Author name: shah juran

Here are some sleeping options you can enjoy or explore while camping Your sleeping pad, whether self-inflating, closed-cell or air foam depends on the type of camping you’re engaging in. The air sleeping pad is light-weight and probably the best option for a backpacking camper but it is usually less insulated and as such not a good idea for outdoors during cold climates. Self-inflating sleeping pads are much more comfortable than air-only pads because they were built to provide more insulation and comfort. Unfortunately, they are much more bulkier than their air-only counterparts. Closed-cell foams pads are the best options for backpacking in colder climates because they are lightweight and easy to carry yet they have the insulative properties that air-only pads lack. Camping hammocks are made of parachute-style materials which are lightweight yet capable of holding your body above the ground without tearing and they can also be easily set up once you find a pair of closely aligned trees and some nylon cords. The fact that you can’t set up a hammock inside a tent is just one among many disadvantages of sleeping in a hammock while camping even though there are solutions in the form of hammock accessories like the hammock integrated shelter for rainy days solves this disadvantage. However, while sleeping on a hammock, it would be hard for you to move around and getting out would be somewhat difficult because your body forms a deep valley in hammock with your weight bringing you closer to the ground. Most campers use sleeping bags. They are usually bought based on considerations of the shape, insulation and the temperature of the sleeping bags. Based on the shape of sleeping bags, there are two major options, mummy bags and rectangular sleeping bags. Mummy bags are usually used during the winter because they are designed to maximize body heat. The mummy shape means that this sleeping bag is much more insulated, light-weight and easily packed which is great for backpackers. Rectangular sleeping bags are advantageous to fidgety sleepers as they allow room for movement unlike mummy bags which have less space. Unfortunately, rectangular sleeping bags have less insulated properties than mummy bags and are much more bulky and harder to pack. Air mattresses provides protection for campers from the rough surface, bumps and lumps of the ground. Usually, air mattresses are usually a little larger in size if compared to sleeping pads and they provide a much more comfortable cushioning effect especially when compared to sleeping pads or bags. In search of adventure black people go camping thinking that they would have to abandon their comfort but this is not true because they can enjoy comfort and sleep in actual bed if they want. At Melanated Campout, we offer the Glamping package which gives you access to actual beds. Therefore, it is actually possible for them to enjoy a good night rest in an actual bed. You’ve nailed down how you are going to sleep during camping, now figure out what there is to do while camping. Haven’t heard of Melanated Campout yet? Well, check it out, it’s an African American camping event full of adventure, relaxation, and activities. In fact, it’s the largest Campout East of the Mississippi!

Here are some common camping terms to remember: So now that you have mastered the basics, discover why you should go camping. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend the largest Melanated Campout east of the Mississippi!

Have you heard of the Black Outdoor Movement? Or have you heard it somewhere before or even on the internet that “black people don’t rock climb”, “black people don’t backpack”, “black people don’t camp”, “black people are just not adventurous”, etc. If you don’t actually know any African-American people who do these things,  you probably think these are true statements. WRONG THINKING! There are many BIPOC in the US who love these outdoor adventures even though percentage-wise, we are still the minority. There is a whole black outdoor movement, join in. In the meantime, learn about some of outdoor activities that are available. Here are a few activities black outdoor movement adventure seekers enjoy… Black People Rock Climbing Yes, you’ve probably heard of the poor statistics of the 1.5 percent African American climbers in the U.S as discovered by a research group at Clemson University. But… look at Mikhail Martin, co-founder of Brothers of Climbing, who is a strong member of the rock climbing community. Many other BIPOC have proven that rock climbing is not a color-specific sport and are adventurous enough to enjoy it. Black People Whitewater rafting For adventure, black people have been known to go whitewater rafting despite the fact that the thrill-seeking recreational activity is usually referred to as a “whites-only” activity, even by black people themselves. Rue Mapp’s online community of black nature lovers called  Outdoor Afro is an example of black people and other people of color who enjoy going on several whitewater rafting trips. Black People Skydiving “Black people are not thrill seekers, they can’t handle venturing to the dead zone and taking that leap required of skydivers.” You have probably heard this kind of talk before but despite the fact that many people believe these false rumors, black people have been known to go skydiving numerous times. Take a look at Team Blackstar, an entire team full of people of color who enjoy skydiving. Black People Hot Air Balloon Just like any other adrenaline-pumping recreational activity, black people also go on hot air balloons and enjoy the ride as it is a great way for people to clear their heads. In fact, checkout, America’s first black hot air balloon master pilot. Black People RV camping Many black people go on adventurous RV camping trips every year. Packing up their things into RVs with modern amenities, african0-american people who love the outdoors and nature go on RV trips with their loved ones.   They seek out new and familiar campgrounds, state parks, or they venture into the woods. Although many black RV enthusiasts have often complained of being the only black person on RV trips, the National African-American RV’ers Association organize group RV excursions. Black People Backpacking across Europe Black people have also been known to go on long or short backpacking trips to different countries in Europe with nothing but lightweight gear.  Imagine this,the are excited to take routes like London to Amsterdam, Rome to London, London to Istanbul, etc. Black Folk Camping Yes, Black people camp too. We at Melanated Campout are big examples of black people camp enthusiasts  who love nature, camping, and partying under the stars. We find that big camping events like the Melanated Campout are a great way to introduce novice campers to the camping experience.  Additionally, this amazing campout is a great way for black people to connect with nature and unplug from the stress of our normal lives and join in the black outdoor movement. There’s no better place to be than the largest Melanated Campout east of the Mississippi! Join us in June at the campgrounds near Helen GA  to have some fun tubing, partying, meeting other black people. If you’re one of those people who believed that black people do not love the outdoors or are not adventurous, you can lose that notion now.  Better yet, purchase your camping package for the Melanated Campout. This is a must do camping event for your annual list. It is time you begin to explore those things that “people” have said black folk don’t do! Haven’t heard of Melanated Campout yet? Well, check it out, it’s an African American camping event full of adventure, relaxation, and activities. In fact, it’s the largest Campout East of the Mississippi!

Like what the hell do we do on a camping trip? I remember my first camping trip, I’d been forced to go with my grandmother. It seemed like a silly thing to do, especially when I’d just planned to stay home watching my favorite series.  I just couldn’t understand the fun thing that we could do while camping. After that camping trip, I went on many other camping trips because I had so much fun I wondered why I hadn’t considered going camping earlier. And you’re much more lucky than I am if you’re going for the Melanated Campout event in June because there are so many fun things to do. Here are some of the fun things you can get up to at Melanated Campout: Meet new people There is going to be a meet and greet on the first day that is the best time to meet fellow campers and find people with whom you would have fun for the rest of the big camping event. So go to the meet and greet, mingle with people, make friends and just have fun. At the Icebreaker activity, you can also meet more people and familiarize yourself with people you met at the meet and greet while learning the camp rules. Party! Party! Party! For those that love partying, there are going to be lots of parties. For the Hip Hop glow party, you get to wear neon and even glow in the dark face paint. This is a perfect opportunity to show off your dancing skills as well. The Soca Fete on Saturday is a great time to jump around to power soca tunes and shake your body to groovy soca.  There is also going to be an old school hip hop/ R&B outfit party that you can’t afford to miss. The Midnight Spades Tournament There is nothing that can compare to a nice game of spades. At Melanated campout, you get to enjoy the pleasure of participating in a Midnight Spades Tournament or just watching. In this spades tournament, all you need is a little luck, a competitive adventurous spirit, the ability to read people and the desire to have fun. Of course, at Melanated Campout, we are on a campground. So you will have access to both hot showers and clean restroom facilities. Tubing Tubing is a great recreational activity where you get to ride an inner tube on water, snow or air. Since the big camping events will be in Helen, GA, you get to ride down the Chattahoochee or the 1000 feet river in Helen. Read our Tubing blog post. The Comedy Show One of my favorite things to do is laugh.  So you know we had to add in a comedian. Get ready to laugh or at least giggle. There are many other things you can do while camping at Melanated Campout, you can decide to go hiking, go lake dipping, participate in the freaky feud and game shows and have as much fun as possible. This camping trip is sure to be an adventure you will never forget. Haven’t heard of Melanated Campout yet? Well, check it out, it’s an African American camping event full of adventure, relaxation, and activities. In fact, it’s the largest Campout East of the Mississippi!

Typically, most RVs have a bathroom, sleeping facilities and a kitchen, however, there are also luxurious RVs that have A/Cs, heaters, satellite receptors and so on. Although, most people live temporarily in RVs while traveling, some people living in areas where living expenses are quite expensive have been known to maintain a main residence in an RV and live there full-time. Different types of RVs include: RV Camping vs. Tent Camping Cost RVs are far more expensive than tents.  Even after the initial investment, RVs still require money for maintenance, gas or diesel for movement, repairs and storage unlike tents which are much more cost-effective. Comfort Tents can be easily built and are much less expensive than RVs, However, you can’t get the comfort that an RV can give you with tent camping ….unless, of course, you decide to go Glamping. Traditional tents usually have less space than an RV and don’t have many of the modern conveniences of an RV.  With the introduction of Glamping, more modern tent set-ups rival many hotel room) because the include some of the dance amenitiea but have the added benefit of sleeping under the stars. Adventure For adventure, black campers have been known to hike through trails that RVs cannot possibly hope to drive through. RVs are at a disadvantage  because they can’t get everywhere that someone on foot can get. Mobility It is pretty impossible for a tent to move itself from state to state except it is repacked and moved by black people camping, however, an RV gives black campers  the opportunity to camp and still move from place to place making it a desirable option. Connecting with Nature Many campers have been known to go camping to unplug from modern conveniences and distance themselves from the stress of city life to allow them to connect with nature.  RV camping allows flexibility to travel and set up almost anywhere. Where to rent an RV in Helen, GA? There are many RV rental services. To save yourself unnecessary hassle, it is advised to ask the rental company to deliver the rented RV to the campgrounds (i.e. your campsite for the Melanated Campout) When renting a RV, it would be wise to  clarify the following items: Here are some RV rental service providers in Helen, GA: RVShare.com Outdoorsy.com After you find the best rental deal, you can then ask them to deliver your RV to the Melanated Campout near Helen, GA. So now that you are convinced you don’t need a cabin to camp, check out why you should go camping. Of course, at Melanated Campout, we are on a campground. So you will have access to both hot showers and clean restroom facilities. Haven’t heard of Melanated Campout yet? Well, check it out, it’s an African American camping event full of adventure, relaxation, and activities. In fact, it’s the largest Campout East of the Mississippi!

Yes, you probably saw it on the Melanated Campout schedule for the camping event in June that there would be tubing on Saturday and you’re probably wondering just what the hell tubing is? Despair not, everything will be explained in this post. Tubing is an activity (usually recreational) where people ride an inner tube on water, snow or air. Since we’ll be talking about the tubing you’ll be doing at this camping event, you can forget about tubing in snow and in the air (kite tubing). Our camp is located in Helen, GA in June, so getting your bathing suits out and let’s hit the river! Tubing in Helen, GA, is more than just a recreational activity, it is the perfect mix of adventure, activity, and relaxation; which is why tubing is a key part of the Melanated camping event in June. This is an activity adventurous black people can’t afford to miss out on. How to tube? Step 1. Get Tube. Step 2. Float down the river. Note: Life jackets are available for those who want one. Where to get the tubes? On the Melanated Campout trip, the tubes will be furnished by the tubing company.  You are welcome to bring your own tube, but it’s not necessary. Outside of this trip, you should probably call your tubing company to ask if they are provided before you go to ensure the actual tube is either included in the price or available to rent. When to tube? On the Melanated Campout trip, we will go on Saturday, assuming water levels are sufficient. Outside of this trip, you should probably call your tubing company to ask if the water levels are too low. If they are low, you may not be allowed to tube. Here’s a few tips on how to make your tubing trip a success. Buy straps and sticks After getting a tube, don’t forget to buy and take along a stick and strap. The strap is important if you’re riding down the river with your crew. This allows you to tie your tubes together. You’ll need the stick to navigate over and around the boulders and in shallow water. You will get wet Be prepared to get wet so wear a swim suit. Don’t forget to wear water shoes and don’t try going barefooted because at some point, you may need to get out of the tube and you have no idea what’s in the river. No stopping along the way Once you’ve started tubing down the river, you can’t stop until you get back to the designated stopping area. Therefore, you should probably use the toilet before getting into your tube. Guard your property To avoid losing your property or getting your cell or electronics wet, buy a waterproof pouch. They come in all sizes, everything from cell phone size that hang around your neck to large bags. Grab your plastic water bottle Each tuber is allowed to take one 32 oz. plastic bottle on the river. No alcohol.

What is glamping? Glamping is another name for luxury camping and is derived from “Glamorous camping”. When people camp Glamping-style they have accommodations that are much more glamorous than the normal accommodations found inside your tent. Think of it as camping in a tent but prettied up. Glamping is a great opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, immerse yourself in your nature-filled surroundings, unplug from tiring city life, get away from the daily noise of the city to the quiet sounds of nature and birds in the woods. It’s kind of like renting a nice hotel room only this time, you would have unlimited access to nature. At Melanated Campout, we offer an enjoyable camping experience for everyone, glampers included. Checkout our glamping package. How Glamping got it’s start Now you may think glamping is a modern invention, however, glamping began in the early 1900s when rich American and European travelers who didn’t want to give up the comforts of their homes started to go on safari in Africa. Soon enough safari camps began to offer upscale options to suit their needs and since then glamping has been growing more and more popular. The difference between camping and glamping can be summed up in the following ways: 1. Accommodations Camping- Tent placed directly on the ground with basic lighting and scant decor. Glamping- If it’s a permanent glamping site, it may be a tent placed on a raised platform.  Even if not, the accommodations within the tent will be beyond the basic. For example, a chandelier vs a basic light.  And the inclusion of a rug, hamper, comforter, pillows, and nice decor. 2. The sleeping options Camping- Sleeping bags. Glamping- No sleeping bag zone. Air mattress at the very least. For more information on sleeping options while camping, check out our previous blog. 3. The restroom & bathing Camping- People that go camping the traditional way usually have to make use of the forest for easing themselves. Glamping- When you glamp, you can have a portable toilet and even a pop-up tent so you can go in private. That pop-up tent can also accommodate a shower. Of course, at Melanated Campout, we are on a campground. So you will have access to both hot showers and clean restroom facilities. Haven’t heard of Melanated Campout yet? Well, check it out, it’s an African American camping event full of adventure, relaxation, and activities. In fact, it’s the largest Campout East of the Mississippi!

Why the outdoors are for everyone and black people should try camping If you are like us, you have probably asked a loved one to join you in camping and in the growing black outdoor movement and you were met with a “No, thank you.” The conversation was probably similar to the many we had with Cayela prior to actually joining her. Does this sound familiar? “Hey, what do you ladies think about going on a camping trip?” Jocelyn raised her eyes from the magazine in front of her and looked at me as though I was an alien. “Camping?” “Camping as in going out to the woods and serving myself up on a platter as meat for some wild animal to eat?” Shunte’asked. “Well, no, we’d just be going all together with a couple of other people to the woods and…”  You see…I was trying to explain before being cut off. “I ain’t going,” Jocelyn said abruptly dropping her eyes back to her magazine. “Yeah, I ain’t going either and besides, black people don’t camp.”  Shunte’ said. Cutting this long story of how I tried to convince them of the advantages of going camping and thoroughly failing, my friends refused to go camping with me. This reluctance to camp is why many people believe in the myth that black people don’t camp but I’m here to tell you that black folk camp too.  Guess what? It’s a lot of fun, which is why people of color should start camping more often. Why not enjoy the fresh air, back packing, tubing and conversions by the campfire? Join in the growing black camping movement. If you’re one of those who believe that black people don’t camp, you need to dispel your belief because black people definitely camp. Look at previous 850+ black campers who have attended Campout on the past. Fact: Black folk camp too In fact, some people attribute the reasons why few black people camp to history when racial discrimination was a big thing in America, where blacks were banned from specific outdoor places like national parks or beaches by custom or law. These were the periods when African Americans had to be careful not to go near national parks because they were not so safe due to the Park service’s history of discrimination. Melanated Campout event in August is going to be a wonderful way for black people to connect with nature and participate in Self-Care. With a lot of fun camping activities and adventure planed, campers will be able to go home with many memorable tales to tell their friends and families.  These stories will entail never ending fun and relief from stress that was had during the entire weekend. This summer, you have the chance to meet new people and make new friends, network, participate in outdoor yoga, fishing, gather around fires to talk and tell stories, participate in water gun battle, attend parties (HBCU- Homecoming, old school hip hop). But more then that, for first time campers you have the opportunity to experience camping in safe space. Growing black outdoor movement Our hope is that while this may be your first experience camping and become a committed member of the black outdoor movement; it won’t be your last. We want this trip to give you a taste of the benefits of being outside and encourage you to use what you have learned to camp through out the year with your new camp cousin and also your family. One of the greatest legacies you can leave your family, is the love for the outdoors. To find a space in this world where you can connect with the outdoors, find peace, sit still with yourself and reflect on how wonderful things are or go camping with your family and make memories that last a lifetime are priceless. Memories that don’t involve electronics (or at least a lot of them) but instead good clean fun. In recent years, there has been an increase in new audiences enjoying camping. We invite you to join in the growing black outdoor movement. Meet us at the largest Melanated Campout east of the Mississippi! Black people don’t camp!- said every black person until they try it

Camping and Self-care Self-care is the key to a healthy and contented life. It refers to pausing the hustle and bustle of life to take time for your sense of positivity and peace. It enables you to maintain a healthy relationship with your well-being and foster relationships with others. Camping is a distinctive form of self-care retreat because it helps you connect with nature and the calmness of the surrounding environment. Camping offers you a safe, healing place to put aside external distractions, focus entirely on your physical and emotional well-being, and spend time on your hobbies. How is Camping Self-Care? Camping is a marvelous opportunity to connect with nature. You have to go outside bare feet and walk on the ground for some time. Camping can provide a safe healing space to enhance your overall wellness and improve physiological dysfunction. Camping is an exciting way to learn new skills and try something new. Camping can enhance your critical thinking skills and build confidence. Your body and mind will be at peace instead of dwelling on the life stressors.  Camping is an excellent experience for people who love to stay active, and physical activity is an essential construct of self-care. It promotes your physical health by managing weight, increasing energy, improving muscle mass, and helping to prevent diseases. When you go camping, it can provide you with a perfect atmosphere to go for a walk or a hike. Camping offers you a self-care retreat because it allows you to take inspiration from your surroundings and explore new dimensions. You will feel mesmerized by the natural beauty, and all the tiredness will go away. If you want to take time off from the busy and tiring routine, you should go camping. Camping is self-care as it lets you enjoy the calmness of wind rushing through your body and the melodic sounds of birds. It allows you to connect with your inner-self away from the chaos of life.  While camping, your sensory stimuli are activated, which lets you experience the beauty of nature. You can have a beautiful view of nature, smell flowers, and feel the dewy grass under your feet. The vibrant colors and smell of flowers stimulate your senses to boost the production of melatonin and serotonin; these hormones help you calm down and boost your mood.  Additionally, when you try activities like swimming or playing while camping, it serves as a safe healing space. Camping self-care relieves stress from your mind and body to give you a light feeling of peace. Research suggests that camping is one of the most effective ways to reset your sleep rhythm and lets you fulfill the requirement of natural light. Camping encourages you to watch the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset instead of spending these beautiful hours scrolling through the phone screens. Why is Melanated Campout Great for Self-Care? Melanated Campout is the perfect opportunity for you to take a weekend to reconnect with nature and participate in activities and games to cherish a self-care retreat. So what are we offering for the best of your self-care? Although camping alone is exciting and fun, our weekend event allows you to build a sense of community. You can bring your friends or family to have a unique experience to ensure self-care while camping.  Additionally, our diverse community of people at the camp will help you build healthy relationships. Fostering a positive and affirmative sense of community can extend your life span and delay memory problems in the coming years. Melanated Campout offers you an adventurous and empowering camping experience. Being out in the natural environment gets your creative and energetic juices flowing.  We have many entertaining activities planned out for you, from yoga, fishing, hiking, empowering sessions, games, movie nights, and parties. We want you to relax on the camping event for self-care and reflect on your life. Natural Peaceful Setting Our Melanated Campout believes that a safe healing space is critical to ensure self-care. We provide you with a natural and soothing setting near a lake. We also offer modern restroom facilities and a clean environment to provide you with a self-care retreat. And don’t be afraid to dry-camp, that can be even more peaceful. Pack your bags and book your tickets; we are waiting to welcome you!

Not so long ago, the bulk of a persons time was spent in the outdoors. However, changes in the modern world have led us inside the four walls and with that, stress. Today, humans are tired of being inside and are looking for opportunities to connect with nature. Outdoor yoga is a self-care practice that can connect people with the universe to replenish their energy. Are you looking for a chance to reconnect with nature and go camping yoga in a peaceful yet stylish way? We have the perfect opportunity for you with our weekend getaway in the Melanated Campout. How is Outdoor Camping Yoga Beneficial? Camping yoga can help you to develop self-awareness and help to explore the natural connection to the earth. City life affects your physical and mental health with the daily stressors, and outdoor yoga can help you adopt a lifestyle that focuses on your self-care. Melanated Campout offers you a chance to revive your life, and we have created a perfect opportunity for increased wakeful relaxation and internal focus. Nature Replenishes your Energy and Increases Awareness Our nervous system is developed to punctuate stressful situations with energy bursts as a survival tactic. Camping yoga allows you to spend time in nature that signals your brain to recalibrate the energy to the body. Spending time in the camping environment increases the feelings of vitality and conviction. Leaving the walls of your home or studio activates your sense of sight, scent, and touch to give your brain a pleasant feeling. The sensory stimulations clear your mind, and you can feel the fresh oxygen flowing through your body. Melanated Campout yoga provides you with colorful sceneries, pleasant smells of flowers, and the feeling of the fresh air to release the pleasure chemicals through endorphins. Outdoor Camping Yoga Boosts Meditation Practice Scientists have found in research that people who meditate regularly have a smaller amygdala (part of the brain that controls fight-or-flight response). It assists in reducing the release of cortisol, the stress hormone. Outdoor yoga can serve as a self-care mechanism to tune their breathing and utilize the physical sensations to absorb surroundings and focus on the present. Indoor settings cannot compete with natural ones when it comes to serenity. Practicing yoga amidst the camping experience improves your listening skills as far from the artificial sounds and environment. You can establish a soothing and robust relationship with your inner self in outdoor camping yoga practice. Letting go of Negative Emotions Practicing yoga while camping outdoors assists you in connecting with the surroundings and making a strong bond with the beautiful environment around you. When you practice yoga barefoot, it will give you a grounding feeling that makes your mind conscious. It helps you become more receptive and synchronize with the rhythms of your heartbeat. When your heart and mind sync during meditation, your negative feeling lightens, and positive emotions arise from the release of relaxing hormones. It leads to an increase in self-realization and confidence. Replenish your Lungs Practicing yoga in the open environment while camping ensures the flow of better-quality oxygen in the natural surroundings. The good quality oxygen breaks down toxins and pollutants in your alveoli, allowing you to inhale and exhale more. Furthermore, it assists in the flow of oxygen through the vital body organs and improves the performance of your heart. Source of Vitamin D The sun is a fundamental source of Vitamin D, crucial for healthy and strong bones. When we spend more time indoors, it might lead to Vitamin D deficiencies. Camping yoga practice provides you with ample time to spend in the sun. Outdoor yoga serves as a self-care to obtain the daily dose of Vitamin D. It helps you fight depression, relieve stress, and lose weight. Melanated Campout is the perfect solution to avail yourself of the chance to practice yoga in the open to revitalize your energy and bones with Vitamin D. Self-Care and outdoor yoga are good for you We are aware that the benefits of self-care and yoga are far-reaching, but they are way better when you practice outdoor camping yoga. And if you haven’t tried camping, here’s another reason to start. So pack up your yoga bag and essentials to immerse yourself in nature at our Melanated Campout Yoga session. We welcome you to come and breathe in the fresh air and mesmerize your ears with the soothing sounds of nature.