The White Salmon is an excellent whitewater rafting excursion for novices and professionals alike, and is only an hour and a half drive from Portland, OR. Quiet pools and magnificent waterfalls tumbling down the canyon walls alternate with heart-pounding rapids.

A trip down the White Salmon river also includes Husum Falls, the nation’s tallest, commercially-raftable cascade, a 14-foot Class V drop. Your guides will ensure that you have the abilities to stay on the raft, but if you choose to wander about instead of braving the rapids, there is also a trail beside the river.

You’re sure to experience a classic Pacific Northwest rafting trip on the White Salmon River. Your river adventure will feature rainforest-like beauty, crystal-clear, spring-fed water, and roller-coaster rapids, and it is ideal for paddlers of varied skill levels.

White Salmon River Rafting Outfitters & Tour Guides

Columbia River Outdoors

PDX Rafting

River Drifters

Wet Planet Whitewater

Zoller’s Outdoor Odessys

Everett Washington River Rafting Tour Companies

Alpine Adventures Rafting Guides

River Rider Rafting Tours

Triad River Tours

Wildwater River Guides

Fishing Charters Near Everett Washington

Believe River Fishing Guide Service

Ruby D Fishing Charters

Skykomish River

The Skykomish River in the U.S. state of Washington flows through the river valley before emptying into Port Gardner Bay in Possession Sound (part of Puget Sound). The river itself drains the west side of the Cascade Mountains between southeast Snohomish County and northeast King County.

The river begins in Index at the junction of the North Fork Skykomish and South Fork Skykomish rivers, then flows northwesterly towards Puget Sound. At Sultan, it is joined by the Sultan River and the Wallace River then at Monroe it joins the Snoqualmie River to form the Snohomish River.

The 9-mile section from Big Eddy to Sultan sports a class II rapid. You can paddle with gorgeous scenery and fauna, and its mild flow is a terrific place to get started with everything the Skykomish has to offer. That section begins a mile east of Gold Bar, beneath the Skykomish Bridge on US2.

You can see the put-in (called Big Eddy) from the US 2 Bridge. It’s pretty easy to spot since it looks like a dark green pool with a bit of a swirl. Most of the heavier rapids only occur for about the first quarter mile, you can actually see a lot of it right from the put-in. There are plenty of rocky beaches for resting & relaxing between the remaining smaller rapids & one singular chute.

Everett Washington City Information

Everett Washington is the county seat and largest city in Snohomish County, located on the beaches of Port Gardner Bay, overlooking the gorgeous Olympic Mountains. Everett was founded in 1891 when John D. Rockefeller and other Eastern entrepreneurs convened to create the West’s “New York City.” Today, numerous historic structures line streets named for the city’s early developers, including Rockefeller, Colby, and Hewitt.

The Everett waterfront is home to the West Coast’s second biggest marina. An original 1890s marina marketplace with a 4-star waterfront hotel, exquisite restaurants, and a range of intriguing stores and galleries is also available. Microbreweries and taverns, as well as a seasonal Farmers Market, are nearby.

The Everett Naval Station, which is also close to the marina, has become the home port for thousands of US Navy troops and their families who have also migrated to the region.

For a real look into the history of the city, take one of these fantastic Everett Washington walking tours.

Aspen Whitewater Rafting (AWR)

Founded in 2004 by a group of skilled, experienced river guides, Aspen Whitewater Rafting’s staff lives and breathes whitewater. From making bookings to ensuring you choose the perfect trip for your needs, to leading you down the rivers alongside their all-star team of professional river guides, AWR’s hands-on owners will be with you every step of the way. Whitewater is more than simply a summer job for their staff and their core group of guides strives to present each client with a pleasant, safe, and thrilling day on the river.

Aspen Whitewater Rafting’s trip options include:

• Rafting the Middle Roaring Fork River
• Upper Roaring Fork River Rafting
• Slaughterhouse Falls River Rafting
• Full day of river rafting in Browns Canyon
• Paddling the Fractions section of the Arkansas River
• A full day of Arkansas river rafting on both the Numbers and Pine Creek sections
• Rafting the Shoshone section of the Colorado River
• Roaring Fork Inflatable Kayak (Ducky) river trip
• Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) rental in Aspen and SUP instruction

Aspen Whitewater Rafting has two Colorado Locations

Blazing Adventures

Blazing Adventures started business in 1973 with whitewater rafting, and it remains the foundation of their business. The also offer trips in inflatable kayaks (duckies) and stand up paddleboard (SUP) trips that even include a a riverside BBQ lunch!

Blazing Adventures has guided river trips along the Roaring Fork River, located in the heart of Aspen, the Colorado River, which runs through picturesque Glenwood Canyon, and the Arkansas River, which provides a breathtaking trip over Independence Pass.

Guided Rafting Trips near Aspen with Blazing Adventures

• Shosone (SKILL LEVEL: Advanced – Beginner)
• Triple Shosone (SKILL LEVEL: Advanced – Intermediate)
• Numbers (SKILL LEVEL: Extreme – Advanced)
• Browns Canyon (SKILL LEVEL: Advanced – Intermediate)
• Upper Roaring Fork (SKILL LEVEL: Advanced – Beginner)
• Lower Roaring Fork (SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate – Beginner)
• Slaughterhouse (SKILL LEVEL: Extreme – Advanced)

Guided Inflatable Kayak (Ducky) Trips around Aspen Colorado with Blazing Adventures

• Roaring Fork River Kayaking (SKILL LEVEL: Advanced – Intermediate)

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Trips near Aspen with Blazing Adventures

• Colorado River SUP Stand Up Paddleboard Guided Trip
• North Star Nature Preserve SUP Stand Up Paddleboard Guided Trip

Blazing Adventures has Two Colorado Locations

Elk Mountain Expeditions

After working with other river companies across the country, the founders started Elk Mountain Expeditions in 2012 with the idea of creating adventures that prioritize the customer experience. Smaller outings with highly experienced guides and an emphasis on detail are what distinguishes this Aspen Colorado river rafting tour company. Whether you choose their whitewater rafting tours in Aspen or their fly fishing packages, you can expect outstanding customer experiences both on and off Aspen’s gorgeous waterways with Elk Mountain Expeditions.

Aspen Colorado River Rafting Tour Options with Elk Mountain Expeditions:

• Whitewater Rafting Slaughterhouse Falls
• Paddling the Lower Roaring Fork
• Rafting the Upper Roaring Fork near Aspen Colorado
• Rafting The Numbers section of the Arkansas River
• Paddling Browns Canyon
• Full Day trip on the Arkansas River’s Pine Creek & Numbers sections
• Kayaking in duckies (inflatable kayaks) near Aspen

Fly Fishing in Aspen Guided Trips

• Guided wade fishing in Aspen Colorado
• Aspen area float fishing guided trips
• Trophy fishing at the Bar ZX still-water trout fishery

Elk River Expeditions will outfit you with everything you need for these fly fishing trips near Aspen Colorado. Their professional guides will provide instruction, all your gear, transportation…even snacks and drinks. Just bring your sense of adventure and enjoy an amazing day of fishing in Aspen Colorado!

Elk Mountain Expeditions Location

100 Smuggler Mountain Rd
Aspen, CO 81611
970-456-6287
info@raftinginaspen.com

Whitewater Rafting, LLC near Aspen Colorado

Since 1974, Whitewater Rafting, LLC has been operating on the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs, CO, not far from Aspen. Erik and Phoebe Larsson bought the firm from its founder Ken Larson and family in 2012, and they are excited to carry on the family company heritage for another 40 years!

Rafting Trips around Aspen Colorado from Whitewater Rafting, LLC

• Half Day Rafting Trip (Most Popular)
• Full Day Rafting Trip near Aspen Colorado
• Short & Mild Rafting Trip near Aspen Colorado
• Double Shoshone Rafting
• Double Extreme Shoshone Rafting
• Private Raft Trips

Whitewater Rafting, LLC Location

2000 Devereux Road
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
970-945-8477
Toll Free: 1-800-993-7238

Being near the Colorado River, Arkansas River Valley, and Roaring Fork Valley areas around Aspen is guaranteed to give you an incredibly scenic river adventure. If you’re looking for a good time on the water, teaming up with a well-reviewed Aspen Colorado river rafting tour company will surely provide you with a trip you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Arizona River Trips

Colorado River, Grand Canyon

River Permit Application:
New waiting list applications no longer accepted. An entirely new permitting system has been implemented. Check the link below for details.

Managing Agency:
Grand Canyon National Park
P.O. Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023-0129
Phone: (928) 638-7843
Fax: (928) 638-7844

Salt River, Salt River Canyon

River Permit Application Deadline: November 15 – January 15th for use from March 1st through May 15th.

Recreation Permits are required to utilize the Tribal lands and waters of those portions of the Salt River Canyon which are within the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. These permits are required 365 days a year. Permits may be obtained at the Salt River Trading Post near the Highway 60 Bridge.

Managing Agency:
Tonto National Forest
Globe Ranger District
7680 S. Six Shooter Canyon Rd. Globe, AZ 85501
Phone: (928) 402-6200
Fax: (928) 402-6292

Colorado River Trips

Green River, Gates of Lodore

River Permit Application Deadline: Applications accepted from November 1st – February 1st.

Application fee: $15

Managing Agency:
Dinosaur National Monument River Office
Physical Address: 4545 Hwy. 40 Dinosaur, CO 81610
Phone: (970) 374-2468

Yampa River, Yampa River Canyon

River Permit Application Deadline: High use applications accepted from November 1st – February 1st. High use is considered to be launch dates before July 14th. To request launch dates after July 14th by phone after March 1st.

Application fee: $5

Managing Agency:
Dinosaur National Monument River Office
Physical Address: 4545 Hwy. 40 Dinosaur, CO 81610
Phone: (970) 374-2468

Idaho River Trips

Salmon River, Main Salmon River

River Permit Required: Year Round
Permit Application Deadline: 4:30 PM on January 31st

Managing Agency:
North Fork Ranger District
PO Box 180
North Fork, ID 83466-0180
Phone: (208) 865-2700
Fax: (208) 865-2738
Physical Address: 11 Casey Rd, North Fork, ID 83466

Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Boundary Creek to Main Salmon

River Permit Required: Year Round
Permit Information for the Middle Fork of the Salmon River

Managing Agency:
Middle Fork Ranger District
PO Box 750
Challis, ID 83226-0750
Phone: (208) 879-4101
Fax: (208) 879-4198
Physical Address: 311 US-93, Challis, ID 83226

Montana River Trips

Selway River

River Permit Application Deadline: 4:30 PM on January 31st

Managing Agency:
West Fork Ranger District
Physical Address: 6735 West Fork Road Darby, MT 59829
Phone: (406) 821-3269
Fax: (406) 821-1211

Oregon River Trips

Rogue River, Wilderness Run

River Permit Application Deadline: January 31st

Managing Agency:
Bureau of Land Management
14335 Galice Road Merlin, Oregon 97532
Phone: (541) 471-6535
Fax: (541) 479-0535
E-mail

Utah River Trips

Colorado River, Cataract Canyon

River Permit Required: All year
Get your Cataract Canyon river permit
Permit Application Deadline: First come, first served
Cancellation Policy: Reservation fees are non-refundable.

Managing Agency:
National Park Service Reservation Office
2282 South West Resource Blvd. Moab, UT 84532-3298
Phone: (435) 259-4351
Fax: (435) 259-4285

Colorado River, Westwater Canyon

River Permit Required: All year
Get Westwater Canyon River Permit
Permit Application Deadline: Early December-January 31st
Cancellation Policy:
To keep the launch date awarded to you, you must pay for the permit 30 days in advance of your launch or your launch goes up for grabs. If you applied for a permit and did not receive one, you can call the managing agency for unfilled launch dates or cancellations.

Managing Agency:
Westwater Canyon – BLM Grand Resource Area
82 East Dogwood #G Moab, UT 84532-2968
Phone: (435) 259-7012
Fax: (435) 259-2158

Green River, Desolation/Gray Canyons

River Permit Required:
March 1st-October 31st
Get your Green River permit
Permit Application Deadline:
Fee Season: Early December-January 31st
Cancellation Policy:
To keep the launch date awarded to you, you must pay for the permit 30 days in advance of your launch or your launch goes up for grabs. If you applied for a permit and did not receive one, you can call the managing agency for unfilled launch dates or cancellations.

Managing Agency:
Desolation Canyon – BLM Price Field Office
125 S 600 W, Price, UT 84501
Phone: (435) 636-3622

San Juan River, Bluff to Clay Hills

River Permit Required:
The San Juan River permit lottery and reservations are now available to book online. The process for obtaining a permit varies depending on the launch date of your desired trip.

Managing Agency:
San Juan River BLM Field Office
P.O. Box 7 Monticello, UT 84535
Phone: (435) 587-1544

Washington River Trips

Snake River, Hells Canyon

River Permit Required: Year Round
Permit Application Deadline: 4:30 PM on January 31st

Managing Agency:
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
P.O. Box 699 Clarkston, WA 99403-0699
Phone: (509) 758-1957
Physical Address: 2535 Riverside Dr, Clarkston, WA 99403

A fishing kayak with motor provides a kayak angler with an edge in various areas to ensure the entire experience of bass fishing or any other type of fishing is much more productive. A kayak motor also makes it easier for any kayak angler, regardless of their skill level, to enjoy the fishing experience.

Using a kayak with an electric motor can get to your favorite fishing spot quicker and save energy for the battle with the fish. The advantage of having the stealth and maneuverability of a kayak with the efficiency and speed of a kayak motor is something that can appeal to anyone that wants to go kayak fishing, especially if you want to fish by tolling through the water.

With that in mind, this article will highlight the best fishing kayak with motor.

Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 – Best Fishing Kayak With Motor

The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120 is one of the best motors for fishing kayaks. This is underpinned by the fact that it held the Best of Show at iCast 2020. It is powered by a Minn Kota trolling motor, which provides 45 pounds of thrust and is GPS equipped.

It provides any kayak angler with all the bells and whistles typically needed when you go bass fishing. Thanks to the remote, the motor can be controlled wirelessly and comes with a spot lock feature. This feature negates the need for an anchor while ensuring you keep your position in the current or wind.

The Minn Kota kayak motor is also saltwater ready, so you can fish just about anywhere. The Old Town Sportsman Autopilot has an upgraded frame seat with low-high positions. It also has a massive rear tank well that accommodates a ton of camping or fishing gear. There is enough space for 4 flush mount rod holders, with 2 at the front and the back.

You also get 4 18-inch gear tracks to store your kayak fishing accessories. Steering is easy with this motorized kayak, thanks to its rudder control. A significant flaw of this Old Town pedal kayak is that it has all the motor deployment, steering functionality, and wiring already done.

Do you want something more lightweight? Consider inflatable fishing kayaks.

All a lifetime sport fisher has to do is place a deep cycle battery in, and they are ready to go. You should note that this kayak motor is heavy, weighing 152 pounds when fully assembled. This means that you will need to consider the logistics of moving it from storage on the shore to the water. This fishing kayak with motor isn’t something you can simply drag a couple of feet into the water.

It also isn’t something you can seamlessly place on a car top. Nevertheless, its weight is a positive, as it offers the stability that all kayak anglers require.

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Motorguide XI3 – Best Bow-Mounted Trolling Motor

The MotorGuide Xi3 is perfect for any kayak angler that requires a bow-mounted motor. This outboard motor is powerful, providing 55 pounds of thrust, and it also comes with a couple of inbuilt features which make it highly convenient.

It has a steering tiller that you can operate via remote control. This ensures you can operate your motorized kayak hands-free. Furthermore, there is a Pinpoint GPS, which is an add-on feature that improves navigation.

The Pinpoint GPS also comes with cruise control, Jog, precise anchoring, and Heading Lock – a feature that enables you to establish a destination and have the electric motor steer in such direction.

Battery life is not an issue, thanks to the Digital Power Management feature that helps to prolong the battery life by 500% (a stat MotorGuide claims). It also means that the electric motor is 40% quieter than other motorized motors in its class.

You should note that all of these features come at a cost. It is not the lightest, nor is it the cheapest of trolling motors on this list. However, it enables you to customize your mounting system to suit your fishing kayak.

It also helps that this kayak motor is suited to the foot pedal and tiller operations, meaning you can control it any way you want. Deployment and storage are both seamless, thanks to the design.

Shop at Amazon

Watersnake T18 ASP – Best Lightweight Trolling Motor

If you are looking for a compact outboard motor that is perfect for a kayak, then the Watersnake T18 ASP is one of the best available options on the market. It can generate 18 pounds of thrust – quite a feat for such a lightweight outboard motor. It can propel your fishing gear (like the best kayak fish finder) and your kayak; however, the key is not overloading your kayak.

Weighing just 5 pounds, it is the perfect option for those that want a lightweight fishing kayak. Surprisingly, it has been rated for both saltwater and freshwater use, a feature sure to attract all anglers.

It comes with an adjustable mount fitting that is compatible with most of the fishing kayaks available on the market today. With a 24-inch shaft, it is ideally suited for off-shore use; however, the shaft isn’t adjustable, so it fairs poorly in shallow waters.

While it has few features and isn’t the most powerful outboard motor for a fishing kayak, it is perfectly suited for lightweight kayaks.

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Minn Kota Endura C2 30 Freshwater Transom Mounted Trolling Motor – Most Affordable Kayak Motor

The Minn Kota Endura C2 is the best motor for fishing kayak in its price range. This is because it has an extra-long adjustable shaft length and is backed up by the patent Minn Kota reliability. It is a kayak motor any kayak angler can trust to always power on, even after years of consistent use.

This is the standard C2 30 model, which generates 30 pounds of thrust. While 30 pounds of thrust might not seem like enough, it is sufficient to power your kayak and move your gear to your favorite fishing spots.

It has a 30-inch adjustable fiberglass shaft making it ideal for just about any water condition. Furthermore, you get great battery life with this electric motor; this Minn Kota trolling motor is known for providing the best battery life in its class.

A drawback to this kayak motor is that it isn’t saltwater rated, taking it out of the running for any lifetime sport fisher that loves the ocean. Nevertheless, it performs excellently in freshwater, thanks to the 3 reverse and 5 forward speed settings.

With 8 settings, steering and maneuverability are seamless. This trolling motor weighs just 17 pounds, making it one of the lightest kayak motors on the market.

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Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Electric Trolling Kayak Motor – Best Overall

This Newport Vessels Kayak trolling motor is perhaps one of the most durable and reliable options for kayak anglers today. It can generate 55 pounds of thrusts and is controlled using 8-speed settings.

It has a 6-inch telescopic handle that ensures precision steering is possible. It also comes with a “clicking” sound to inform you when the kayak motor has been turned off or when a gear is shifted.

With this trolling motor, you get 5.5 feet cables that make connecting to a battery seamless, regardless of where you store it. As stated earlier, durability is a watchword with this kayak motor, and the 24-inch fiberglass shaft underlines that. The shaft is hyper-tough and adjustable, making it easy to change depth placement seamlessly.

Perhaps, the piece de resistance has to be the fact that this electric motor is saltwater-rated. It has an aluminum head, and the rest of the hardware is constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, magnesium, and zinc. This construction ensures that it can withstand frequent exposure to salt.

You should note that this trolling electric motor is slightly heavier than other motors in its class, so you might want to request help mounting it onto your kayak.

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Wilderness Systems Helix Pedal Drive – Best Motor for Fishing Kayak 115 & 135

The Wilderness Systems Helix Pedal Drive is a high-quality trolling motor at an affordable price. This trolling motor has a pedal drive add-on system ideally suited to the Wilderness System RADAR model kayaks. You can control this trolling motor easily, thanks to the pedal system. It has a 6:1 gear ratio to ensure you can get power when needed.

Is a fishing kayak more your speed? Check out the Sun Dolphin fishing kayak.

It also has an auto-raising mast head coupled with a few features that you see on most high-end kayak motors: an extendable handle, LED power indicator, and a tilting head. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with GPS capabilities like other kayak trolling motors; however, it represents a bargain at its price point.

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Conclusion

Finding the best motor for your fishing kayak is a lot easier nowadays. There are quite a few quality kayak motors from different brands, all offering something to fit price points and capability. In our opinion, if you want the best overall motor for fishing kayak, you can’t go wrong with the Newport Vessels NV-Series 55lb Electric Trolling Kayak Motor.

This article will highlight the best accessories for fishing kayaks, highlighting the essentials and those you can get later on. Let’s begin!

Best Marine Kayak Anchor – Best Anchor for Kayak Fishing in Shallow Waters/Choppy Conditions

Every kayak fisherman understands that fishing and anchoring can be an issue since the fish always seems to get wrapped up in the anchor rope. Fortunately, if you have a trolling motor with the spot-lock feature, you never have to worry about this.

And if you enjoy fishing in shallow waters, the last thing you want to do is to have your kayak fishing gear scare the fish away by stirring up the water.

This is where the Best Marine Kayak Anchor stands out. It is a quiet anchor designed not to stir the bottom up. It is completely rock-rigged to ensure it doesn’t get stuck underneath branches or rocks. The rope is connected to a shackle at the bottom of the anchor and is then zip-tied to the top.

This ensures that if your anchor is stuck for whatever reason, you can pull hard to snap the zip tie, enabling you to pull your anchor up. If you love kayak fishing in currents or the wind, you will see significant improvements in catching fish by anchoring.

Find this kayak anchor at Amazon

Taruor Kayak PVC Outriggers – Best Outriggers

If your kayak is unstable for you to fish on, you might need to get a new fishing kayak. However, if a fishing kayak is simply out of your budget, you can always get kayak outriggers to provide the required stabilization. The Taruor kayak outriggers are some of the best accessories for fishing to have.

They are a great choice as they are durable and can be seamlessly removed for transport, ensuring you get years of use from these fishing kayak accessories. They have been designed to transform an unstable kayak into a stable one, so much so that you can actually stand and fish from it.

The best kayak is one that has stability as one of its most essential safety features. While you don’t have to stand on a kayak to fish from it, fishing from a stable kayak enables you to keep your expensive fishing gear closer, saving you from potential mishaps. You really can’t go wrong with these outriggers.

Speaking of the best kayak, find out more about the best sit-on-top kayaks you can buy for fishing.

Find these kayak outriggers at Amazon

Motorguide Xi3 – Best Trolling Motor for Fishing Kayaks

If you get tired of paddling or want to make your kayak fishing sessions slightly more straightforward, the best bet is to add a trolling motor. For the best results you’ll need a something like a short-staff 12-volt trolling motor, and the Motorguide Xi3 is the perfect one for you.

The Xi3 has a GPS anchor lock and a short 36-inch shaft. It can also run off a 12-volt battery making it one of the best motors for your kayak. One thing it doesn’t excel at is the ability to remain in one place as it lacks a spot-lock feature. Without that feature, it is much more difficult to fish areas thoroughly.

Thankfully the Xi3 comes with a lot of power, so you don’t have to worry about wind drift. It is available in 3 configurations: Freshwater, Freshwater +GPS, and Saltwater.

Find this kayak trolling motor on Amazon

Garmin Striker 4 – Best Kayak Fish Finder

If you are a purist when it comes to catching fish, you might not be interested in a kayak fish finder. Some might say it is much better to learn how to fish without one first. That way, you can learn how to feel for the bottom using your lure and read the land to know what the bottom looks like. All of this ensures that you aren’t too dependent on your electronics, even though we have to admit a fish finder really is one of the best accessories for fishing kayaks.

However, that is just one school of thought. If we’re out on the lake fishing, we’re always tempted to have all the accessories for our kayak that helps ensure we catch the most fish. With that in mind, we’re probably going to make sure our Garmin Striker 4 is on the boat. It comes with all the features a kayak fisherman needs, such as an intuitive keypad.

It also comes with a transducer that can efficiently and quickly identify the location of your fish. This helps you skirt around any school of fish, dropping your line int he water right nearby before they even have the opportunity to get away.

You also get a GPS that helps you store your favorite fishing spots, so you never have to return to shore empty-handed even if a few big fish get away from you out there on the water.

Want something that offers you more than what the Striker 4 does? Discover the best kayak fish finder for you.

Get the Garmin Striker 4 Fish Finder Amazon

KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod – Best Kayak Fishing Rod

As a kayak fisherman, your primary tool is going to be your fishing rod. While it is technically not impossible to fish without one, having one makes fishing from a kayak a lot less challenging. I mean, you’re not too likely to have a fish just jump right in your net!

While you can use just about any fishing rod, to get the best out of your fishing session you’ll want to use a fishing rod that’s optimally designed for catching fish on a kayak. And that is where the KastKing Blackhawk II comes in.

It is a telescopic fishing rod, designed with a shorter handle to ensure that it doesn’t get caught on your life vest when casting or fighting fish. Nevertheless, the handle is still sufficiently long to provide you with the required leverage for reeling those big fish you’re always telling stories about.

The lightweight rod is constructed from carbon matric using a telescopic 6-piece. It’s available in 12 different actions and lengths, in both casting rod and travel spinning models.

This fishing rod’s construction uses high-quality components, including graphite reel seats, stainless steel line guides, and comfortable EVA handles. It’s a seriously impressive piece of hardware.

Get the KastKing Blackhawk II rod on Amazon

AQUAGLIDE Crux Kayak Paddle – Best Kayak Fishing Paddles

As a kayak fisherman, the one thing you absolutely need to have is a paddle. While drifting wherever the waves take you isn’t that bad, it doesn’t get you to the best fishing location. Even if you decide to fit a trolling motor on your kayak, you still need a paddle to get things moving initially.

The Aquaglide Crux kayak paddle has been designed for every kayak angler, ensuring you can get to your favorite fishing spot. Thanks to its carbon fiber construction, it’s also super lightweight. This helps to make sure you don’t become fatigued while paddling. You need to save some energy for hauling in those massive fish, right?

The blade is constructed from glass-reinforced nylon, and the shaft is constructed from fiberglass. You should note that this kayak is available non-adjustable sizes, so you must ensure that it fits your measurements.

The best way to select an appropriately-sized paddle is to know the seat height and width of your kayak as well as your height. A general rule of thumb is that the taller you are, the higher your kayak seat, and the wider the kayak, the longer the paddle you need. Ensure you stick to this metric to get the right kayak fishing paddles.

Order the AQUAGLIDE Crux Kayak Paddle on Amazon

Dakota Lithium 12-Volt 100Ah – Best Battery for Kayaks

You might not think a battery is one of the best accessories for fishing kayaks, but if you have a trolling motor or other electronic kayak fishing accessories like the best kayak fish finder as part of your equipment, you will definitely need a battery capable of handling your power needs. That battery is the Dakota Lithium battery, and it ranks as one of the best kayak fishing accessories a kayak fisherman can bring along.

Not only is it lightweight, but it is also powerful and efficient. As a lithium battery, it is much better than a Lead-Acid battery, mainly since a kayak is pretty limited in space and you want to keep things pretty light in the boat. Choosing a lead battery could mean that your kayak is over its weight limit, causing it to become unstable.

The Dakota Lithium 12-volt has 100Ah, which is just enough power to control your fish finder and trolling motor board. And if you haven’t bout the boat yet, you might want to check out the best fishing kayak with motor.

Buy the best battery for fishing kayaks at Amazon

Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Jacket – Best PFD

If there is one thing you never leave the shore without as a kayak angler, it is a personal floation device (PFD). A lifejacket can help save your life if you happen to find yourself outside your boat and in the water. Considering you will wear it all through your kayak fishing sessions, it must be comfortable and safe. It also has to enable you to fish and paddle, making it truly one of the best accessories for fishing kayaks.

This is precisely what the Onyx Kayak fishing life jacket offers; that is why it is ranked the best kayak fishing PFD. This PFD has been created for kayak anglers, so it comes with a high foam back design, coupled with accessible pockets for small items such as your phone, pliers, and a small tackle box.

Thanks to the open design, you don’t have to worry about this lifejacket interfering with your fishing or paddling. Another positive about this lifejacket is that it comes in two sizes: universal and oversize; this ensures that there is always a size to suit your body shape. Furthermore, at only 1.4 pounds, it is sufficiently light to prevent fatigue.

Buy your Onyx Kayak Fishing Life Jacket on Amazon

In this kayak review, All About Rivers will highlight the best fishing kayak out there. Let’s begin!

Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top Kayak – Best Kayak for All Around Fun

This Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit on top kayak has been created with the Tribe philosophy of providing ultra-stability while being playful and quick. This sit on top fishing kayak is great for any kayak angler, irrespective of their skill level. This kayak makes navigating flat water easy while ensuring you are comfortable for your entire fishing session.

To this end, the Tribe 9.5 has a thick, ventilated, ergonomic padding coupled with an adjustable seat back. The kayak is constructed using Perception’s patented one-piece roto molded polymer. This construction ensures superior impact, abrasion, and UV resistance.

It weighs 46 pounds and can carry a maximum capacity of 300 pounds, making it a great kayak for those who want something to carry all their fishing gear. This kayak has rugged side handles to make transport easy. Its included bungee cord lashes help to secure gear for any size or shape.

You also get large rear and front open storage for coolers and fishing gear. The Perception Tribe 9.5 has various footrest options to accommodate paddlers of all sizes.

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BKC UH-RA220 11.6 Foot Angler – Best Pedal Drive Kayak

This fishing kayak from the Brooklyn Kayak Company comes with everything an angler needs in the best kayak. This kayak comes with an ergonomic aluminum frame, pedal-operated rudder, adjustable aluminum paddle, two flush mount fishing rod holders, three waterproof hatches, two paddle parks, and a single bungee cargo tie-down.

This configuration ensures you can take all your fishing gear with you on your next trip.

The UH-RA220 has been created to provide stability, which is apparent with its use of roto-molded single-piece high-density polyethylene. This ensures this fishing kayak is superior to inflatable fishing kayaks. It also ensures that it can be labeled an ocean kayak while still being capable on a river, lake, or other open water areas.

This Brooklyn Kayak Company fishing kayak can support up to 550 pounds making it the perfect pedal kayak for anglers with a lot of gear. The kayak has been constructed to remain stable even in swift currents and choppy waters due to its 34-inch beam. It is also stable enough for you to stand while casting and reeling.

The BCK UH-RA220 comes with twin flush-mount fishing rod holders and a single articulating rod holder, making it possible for you to deploy multiple lines simultaneously. It also means you can keep your rods out of the way while paddling.

Speaking of paddling, this is a pedal drive kayak with a foot pedal-operated rudder providing ultimate control in any water condition. It also helps you steer through chops or obstacles without additional paddle steering.

There are three watertight storage hatches for you to keep your valuables dry. The UH-RA220 has a large cargo area and ample waterproof storage to ensure you can pack enough fishing gear for your multiple-day adventures. The rear cargo space has a bungee cord to keep all your outdoor and fishing gear from moving.

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BKCPK11 Solo Sit on Top Fishing Kayak With Trolling Motor – Best Sit on Top Fishing Kayak With Motor

The Brooklyn Kayak Company PK11 is a single fishing kayak that has two ways to cruise. As a kayak angler, you can move through the water using your included paddle or use the built-in trolling motor for cruising over the water effortlessly. This ensures you are always on the move without having to strain your arms.

The PK 11 has a streamlined, UV-protected, and roto-molded HDPE hull which measures around 10 and a half feet long and 34 inches wide. These measurements provide an ideal ratio for speed and stability. This enables this sit on top fishing kayak to slide over still water, ride the current with grace or cut through choppy water.

Considering that it has a trolling motor, this recreational kayak weighs just 68 pounds, making it one of the lightest sit on top fishing kayaks with a motor. Portability is enhanced due to the inbuilt handles located on the hull’s sides or stern and bow.

Steering is easy thanks to the hand-operated rudder that lets you navigate your way around the docks on the river. It also means that you can make quick turns to chase any fish putting up a fight.

Speaking of fishing, your fishing rods are held in place thanks to the flush mount rod holders. More than one also means you have multiple lines in the water simultaneously. Your fishing gear can be secured down using bungees in the rear cargo space or stashed in two different waterproof hatches. The rear cargo space is large enough to keep a dry bag or a cooler.

Speaking of fishing gear, the most effective way to catch fish is to have the best kayak fish finder.

The PK 11 is a steady and stable hull that can accommodate fishing gear and a bodyweight of up to 420 pounds. This maximum weight capacity can resist tipping even in extremely tough water conditions. The Brooklyn Kayak Company PK11 is a great fishing kayak for multiday adventures and can also double as an ocean kayak.

The scupper holes on this recreational kayak ensure that you can rapidly drain any water on board. The seat is adjustable and ergonomic, rising above the hull to ensure you remain comfortable and dry as you glide through the water.

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Perception Pescador 12 Sit on Top Fishing Kayak – Best Sit on Top Fishing Kayak

The Perception Pescador 12 is one of the best sit on top fishing kayaks out there. It is a pedal kayak that has been designed to be versatile, which is why it is popular as a fishing and recreational kayak.

It provides extreme stability to remain dry even in the choppiest of waters. This 12-foot kayak has a 375 pounds maximum capacity, ensuring enough room for you and your fishing gear. Compared to the Pescador Pro, this additional length adds more stability, storage, and speed.

You also get multiple storage options, an extremely comfortable seat, and fishing-ready features that will keep you out on the water for much longer. The patent Comfort Seating System ensures the seat has an adjustable seat back and thick ventilated padding to provide superior comfort, fit and support.

You also get maximum storage that any kayak angler is sure to love. The rear open storage area has a bungee cord to store your fishing gear securely. You also get two molded-in rod holders that provide hands-free storage while you paddle.

The storage area has gear tracks to help you add accessories without drilling holes. The front compartment is a dry storage space with a large, hinged hatch to provide easy access. The Pescador 12 has adjustable footrests to accommodate kayakers of all sizes.

Since this sit on top fishing kayak is a 12-footer, it weighs 64 pounds, which can be a lot for some people to move around. Thankfully, it has an easily replaceable skid plate that lets you drag this sit on top fishing kayak without worrying about damaging it.

In terms of comfort, safety, and durability, the Perception Pescador 12 sit on top fishing kayak stands out by including high-end features such as ergonomic seating that can appeal to every paddler.

Safety is also paramount as it has been constructed sufficiently wide to provide stability while still being sleek enough to glide through the water. The Pescador offers the right balance of performance and fun; whether you take the kayak fishing or cruising, its straight-tracking, easy-paddling, and fast-turning design ensure that beginners can quickly gain confidence.

As with all kayaks in the Perception line, the Pescador has been designed for optimized weight and maximum durability. This is possible thanks to the one-piece roto-molded construction and use of high-density polyethylene to create a sit on top fishing kayak that is abrasion, impact, and UV resistant.

The Pescador is an ocean kayak thanks to its saltwater optimized finishes and hardware. This ensures you can take this recreational kayak to just about anywhere and in any water condition with the best fishing kayak accessories along for the ride.

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Conclusion

The Perception Pescador 12 ranks as the best sit on top fishing kayak on this list. It offers a reasonably priced introduction to kayaking that beginners will love and has the features and performance experienced kayak anglers will love.

If you want a sit on top fishing kayak with a motor, then the BKCPK11 is the choice for you. It comes with a trolling motor, and the entire boat weighs just 68 pounds. If none of the above kayaks look like the one for you, take a look at the Sun Dolphin fishing kayak.

The Gauley River itself features several class V+ rapids. This makes it one of the most challenging and adventurous river routes in the eastern United States for both kayaking and white water rafting.

In 1988, the Gauley River National Recreation Area was established as part of the National Park Service.

Weather Near Meadow River WV

The Meadow River is located within the Appalachian Mountain region and weather there can be unpredictable, often changing quickly. Sudden storms are always a possibility, so prepare accordingly.

The warmest month in a typical year is July, which is also when the largest amount of precipitation occurs on average as well. 10-day weather forecast near Meadow River WV.

Map of Meadow River

Meadow River WV Kayak and Rafting Trips

Below you’ll find two popular runs for kayaking or white water rafting on the Meadow River in West Virginia. These sections of river can be dangerous, so please use caution. At least 3 paddlers have died on the Meadow River, as noted in the American Whitewater Accident Database^[1][2][3].

WARNING: This location information is for reference purposes only and subject to change. Consult a professional river guide before attempting to paddle any river runs.

Upper Meadow River Kayaking / Rafting Runs

Put-in: Rainelle
Take-out: Russelville
Difficulty: Class III (IV)
Length: 15 miles

Middle Meadow River Kayaking

Put-in: Nallen
Take-out: US 19 Bridge
Difficulty: Class III
Length: 5 miles

Video: Kayaking the Lower Meadow River in West Virginia

Wade Harrison recorded this fantastic video in 2020 of the difficult paddling on the lower section of the Meadow River in West Virginia. He met up with some locals to add this stretch of river to his list of completed kayak runs, running the river along with some local paddlers. Thanks for sharing this great video with the public, Wade!

Where to Stay Near Meadow River WV

There are many options around the Gauley River National Recreation area which contains the Meadow River. Camping is our favorite choice for any rafting or kayaking adventure, but if you’re looking for more comfy accommodations there are also motels and even cabins nearby. You can also check out our other articles if you’re looking to learn more about camping while kayaking or the best camping kayaks.

Camping Near Meadow River WV

Dispersed Camping in Gauley River National Recreation Area

You are allowed to practice dispersed camping throughout the federally-owned land in Gauley River National Recreation Area park unless it’s posted otherwise. Just respect of the owners of privately-owned lands around the national park.

There is no camping fee for dispersed camping but keep in mind that your camp site must be at least 100 feet away from any river access areas, areas with developed trail heads, the edges and bottoms of cliffs, or historical ruins or park structures. Your stay is also limited to a maximum of 14 days in the same camp area.

Established Campgrounds Near Meadow River WV

Gauley Tailwaters Campground

Primitive camping is offered by the National Park Service at Gauley Tailwaters. This campground is located just south of the Summersville Dam. Gauley Tailwaters campsite can accommodate both tents and RVs and has 18 drive-in campsites. View on Google Maps.

Since this is a primitive campground it does not have RV sewer, electric, or water hookups, and the bathroom facilities are limited to vault toilets. No reservations are accepted — all campsites are available first-come, first-served basis only.
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Meadow River Campground

Right on the bank of the Meadow River and bordering the Meadow River Rail Trail, this campground is an ideal location for folks looking for a genuine West Virginia adventure. Not only do experienced kayakers have access to the lower Meadow River, but the family can also go tubing on a three mile stretch of the lazy section of river as well. Learn More

Tawny Farm

For something a bit different, consider camping at this 126 acre sheep near the Gauley River National Recreation Area. Primitive camping is available by reservation only. Learn More

New River Gorge Campground

While a bit further from the heart of the Meadow River, the New River Gorge Campground is a popular choice among adventurers. Located in Lansing, WV, this campground is within walking distance of popular climbing walls and trails for hiking. Learn More

Cabins Near Meadow River Rafting

One of the great things about this section of the Appalachia is the large number of diverse places to kick off your shoes and relax with nature. Here are just a small sampling of the many interesting cabin lodgings that are available to you in the Gauley River area of West Virginia.

New & Gauley Cabins

Boasting both a cottage and small cabins, this location is ideal for adventures and families alike. Learn More

Country Road Cabins

Luxury in the woods! Glamping, cabins, and adventures galore await you at this awesome destination. Learn More

New River Gorge Cabins

Cabins and tiny homes in Fayetteville, West Virginia, just north of New River Gorge national park. Learn More

Hotels and Motels Near Gauley River National Recreation Area

La Quinta Inn & Suites Summersville
106 Merchants Walk, Summersville, West Virginia 26651

Super 8 by Wyndham Summersville
306 Merchants Walk, Summersville, West Virginia 26651-1903

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Summersville
1203 Broad Street Summersville, West Virginia 26651 United States

Meadow River Rafting Outfitters

While the Meadow River doesn’t have many specific outfitters for larger group river rafting, the nearby New River and Gualey River have some incredible companies offering seasonal trips down the rivers.

River Expeditions

Get out rafting on the Gauley River in either 7-person or 4-person boat configurations with River Expeditions. Learn More

New & Gauley River Adventures

Get out paddling on either the New River or the Gauley River during their respective seasons. Learn More

Introduction

It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for all year! The summer has come around, and you’re looking for a good way to spend it. You don’t want to sit around in your house throughout the summer, so what do you do? You grab all of your friends or family together, and you plan your next camping trip.

Next thing you know, you’re planning what tent to buy, or what BBQ food you absolutely must have for the trip of a lifetime. You may be feeling a little in over your head – the perfect camping trip requires a lot of planning and foresight, after all. Thankfully, we’re here to make the planning process just a little easier for you. Here are a few tips and activities for the camping trip of a lifetime.

Camping Tips

Camping is about more than just laying a tent down in a forest and calling it a day. No – you need to be more prepared than that. Here are some of our tips to make your trip a success.

Have A Packing List Pre-Camping Trip

Don’t leave it until the night before to pack your bag ready for the big trip. You’ll end up finding yourself frustrated when you can’t find what you need, or when you realize halfway to your destination that you forgot to pack something vital.

The best thing to do before you head out on your camping trip is to have a packing list in place. When creating this list, think about a couple of things. First, how long is the trip going to be? You’re going to need to pack more stuff for a week-long trip than you would if you were only going away for a weekend.

In addition to that, you should also think about where you’re going. This means considering the weather – are you going to need an extra pair of thermals to keep yourself toasty warm because you’re going somewhere super cold, or are you going to be too warm in this place so something light will be better? Consider the campsite that you’re visiting – what amenities do they have? Is there any gear that you can leave behind because the site already has you covered?

One thing is for sure. It doesn’t matter where you’re going, there will always be some things that you absolutely must bring with you in order to have a successful and safe trip. We’ll cover many of these more in depth later in the article, but in the meantime, here’s a brief list of some of the things that you should think about bringing with you.

• Sleeping bag
• Tent and pitching gear
• First aid kit
• Cooking gear
• Clothing
• Weatherproof clothing items
• Towel
• Laundry bag
• Shoes
• Toiletries
• Tent repair kit
• Seating and tables
• Torch
• Lighter or matches for a fire
• Cutlery and plates
• Trash bags

There are many more things than those mentioned on this list that are certainly worth bringing, but this is just the basics. Your personal list may also have a few extra items on it, so keep that in mind. It may be a good idea to look online for a camping checklist to help you out.

Buy A Bigger Tent Than You Think You Need

There are a lot of things that you need to think about when it comes to buying your tent for the excursion. You need to think about whether it’ll withstand the weather conditions in the area and if it’s comfortable, and is it durable enough for your stay? These are all important things to think about, but there’s one more vital thing that you need to think about when you’re buying your tent. That’s the size of the tent.

In most aspects of life, size isn’t that important, but it certainly is when it comes to camping. You need to ensure that you have the correct tent size when you go camping. If you think that you need to get a certain size of tent though, it’s always worth getting something a tiny bit bigger.

Why is this? Why should you get a two person tent when you’re camping alone? Well, first of all, it’s worth thinking about the future. Are you going to be camping alone every single time that you go camping? If not, get a bigger tent size to accommodate any guests that you may have.

In addition to this, it’s a good idea to get a bigger tent even if you aren’t going to be going with other people later on. That extra space will go a long way in ensuring that you don’t feel cramped when you’re camping. After all, it’s not just your body that’s going to be in the tent. All of your stuff is likely to be in there too, such as your suitcase and any other items you’ve brought with you that need to go under shelter for the night.

It may cost you more money to buy a bigger tent, but it’s worthwhile to get that extra space. It’ll make your trip much more comfortable too.

Check The Weather Forecast In Advance

When it comes to camping, being prepared is worth its weight in gold. That is especially true when it comes to the weather.

Unfortunately, it’s not possible for us to control the weather. If we could, it would probably be sunny much more often than it actually is! We would all love for the sun to be always shining when we go on a camping trip, but the reality is that it’s not always going to turn out that way.

So, if you can’t control the weather, what can you do? Well, you can make sure that you are prepared for the weather conditions. If you notice that there are going to be a few days of rain while you’re out on your trip, then bring gear to help you to manage it. This means bringing a tarp under the tent, and bringing waterproof clothing so you don’t get caught in the rain like a pina colada. If the weather is likely to be particularly bad in the rain department, then make sure that you have a location on higher ground to pitch your tent so it doesn’t get flooded.

What if it’s warm though? Well, bring cold foods and drinks with you to keep you cool even in the hottest of temperatures. Make sure that you have some clothes with you that will allow your skin to breathe, or make sure that you have a trip planned to your nearest swimming pool so you can have a dip in the pool to cool off. If you prepare in advance, then you are less likely to get caught off guard by unexpected weather, and it’s less likely to ruin your trip.

Always Plan For Bad Weather

As we’ve already mentioned, nobody likes bad weather. Unfortunately, there’s always the chance that you may end up being caught in bad weather when you are out on your travels. You can’t predict every single thing that’s going to happen. Even the weather forecast can be wrong sometimes. This is particularly true if you’re going somewhere in the northwest US, where things like rain and inclement weather are very common.

So, make sure that you are prepared in the event that some sudden rain or a heatwave does crop up. This means bringing warm layers, and waterproof clothing. If you’re camping in the colder months then make sure that you have things like a warm coat, a hat and a scarf – maybe even some gloves. For the warmer weather, it’s good to have some sun protection and insect repellent on hand. Bugs are pretty good at making a trip miserable, so it’s best to prepare so they have fewer chances of doing so.

Plan Your Activities In Advance

It’s always good to have a little bit of flexibility when you go camping. After all, camping can be a great way to see and do things that you wouldn’t normally experience. For that reason, it’s a good idea to keep at least a little bit of your schedule open when you go camping to allow for those spontaneous moments.

With that being said, It’s always a good idea to plan some of your activities before you leave for your trip. This will help you to ensure that you can do all of the things that you want to do when you’re on your vacation. If you don’t plan the activities in advance, then there’s always the chance that they may be fully booked before you arrive.

The best thing to do is to do some research before you go. Check what attractions are in the area. Check how much they cost, and whether they’re likely to be particularly busy. Check whether you need to book in advance, as this can sometimes be the case with particularly popular attractions. This will also help you to feel even more excited about your trip before you go. It will help you to avoid any boredom too from just sitting outside of a tent for a few days. If you have a smaller budget then you also don’t need to worry – there are plenty of activities that you can do without spending a penny, but it may mean that you need to prepare some extra things to bring with you in advance. By preparing in advance, you are making the trip even better for yourself!

Take A First Aid Kit

It’s also a good idea to make sure that you take a first aid kit with you when you go on your camping trip. You never know when you will be caught in an emergency situation, especially if you are doing things like hiking on a regular basis while you are on your vacation. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

In most cases you can find ready made first aid kits that will work perfectly for your excursion. You can get them in most outdoors stores or you can look for some online. With that being said though, no first aid kit that you buy outright is going to give you the best option to keep you safe on a hike. That’s why it’s usually better to make your own, so then you have it for long term use and hopefully never have to use it.

So what should you put in your first aid kit? Well, start out by packing medicines. If you have severe allergies, then make sure that you have an EpiPen on hand. Have things like anti inflammatory medications and antihistamines too. Plant and insect repellents are a good thing to have on hand too.

Of course, you can’t forget the bandages! Make sure that you have some fabric and synthetic bandages in your first aid kit in the event that you or someone with you ends up getting into a scrape. Bring some antibiotic wipes and spray too, alongside some alcohol rub for any wounds. It’s also a good idea to bring a gauze, tweezers, medical tape, burn cream, latex gloves and some needle and thread. Some scissors and an electric heat blanket are a fantastic thing to bring too.

Arrive At Your Campsite During The Day

When it’s finally that exciting day when you get to arrive at your destination, you will want to make sure that you are arriving during the day. A lot of people will try to get to their camping destinations at night once they finish work, and while this can certainly work out fine for veteran campers, it’s not the best idea for beginners. You’ve probably seen it before – millions of videos of people having huge arguments as they try to put up a tent. Well, it can be hard to put up a tent when you’re a beginner, so can you imagine how difficult it would be to try to pitch a tent when it’s pitch dark outside? Spare your future self the worry and stress and try to arrive during the day instead.

Check And Double Check The Ground You’re Pitching Your Tent On

It’s a good idea to check the ground beneath the place where you will be pitching your tent before putting it up – another reason why it’s a good idea to arrive at the campsite in the daytime! If you don’t pitch your tent on the correct type of ground then you may find that you have problems later down the line. Ideally, the ground for your camping location needs to be even for the most part. This helps to ensure that you aren’t on a slope where the tent can slip down. Also double check that you don’t have any garbage, stones or rocks in the camping location, since it can feel super uncomfortable for you and it can also end up permanently causing damage to the groundsheet. This is certainly not a good thing, since it may end up preventing you from using the tent in the future or you may need to pay to buy a new groundsheet.

Don’t Pitch Your Tent Under A Tree

This may seem like a strange thing to say. What have trees got to do with it? Why should you be robbed of a gorgeous Instagram photo opportunity to wow your friends with? Well, for the sake of your comfort and the longevity of the tent, it’s best to avoid pitching your tent beneath a tree. For starters, you may end up in a situation where branches fall onto your tent when it’s windy outside. This can end up damaging your tent. In addition to that, you may end up getting bird poop all over the tent since birds like to hang out in trees. Just don’t do it – you’ll thank us later!

Don’t Forget Lighting

Camping is a lot of fun, but it can also be quite scary when it’s dark outside. If you’re in the wilderness and you can’t see, it may freak you out and be a bit of a tripping hazard. For that reason, it’s a good idea to make sure that you bring some lighting with you to guide the way. This could be something like a torch or a headlight for when you need to move around at night. You can also hang a lantern next to your tent for when you’re staying in that vicinity.

Pack A Portable Charger

One problem with many campsites is that they don’t always have the best phone signal. You may think that this makes your phone redundant when you are on your vacation, but this isn’t actually the case. Actually, having a portable charger is a good choice, since it means that your phone can still stay charged so if you do end up getting caught in an emergency you can ask for help.

Consider What Entertainment You Will Have On Your Trip

This is the time for fun, so bring lots of cool entertainment with you on your trip! This is when you can get away from tech, and instead you can enjoy other fun things like outdoor games, books, board games and cards. There are so many tech free options out there, and this is your perfect opportunity to use them.

Pack Toiletries

You don’t want to smell like a sewer when you’re enjoying your vacation, right? In that case, it’s a good idea to bring some toiletries with you when you embark on your trip. It doesn’t need to be your entire bathroom cupboard contents. Just make sure that you have shower supplies, a toothbrush and toothpaste, a hair brush and anything else that you may need in order to look and feel your best. You’ll certainly end up thanking yourself for it.

Pack Your Car In A Considered Order

When it’s time for you to start packing up your car, it’s worthwhile doing so in a specific order. For instance, the things that you know you are going to need almost immediately should be the things towards the front of the trunk. Pack those last so you can access them easily – this should include things like snacks, your tent and things like them. If you can’t envision yourself needing the item for a while, pack it first.

Check The Rules of Your Campsite

A campsite is generally owned by someone else and it has regulations that need to be followed. With that in mind, it’s always a good idea to check the rules and regulations before you head out on your trip so you know what to expect.

Don’t Leave Valuables Unattended

We all like to think the best of people, but sometimes people will take any opportunity to get a little bit of extra money or gear. For that reason, it’s best to always be cautious when you are camping and to make sure that your valuables are secure and away from any potential camping thieves. You never know who you’re going to encounter on your travels, so it’s always better to be safe.

Prepare For Camping With Your Dog

Are you taking your dog with you on your camping trip? If so, then you are also going to need to make sure that you have made provisions for him and her. This begins with checking that the camp site you have chosen is dog friendly. Some sites won’t allow pets, so it’s important to keep that in mind. You will also need to bring all of their essentials, like their bowl and their leash with you. There are plenty of articles online giving guidelines on how to deal with camping with your dog, so it’s certainly worthwhile to do your own research.

Plan Your Meals In Advance

You may be sensing a theme in this article – preparation is best. While you can go out on a whim a little more when you have a hotel room, this isn’t necessarily the case when you are camping. One thing that you need to consider here is ensuring that you have plenty of food for the journey. The best thing to do is to plan out the different meals that you are going to consume before you even leave. Consider whether you have the equipment for certain meals – you’re not likely to find a stray microwave in the wilderness, after all! Make sure that you bring some things that are easy enough to cook, like tinned foods, rice and bread. If you plan the meals before you go then you can rest easy knowing everything is covered. You’ll also be covered for some fantastic feasts!

Fun Camping Activities

So what are you going to do when you’re on your camping trip? Well, there are a couple of options! You don’t need to just be sitting outside of your tent for the entire vacation. Here are a couple of fun camping activities that you may enjoy when you are on your trip.

Kayaking

If you love being out on the water, then it’s definitely worthwhile making sure that you do some kayaking when you’re camping. Actually, there are even designated kayak camping trips that you can take if you want to experience the cool waters and the wind in your hair in a structured way.

Of course, if you’re going on a kayaking trip then there are some extra things that you will need to bring with you. Make sure that you have all of your kayak camping gear prepared – though on some designated kayaking trips the equipment may be provided for you, in which case you may not need to worry. Make sure that you bring some waterproof clothing with you too!

There are a lot of benefits of kayaking, too. For instance, it’s a fantastic cardiovascular workout for your arms. It’s a good way to experience the open water, and you can even go fishing while you are kayaking. It’s a perfect way to spend a camping trip both for the thrill seekers and for those who are looking for a more relaxed vacation. This makes it ideal for a wide variety of different people, so it’s worth giving it a try if you want to experience a new activity.

Card Games

When you’re hanging out back at camp, you’ll want some low key activities to enjoy. What is better for a camping trip than letting your competitive streak run wild with a good old fashioned card game?

There are a lot of different card games that you can play too, such as poker, blackjack, go fish, and more. You are sure to find something that will suit the whole group – though group is the operative word, since card games aren’t really something that you can do on your own. You can play card games pretty much anywhere too – you don’t have to sit outside of your tent to do it.

Campfire Stories

There’s nothing like warming up around the campfire when you’re on a camping trip. You can make some s’mores, toasted marshmallows – it’s pretty wonderful. You can also enjoy some campfire stories as a group. If you have some trouble thinking of any, look some up before you go. They can be lighthearted, scary, funny or anything else you can think of. This can be a great way to bond with your group and flex your creative muscles. If you have some musical skill, you could also try playing the guitar and singing some songs with your group. It’s a lot of fun and you’re sure to have a great time as the evening is beginning to draw to a close!

Glow In The Dark Frisbee

By the time the night rolls around and it gets dark, you may begin to struggle to see things like card games. That’s why glow in the dark frisbee is such a great game to play when you want some late night camping fun!

As the name suggests, glow in the dark frisbees light up even when it’s dark. You can throw them to your friends in a large open area near the campsite for a lot of evening madness. You can make it into a competition if you want to – just be careful that none of you fall, which is a potential hazard when you’re being physical in the dark!

Flashlight Tag

Tag isn’t just a game for children, you know! You can have a lot of fun playing tag even when you’re an adult on a camping trip. Of course, your regular daytime tag may not excite you very much, since it may not be as fun for you to be able to see all of your friends and family out in the open. That’s why flashlight tag can be such a great choice of activity to enjoy. With this, you have to catch your fellow players with the flashlight in order to see them and tag them. Otherwise, you’re running around mostly in the dark, and so are they! It may be a good idea to make sure none of them are wearing luminous clothing, since they’ll stick out like a sore thumb. You could make it into a mix and match version of hide and seek too, which is a lot of fun.

Summary

And that’s everything that you need to know in order to have a successful camping trip! With a little bit of preparation in advance and vigilance when you get to the site, you’ll have a time to remember for definite. Now, grab your friends and family and get ready for some fun!