Now's the time to plan that fall camping trip -- sustainably

As fall approaches, temperatures start to cool, and colors change, consider a camping trip. For New Mexico or a destination farther away, plan ahead. Campgrounds, dispersed camping, trailers, or RVs, the adventure awaits and will be more fun with proper preparation. When enjoying Mother Nature, consider sustainable approaches.

Camping gear

If you are an experienced camper with all the gear you need, you just need a packing list. If you are new to camping, get some advice from friends, an outdoor retailer, or website on what you may need.

Clothing Check your closet. You don’t need the latest in camping fashion — no one cares what you are wearing. The only exception may be good hiking shoes/boots. Check the weather forecast and bring the appropriate clothing. It may be warm at home, but it could be cold at the camping spot. Always take rain gear.

Perhaps a friend will loan you some gear. If not, a quick search on the internet will provide some options for renting what you need. If you are serious about more than one camping trip, look at resale sites for good buys on gear.

For water, consider large refillable jugs that you can use to fill your reusable water bottles.

Lighting. Harvest the sun during the day for solar lights. If using batteries for headlamps or other items, consider rechargeable batteries. There are also solar cellphone chargers so that you have power in case of emergency.

Responsible camping

Whether you are in an established camp group or choose dispersed camping: Pack It In, Pack It Out. Use biodegradable products for cleaning.

If there are no bathroom facilities available, know the protocol for human waste disposal.

Be fire safe. Use established fire rings. Check with local authorities for current fire restrictions. Always be attentive to your fire. Have a shovel and water available before you start the fire. When you are done with the fire, slowly pour water on while stirring with a shovel. Repeat until it is cool to the touch.

Do not disturb wildlife. Keep your dog on a leash. Don’t pick the plants and flowers to take home, you may be spreading invasive weeds. Respect archaeological, historical, and sacred sites.

Camping cuisine

You have likely heard the saying, “Everything tastes better when camping.” As you pack food, consider minimizing the trash you will be accumulating. Reusable packaging prepared in advance is a great way to reduce waste. Reusable utensils, plates and cups not only reduce your trash, but they are also easier to use while sitting on a log.

Consider what you can cook at home and reheat by the campfire or propane stove. The website: https://www.freshoffthegrid.com/ provides some ideas for camping meals.

Be prepared

Have a first-aid kit. Know CPR and basic first aid. A whistle is a great tool for emergency signals.

There will be bugs — remember insect repellent. Anti-itch cream or spray could provide great comfort from bug bites or vegetation that does not agree with you.

Arrive in daylight to set up camp. Consider a paper map, you may not have cell coverage for maps on the internet.

Know the permits or licenses (fishing for example) you will need.

Tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back.

Have fun.

Plan for activities you want to do. Know the landscape. There are maps to identify the plants, flowers, insects, rocks, and minerals you may encounter.

If there is a camp host, ask them for advice. The person at the next campsite may have experience to share.

Take a hike, ride a bike, read a book, go fishing, take a nap. You are there to disconnect and recharge.

Locations

Some may require reservations.

NM Parks: Check to make sure the park is open. Visit the website to make reservations.

https://newmexicostateparks.reserveamerica.com/

If you know the name of the park, you can search for it by name. You can also search for parks by the name of a nearby city or ZIP code. You can even check availability for last minute weekend camping plans using the “Camping This Weekend” tab.

National Parks: With over 130 parks to choose from, visit the website to explore.

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/camping/campground.htm

The map helps you find the location, whether it is open or closed and the type of camping available.

Recreation.gov is a great website for camping, lodging, tours, permits and more. Provides information on a wide range of camping sites.

Cibola National Forest and Grasslands: Campgrounds, disperse camping, groups, and RVs. The website provides links to opportunities along with phone numbers. https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/cibola/recreation/camping-cabins