Story and layout by: Katie Rhoden
Sleeping
Under the Stars
Everyone needs a vacation every now and then to recharge his or her batteries. As summer approaches, destination prices may increase due to seasonal costs. So why not plan a budget-friendly, nature-loving vacation in your own city? Lake Thurmond provides a variety of different campgrounds where you and your friends or family can have a nice getaway from everyday life and enjoy the serenity of the outdoors in a tent or a camper. The question is where to go and what to bring. “One of my favorite things about camping is being able to get away from the stress and ‘go go go’ of everyday life and taking time to sit and enjoy the stars, noise from birds and the wind blowing that we take for granted everyday,” says Kristy Olive, camping teacher at Georgia Regents University of Augusta. Modoc, Mistletoe, Petersburg, Ridge Road, Wild Wood and Winfield are a few campgrounds that are within a few miles of Evans, Ga. The campsites can be reserved by phone, e-mail, or on site. Pricing is affordable and, luckily, each campground provides bathhouses. There are also hiking trails, beaches, playgrounds, and boat ramps. Picnic tables and fire pits are included on the campsites, so s’mores and ghost stories are a must. The largest and most popular campground is Petersburg. It offers everything and more with fishing piers and biking trails. The views of the lake are spectacular at Petersburg’s campsites from dusk to dawn. “Petersburg is a nice place to camp because it is clean and the lots have more space,” explains Richard Reeves, park attendant at Petersburg Campground. “It is a great place to enjoy the peace of the outdoors with its
Where to go and what to bring for full camping experience in Augusta easy access to fishing and its convenient location.” Preparation is everything with camping. Having the right utensils, food, and equipment is key to a full, rugged experience. Camping checklists can be found online. The main essentials include a tent, sleeping bags, knives, flash lights, insect repellent, first aid kit, matches,
“The beauty of camping is the simplicity.” coolers, cooking utensils, water bottles, towels, toilet paper, personal items, etc. Easy meals are important such as hotdogs, sandwiches and canned food. Always pack for all weather conditions whether it’s rainy, windy or sunny. Although, being caught in a sud-
den storm can make for a good story. “Start with a small foundation” says Olive, explaining tips for new campers. “In-
vest in a tent and maybe an air mattress, flashlight/lantern. Other than that you can pretty much use house hold items to get by. If you discover you enjoy it then you can start adding a few items along.” “I love to camp on the weekends because it allows you to get out of the house and be entertained in a natural environment without relying on all of the technological distractions we have in today’s society,” explains Sarah Dorman, high school teacher at Burke County High School who likes to camp in her spare time. The beauty of camping is the simplicity. Bonding over the little things in life helps create memorable moments. The possibilities are endless from swimming, grilling, tubing, stargazing and roasting marshmallows. Summer fun is just around the corner, so grab your camping gear and indulge in some fresh air. Happy camping!