Camping Tips to Make the Most out of Your Camping Trips

Squamish is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Most people want to spend more than a single day enjoying the region’s pristine beauty and taking advantage of the many things to do in the area. Sometimes camping is the ideal way to soak up the regional activities. Camping in Squamish puts you in the heart of everything the corridor has to offer, such as hiking trails, wildlife viewing, biking, fishing, and boating.

Here are a few Squamish camping tips:

Camping List – Prior to loading up your camping gear, it is highly recommended that you make a camping list. It might seem silly to write down essential items, but you would be surprised how many people forget things such as tent poles, candles, cell phone charger, bug spray, or a flashlight/ headlamp. Write down the list and then check off each item as you load it into your vehicle, camper, or trailer.

Prepare for the Area’s Abundant Wildlife – There is very little doubt that Squamish has ample wildlife, however, the very thing that might draw you to the region can also be dangerous if you are not prepared. Of all the animals in Squamish, the bears can be the nosiest and are very intrusive to campers. If you don’t practice bear safety you could be opening yourself up to an encounter. When camping, you should always clean up your campsite, dispose of food properly, keep all plates clean, and put unused food promptly away in bear-proof storage containers that help control the food’s appetizing aroma. AS WELL some non-food items also attract bears such as toothpaste, perfume, repellents, and cosmetics. Pack out all items that you pack in.

Pack for Weather Extremes – Even in the height of summer, the nights are often cold in Squamish. Plus the weather in the region is always changing. The day might start out sunny but rapidly turn cloudy with rain showers. When packing for a camping trip in Squamish, you should always bring a diverse wardrobe to meet the needs of the ever-changing moods of Mother Nature. Dressing in layers is typically ideal. In Squamish, always be prepared for the rain. Ideally, pack a rain poncho and other waterproof apparel.

Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes pose an almost year-round problem in most of Squamish for campers. They are worse in the summer months as well Black flies and deer flies are notorious biters.

Assemble an Emergency Kit – You can purchase ready-made emergency camping kits at outdoor and sporting goods stores. You can also create your own kit. Pack bandages, tape, a small knife (serrated will make cutting rope easy), fire-starter, antibiotic ointment, candles, a lighter and matches in a waterproof case, a headlamp or flashlight, a survival blanket, hand warmers, bear spray and pack-able rain poncho.

Bring a GPS – A GPS is a handy item if your planning on camping off the beaten path around Squamish, such as up to Elfin Lakes Hut. Many camping locations close to Squamish will have cell reception but it is important to do your research and check first in-case the spot you choose doesn’t have a cell phone signal, in this case a GPS will generally function. Additionally a Satellite phone is a great item to have when heading into the backcountry.

Camping in Squamish is a memorable experience that is sure to inspire anyone who loves the great outdoors. With the above camping tips, your adventure should be complete, safe and fun. As always we want to acknowledge that we support Zero Trace practices and safe food storage when heading to the outdoors.