Summer Camping Essentials You Won’t Want To Forget
We Americans love camping on Memorial Day weekend.
Why?
* It marks the unofficial start of summer
* Who doesn't like a three-day weekend for outdoor adventures?
* Families and friends bonding over campfires
* Outdoors, enjoying nature. Washington has the best places to camp!
* Escaping daily routines.
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National parks, Washington state parks, and various county campgrounds experience high demand as Washington campers celebrate the warm weather, show their love for America, and take the chance to create lasting memories.
Here's a comprehensive Summer Camping Checklist to make sure you're ready for a smooth, safe, and fun adventure in the great outdoors:
C️amping Essentials
- Tent (with stakes, guylines, and rainfly)
- Ground tarp or footprint
- Sleeping bags
- Sleeping pads or air mattresses
- Pillows or camp pillows
- Camping chairs
- Camp table (if not provided at the site)
- Headlamps or flashlights (with extra batteries)
- Lantern (battery or propane)
Family grilling in the garden
Stuff for Your Camp Kitchen
- Portable stove or grill (plus fuel/propane)
- Lighter & waterproof matches
- Cookware (pots, pans, skillets)
- Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, ladle)
- Eating utensils (forks, knives, spoons)
- Plates, bowls, and cups/mugs
- Cutting board
- Cooler with ice packs
- Food (prep ahead for easy meals)
- Snacks (trail mix, granola bars, fruit)
- Condiments & seasonings
- Aluminum foil
- Paper towels or reusable cloths
- Biodegradable soap
- Sponge/scrubber & dish bin
- Trash bags & zip-top bags
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What Clothing & Personal Gear You Should Pack
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers!)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Swimsuit & towel (if near water)
- Hiking boots or trail shoes
- Extra socks and underwear
- Hat & sunglasses
- Sleepwear
- Flip-flops or camp shoes
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Don't forget the Hygiene & Health stuff
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant)
- Toilet paper (just in case)
- Towel & washcloth
- First-aid kit
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Medications
- Lip balm with SPF
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Permanent Retainer (if you've worn braces. If you know, you know)
Fun & Extras Items
- Camp games (cards, frisbee, cornhole)
- Books or an e-reader
- Bluetooth speaker (respectful volume)
- Binoculars or a telescope
- Camera or phone for photos
- Fishing gear (if applicable)
- Star chart or app for stargazing
- American flag or decorations (for Memorial Day vibe)
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Navigation & Safety Items
- Maps or guidebooks
- Compass or GPS
- Park pass or camping permit
- Emergency whistle
- Multipurpose knife or multitool
- Duct tape or repair kit
- Portable phone charger or power bank
️ Pre-Trip Tasks
- Reserve your campsite
- Check campfire restrictions
- Check the weather forecast
- Share your trip plans with someone
- Prep and pack food
- Load gear into your vehicle the night before (This is huge!)
Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park, Lake Chelan CREDIT: Heidi Fritzmeier
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