It’s the middle of a gorgeous Montana summer, and although we’ve had some unexpected rain, camping is becoming more popular than ever. According to KRTV, camping has grown substantially in popularity in the past few weeks. Only 3 weeks into summer, we have the best camping weather ahead of us! Today we’re going to go through some tips for beginners in the wilderness, so you can stay safe AND have a blast. I’ve posted a camping essentials article with Bob Ward’s exclusives, so be sure to check that out for some solid gear recommendations.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
Montana is basically composed of gorgeous and protected outdoor spaces to camp in. The official Montana State Parks website has an interactive map of parks to choose from. Planetware has a cohesive list of camps to choose from. Of those, I would personally recommend Apgar Campground in Glacier National Park, Bannack State Park, and Big Arm at Flathead Lake State Park.
WEATHER
Speaking of the recent rain around the Flathead and other parts of Montana, preparing for bad weather is a huge part of the overall task of camping. I mean, you literally sleep in these wide open spaces, so you have to account for the fickle Montana weather. A quality rain coat, waterproof tent, and even waterproof hiking boots is a good start. Whether you’re trampling through mud, catching a drizzle on your shoulder, or being sung to sleep by a thunderstorm, it’s important to be prepared.
PACKING LIST
Making a list of all the things you will need and checking it off before you leave can be the difference between life or death in a treacherous situation. If you’re having trouble with where to start, KOA has a great one to start with. Using this list, you can pick and choose what will be essential to the experience you’re trying to achieve! This one is even printable, so you can put the screen down and get to work preparing for your trip.
LEAVE NO TRACE
One of the most important part of camping, especially in such a beautiful place, is to leave no trace that you were there to begin with. Aside from the number one crime of putting a baby bison in your car, or starting a forest fire, littering is a massive offense. If you decide to go out into such a special and protected piece of nature, you must accept the responsibility of cleaning up after yourself. Leave no trace that you were ever there. Take a trashbag with you, and take it out with you too, to dispose of it in the appropriate place.
Best of luck on your camping adventures, be safe and make sure to pack accordingly! Until next time, this was Krawdaddy Jones.
