Feeling Primative ??

I love camping. In 2008 I spent somewhere in the neighborhood of 45 nights in a tent. A vast majority of these nights were spent in a backpacking tent or in a primitive site off a forest service road. Over the years I have stayed multiple times in most of the organized federal campgrounds along the BRP. The last few times I stayed in these campgrounds were visits of sheer aggravation. The last couple of years it seemed that my campfire tranquility was constantly being interrupted by singers singing, fighters fighting, or in one case preachers preaching. All of the above being loud enough to give me the feeling that they were my campmates.

After the summer of my discontent it was time to reevaluate my camping options. A glance at any of the National Geographic Trails Illustrated Maps will reveal numerous primitive camping sites dotting the forest service roads in the national forests. While these maps show some of the sites they do not show all. Exploratory drives along these roads will reveal many more. Primitive sites along forest service roads can range from mediocre to outstanding. Some sites have tent pads; some do not. Many sites are simply a clearing in the woods, while others straddle cascades, waterfalls or have magnificent views. The real allure of primitive sites is the peace and tranquility they offer. Rarely are 2 sites closer then a quarter mile apart. Some sites do not have another within a mile. Many also are within walking distance of first class hiking and biking trails. Most primitive campsites in Western North Carolina seem to be concentrated in Pisgah National Forest.

While these campsites have many appealing qualities, it must be remembered that they do not offer water, bathrooms ( remember to always bury waste at least 6” ) or easy access to firewood or supplies. Careful planning is a necessity to ensure an enjoyable experience. Since you can drive up to most of these sites, it is possible to carry all of the gear you need. The last couple of years we have developed our primitive camping into a fine art. Around our house we jokingly call our style “ frufru primitive”, because of all the extra luxuries we carry. Below is our gear checklist. It can easily be modified to meet individual needs.

1) Tents- We actually own three tents. The first is a two-person backpacker that weighs a little over 4 lbs and is used on all backpacking trips. The second is a ¾ person Kelty that we use for short drive up overnighters or when we have to carry gear short distances. Our mainstay is a 12X16 Eureka Copper Canyon, which we have nicknamed “ The Condo”. When we camp next to cascades we suddenly find ourselves having a “ waterfront condo”. While this tent is huge, I find that I can set it up myself in about 30 minutes. Another advantage is on multiple night stays, it can easily accommodate 2 adults, our 2 60+ lb boxers, and any stray friends who happen to show up.
2) Tarps- We always carry a tarp to cover the campsite. This allows for dry comfort regardless of the weather. It can be tied to trees or used in combination with adjustable tent poles. Our main tarp is 15X20. In addition, we have ground cloth tarps to fit each of our tents.
3) Solar Showers- Two 5-gallon solar showers plus an inflatable shower stall that hangs from tree branches.
4) Sleeping Gear- Blowup mattress, sleeping bag, blankets, pillows.
5) Gear Bag #1- This bag that stays permanently packed contains, lanterns, extra can fuel, hatchet, knife, batteries, rope, first aid, fire starter, flashlights, S hooks, battery powered pump, small shovel and raingear.
6) Gear Bag #2- this lock-top tub stays permanently packed and contains our kitchen gear. Items in this bag are pots, pans, coffeepot, dishes and eating utensils, toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, etc.
7) Other Essential Gear- camp chairs, 6 ft. folding camp table, stove, cooler and several gallons of water. (we reuse water jugs)
8) Miscellaneous- Since I am addicted to campfires, I usually carry 2 bundles of firewood per night. In some areas, supplies are less than 20 minutes away. In this case you can carry less firewood and ice. Remember, always keep fire supplies under the tarp.
 
With the proper gear and a little creativity it is possible to find a camping paradise far away from the throng of humanity.