Packing for a family camping trip in the summer is fairly intuitive. A few snacks, bug spray, and a tent are about all you need for a great fishing trip or summer adventure on the hiking trails.
However, packing for winter camping is a whole different animal. Winter camping offers an exciting and unusual outdoor experience, but failing to prepare properly can quickly result in disaster.
If you’re planning to visit the beautiful area surrounding Summersville Dam WV this winter, you’ll need to prepare for the elements. Here are a few key packing items that can keep you warm and safe for the best winter camping experience.
Winter Packing List for Summersville Dam WV
Shelter
While camping in the winter, you’ll likely be spending more time at your campsite, since the days are shorter and winter activities tend to be exhausting. Make sure your campsite is warm and cozy, and be sure to bring:
- An all-seasons tent designed for mountaineering or other more extreme camping
- A sleeping bag rated at least 10 degrees Fahrenheit colder than the minimum temperatures you’re expecting to encounter
- Sleeping pads for comfort and extra insulation
- A folding shovel for digging away snow and better shelter construction
Clothing
Proper clothing in the winter is especially important for staying warm and dry while enjoying the outdoors. Avoid cutting corners and bring extras to ensure you don’t ruin your trip with a nasty bout of frostbite or hypothermia. Basic winter camping clothing might include:
- A synthetic base layer of wicking underwear, to ward off chilly sweat
- A warm and fuzzy middle layer, made of fleece or wool, that includes a jacket/vest and pants
- An outer shell that protects against precipitation and wind, such as a rain jacket and pants
- Extra dry clothing for camp or sleeping
- A warm hat, gloves, and a face mask
- Lots of extra socks
- Insulated boots and camp shoes
Safety
No matter what time of year you go camping, basic safety equipment is essential to avoiding injuries, and treating injuries before they become serious. Be sure to pack the following before coming to Summersville Dam WV this winter:
- Sun protective glasses, sunscreen, and lip balm
- A first aid kit
- Flares or emergency whistles
- A wilderness emergency guidebook
Other Gear
Here are a few more helpful items for most winter camping trips:
- Navigation tools, like a compass, waterproof map, or a GPS.
- A knife or multi-tool
- A stove kit and cooking gear
- Food supplies, with an extra day’s nutrition for emergencies
- Water and water filtration supplies
- Snowshoes or cross-country skis for crossing snow
While this list may not be comprehensive, it is a great place to start. About 43% of campers plan their trips at least one month in advance, but for winter camping, give yourself a little extra time to ensure you’ve got the essentials. Good preparation will help everyone on the trip stay safe, stay warm, and have more fun.
