Camping on the Ground? In a Tent? Are you Crazy?

Every time I go camping, people are on my case. They want to know what is so great about sleeping on the ground inside a tiny nylon shell?

I figure if they have to ask, they will never know. I never see camping like that. Well, once I did. My gore-tex tent was parked right on a bear path not far from the water source. That tent felt flimsy that night.

Ah, but you see, camping is more than the tent. It is the total experience. Being outdoors is truly BEING. Breathe fresh air. Listen to the lack of noise. Listen to the waterfalls and rapids in the river. Watch the birds. It is birdwatching from inside the home of the bird.

No I do not think of camping as a miserable way to sleep. Camping in my tent costs a LOT less than a hotel and is sometimes safer. And if you are adequately prepared, as I usually am, you will be quite comfortable and warm.

Every season I yearn to lie on the ground and watch the stars. If I miss it, I feel cheated. Yes, I like to lie outside ON the Ground in almost the same place in each season. You would be surprised how the stars look from the same place at different times of the year. (Same place, give or take a few feet.)

When I learned how to call owls by mimicking their sounds my camping adventures took a new turn. Now I look and listen for the birds of the night as much as I do the birds in daylight.

Sometimes in bad weather, friends worry about me. I would rather be out there. Perhaps I am. I love being outdoors with nature. So call me crazy if you want. Okay, maybe that sounds odd but it is true for me.

A weekend in the wilderness with my camping gear and birding binoculars can recharge my spirit like nothing else can. I am in touch with all creation.

Tags: Exposure Rock Climbing, Rock Climbing Introduction, Rock Climbing Holds, Hocking Hills Rock Climbing

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