CAMPING BOOKS

Aaah! You’re on the road at last. Fresh air and sunshine are streaming into your vehicle. You haven’t really made a plan, except to go where the spirit takes you. But by late afternoon the kids are cranky, the dog is whining, and you’re thinking you don’t want to set up the tent in the dark. Where are you going to stop? What’s on the menu for dinner? If you don’t have any idea, no one’s going to be happy. As tempting as it sounds to just go wandering, some preparation and planning does make it more fun for everyone.

Camping Guide Books

Camping guide books come in two varieties: how-to guides and campground directories. If you’re a novice camper a how-to guide is essential, even if you already practiced setting up your tent and using your stove. Sample a few and choose one that makes sense to you. Read it before your trip, and bring it along to refresh your memory. Directories list campgrounds (usually by area), fees, services, restrictions (noise or pets), and other information. They’re compiled by the National Park Service, auto clubs, camping clubs, and magazines, to name just a few. Check your local bookstore or the internet.

RV Camping Books

As with tent camping, RV guides break down into how-to books and directories. Don’t rely on a general camping guide. It’s better to have RV-specific information, such as parking regulations and how to run your generator. And an RV directory may list different campgrounds. Not all places welcome both tents and RVs, so be sure to check before making your plans.

Camping Cookbooks

Once you reach your campsite, what are you going to eat? Half the joy of camping is that delicious outdoor cooking. But if you’re not used to cooking over a fire or lighting a propane stove it can seem daunting. That’s where camping cookbooks come in. Look through some of the many available for recipes that seem manageable and tasty. Many of these books also offer tips for buying and transporting your food as well as cooking it.