Having grown up in Montana, camping has been a family activity since day one. For me, and many others born and raised in this beautiful state, camping is a way of life, a staple if you will. One of my fondest memories is from the Two Medicine Campground in Glacier National Park, the day I learned to walk—or I’m sure it would be my fondest memory if I could claim to remember anything from the days when my age was simply measured in months. Growing up, our summer months have always been filled with weekend camping excursions across the state. Some question our motives… what is so great about going out to the middle of the woods, pitching a tent, sleeping on the ground, and missing out on a shower for days at a time? To some it seems to be the end of the world. But the way I see it, it’s simply the end of the world as you knew it and a chance to establish a new perspective.
10 Reasons to Go Camping Now:
10. Cheap Getaway
We can all acknowledge the feeling of constantly looking for ways to save money. Camping offers the opportunity to get away without draining your bank account. Plus campgrounds cover the state of Montana, making them an easy destination for a weekend or even just one evening.
9. Chance to Unplug Completely
The drama of everyday life can quickly become overwhelming. A camping trip is, if nothing else, the perfect excuse to unplug. Leave your phone, tablet, laptop, etc. in the car and enjoy a sliver of peace and quiet. A picture, they say, is worth a thousand words. A quick snapshot to document a favorite memory may be the only justifiable reason to break out the technology.
8. One Word: Campfires
There is something about never being able to get that campfire smell out of your clothing that you simply cannot beat. Whether caught in conversation, song, cooking, or simply enjoying each other’s company, campfires are an incredible catalyst for memory making.
7. Exercise
There are countless ways to stay active while camping—hiking, swimming, canoeing, kayaking—enjoy all the outdoors have to offer. I have taken camping trips where all we did was hike, at least 10 miles a day, and I have gone camping where we did nothing but sit in the sunshine with a good book, or three; and I’m not sure which is my favorite.
6. Connect with Nature
Some studies show that connecting to nature makes people care more- would you agree? A trip into the woods, to a nearby river, or down to the lake is the perfect way to decide for yourself.
5. Rekindle Old Friendships
Life gets busy, and understandably so as being busy is a sign of accomplishment and success in our society. It can be difficult to find time to spend with old friends. If you are already planning a camping trip, pick up the phone and invite some of your best friends along.
4. Everything Tastes Better over a Fire
A quick tip on the art of S’mores from The Sandlot “First you take the graham, you stick the chocolate on the graham. Then you roast the ‘mallow. When the ‘mallow is flaming … you stick it on the chocolate. Then cover with the other end. Then you scarf. Kind of mess, but good! Try Some!” Cooking over the fire is the best, looking for a great way to spice up the menu for your next trip? Check out “25 Genius Camping Recipes” at https://survivallife.com/2014/06/12/easy-campfire-recipes/
3. Rediscover Yourself
Constant pressure from society can have us pretending we are someone we aren’t. Nature doesn’t care, be yourself. Dance like no one is watching, sing like no one is listening, love like you’ll never be hurt, try like you have never fallen, smile until your face hurts, and live like its heaven on earth.
2. Breathtaking Views
1. Tradition
Camping offers something for the entire family. Camping can provide the perfect reason to get the entire family together and spend some quality time in the outdoors. With camping as your family tradition, there will be no end to the reminiscing of those trips. If done correctly, this tradition will give you a story for every topic. For example, you will often find your stories beginning with “Remember that trip to Glacier when……”
When asked why would someone camp, the answer is simple—why not? Camping can open your eyes to a whole new world, and ignite some of the best memories that will be worth sharing 20 years from now.
