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Tents

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I consider sleeping in an RV (even if it is in the name of camping) to be just one step above sleeping in the back seat of a car and one step below sleeping at home with the windows open. Yes, many RV's have very comfortable beds, a dining area, a bathroom, and a kitchen strange, that is exactly what my house has.

Tent camping requires a certain amount of skill and preparation. The tent camper must be aware of the weather in the area where he plans to camp. One does not want to be under a single sheet in a tent when it starts snowing outside. Even with a reliable weather forecast, the tent camper will need to plan for other contingencies (unexpected storm, higher/lower than normal temps, etc.)

My idea of a true camp experience is when the camper is separated by a significant distance from his car. Backpacking or riding (horseback) to a campsite creates a totally different experience. Once again, careful planning is involved because you cannot just run to the car or store for something that was forgotten.

I view camping as an opportunity to get away from normal everyday life. When I camp, the only modern things I allow are a cell phone (set to vibrate or light) and an emergency radio. Nothing else is allowed.

If possible, all cooking is done over an open fire. In areas where fires are not allowed, I will carry in a small backpacking stove or a small two-burner stove. Given a choice, I prefer to use an open fire.

Tent camping allows me to get away from highways which is almost impossible with an RV. The tent camping experience gives me time to relax and unwind from my normal routines. If a lake is nearby, I fish. If it is hunting season, I may do a little hunting. I have even camped in areas where trapping was allowed and set out snares for rabbits. Since no refrigeration is available, we always eat what we catch and only catch what we can eat. Hunting, fishing, or trapping for your meal seems to make the meat taste better.

At some point in my life, I may change over to RV camping. For now, at the young age of 50, I still consider tent camping to be a better experience.

Learn more about this author, Allen R. Cook.
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