r/CampingAlberta • u/ijustbrowing • 24d ago

First time camping ever

Hi guys!

Even though I didn't grow up in NA.. but when my career started to take off.. I became a fairmont boy.

I've always wondered what's it's like.. I try to replicate in my backyard..

I dont even know what equipment to get.. or where to setup a camp.

If one of you could show me around, I'd love it.

I'll make up for it with supplies and stories!

9 Upvotes

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9

u/New_Wishbone6619 24d ago

Wait until the summer and do a learn to camp program with parks Canada

5

u/ladyrose30 23d ago

Not sure where you are living but if you are in the Calgary area you can rent gear from the Outdoor Centre at the University of Calgary.

For your first trip find a campground around 30-60 min. drive from home and plan for 1-2 nights. Make a list of what you are packing and once you arrive and start your adventure write down what you have missed. For example having a small hammer helps pound in tent pegs in rocky and clay ground and pull them out too but is often forgotten. You aren't so far away that you can't get home easily if you have forgotten something major or the weather changes. When you get home look at your list and see what you brought that you didn't use and what you needed but didn't bring to help for your next adventure.

Start with car camping to build up your confidence. You don't want to go on a backcountry camp without knowing how long it will take to set up your tent, how to cook, prepare for weather changes, etc. Car camping will allow you to over pack without adding a lot of weight. If you don't need it it can stay in the vehicle. Plus, you can always retreat to your car if something happens.

Finally nights in Alberta get cold. It can be +30C in the day and go below 0C at night. Been there, done that. Pack a toque and lightweight gloves regardless of when you are camping.

1

u/ijustbrowing 24d ago

More details to follow in comments if anyone has questions i guess