There is campable space all around us- traffic islands, parks, brushy areas, old buildings, the rooftop of almost any store- the list goes on. Bring a set of lockpicks (like $20), and your options expand even farther: foreclosed homes, old buildings, far out cabins (I trust yall are ethical bastards), underground tunnels, etc. Be creative. One of the reasons I am a *strong* advocate for hammocks is that they let you set up incredibly comfortable bed anywhere there are two trees or poles. It doesnt matter if there the ground is rocky, trashy, muddy, or swampy- it always feels the same, and it great for your back after a long day of exploring. Though you can set up on a slope, I advise against it- if you drop anything, you may never see it again. Sometimes, though, a slope is worth it just to catch a sunrise from the comfort of bed.
First thing you should do, before setting out, is learn some good knots- they will help you set up and take down camp easily. It may even be worth carrying a little fold-up pamphlet until you learn all the basic knots. Green is a good color for hammocks, blends in well. Pack up before you sleep, and tie you pack to the side of your hammock. Dogs are perfectly positioned underneath a hammock to warn you of anyone coming close by.
If theres any doubt as to the weather, tie a line directly parallel above your hammock, and throw the tarp over it, boyscout tent style. Tie down the corners, or weigh them down. An easy way to attach ropes to sheets of tarp or cloth is to place a rock on one side, and tie a knot around the bulge it makes.
I strongly advocate Leave No Trace camping: no matter where you are, try to leave the place looking at least as good as when you got there. Do your business in a hole and bury it.
Seriously- if we want to change the stereotype of loser homeless dudes trashing every place they go to, start with yourself.
I have an article on short term squats and longer term shelters coming soon!
No comments:
Post a Comment