Hanging Rock State Park, Chimney Rock State Park, and Morrow Mountain State Park are just a few of the numerous places in western North Carolina that offer such activities as hiking, exploring, and camping. Western North Carolina provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and natural wonders. Whether you plan to settle in for the night at a campground or camp in the state's backcountry, it's essential to remain safe and utilize survival skills at all times.
Planning Ahead
Before you arrive at a western North Carolina trail head, it's important to learn how easy or challenging the hike will be by looking at a trail map. Trail maps can typically be found at a park ranger's station or online at a park's website. Purchasing a guide book that goes into details about the park, trail, and camping sites is advised, according to Kids Health, an online health resource for parents, educators, and youth. Gaining knowledge regarding the trail or camping site will help you avoid dangerous obstacles, such as getting lost. Also, a few days prior to camping, be sure to check the weather. Ensure that bad weather, such as snow, ice, a high heat index, or thunderstorms aren't expected.
Packing What's Necessary
Be sure to pack all necessary supplies for a western North Carolina outdoors experience. Forgetting something small, such as water bottles, may jeopardize your safety and survival in a park's backcountry. In addition to ample water bottles, bring along insect repellent, a cell phone, a GPS device, a first-aid kit, a pocketknife, extra food, a flashlight, a guidebook or map, appropriate clothing, and blankets. Don't forget any medication you may be prescribed, such as an inhaler or an Epipen.
Safety at the Campsite
Various camping sites in western North Carolina can be assessed by pulling a vehicle within walking distance from the location. Walk around a site and look for broken glass and trash. Also, keep an eye out for beehives or wasp nests. Avoid camping sites in the vicinity of berry bushes since bears are prone to seek out berries for food.
Avoiding Wildlife
There is wildlife galore in the wooded areas of western Carolina, and it's likely you'll see more than just birds and squirrels while on a camping adventure. Deer, elk, opossum, snakes, and raccoons are just a few animals that call the state home, according to Western North Carolina Outdoors, an online hiking and outdoors resource for hikers, campers, and outdoors enthusiasts. When and if you see these animals, it's important never to feed or approach them. Bears also roam these forests, and, although bear attacks are rare, avoiding these animals at all costs is important. If your car is nearby when you're camping, put all food inside the car. If you're camping in the backcountry, ensure your campsite is free of any food odors and pack food in animal-resistant bags or containers. These measures will help keep wildlife away from your camping area.
Fire Safety
When starting and maintaining a fire, always keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn't spread beyond the fire ring. A camping site should never be created by visitors; camping sites should only be found, according to Western North Carolina Outdoors. Keep in mind that portable camping stoves are recommended as an alternative for starting a fire. Ask a ranger whether camp fires are allowed in your camping area prior to camping.
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