BY TONY WANLESS

Reading level 3 (***)

For most people in Vancouver, B.C. Day is the unofficial start of summer.

And for many, it also means it is time to think about going camping.

Camping in one of the many forest parks in B.C. is a long-time summer tradition enjoyed by both old and young.

But camping does require some knowledge, so if you are new to it, you should learn as much as you can about it before you attempt it.

A good start is the B.C. government, which has (free) information on camping in leaflets, small books and pamphlets, and online. Many books on camping in B.C. also exist.

Unless they are very experienced, most local families go to campgrounds where everything – such as campsites, toilets and other needs – are provided for a small cost.

But it is best to check, because many are filled quickly.

With almost all camping, you must bring much of your own equipment with you. You will need a tent, sleeping bags, a comfortable ground cover like a sheet of foam or plastic, a camp stove, food, eating utensils like plates, knives and forks, perhaps something to cut wood for a fire (where allowed), and some warm clothes because the woods can be chilly at night.

Many official campsites supply water, but it is a good idea to bring your own if you can.

When camping, a popular pastime is swimming in nearby lakes or streams if they are available. So bring some swimsuits and towels.

Reading level 2 (**)

You need some knowledge to enjoy one of the many campgrounds.

The B.C. government has much material in different languages to help you understand what you must do and bring when being in the forest.

Understand that you will have to bring your own food, water, bedding, a tent, and clothing that is comfortable in the heat of the day and cool of the night.

First published in the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News August 2019.