by Timothy Martinez Jr.
It’s happened to everyone at some point. You’re looking forward to getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city by going on a camping trip, but when you get there, the campsite is filled to the max with noisy crowds.
Even though this is a major drag on your trip, it doesn’t necessarily mean the whole experience is ruined. In fact, there are a number of things you can do during and before the camping trip to avoid raucous mobs that stand between you and nature.
One simple remedy is when you get to the populous areas, keep going. Hike a few miles on a trail or canoe downstream before setting up camp. There might be some people with the same idea, but you’ll be farther from those who love to park and camp. Plus, it’ll give you an incentive to explore the forest.
If you have kids and don’t want to get too far into the wild, another option is to pitch your tent near a small stream. While you might not be completely isolated from other campers, the peaceful sound of water flowing through the rocks will mask the sound of people conversing. Of course, you should always camp away from lakes or still bodies of water to avoid mosquitoes.
Perhaps the easiest way to sidestep the crowds is to avoid camping during busy weekends and holidays. Try taking some time off work to go camping during the week and pick other days to go besides Fourth of July weekend.
If you’re still adamant on going during crowded days, do some research prior to find lesser known campsites.
Whatever happens at the campground, just remember to have fun and don’t let other people ruin your relationship with nature. Staying at a busy campground doesn’t mean you have to be around other people all day because you can head out into the wilderness and embark on your own adventures.
