Handy Suggestions for River Camping

Setting up your tent or RV by the river can be an incredible way to get close to nature and relish a soothing environment, however there are a couple of things to be aware of when setting up your campsite this close to water. For the most enjoyable experience when camping close to a river or lake, remember these three points.

Mosquitoes and Insects Love Waterr
While mosquitoes are more a challenge near stagnant water, they are also in areas where moisture is high, such as a riverbank or lake. Additionally, many other flying mosquitoes live out their days near water, which can prove to be quite a headache for the casual camper. If you are dead set on camping right beside the water, make sure you bring plenty of bug spray 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 action to keep yourself bite free.

Animals of All Sorts Love the Waterr
Animals in the wild don’t have a water bowl, so they use the rivers and streams every day to quench their thirst. Most of the creatures that drink from the streams are innocuous (deer, squirrels, rabbits). But predators have to have water too, and often they stake out the riverbanks hunting for unprotected meals to dip their head underwater. Unless you are camping in a bustling campground, there is a chance that you will have an encounter with a wild animal. Prior to setting up your campsite, study the area. The terrain next to the riverbed is generally damp which means its most likely crammed with footprints. If you see any paw prints that look like a mountain lion or bear, you need to be extra vigilant. Regardless of whether you are camping in an area where there are many other campers, wild animals can still meander down to your campsite to investigate the interesting smells and sounds.

Rivers Are Constantly Changing
Yes, we all are aware that rivers come with flowing water, but they also expand and decrease in volume, usually depending on the amount of snow melt that was created further upstream. Before setting up your tent or parking your RV right next to the river, examine. With a decent amount of observation, you can determine the highest point on shore that the river has swelled to. Make certain you set up camp away from this region. You may not find yourself floating away like they show in cartoons, but some of your gear and provisions could be damaged by rising water levels.

Regardless of where you camp, the goal is to have a great time and be safe. Nature can be an unforgiving place and it is always advised to be at your most alert at all times. If you don't know that an area is safe for camping, it is probably best to move on and find a place you are comfortable with.