Nature connects friends and family

Over the years several people have approached me seeking outdoor instruction, such as the single father with one or more children wanting to learn about fishing and the single mother wanting to learn about camping.

The father had never been taught how to fish and now his son was beginning to ask about participating in the sport.

The mother had been camping before, but not many times. Her biggest concern, however, was security.

A single woman with an 8-year-old daughter camping without other friends close by is not a smart idea. And she wasn't worried as much about the four-legged predators as the two-legged kind.

There was an attempt five or so years ago to form a group of interested outdoor enthusiasts who could participate in camping, kayaking, fishing, hiking and any other activity of interest. But things just didn't work out.

Perhaps it is time to renew those efforts. Last Saturday, during my radio show, Bill Bailey and I were discussing his recently completed deer-hunting camp and camping in general.

A listener called and shared her fondness of camping.

"I sure miss all aspects of camping," She said. "The cooking and the campfires, is there any way people who don't have all of the equipment can go camping? Plus I don't want to go alone."

Bill and I continued to discuss the prospects throughout the rest of the show and during commercial breaks. The result is a plan as solid as jelly, but the prospects are substantial.

Envision these possibilities:

Kids Fishing Day

Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and neighbors should make sure every youth with the slightest interest in fishing attend the Fishing Kids Day event every June. There is a $5 fee, but the young anglers come away with a T-shirt, a rod and reel combination and a chance to fish for a limit of two trout.

Besides the youth having a good time, the parents will be able to watch the attendants and, therefore, learn how to bait a hook and take care of the fish. They could ask questions about tying knots, untangling the line and casting. This is the perfect avenue for youth to participate in a fishing event. It is also an ideal opportunity for inexperienced adults to learn about helping a young angler. Take advantage of it.

Camping group

I plan to invite people to join Garnet and me next spring on a few camping trips. We won't go far, perhaps to Potholes State Park for a night or two. A head count will be needed for meals, camping spaces, etc., but, other than such organizational necessities, the outing will be a relaxing affair with people doing what they want.

When we get ready to build a fire, everyone will be invited to watch and learn. The same will be true when we cook a meal in a Dutch oven, breakfast on a griddle heated by a gas camp stove or lunch in a cast iron skillet.

While some may want to sit in the sun and read a book, hikes will be offered. Fishing is a distinct possibility as is wildlife viewing. A ground blind will be set up to allow those interested to learn about wildlife photography.

The closeness of the campground will allow people who don't want to stay overnight to visit during the day. They could participate in a few or all activities except spending the night.

After a day at the campground, where they could see what camping is all about, maybe they would be encouraged to become more involved.

Bill talked about the possibility of the campers staying at Steamboat Rock State Park at the same time the Crab Creek Riders, a group who enjoys riding horses, are staying nearby at Northrup Canyon. Rides into the canyon may be a possibility, as well as sharing meals and campfires.

The next step

At this point we have an idea. Next spring, when camping weather approaches, I'll mention the subject again and ask then for a response.

After reading this, consider the possibilities of your family being a part of the camping group, either inexperienced or experienced. Or if you know a family or friend who might enjoy such an adventure, pass the information along.

Some final thoughts

A grandmother asked if she could bring a grandson or granddaughter?

Yes, of course.

Such combinations of youth and adults would be encouraged.

What about expenses? All expenses would be shared, in an effort to make the outing as economical as possible.

Our family doesn't own a tent or a camp stove, so how will we be able to be a part of the group?

The stove is not a problem as we own a couple. It will be best for a family to observe how meals are prepared at the campsite before they decide which type of stove is best for them.

A tent and sleeping bags may be loaned from a family member or a friend.

The possibility of introducing camping and other outdoor-related activities to people who don't have the chance to participate for whatever reason is exciting to me.

Stay tuned.