California’s mandatory stay-at-home orders throughout the COVID-19 pandemic have left many longing for the opportunity to get out and enjoy a few days in nature. Luckily, California offers a vast array of camping sites, specifically in the Santa Clarita Valley. SCV offers numerous outdoor excursion sites perfect for curing wanderlust.

Whether you enjoy camping in the comfort of an RV or prefer to lay out under the stars, Santa Clarita boasts some of the best parks and campgrounds in the state. For example, Castaic lake is one of the state’s top camping sites, equipped with mobile home sites and tent-friendly plots. Castaic lake is one of several larger lakes found in the Santa Clarita valley, with each offering various amenities like swimming, fishing, and hiking.

Before you head off for a weekend or week-long adventure in nature, you will need to stock up on camping and survival supplies. There are numerous tools you’ll need to stock up to keep yourself safe, happy, and thriving outdoors, from tents to pocket knives to outdoor cooking appliances. When searching for reliable gear, consider retailers like Self Reliance Outfitters to fulfill your equipment needs.

Before you head out, write up a list of essentials from the list below, readying yourself for the adventure of a lifetime.

Flint and steel firestarter

While lighters are compact and helpful in certain circumstances, they can be rendered useless by high winds or wet weather conditions. For example, say you’re enjoying one of Santa Clarita Valley’s many lakes, and you forget to leave your lighter behind before taking a quick dip in the water. Unfortunately, if you haven’t packed an alternative firestarter, you’ll be out of luck when you attempt to start a campfire during the night. To avoid this fiasco, purchase a flint and steel firestarter for a reliable spark every time.

Survival knife/multi-tool

While camping, you should always keep a pocket knife or multi-tool within reach. Whether you’re cutting rope, gutting a fish, or trimming a branch for fire kindling, pocket knives are the perfect multi-use tool for camping outings.

First aid kit

A medical kit is an invaluable tool while camping and away from civilization. Make sure you purchase a first aid kit with various wraps, gauze, antibacterial creams, and alcohol swabs to ensure minor cuts and scrapes don’t lead to an infection.

Flashlight

While your phone may be an excellent flashlight at home, it’s not ideal for outdoor camping excursions—especially when the battery dies. Instead, opt for a high-powered light that shines bright through dark woods. Or, if you prefer a hands-free model, add a headlamp to your survival gear. Whether you’re going for a day hike or a week-long campout, be sure to pack a light source with new, long-lasting batteries.

Tarps

One of the best all-purpose items to have in your arsenal is a tarp. Tarps are multifaceted and can be used to provide shelter, block out the sun, trap water and keep you dry.

Signal mirrors

Signal mirrors, often called rescue mirrors, are unbreakable reflectors explicitly designed to help rescue teams locate you if lost or injured. Signal mirrors reflect a glimmer of light that can reach up to several miles depending on the weather. That way, if you’re stuck in a sticky situation, you can call for help quickly.

Parting thoughts

Preparing for an outdoor camping excursion requires ample time and research to make sure you stock up on the essentials. Without the right equipment, you run the risk of injury and dampen your time away. However, with proper preparation, you’ll master the woods in no time and become one with nature.

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