senanthic
if someone was going to camp for the first time, can anyone recommend a website to learn how to do the things? I already know some basics, but things like "how to know when you're in danger and should call the trip"...
Mar 13 at 8:05pmWeb
Show threadPurplejavatrollMar 13

@senanthic Not sure exactly what kind of trip you're planning, but MEC has some guides.

https://www.mec.ca/en/explore/hiking-and-camping

Show threadsenanthicMar 13
@Purplejavatroll just a short trip, overnight.
Show threadPurplejavatrollMar 13
@senanthic Is this a backpacking trip? Or are you car camping?
Show threadsenanthicMar 13
@Purplejavatroll backpacking into Oster Lake with my dog.
Show threadPurplejavatrollMar 13
@senanthic I've not done an overnight trip in Elk Island, but it should be a good choice for a first time backcountry overnight. You go there a fair bit anyway, IIRC? So you know all about the bison and wolves already, probably your biggest risk is getting wet/cold and suffering from hypothermia.
I'm not doing a lot of backcountry things these days, but I've done enough that if you had any specific questions, I might be able to answer them.
Show threadsenanthicMar 13

@Purplejavatroll TBH the black bears/wild boars were my primary animal concerns (bison, of course, but they're not likely to wander into my campsite).

any suggestions for gear? 10 essentials obvs, but maybe something that people don't think of that would make it easier for a first-timer?

Show threadEllenInEdmonton Mar 14
@senanthic @Purplejavatroll My suggestion would be to start with front country camping, preferably with a group. There are lots of little hacks that you might not think of until you’re out there. You can keep adding to your gear as you borrow and see what others use. There are so many different camping styles and gear. Camping with a group, you can still do your own thing, but folks can share their kitchen matches, or whatever. Also, practice fire making, including with wet wood, if a campfire is important to do. When I visited the backcountry site at Elk Island, there were clouds of mosquitos.
Show threadEniaMar 13
@senanthic REI hosts camping basics classes with experts. Maybe your local outdoor store offers something similar?
Show threadembilbieMar 13
@senanthic it depends where, in what season
Show threadembilbieMar 13
@senanthic for example, where I live: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/where-to-stay/camping-for-beginners
Camping for Beginners

If you’re new to camping, you might not know where to begin. Luckily, we’ve pulled together all you need to know to enjoy your first camping trip.

Show threadsenanthicMar 13
@embilbie Elk Island National Park, Alberta, Canada, June.
Show threadembilbieMar 13
@senanthic you might find this useful https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel/hebergement-accommodation/camping-101
Camping 101: What to know before staying the night

Camping types, amenities, and services available at Parks Canada. We also cover essentials for new campers, and tips on how to book your campsite.