Where Is Your Favorite Place To Camp? Part One

I think most of us have done it. I think some of us wish we could do it better, and I think ALL of us enjoy being a part of it! Of course I’m talking about camping…or overlanding…or bivouacking…or sheltering…or whatever it is we do when we try and escape from our day to day routines and explore remote (or not so remote) locations, typically overnight. As a kid, we only knew one term for spending the night outside, it was called camping. These days, while there are many terms for it, it is still camping to me. Some of us prefer to do it alone and others enjoy the company of others. Some enjoy doing it in national or state parks or commercial campgrounds, while others prefer being far away from others, in remote wilderness areas.

Over the years, I have had the fortunate opportunity to “camp” in some amazing places…and maybe that is the draw of to it, VARIETY! EVERY place is different and comes with it’s own set of environmental challenges or “comforts”. I’m going to attempt to provide some pros and cons of a few areas that we have stayed in, in hopes that it helps us all find that perfect campsite. Of course there are a few things that we ALWAYS need to keep in mind, like the weather, the terrain, and did I mention the weather?

The Weather

One of the biggest concerns when venturing out is of course the weather. The weather can make or break the whole experience, and as prepared we try to be, often we are caught off guard. If you don’t already have a couple of weather apps on your devices, you should! I use a few: The Weather Channel; Weather Underground; and Weather Hi-Def Radar. Why 3 weather apps? Why not! Usually they show different data and different refresh rates, so I look at each of them to make my decisions.

Here’s a look at how different weather conditions can affect your outdoor adventure and why keeping an eye on the forecast is so important:

1. Sunny and Warm Weather

Warm, sunny days are often considered ideal for camping or overlanding, as they allow for long days spent exploring, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors. However, even in perfect weather, it’s important to be mindful of the sun’s intensity. Overexposure can lead to sunburns, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. Staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and having shelter from the sun (like tents, tarps, or shaded areas) are essential. Even in seemingly perfect conditions, the weather can change, so always be prepared for a sudden shift.

Why it’s important to watch:

• Heat can cause dehydration and fatigue.
• Sudden weather changes (storms, temperature drops) can still catch you off guard.
• High temperatures can be dangerous for equipment (e.g., batteries, food storage).

2. Rainy Weather

Rain can dramatically alter the camping or overlanding experience. A light drizzle can create a cozy, peaceful atmosphere, but heavy rain can turn the ground into a slippery, muddy mess. Roads may become impassable, and rivers or streams can rise quickly. Tents and gear might get soaked, increasing the risk of hypothermia, especially if temperatures drop. On the bright side, rainforests and wetlands come alive in the rain, and some people love the challenge of navigating wet conditions.

Why it’s important to watch:

• Flash floods can occur quickly, especially in areas near rivers or in mountainous terrain.
• Rain can create slick roads, leading to risky driving conditions, especially for overlanding vehicles.
• Wet gear can cause discomfort and increase the risk of illness in colder temperatures.

3. Windy Weather

Wind can add a layer of unpredictability to any adventure, especially in exposed areas like deserts, plains, or mountaintops. Strong gusts can make it difficult to set up camp, blow down tents, or even pose a danger to your safety. Wind can also dry out your skin, making dehydration easier to overlook. On the plus side, it can keep temperatures cooler on hot days and create dramatic landscapes for photography.

Why it’s important to watch:

• High winds can turn a comfortable campsite into a dangerous one, especially for tents or campfires.
• Wind increases the risk of wildfires, particularly in dry areas like deserts and grasslands.
• Driving in high winds, especially with an overlanding vehicle, can be challenging and unsafe.

4. Cold or Freezing Weather

Camping or overlanding in cold conditions (or during winter) offers a quiet, serene landscape, with opportunities for snow sports or exploring areas that are usually inaccessible. However, cold weather can quickly become dangerous if you’re not adequately prepared. Frostbite, hypothermia, and cold-related illnesses are real threats, and gear failure is more likely if temperatures drop below freezing. Proper sleeping bags, clothing, and shelter are crucial to surviving these conditions.

Why it’s important to watch:

• Cold weather can freeze water, making it hard to stay hydrated or cook.
• Proper preparation is required to avoid hypothermia and frostbite.
• Ice and snow can make roads treacherous, especially for overlanding vehicles.

5. Thunderstorms and Lightning

Thunderstorms can occur unexpectedly, bringing with them dangerous lightning, strong winds, and heavy rain. Lightning strikes can start wildfires, and they pose a direct danger to anyone outdoors. Strong winds and hail can damage equipment, rip tents, or knock down trees. Thunderstorms can also cause flash floods in certain areas, especially in valleys, deserts, or canyons.

Why it’s important to watch:

• Lightning is a direct safety hazard, especially in exposed areas or when camping in open fields.
• Flooding can happen rapidly, making trails or campsites unsafe.
• High winds and hail can cause damage to tents, vehicles, or shelter.

6. Foggy or Low Visibility Conditions

Fog or low visibility conditions can make navigation and driving difficult, particularly when overlanding or hiking. In dense fog, it can be challenging to see obstacles or landmarks, increasing the risk of getting lost. It can also make it difficult to gauge distance when driving, leading to accidents. In addition, the damp air and low temperatures associated with fog can make the environment feel colder than it actually is.

Why it’s important to watch:

• Poor visibility can lead to accidents, especially when driving on unfamiliar or rugged terrain.
• Navigating with a map and compass becomes much harder in thick fog.
• Cold, damp conditions can cause discomfort and health risks, such as hypothermia if you’re not properly prepared.

7. Heatwaves

Heatwaves can be particularly dangerous, especially when combined with other factors like dry conditions or high winds. Overlanding through desert regions or camping in areas experiencing a heatwave requires extra caution. Temperatures can rise dramatically, and even in relatively mild conditions, high heat can quickly lead to heatstroke, sunburn, or dehydration.

Why it’s important to watch:

• Extreme heat can be life-threatening, especially in remote areas where help may not be readily available.
• Overheating can affect your ability to think clearly, which can lead to poor decisions in navigation or survival situations.
• Equipment, like food or electronic devices, may not function properly under excessive heat.

No matter where you’re camping or overlanding, the weather plays a key role in your safety and enjoyment. By staying informed about current and upcoming conditions, you can make better decisions regarding your route, gear, and how to handle the elements. Always check weather forecasts before embarking on your adventure, prepare for unexpected shifts, and pack accordingly to stay safe and comfortable. The more you understand and respect the weather, the more rewarding your outdoor experience will be!

Stay tuned for Part Two of this article in the next couple days, where I will talk a little about camping in certain areas and what to watch out for!

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