytime hike. It’s one of the most beautiful sights in the world to look up during a hike at night and see all the stars shining in the sky. Being away from the city is one of the best opportunities to be able to see all the stars in the sky clearly. Don’t forget to try and identify some of the constellations while you’re looking up there. There are also some apps on your phone now that can help you identify the constellations just by just pointing your phone’s camera at the stars. This is a great activity to try especially with kids!
One of the most magical things about a night hike is having the moon’s light guide your way. If you plan things out accordingly, you might be able to hike during a full moon. This way you can have a good source of light from the moon illuminating your path. This is just all around a very beautiful and exciting experience.
A Few Night Hiking Tips to Help You Out
One of the best things you can bring with you during a night hike is a head lamp. I strongly prefer these to a regular flashlight because they keep your hands free. Also it’s just a plus that the light is always facing where your eyes are when you turn your head.
If you have multiple people in your group hiking, be sure that everyone in your group has a flashlight and a whistle. It’s important that each person has a flashlight to light their own path, not just a singular person. It’s also important that each person has a whistle just in case your group gets separated. It will be a lot easier to find the rest of your group when you hear each other’s whistles.
Another tip is to bring some extra clothing. While it can be a relief to hike without the sun above you, it can get a little too chilly at night. So be sure to bring some extra jackets in case you need a little bit extra warmth.
Don’t forget to keep drinking water! Although you may not seem as thirsty because you don’t have the sun beating down, you can still get dehydrated just from the hike itself. So be sure to constantly be drinking some water.
It’s important to keep your energy up during your night hike. Be sure to pack some healthy and high protein snacks. Things like granola bars, protein bars, or fresh fruits are great snacks to keep you going!
Conclusion
Every hiker should at least try a night hike at least once. It might just end up being one of your favorite outdoor experiences. There’s nothing quite like connecting with nature at night with the stars above you and the moon’s light surrounding you.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/you-should-try-night-hiking-next-time-you-go-camping
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S’mores Are the Way to Go
When you think of classic camping treats, what’s the first thing you think of? It’s s’mores, right? S’mores are the most classic and delicious treat that goes with camping so perfectly. Making s’mores anywhere else just doesn’t feel the same as when you’re gathered around a fire roasting the marshmallows with your whole family. However, I’ll show you some ways to mix up these classic treats and put a fresh spin on them.
S’mores Variants
Sometimes it’s nice to switch things up a little. It’s good to try new things even on classics. Here are some of my favorite s’mores variants.
Roasted Marshmallow + White Chocolate Coconut Candy Bar + Graham Crackers
As you can see the only thing different in this one from a normal s’more is the white chocolate coconut candy bar (Lindt Chocolate makes a perfect one of these bars). The idea with this variant is a more tropical taste! I know, I know. You’re thinking, “Tropical in the forest?” To that, I say YES! This s’more tastes amazing no matter where you are.
Roasted Marshmallow + Sliced Strawberry + Dark Chocolate Candy Bar + Graham Crackers
With this one, we are adding some freshness with some fresh sliced strawberries. Not only do you get the taste of strawberries and cream with the marshmallow, but you combine that with the dark chocolate and you have heaven. This one is my personal absolute favorite.
Roasted Marshmallow + Andes Mint And Chocolate Candy + Chocolate Graham Crackers
Yup! This one adds Andes Mints! You know the mints they give you with the check at some restaurants. This variant adds a prominent mint flavor that is absolutely delicious with the rest of the s’more flavors!
Conclusion
Changing up old recipes gives some more spice and flair to your life. It’s always an adventurous thing to just mix things up, and what better way than with a simple treat like s’more. Another great idea is to have everyone on your camping trip bring their own s’mores variant and then share around the campfire. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite way to make s’mores.
Recipes From: https://www.campingforfoodies.com/campfire-smores-recipes-10-mouth-watering-smore-variations/
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/smores-are-the-way-to-go
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Your Furry Friend Might Love Camping as Much as You Do
Dogs need some time away from the normalcy of life just as much as we do. Our best friends love and thrive in the outdoors going on hikes or even just hanging around the campsite. In this blog I will provide some helpful tips to think about if you’re planning on bringing your dog with you on your camping trip as well as some tips to make your pet as comfortable as possible.
Planning For Bringing Your Canine Companion on Your Camping Trip
Unfortunately, not all campsites are pet friendly. When planning your camping trip be sure to check and see if the site you are going to allows dogs. If they do allow pets, be sure to also check the rules you must follow when bringing your pup.
When packing for your furry friend be sure to double check you have everything you need such as:
-Plenty of water, especially for those hot summer days
-Food
-Treats
-Leash
-Collar (With a tag with owners information and phone number)
-Harness (Be sure to use a harness especially on hikes as it is much more secure and comfortable for your dog).
-Toys
-Plastic bags (To clean up after them)
-Dog bed to keep your pet comfortable
This is just my personal necessity list, but there are plenty of other optional things you could bring for your companion.
Keeping Your Dog Having Fun and Comfortable
To be sure that your dog is having just as much fun on your trip as you are, you must make them as comfortable as possible. One of the most important things is to make sure they always have access to clean water. Dogs will get dehydrated especially out on hikes or playing in the sun, so be sure they always have a water bowl around with fresh water.
Another thing to keep an eye on is wildlife and other campers dogs. Be sure that your dog isn’t bothering the wildlife or other campers and vice versa. It can become very dangerous if your dog starts engaging with wild animals.
Lastly, be sure to always protect your pooch’s paws! Always have a first-aid kit on hand just in case they get any cuts on their paws. Also be mindful where they are walking as the ground surfaces can get very hot, especially on pavement. Maybe consider getting your dog some dog boots. An added bonus of dog boots is it can be hilarious to watch your pup to learn to walk in them!
Conclusion
Our furry companions can make a camping trip that much more fun! Just be sure to plan ahead and make sure your puppy is comfortable and safe. Dogs want a getaway just as much as you do, and trust me they are going to have just as much fun as you are.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/your-furry-friend-might-love-camping-as-much-as-you-do
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Getting Into Camping
Whether you’re new to camping or trying to get someone you know into camping there are multiple approaches you can take. Someone who is not familiar with the joys of camping may be slightly intimidated because it’s something new. However, once someone experiences what camping has to offer I would bet they would be hooked.
Start Things Off Simple
You don’t have to go all in on your first time camping. You can start things off slow. In my personal experience I find one of the biggest humps for new campers to get over is sleeping outside in a tent while camping. One way to overcome this is our AdVANture Vans. With an AdVANture Van, you can sleep inside a comfy cozy van and be protected from the outside elements all while still being in the middle of beautiful nature! Honestly though, whether you’re a new or experienced camper, once you try an AdVANture van, you will never want to go back to a tent.
Another way to ease into camping is to go on small trips first. Stay somewhat close by and maybe only stay a night or two. It’s a lot easier to metally and physically prepare for a night or two than it is for a whole week. Be careful though, once you go on a few shorter trips, it will get to a point where you just won’t want to go back home!
It might also be a good idea to start camping at campgrounds with bathroom facilities at first. This can help you ease into camping. Once you get used to that you can start getting even more adventurous and camp deeper into the wild!
Rent or Borrow
To get the most fun out of camping, you may need some supplies. Whether you want to fish, bike, hike, or even paddle board, chances are that you may need some additional equipment. Starting out I would recommend borrowing some of these items from family or friends. If that’s not an option you can rent a lot of these kinds of things from vendors (Get in contact with us for vendor recommendations)! Then over time you can purchase these items on your own. It will be worth it with how much you’re going to want to go back and camp over and over again!
Conclusion
Camping is one of the best ways to connect with nature and relax! Newcomers may need a few tips and tricks to ease them into the world of camping, but once they try it, I can almost guarantee they will have so much fun and will want to go every weekend. There are so many different ways to camp, so just find what is right and most comfortable for you, and you will have a blast!
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/getting-into-camping
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Colorado Mountain Biking Trails
For many people the best part of camping is the activities you can enjoy while outdoors! One of the most popular activities that many outdoor enthusiasts partake in is biking. Biking is great for a many variety of reasons. It’s a great way to experience beautiful Colorado as well as get a great workout, but where should you go to get an amazing biking experience? Well, whether you’re new to biking or an expert, I have some trail recommendations for you!
Beginner TrailMt Carbon Loop:
Mt Carbon Loop, located in Morrison, Colorado is a trail perfect for beginners. The trail is mostly smooth which is why it is ideal for anyone just getting into mountain biking. However, just because it is a beginner trail doesn’t mean it’s not beautiful. This trek loops around Bear Creek Lake Park and has a pretty good view of the mountains in the distance. Get a feel for what mountain biking is like with this easy, yet pretty route!
Intermediate TrailPBR — Pumps, Bumps, and Rollers:
Yes, that is the name of this trail! Located in Fruita, Colorado, this track is only 2 miles long, but it is a blast! As the name suggests, this singletrack has many hills, jumps, and bumps. If you’re brave enough you can definitely catch some air if you’re going fast enough. However, it’s also possible to roll along the entire track if you’re wanting to stay on the ground. This is a great spot to have some fun and practice for a more advanced location.
Advanced TrailEnchanted Forest:
This downhill only trail is located in Genesee, Colorado. This one way only track is sure to give you some speed! You will ride through a lush green forest while traversing some more advanced terrain. If you like a technical trail, Enchanted Forest is made for you! It’s also a great spot on a hot day as the trees provide a lot of shade. Try this location out if you want some speed and to test your skills!
Conclusion
Mountain biking is some of the most fun you can have outdoors. Luckily there are many trails in Colorado at a variety of difficulty levels. Find a trail that fits your skill level and go have some fun. Be sure to check any restrictions or entrance fees on trails before you go. For more information on the locations I have mentioned or even more Colorado trails check out the link below. Please also remember that Outdoor AdVANtures also rents out bike racks for those of you that want to bring your own mountain bike. Now get out there and be safe!
Mountain Bike Trails near Colorado (mtbproject.com)
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/colorado-mountain-biking-trails
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Staying Cool While Camping in Colorado’s Summer
Summer has finally officially begun and things are really heating up. With temperatures nearing 100 degrees lately it can seem almost impossible to stay cool especially if you want to go camping and/or hiking. However, there are plenty of ways to beat the heat this summer, all you need are a few helpful tips.
The Basics
Let’s review the basics before we move into some more creative tips. The absolute most important thing to remember while camping on a hot day is to stay hydrated. Humans tend to sweat more in the heat which causes your body to lose fluids more quickly. Therefore you need to constantly be replenishing your fluids by drinking lots of water to avoid dehydration!
Another helpful reminder is to always apply and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. This may seem like a very simple tip, and that’s because it is. However, it’s always good to be reminded. Sunburns are no fun at all and can definitely contribute to the reason why you may not be able to cool down. To avoid this make sure to get a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 and apply it every few hours.
Let’s Get a Little More Creative
I have one word for you. Popsicles. Yup, popsicles are not only a delicious treat, but they can be cool and refreshing on a hot day. They can bring you salvation from the heat that you need. I personally prefer Otter Pops, but get whatever you enjoy most!
Let’s get a little scientific! Heat is naturally attracted to dark colors, so outsmart the heat and wear some brighter color clothing to keep some of the heat off of you and your body.
Plan your activities for early morning or evening. It’s a good idea to do active things like hiking, biking, or playing outdoor games during the early morning before things really start heating up, or in the evening when things start to cool down to avoid peak heat times.
In between being outside, you can easily cool down in one of our AdVANture vans because they have air conditioning (Just make sure your campsite has the proper plug-ins)!
Conclusion
The heat shouldn’t keep you from going camping, you should embrace it! We are lucky enough to live in beautiful warm Colorado, so make the most of it. If you follow these tips you can still have fun in the sun and fully enjoy your summer camping experiences.
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/staying-cool-while-camping-in-colorados-summer
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My Favorite Camping, Mason Jar Recipes
Mason jar recipes are one of the easiest ways you can prepare all the meals you will need while camping. They are easy to prepare in advance, and the best part is they are convenient! Simplicity is always a benefit while camping. I will go over a few of my favorite mason jar recipes below!
Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it gives you the energy you need to start your day off strong. So let's go over some breakfast mason jar meals to get your morning started off right. This can be prepared in advance. Just keep cold and when ready, cook in the microwave.
Mason Jar Omelete
1- Grease two 16-ounce mason jars with nonstick cooking spray.
2- Crack two eggs into each jar. Divide cheese, onion, ham, and bell pepper between the two jars and season with salt and pepper.
3- Place lids in jars and shake until eggs are scrambled and ingredients are combined.
4- When ready to cook, remove the lids and place them in the microwave. Microwave on low for 4 minutes, checking every 30 seconds. Garnish with chives and serve.
The mason jar omelets are packed with protein to get your day kick-started! Don't forget that our AdVANture Vans have a microwave to help with all your cooking needs while camping.
Here's another one of my favorite breakfast, mason jar recipes, with no cooking required.
Yogurt Mason Jar
Want to get even more simple than the omelet jar for breakfast? Try this!
1- Just add your favorite yogurt to fill the jar about ¾ of the way.
2- Fill the rest of the jar with your choice of toppings such as granola and fresh fruits such as berries!
....And that's it! You have a healthy breakfast you can just break out and start eating!
Lunch and Dinner
Lunch and dinner meals while camping can be somewhat interchangeable. What really matters is you can make these recipes before you even leave on your trip and they will be ready to eat anytime with little preparation!
Mason Jar Frito Pie
For this recipe, be sure to make this at home before your trip! Just keep it cold until you're ready to eat, and then heat it up! Dig in and enjoy!
1 — In a stovetop pan, combine the diced onion, ground turkey, taco seasoning, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook on medium-high heat.
2 — Cook the turkey for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink. Then, drain excess grease.
3 — Add the beans and tomato sauce to the pan. Reduce heat and stir on low to let the meat mixture simmer for 10 minutes. Don't worry if chili appears thicker than usual. It should be thick when making it as a Frito pie.
4— Spoon 3/4 cup of chili into mason jars and top with cheese, then the corn chips, and additional cheese.
5— Right before serving, add your favorite toppings and a garnish with extra Fritos!
Mason Jar Chicken Egg Salad
Let's get even more straightforward. Salads are an extremely easy and nutritious meal that are great for camping! Here's a great jar salad recipe! You can make this one before your trip or get creative and change out your own favorite ingredients.
1- In a pint jar, layer lettuce, sweet pepper, and strawberries.
2- In a small bowl stir together crumbled hard boiled egg, pre-cooked chicken, green onion, and yogurt dip; spoon over lettuce mixture.
3- Just before serving, drizzle with salad dressing and shake.
Conclusion
Well, that's it! These are a few recipes for you to enjoy during your camping getaway. All these recipes are delicious and extremely easy to make! Simplify your meal planning by using mason jars to either make your food on the spot or cook your food ahead of time. For more information on these recipes check out the links to the sources of the recipes below!
Mason Jar Omelets: Best Mason Jar Omelets - How to Make a Mason Jar Omelet (delish.com)
Mason Jar Yogurt Cups: Extra Creamy Yogurt Cups | Recipe • Whipperberry
Frito Pie Mason Jar: Frito Pie Mason Jars Recipe — Sugar & Cloth Recipes (sugarandcloth.com)
Chicken Egg Salad Jar: Chicken-Egg Salad | Better Homes & Gardens (bhg.com)
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/my-favorite-camping-mason-jar-recipes
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Make the Drive to the Campsite Just as Fun as Camping
Sometimes the best campsites are quite a drive, but that doesn’t mean the drive has to be boring! There are plenty of ways to make traveling to your chosen campsite fun for the whole family. Whether the site is an hour away or a day of travel, these tips and recommendations will make your drive fly by!
It All Starts With the Music
Music is the easiest way to entertain yourself and the family on a road trip! Music is a good way to put everyone in a good mood. I would suggest making a custom playlist before you leave on your trip. Be sure to include music everyone going on the trip will enjoy. I would also try to pick more upbeat and uplifting songs. This will keep everyone happy and excited along the ride. Another idea, depending on who is going on the trip, is to play some podcasts. Finding a podcast everyone in the car can enjoy is a great way to keep everyone entertained.
Take in the Scenery
This tip may seem a little obvious, but it’s always nice to have a reminder. Colorado is full of some of the most amazing scenery the United States has to offer. Along your trip (especially if you are a passenger) be sure to take some time and gaze out the window at the beautiful landscape that is Colorado. It can be very relaxing to really focus on your surroundings. It is also a great way to pass the time.
Play Some Road Trip Games
Road trip games are a fantastic way to keep the whole family entertained, especially children. A few examples are to play games like 21 questions or the alphabet game. 21 questions is played by player one thinking of a random thing. That thing could be an animal, a person, a food, a place, or anything else. The other players take turns asking player one questions to try to figure out what thing player one is thinking of. The other players have a limit of 21 questions to try to figure it out before they lose. After a round someone else takes the place of player one and thinks of a new thing. The alphabet game is played by everyone in the car taking turns finding items along the trip that start with the letter “A.” You then go through the whole alphabet calling out things that start with each letter until you get to “Z.”
Conclusion
As exciting as it is to get outside and start camping, the drive can also be an exciting part of the experience. There are countless ways to pass the time along your drive and have it be enjoyable. If you follow these tips, you might be able to avoid the dreaded “are we there yet?”
Outdoor AdVANtures™ is a Campervan Rental Company based in Denver, Colorado run by people that are passionate about the outdoors, just like you! We offer a fleet of late model, customized vans along with the highest quality outdoor gear designed to make your trip a memorable experience.
https://www.outdooradvantures.com/blog/make-the-drive-to-the-campsite-just-as-fun-as-camping
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