Hammock Camping As The Newest Trend In Leave No Trace Camping

When most people picture a hammock, they picture a tropical paradise and a small swath of cloth pinned up between two trees. However, the latest trend in camping, for many different types of environments, is hammock camping. This new style of camping uses a durable, nylon mesh hammock tied to a set of trees instead of a tent. There are many unique benefits to this type of camping including getting a good relaxing night of sleep, avoiding environmental ground hazards, and leaving no trace of the campsite behind.

One of the drawbacks of camping is sleeping on uncomfortable ground. When preparing a campsite, a camper must clear away small rocks and debris that would make sleeping uncomfortable, or in some cases, impossible. However, using a hammock, neutralizes the problems of uneven ground and uncomfortable sleeping. Sometimes, after a long day of hiking, a hiker's feet will swell up when sleeping on the ground. A hammock elevates the hiker's feet, reducing this problem. The only real problem with using a hammock is staying warm. This problem is simple to avoid, simply by stuffing quilting or foam into the bottom of the hammock. Many commercial hammocks even have pockets in the bottom for this sole purpose. Even though it might be difficult to get used to initially, most of those that experience camping in this way actually feel more rested and relaxed than they do from sleeping in a normal bed at home. They also tend to have less back pain since hiking with a tent is more cumbersome than with a hammock.

Another benefit to utilizing a hammock in a camping situation is avoiding typical ground hazards. Insects, snakes, and rain runoff are some of the many problems that can ensue when sleeping on the ground. Most hammocks designed for camping also come with an attachable tarpaulin, keeping out rain; whereas rain can runoff into a grounded tent, especially if the ground isn't level. These hammocks also have mosquito netting that can be pinned shut with clothespins to avoid airborne pests. Also, sleeping above the ground means there is less need to worry about snakes or other reptiles.

Still, one of the most important reasons to use a hammock when camping is because the environment is less affected by the campsite. Campsites have a tendency to become eroded because of the impact of many people utilizing the same space. This ruins the experience of getting away from civilization, and also leaves a lasting negative impact on the environment. Hammocks don't crush the grass or leave a weathered area when they are set up. They also allow a hiker to carry more since they are so lightweight, meaning a hiker could even bring a backpacking stove if they wanted to avoid cooking with a fire on warm evenings. This also means that a hiker could potentially camp in less frequented areas and still leave no trace of the fact he or she camped there at all.

The benefits to hammock camping greatly outweigh the drawbacks. It is an interesting new trend in "leave no trace" camping that is comfortable, safe, and environmentally friendly. Steven Barnhart is owner of Made In The Shade Hammocks that features hammocks, camping cots, outdoor mats and other recreational items to enhance the lifestyle of the outdoor enthusiast.
http://www.madeintheshadehammocks.com