Camping is a great American pastime, like baseball or the road trip.
There are certain aspects of the experience that are unique, but there are also some aspects that you should be prepared for.
After reading this article you will have a good idea of what you need to go camping.
The basic camping trip begins with a sleeping bag.
With one of these you can sleep in a field or anywhere under the stars and call it camping.
But it\'s nice to sleep in a tent so you don't have to wake in the morning dew with mosquito bites all over.
And depending on where you camp, there is other wildlife you don't want to encounter, such as spiders or snakes.
A tent laid on a heavy duty tarp offers shelter from the elements as well as a place to put your things and relax without worry.
And don't forget your pillow.
You may also want another heavy duty tarp to keep your kitchen camp near.
That way you can walk around barefoot without tracking dirt back into your tent.
Firewood should be on most campsites but if you\'re roughing it away from other folks, you will likely need to bring or scrounge for your own.
A pot and pan and canned foods such as beans are good ideas.
Paper plates and plastic cups and cutlery as well as marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate are all necessities.
Depending on how long you're staying you should bring a good enough amount of food so you aren't burdened with the responsibility of food shopping during the day.
You may have to take a run into town if you're staying for longer than a few days.
A pack of cards, a Frisbee or football, puzzles, good books - these are some of the things you may also want to bring.
Pack appropriately depending on your interests, whether they be fishing, athletics, hunting or hiking.
Typical camping activities include canoeing on the lake, playing football, hanging out by the campfire, playing games and enjoying nature.
A guitar is a good idea, or if no one plays, a boombox or iPod player is an alternative.
Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, a first aid kit and your personal toiletries (including toilet paper).
And be sure to bring a good attitude - it isn't the Ritz, so don't be grumpy if you can't shower for a couple of days.
That's what lakes and rivers are for.