After staying indoors for the better half of the past 7 weeks, we’re pretty sure most of us are dreaming of harnessing nature’s healing powers. Being healthy and safe in a remote and unfrequented place sounds incredible - while enjoying your favourite outdoor activities and campfire chats. It's comforting to know that in a world buzzing with news and updates, wild places are extending their quiet invitation. We have rounded up our best tips for camping during coronavirus when it’s safe to do so.
Dispersed camping is the new normal
Find remote and unfrequented places on BLM land and in National Forests. No reservations needed, just a good map and hunger for adventure - download Gaia GPS here to make sure you are within the boundary of a national forest or wilderness. Your nearest neighbour (if you manage to spot one) will be at least a couple of miles away. For that reason, we always prefer dispersed camping to popular campgrounds, which can often be crowded with people.
National Parks & Popular Hikes
If you’ve seen it on Instagram, you should (probably) avoid it for the time. Check the status of National Parks and State Parks for closures. Popular hikes can get busy so it will be difficult to keep the 6’ feet social distancing on a narrow trail. If you see the trail being extra busy, either avoid it altogether or go during the weekday or off-peak time.
Take the road less traveled
When you open the door from the hotel room you see the hotel hallway. But when you pull up the tent fabric, what’s in front of you? You get to pick. Cacti? Ponderosa pines? Rolling hills? Overlanding in a capable 4x4 vehicle becomes the vacation experience in itself.
Be prepared & limit points of contact
Come prepared for the adventure: quality gear, and overland campers equipped with 4WD and full kit to be off-grid for several days. Our rentals include all the equipment you might need: sleeping area, kitchen, fridge/cooler and camping furniture. Plan to purchase food and drinks in your hometown, before heading on your adventure. If you must re-stock on the road and re-fuel, please wear a mask and gloves to protect yourself and others.
Recreate with household members only
It may be (so) tempting to invite some friends and family and share self-isolation stories over campfire - but please, follow your state's guidelines. It's wise to travel with your household members only, they are your "bubble". If you must interact with other people while travelling, please wear a face covering.
Practice personal hygiene
Remember to follow CDC's guidelines on handwashing. Bring plenty of hand soap, sanitizer and wipes. And, when nature calls, be ready with a shovel. No stress - every Cypress Overland vehicle comes with one. “How do I go to the bathroom in the woods?” is one of the most frequent questions campers ask. Rest assured, our ancestors have been doing it for millennia. The general rule of thumb: do the deeds at least 70 steps (200 feet) from your campsite, trail or body of water. For other details check out REI Expert Advice.
As always, leave no trace
Rule of thumb: leave the campsite better than you found it. Make sure to fully pack your garbage (and any other garbage or food scraps you find that other people might have left) and be careful to not disturb wild life - that way, future generations of explorers will still be able to enjoy the wild the way we do. For 7 Leave No Trace principles, click here.