6 Winter camping

            The groundhog saw its shadow just over a month ago, so it's a sign that winter is heading on its way out. But just before it's gone, maybe take a chance to go winter camping. I know what you're thinking.... But trust me, odds are you're going to stay warm, and you won't die in the ice. Please, don't let the snow scare you away from the woods. Find uses for it! Winter camping supplies the opportunity to engage in your favorite winter activities like snowshoeing, cross country or downhill skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and snowy hikes!
            Since winter camping isn’t as popular, it’s so peaceful in the quiet woods, and you can camp where ever you want! This kind of camping is a challenge, so it’s definitely rewarding when you’re finished!

How to do it?

Clothing
            Winter camping is similar to summer camping, but with a lot more clothes on!
 Since you’re going to be out in the snow you are going to need lots of layers to keep you warm!
Bring many pairs of socks, sweaters, long johns, warm pants (forget jeans, but remember pajamas), gloves, hats, scarves, snow pants, water proof coats, wind breakers and anything else that’s going to keep your body covered, warm, and dry!

Gear
 Tent
            Since you’re used to summer camping, odds are you have a nice tent. This tent can work in the snow, but you’re going to need to weight it down, as the pegs usually used for this are not effective in the snow. Find anything to use as the anchor!

 Sleeping Bag
            Your sleeping bag is made for summer camping. To ‘winterfy’ it, you’ll need to use the same methods as your clothing: layer!!!! Use liners and bag covers to keep yourself warm, and the elements off of it!
            In the summer you may use sleeping pads to keep you comfortable, but in the winter it’s just used to keep you warm and further away from the snow (even though the snow is more comfortable). Use at least two!

Boots and other gear!
            Don’t bother going if you don’t have proper foot wear. You need heavy duty boots which are going to keep you dry and can snug into your snow pants.
            Snow shoes are a necessity when walking through heavy snow. If you only have boots, you’re going to be trudging, and stumbling if your foot sinks deep into the snow with every step. Snow shoes will keep you on top of everything.
            Cross country skis are the most convenient in my opinion! They’ll keep you on top of the snow, and get you where you want to go the quickest! You’ll need a lot of gear though; Ski boots, pegs, and the actual skis themselves, are required to operate them properly.
            Along with backpacks, think of using toboggans with rope to pack your stuff in. You can tie the rope around a safe part of your body and have it trail behind you. Be sure your supplies are secure!

Food and Water
            Pack warm food and liquids, this will keep you warm, and high calories will give you energy to explore! Drink a lot of liquids (warm and cold) this will keep you hydrated, but keep in mind that if you’re drinking too much, you’re going to have to ‘go’ a lot. Keep moderation in mind.

How to get there.
            Always know your area and trail! Camping close to shelters or public areas is wise if there’s an emergency. Just make sure you know how to get there from your camping spot (and vice versa). To keep warm you’ll be engaging in a lot of exploration activity, so know your trails!!!! Have maps of your area so you do not get lost!!!




Warnings!
- Know weather conditions! Always be prepared for the elements you’re going to face. Use common sense and avoid camping if storms are on the way.
 -Bring maps, and a g.p.s. The woods look different in the snow, and it’s much harder to get out if you’re lost in the snow.

Sources
http://www.clubtread.com/articledetail.aspx?id=49