We now successfully have two camping trips to Garner State Park under our belts so it feels like the right time to finally talk about our experiences while also sharing some tips and tricks we learned (the hard way!) along the way.
Scroll to the end of this blog to see our video recap!
1. ALWAYS PLAN AHEAD
One thing we did was drive to Garner State Park on a Thursday night so that we could be there first thing the next morning when the park opened. This isn't necessary for us anymore since all Texas state parks have since changed over to an online platform BUT, look at maps, check the best times to travel the route to and from your location, know the rules (pets, water rules, entrance/exit times), etc. The last thing you wanna do is show up somewhere unprepared.
2. PACK ACCORDING TO THE WEATHER
This is something we kind of learned the hard way. We looked ahead and knew it would be a bit chilly but we went sans a sleeping bag so whose the real fools here? US. We adapted for the next trip by packing more sweats, jackets, and invested in a good quality sleeping bag. If it's gonna rain, pack those rain boots. If it's gonna be windy, bring extra tie-downs.
3. BRING YOUR PETS
One of my favorite things about camping is watching our Loretta girl play and explore. I know some pets are happier at home and I get it but if your pups like nature and playing outdoors, bring them! (NOTE: some parks aren't dog friendly. This goes back to rule #1; plan ahead and know early if you can in fact, bring your furry friends!)
4. PREP BEFORE YOU GO
So you know how to plan ahead...now it's time to THINK AHEAD! Think about the items you'll need first and pack those on top. Cut up your veggies ahead of time. Season your meats and store in ziplock bags. Condense the amount of "extra". Do you really need that massive bottle of ketchup or could you bring that smaller to-go packets you've been hoarding for months? The less you have to do while you are there, the better. You'll have more time to enjoy your surroundings!
**FUN TIP: Do grocery pick-up or order ahead online. I know this is a luxury for some people but I would HIGHLY recommend splurging and paying the $6 fee to have someone else get your stuff for you. It's one less thing you have to think about the day/morning before heading out.**
Scroll to the end of this blog to see our video recap!
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL TRIP:
1. ALWAYS PLAN AHEAD
One thing we did was drive to Garner State Park on a Thursday night so that we could be there first thing the next morning when the park opened. This isn't necessary for us anymore since all Texas state parks have since changed over to an online platform BUT, look at maps, check the best times to travel the route to and from your location, know the rules (pets, water rules, entrance/exit times), etc. The last thing you wanna do is show up somewhere unprepared.
2. PACK ACCORDING TO THE WEATHER
This is something we kind of learned the hard way. We looked ahead and knew it would be a bit chilly but we went sans a sleeping bag so whose the real fools here? US. We adapted for the next trip by packing more sweats, jackets, and invested in a good quality sleeping bag. If it's gonna rain, pack those rain boots. If it's gonna be windy, bring extra tie-downs.
3. BRING YOUR PETS
One of my favorite things about camping is watching our Loretta girl play and explore. I know some pets are happier at home and I get it but if your pups like nature and playing outdoors, bring them! (NOTE: some parks aren't dog friendly. This goes back to rule #1; plan ahead and know early if you can in fact, bring your furry friends!)
4. PREP BEFORE YOU GO
So you know how to plan ahead...now it's time to THINK AHEAD! Think about the items you'll need first and pack those on top. Cut up your veggies ahead of time. Season your meats and store in ziplock bags. Condense the amount of "extra". Do you really need that massive bottle of ketchup or could you bring that smaller to-go packets you've been hoarding for months? The less you have to do while you are there, the better. You'll have more time to enjoy your surroundings!
**FUN TIP: Do grocery pick-up or order ahead online. I know this is a luxury for some people but I would HIGHLY recommend splurging and paying the $6 fee to have someone else get your stuff for you. It's one less thing you have to think about the day/morning before heading out.**
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