For some people there's no other way to camp except in a fully loaded campground. For others, camping means getting away from even the most primitive campgrounds. There is definitely a big difference between "car" camping, and backcountry camping-- hiking with your gear into a remote campsite.

Backpacking into roadless destinations certainly gets you away from it all. But for those who seek a balance, you can enjoy the solitude of a tucked-away campsite without sacrificing all of the campground conveniences.

Most people generally hike from point A to point B during the day and then set up camp each evening. Another option is to set up a base camp, a place to sleep and store excess gear, and then hike with a smaller pack during the day. This allows families and backpackers more options too. Kids especially need flexibility in their activities to stay interested and avoid getting overly tired.

A hike from the camp can be a leisurely day of exploring the surrounding area, carrying only a daypack for essentials. You can hike to a nearby pond or stream for a day of solitary fishing or exploring the water's edge. Find an open field and fly a kite, then return to camp and relax with a good book or a game of cards.

Establishing a base camp in mountainous regions allows you to travel more lightly up and down the summits, and cover more ground in less time. Because you don't have to hike as long and far to a base camp, weight is not as much a factor, and you carry in more "luxury" items -- a small cooler, a lantern, compact camping chairs, or extra fishing equipment.

Freeze-dried food, the staple of through-hikers, is not necessary for base camp backpackers. Fresh fruits, vegetables and meats, if you have a place to keep them cold, can be packed into a base camp easily. Why not pack a loaf of French bread or a bottle of wine into the side pocket of your backpack to enjoy with a hearty pasta dish? You can try new ways to cook outdoors, and experiment with old recipes. Or, partially prepare some meals before you leave home, to make cooking easier and quicker.

Secure water or soda bottles in a fast flowing stream all day, and serve cold drinks with dinner. Just remember to purify any water that comes from a stream or pond before drinking it.

With the freedom and solitude that comes with backcountry camping, also come more responsibilities. Conveniences such as running water, waste facilities, and trash containers will often be inaccessible. Backcountry campers are responsible for carrying out their trash, and respecting other low-impact camping practices. Some wilderness areas do not allow campfires, so you will need to carry a cooking stove. Others do not allow camping within 200 feet of the trail or on fragile alpine areas.

The possibilities for backcountry camping are limitless, and the variety of activities are just as available as in a campground. Be creative! Discover new wilderness areas. You may just give up car camping for good.

Copyright 2000 Johnson Outdoors Inc.