subject: Helpful Guidelines for River Camping [print this page] Helpful Guidelines for River Camping Helpful Guidelines for River Camping
Setting up your tent or RV near the river can be an incredible way to get close to nature and enjoy a relaxing environment, nevertheless there are a number of things to bear in mind when setting up your campsite this close to water. For the most enjoyable experience when camping next to a river or lake, remember these three things.
Mosquitoes and Insects Love Water
While mosquitoes are more a challenge near stagnant water, they are very prominent in spots where dampness is high, such as a riverbank or lake. Furthermore, many other flying insects live out their days near water, which can prove to be quite a problem for the casual camper. If you are dead set on camping out right by the water, make sure you bring plenty of bug spray and have a bug repellant device or two set up around the campsite. Your camping trip will lose its charm quickly with every bite you get, so take action to keep yourself bite free.
Animals of All Sorts Love the Water
Animals in nature don't have a water dish, so they use the rivers and streams every day to quench their thirst. Most of the wildlife that drink from the streams are harmless (deer, squirrels, rabbits). But predators need water too, and typically they stake out the riverbanks searching for unprotected meals to dip their head underwater. Unless you are camping in a bustling campground, there is a likelihood that you will have an encounter with a wild animal. Prior to setting up your campsite, study the location. The terrain next to the riverbed is normally damp which means its almost certainly crammed with footprints. If you see any paw prints that look like a mountain lion or bear, you need to be extra watchful. Regardless of whether you are camping in an area where there are many other campers, wild animals can still meander down to your campsite to explore the interesting smells and sounds.
Rivers Are Constantly Changing
Yes, we all know that rivers come with flowing water, but they also grow and drop in size, usually depending on the level of snow melt that was produced further upstream. Before pitching your tent or parking your RV right next to the river, consider. With a reasonable amount of observation, you can determine the highest point on shore that the river has swelled to. Ensure you set up camp beyond this region. You may not find yourself floating away like they show in cartoons, but some of your gear and provisions could be damaged by rising water levels.
No matter where you camp, the goal is to enjoy yourself and stay safe. Nature can be an unforgiving place and it is always advised to be at your most alert at all times. If you aren't sure that an area is safe for camping, it is probably best to move on and find a place you are comfortable with.
