Handy Tips for River Camping

Setting up your tent or RV near the river can be an incredible way to get close to nature and take pleasure in a soothing environment, nevertheless there are a number of things to keep in mind when setting up your campsite this close to water. For the best experience when camping next to a river or lake, remember these three tips.

Mosquitoes and Insects Love Water
While insects are more a difficulty near stagnant water, they are always in areas where humidity is high, such as a riverbank or lake. Moreover, many other flying insects live out their days near water, which can prove to be quite a nuisance for the casual camper. If you are dead set on camping right by the river, make sure you bring plenty of insect repellent and have a bug repellant device or two set up all over the campsite. Your camping trip will lose its allure quickly with every bite you get, so take steps to keep yourself bite free.

Animals of All Sorts Love the Water
Animals in the wild don’t have a water bowl, so they use the rivers and streams daily to quench their thirst. Most of the animals that drink from the streams are harmless (deer, squirrels, rabbits). But predators require water too, and typically they scout the riverbanks searching for unaware meals to dip their head underwater. Unless of course you are camping in a bustling campground, there is a risk that you will have a run-in with a wild animal. Prior to setting up your campsite, evaluate the vicinity. The soil next to the riverbed is normally damp which means its almost certainly crammed with footprints. If you see any paw prints that look like a mountain lion or bear, you need to be extra alert. Even if you are camping in an area where there are many other campers, wild animals can still roam down to your campsite to check out the interesting smells and sounds.

Rivers Are Constantly Changing
Yes, we all know that rivers contain flowing water, but they also expand and decrease in capacity, usually depending on the amount of snow melt that was created further upstream. Before pitching your tent or parking your RV right next to the river, take a look at. With a reasonable amount of observation, you can pinpoint the highest point on shore that the river has swelled to. Make certain you set up camp outside of this region. You may not find yourself drifting away like they show in cartoons, but some of your supplies could be damaged by rising water levels.

No matter where you camp, the goal is to have some fun and stay safe. Nature is an unforgiving place and it is always advised to be at your most alert at all times. If you aren't sure that an area is safe and sound for camping, it is probably best to move on and find a place you are comfortable with.

Aaron Garcia is a camping enthusiast who has stayed at campgrounds all across the United States. He loves to fly fish in Montana and go RV camping in Arizona where he currently makes his home.