STAY SAFE
A little rain is one thing. A lot, or storms accompanied by lightning, can be something totally different. Be aware of rising water and evacuate if need be. If it’s lightning, make sure you’re not the tallest thing around, and avoid isolated trees, which can act like lightning rods.
It is a tragedy that's struck every camping enthusiast. You've double-checked the weather reports, and with an all clear, planned the perfect weekend outside with friends or family. That first cold drip of rain on your nose, though, quickly informs you of how waterlogged the days ahead will be. Yet another camping trip thwarted by rain.
But rain doesn't have to be the end of the world, provided you've planned ahead and picked the right spot. After all, camping is huge in the Northwest, and places like Portland, Oregon, get around 155 rainy days per year! If they can do it, you certainly can, too.
Set up Right
The most important rule is to never set up camp on low ground. Even if you've got a waterproof tent, which you should, there's not much worse than finding yourself surrounded by a shallow, muddy lake because all the rainfall is collecting around your campsite. High ground is where you want to be.
Stay Dry
If you've got a few copies of the Times Free Press, bring them! Not only will they make for reading material, but newspaper stuffed into damp shoes will dry them out in short order. The pages will also function as fire-starting material.
Don't leave your tarps at home, either. Creating a makeshift roof will let you start a fire or a gas stove hassle-free. Tyvek, what home insulation is wrapped in, is cheap and makes for an excellent tarp. Once you have your tarp strung up between some trees, set up a drying line underneath and shed your wet clothes. Hypothermia isn't limited to wintry weather.
Make Lemonade
Not literal lemonade, mind you. But why not make the best of your experience? As long as there isn't lightning, might as well enjoy it, right? Head carefully - be mindful of slick rocks - down to the lake or river and take a swim or pull out your tackle box. Fish don't mind the rain, and they'll bite just as much rain or shine. A short hike while it drizzles can be especially serene.
Rain doesn't have to ruin a trip. As long as you have a dry, organized campsite to return to, just think of it as an extended shower courtesy of Mother Nature.
Must-have Gear
» Deck slides/flip-flops, to walk around camp while your shoes dry
» Water-repellent raincoat
» Extra towels
» Large trash bags, to keep extra clothes from getting wet in the first place
» Easy fire starters, like steel wool and a 9-volt battery, laundry lint or cotton balls covered in Vaseline