Camping in any weather condition is sure to bring surprises. And let’s face it, when it’s below freezing, camping can be intimidating! It brings about a new set of challenges that you don’t think about if you’ve only camped when it’s warm out. For this reason, it’s extremely helpful to know the major do’s and don’ts of winter camping. Being prepared for whatever may come your way can be a major factor in whether you enjoy your camping excursion or not. With that being said, let’s dive into some tips and tricks that can help prepare you for your next winter camping trip. Hear directly from Outdoor Adventure Resort managers on how to make winter camping both fun and successful.
#1: Make Sure Your Camper Is Winter Ready!
Preparing your camper for the winter is essential says Lake Shore Resort Assistant Manager Troy Hawley. Troy suggests that all seasoned and first-time winter campers make sure their furnace is maintained properly and ready to keep their family warm and safe, and that water lines and tanks have no damage. The more ready your camper is for winter, the better! If need be, take your camper to get serviced to make sure everything is functioning properly. It’s no fun having RV trouble in the summer and fall, and it’s even worse to have issues in the winter, so make sure your camper is in tip-top shape!
#2: Stock Up On Food!
Troy also suggests that winter campers’ have plenty of food and drinks stocked in their camper, just in case there is a storm of some sort. Winter happens! And it’s best to be able to stay indoors in the event of a snowstorm. Give yourself peace of mind by stocking up on nonperishable food items while winter camping. You won’t regret it.
#3: Stay Dry!
Having the right gear while winter camping is essential. You’ll want to do your best to stay dry, as cool water (either from snow or perspiration) can quickly cause your body temperature to drop. With so many winter camping activities for the entire family like snowboarding, skiing, and sledding, it’s easy to find yourself drenched! Be sure to wear clothing that keeps you as dry as possible such as waterproof boots and snow gear.
But in the event that you do find your gear drenched, be sure to remove all wet garments in a timely manner to avoid sickness and frostbite. To dry wet clothes, wrap them in dry towels for 20-30 minutes. The dry towels will absorb most of the moisture, then, if the sun is out, you can hang your clothes and let nature take care of the rest of the drying. Another great option is purchasing a wet/dry bag from your local sporting goods or outdoor store. Wet/dry bags will allow you to safely store your wet garments for drying, and they are a better option than paper bags, as you don’t have to worry about your clothes mildewing.
#4: Choose A Great Location!
Choosing a great winter camping location might just be the most important thing when considering winter camping. You’ll want to be at a campground that is prepared for winter weather, friendly, and has enough fun for all. In the event of an emergency, you want to have peace of mind knowing that you have help. Although many campgrounds are closed during the winter season, Outdoor Adventures Resorts are open year-round for winter campers, and our staff is trained and ready to assist however possible. If you’re searching for a great location to camp this winter be sure to explore Saginaw Bay Resort, Mount Pleasant Resort, Kalamazoo Resort, and Benjamin’s Beaver Creek Resort, all of which are open year-round to members, and jammed pack with tons to do for the entire family! If you are not an Outdoor Adventures member, first-time visitors are able to camp free for 7 days and nights at any location of their choosing! We’re certain that you’ll love our resorts.
#5: Ask Questions When You Need It!
Our last tip for winter camping comes from Saginaw Bay Resort Manager Matt Foco. Matt says the biggest piece of advice he can give any winter camper is to ask questions when you need it! Matt wants everyone to have a fun and safe winter camping experience, and if there is anything you don’t know or want to know more about, Matt advises you to please don’t hesitate to ask questions. Outdoor Adventures staff are waiting and willing to assist you in any way possible.
At Outdoor Adventures, our number one priority is to help you create memories with your family that will last a lifetime, especially this winter. Whether you’re a full-time RV’er or a first-time winter camper, our goal is to make sure your winter camping experience is one to remember in all the best ways possible. Make your winter camping reservation today! We can’t wait to see you!
Happy Camping!
Hello! I just read your article and I must say, it’s an excellent piece of writing for all the winter camping enthusiasts. Your detailed explanations of the different gear and techniques for winter camping have made it easier for me to understand and prepare for my next winter camping trip.
I especially appreciated your emphasis on staying warm and dry, which is the most critical aspect of winter camping. Your recommendation of using insulated sleeping pads and tents, layering clothing, and keeping a warm and dry set of clothes for inside the tent was very informative. I also liked how you touched upon the importance of proper nutrition and hydration, which can often be overlooked while camping in cold weather.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with the readers. Your tips and tricks are a great resource for those who are new to winter camping or for those who want to improve their winter camping experience. I’m sure your article will inspire many people to get out and enjoy the beauty of winter camping. Keep up the great work!