The summer months provide a great opportunity for outdoor activities, and luckily, the fourth week in June constitutes National Camping Week. This means it’s the perfect time to step away from that television, take some time from work, and create some great memories with family and friends. There are many camping opportunities in the Cedar Valley and throughout the state of Iowa, but it’s important to remember some tips before you venture into the wilderness.

-When it comes to a campsite, place yourself at higher ground. With rain always being a possibility, low areas may accumulate water. Staying higher in elevation will eliminate those wet mornings.

-Wear bright colors and avoid perfumed scents. Mosquitoes and biting flies are attracted to dark articles of clothing, along with the scents of simple soaps, hair products, and colognes.

-The best material to camp in is polypropylene, as it draws moisture away from the body and dries quickly when wet.

-Keep your fire environmentally friendly with the use of biodegradable items- take an empty toilet paper role filled with lint from your clothes dryer. Once your fire has started, never throw plastic plates or containers into the fire, as these will melt and become messy for clean up, not to mention the toxic fumes they produce.

-Always pack an extra pair of socks. Wet socks provide discomfort and may lead to common colds.

-If the weather is windy, throw some leaves up in the air before putting up your tent. Face the entrance flap away from the wind, as to avoid any cold wind chills during the night.

-Before bringing your pet along, check your campsite’s rules as some camping areas do not allow domestic animals. And always clean up after your pet, keeping the campsite clean and ready for the next visitors.