by Lisa Mazurek

Created on: July 07, 2009   Last Updated: January 11, 2011

If you are a single parent and enjoy camping then try this simple guide to getting you on your way.  As a mom with two boys, I have some great ideas on how to make camping fun. But first you must choose what kind of camping you want to do. Do you want to rough it or have the modern conveniences? Are you a tent camper or a motor home camper?

Next step is deciding where to go for your camping trip. Do you want to travel out of the state or stay close to home? For me it was better to stay close to home but I decided on a state park. In my opinion State parks have more to offer. There is hiking, swimming, fishing and boating. The camp sites are farther apart and more spacious. They have sunny and shady sites. Campers also tend to follow the rules more.

Bong state park in Wisconsin has everything from fishing, trails for dirt bikes, bird watching and hiking trails. It is clean, safe and quiet. You can reserve your site by number or take a ride and check out the campsites. If  you go camping a lot, get an annual parking permit. Tent sites aren't expensive and they have electric sites too.

Packing for your camping trip is easy as long as you plan and organize. First you will need a tent unless you have a motor home.  If you don't know much about tents then ask questions. Salespeople usually know what is important when it comes to camping. Bring the barbecue grill, fishing poles, tackle, Camp stove, lanterns, flashlights, batteries, and tools just in case you have problems setting up your tent.

Camping usually brings out an appetite in everyone. So pack those coolers with easily prepared foods and plastic bottles or cans. Some great items to bring to cook are hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob and marshmallows. Prepared salads, chips, pork and beans are great side dishes for camping. Don't forget your condiments like ketchup, mustard and salt. Whatever you bring, make sure it is easy to prepare and doesn't require a lot of work. For breakfast, I usually bring bacon and pancake mix that you just add water to.

For sleeping, you can purchase an air mattress for more comfort or just bring a sleeping bag, comforter and pillows. Don't forget pots and pans to cook in. Dish soap to clean your pans and buckets. You can get water at the pumping wells in the park. If your worried about the water, bring your own. Most park water is safe for cleaning and showering, we even drank the water at Bong. It is also

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>