Plan a Canoe Camping Trip

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A canoe camping trip combines both a lengthy canoe trip and setting up camp along the way---many times in backcountry settings. When planning the trip, you must consider all weather conditions and pack plenty of food and water for the length of the trip. Whether the trip is guided or self-guided---the same general supplies need to be brought along.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Canoe and paddles or canoe rental Cooler with ice Food and water Life preservers Waterproof duffel bag for clothing Under Armour shirts and shorts Tennis shoes or hiking sandals Tent with pitching equipment including stakes, rubber mallet and tie-downs Topographic map of area Backcountry camping permit Matches and firestarter Large olive barrel Small propane stove and propane tank First aid kit Zip-lock baggies Sunglasses
Canoe and paddles or canoe rental
Cooler with ice
Food and water
Life preservers
Waterproof duffel bag for clothing
Under Armour shirts and shorts
Tennis shoes or hiking sandals
Tent with pitching equipment including stakes, rubber mallet and tie-downs
Topographic map of area
Backcountry camping permit
Matches and firestarter
Large olive barrel
Small propane stove and propane tank
First aid kit
Zip-lock baggies
Sunglasses

Step 1

Choose a location that allows for backcountry camping. Obtain a backcountry camping permit if necessary. Pick a time of the week when the river will be less traveled such as during the middle of the week, as opposed to weekends and holidays.

Step 2

Pack for the canoe trip. Bring needed supplies, changes of clothes and enough food for the length of the trip. Pack all supplies, canned food and clothing in an olive barrel. The olive barrel is completely waterproof and will protect items and keep them dry. The olive barrel also bobs to the top of the surface water so it is easy to find and retrieve if the canoe tips over. Place keys, medication and personal items in the barrel as well. Don't forget to pack life preservers for every canoer.

Step 3

Dress for the trip. Under Armour allows fthe body to breathe and maintain temperature and also keeps moisture away from the skin. They have a line of short- and long-sleeved shirts and shorts that are good choices for canoers. Choose tennis shoes or hiking sandals that have tread and resist slippery terrain. Wear sunglasses for eye protection.

Step 4

Pack the canoe and distribute weight appropriately. Keep the heavily weighed items such as the coolers and barrels in the middle. Fill the ends with lighter-weight items such as tents and stoves. Place the tent and stove in a giant-size waterproof plastic bag for extra protection. Place the map or topographic map in a baggie to prevent it from getting wet.

Step 5

Canoe down the river or lake. Use the map as a guide. Locate a clearing for setting up camp--this should be done late afternoon, before dusk.

Step 6

Pull the canoe into shore and anchor on land. Set up camp by gathering fallen timber for firewood. Erect the tent and finish setting up camp. Create a firepit using large rocks from the surrounding area.

Step 7

Pack up camp and finish the canoe trip. Canoe to the ending destination or make a round trip to the starting destination.

Tips & Warnings

Do not build a fire unless it is permitted and never cut down trees for firewood. Never leave the campsite unattended. Keep all food in a locked container if camping in bear country.

Do not build a fire unless it is permitted and never cut down trees for firewood.

Never leave the campsite unattended.

Keep all food in a locked container if camping in bear country.

Resources

Article Written By Julie Boehlke

Julie Boehlke is a seasoned copywriter and content creator based in the Great Lakes state. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists. Boehlke has more than 10 years of professional writing experience on topics such as health and wellness, green living, gardening, genealogy, finances, relationships, world travel, golf, outdoors and interior decorating. She has also worked in geriatrics and hospice care.

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