Escape into the Wilderness this Summer!
Yes, you can go for a camping trip in the desert in the heart of summer. No, you won’t be crazy to do so. While it’s true that the desert is less hospitable in the summertime, there are ways you can still enjoy this stunning arid environment this time of year. But, we do need to take care during this hot, dry season. The most important thing to be aware of is that it’s going to be hot, so you’ll need to prepare yourself and your supplies for that. Whenever you venture into the desert, regardless of season, you’ll need to be prepared for heat. It’s the desert, after all!
So let’s talk about your heat preparations. It’s important to keep your body cool and protected from the sun. This will help you avoid sunburns, heatstroke, and dehydration. This means shade. Both portable and stationary. Wear a hat and set up a shade you can sit under. REI has many options in across a wide price range for you to choose from. Make sure to also consider how far you may be transporting your shade when ytou make your purchase. You’ll want to bring loose-fitting light and airy clothing that cover your arms and legs fully. You’ll need to bring plenty of drinking water and make sure you drink it. Depending on your level of activity, you’ll want to plan for about 1/2-1 gallon of water daily. Read more about , . Staying Hydrated in the Desert.
There are a couple other things you’ll want to consider when camping in the desert in the summertime. You can avoid the hottest areas by going north and uphill. But still you have to buy blankets to go camping. While local conditions will always vary, this strategy can help you get to the cooler places. As a rule of thumb, the ambient temperature generally decreases by 3-5 degrees Fahrenheit for every 1,000 feet you gain in elevation. You’ll also lose about 2 degrees F for every hundred miles you travel north.
Are you interested in braving the desert this summer? Try the Ancient Bristlcone Pine area in the White Mountains, where you can expect the temperature to be in the 80s or lower.
Check out one of California’s oldest lakes, at around 6,400 feet, making it a lot cooler in summer than many desert destinations. You can find remarkable and free camping in one of California’s most unusual settings: a desert pine forest.
Looking for more amazing summer desert camping destinations? Find more at KCET.org.
