We love to start our summer off camping in the mountains on Memorial Day Weekend and have done this consistently for over 5 years. But the weather will be rough, guaranteed! I wanted to share with you what we have learned about successful camping on Memorial Day Weekend. This year we went to Red Feather Lakes to enjoy fishing and hiking. https://www.coloradodirectory.com/fishing/fishing_red-feather-lakes.html
Memorial Day weather is unpredictable so you will need to prepare for hot sunny weather with the chance of snow. This fluctuation doesn’t mean your trip will be a bust IF you are prepared with the right gear. My husband taught me years ago how important it is to invest in the right gear for a successful trip.
Here are the key items we have found for a successful camping trip on Memorial Day weekend.
This allows you to escape from the weather and spend family time together. We bought one 9 years ago and it was one of the best decisions we've made for our family. This has enabled us to go on many camping trips in five different states with young children.
Notice the fog?
A Canopy
No, a tarp and some poles will not substitute. Many people think they can save money and put up a tarp on pole when it's raining or snowing. This doesn't work and you will end up wet and cold! Our canopy has saved us from the hot sun, the wind, the snow, and the rain. It creates a warm protected zone outside of your camper or tent.
Our trusty canopy!
Campfire/campfire in a can
This brings warmth and the ability to roast s'mores which is such a highlight for our kids on any camping trip.
Warm Clothing
Clothing for rain or snow. But make sure you bring sunscreen and bug spray because you'll be exposed to everything with the changing weather in the mountains.
Food
Don’t overthink the menu and bring up easy to prepare meals that can be done in the campfire (such as Hobo Foil Packets). We enjoy using our Dutch oven to create feasts and the extra work and planning is worth the finished product! Our favorites in the Dutch oven are Cinnamon Rolls, Peach Cobbler, and Chicken Enchiladas.
Cinnamon rolls in a Dutch oven. Great way to start the day!
Even with the right gear, your positive attitude and flexibility will enable all to have a good time. We have discovered it is important to model this for our children.
Enter in comments below what your 5 essential items for a May camping trip in the mountains! I can’t wait to hear about it!
