Happy Camper Radio

While camping beneath the stars is a refreshing experience, it's always important to take note of the conditions that surround us. In the summer months, many campers will take advantage of a shaded area to pitch their tent. In this episode, Skip explains why every camper should take note of nearby trees, and some of the things you should consider before setting up camp. 

The last thing any of us need is car trouble while traveling to and from our camping destination. As our vehicles grow older and absorb greater mileage, the question becomes whether or not the vehicle can withstand a long distance trip from home.  In this episode, Skip describes the benefits of renting a vehicle when planning for out-of-town travel.

Although nothing beats a public or private campground with a running stream or lakeside view, there's no reason to sit on the sofa this weekend when you have your own personal campsite just a minute or two away. By establishing a dedicated campsite site in your own backyard, you have the freedom to go camping at a moment's notice. This week, Skip explains how he came up with the idea, and shares his plans for an upcoming trip close to home in the next couple weeks.

When it comes to camping, some campers are known for packing in everything, which includes re-usable dinner ware.  Some prefer paper plates and other disposable products. Which is best?  Is there a right way and a wrong way when it's time to serve up a great meal at camp?  We'll look at the benefits and all the options in this edition of Happy Camper Radio.

Sleeping bags, if properly cared for, will provide many great years of camping comfort. But like anything, there will come a time when you'll need to consider replacing it. Your nightly rest and comfort is equally important to the amount of relaxation time you spend next to the fire with family and loved ones. In episode 163, we'll take a look at some of the options in deciding which sleeping bag is right for you.

With brisk temperatures upon us, Skip takes a look at cold weather camping.  While many families are known to camp during the spring and summer months, there are plenty of great opportunities to venture out into the cold environment. This week, we'll take a look at some of the additional preparations you'll need to make if planning a cold weather camping trip.

This time of year, stores across the country are in fierce competition for your business.  Many great deals can be found both in the stores and online.  In this episode, Skip provides some wonderful camping gift ideas for friends and loved ones. We'll talk about things to watch out for and how to better protect yourself from thieves who may be lurking in the store parking lots.

The last thing you want to hear when traveling long distances from home is that your credit card has been compromised.  Identity theft can happen to anyone at any time.  In this episode, Skip shares a recent experience that caught him totally off guard, and explains what he's doing today to better protect himself when buying with credit, both on the road and online.

During the month of October, many campgrounds across the country go all out to host Halloween festivities for their guests. Skip explains why a Halloween camping trip makes perfect sense for kids and families of all ages. We'll also take a brief look at thirteen destinations across America that families can visit for a haunting good time.

Skip talks with book author Michelle Houts about her brand new children's book "When Grandma Gatewood Took A Hike". It's an exciting story of a 67 year old woman who completed three journeys of the Appalachian Trail.  Hear what inspired her to write the book, and where you can go to purchase a copy.