CAMPING BLANKETS

You may be wondering why anyone would need to take blankets along on a campout. Isn’t that what sleeping bags are for? Sleeping bags come in weights for all temperatures so why would you need blankets, too? Well, if there’s a sudden temperature drop below your bag’s rating, it’s nice to have something extra. Or if you got really chilled in that icy mountain lake, you can wrap up in a blanket until you’re warm again. Camping blankets are usually distinguished by their durability and easy care.

Wool Camping Blankets

Wool or wool-blends make the best camping blankets because wool will keep you warm even if it gets wet. Wool is a natural fabric able to absorb moisture so your skin stays dry. This characteristic makes a wool blanket comfortable in humid, damp climates, even in the summertime. If just the thought of wool makes you scratch, take a look at wool-blends; these blankets combine wool with another fabric, such as cotton or nylon, for softer, less itchy comfort.

Pendleton Camp Blankets

Pendleton Woolen Mills has been making camp blankets since 1909, when the company was formed in Pendleton, Oregon. Known for their high quality and beauty Pendleton wool blankets are often treasured items. Today Pendleton still makes a collection of camp blankets, similar to those the company made for Native Americans 100 years ago. They are 100% wool and feature dark, solid backgrounds brightened up by stripes. The National Park Blankets are similar in design but are generally made with brighter, lighter colors. Thanks to modern technology Pendleton now also has 100% wool blankets that are machine washable and dryable. This easy-care feature makes these plaid blankets an excellent choice for camping.

Vintage Camp Blankets

Blankets in this category are usually older, well-used blankets of wool or cotton. They may include older editions of the Pendleton blankets described above, or other similar styles. Designs include the classic solid color with one or two stripes at each end, plaids, or Native American patterns. If you’re interested in finding such a blanket try looking in vintage shops or online.