22 Nebraskaland • July 2022
there are several commercial campgrounds available, said
Corman. For information on outfi tter-run campsites, visit
bit.ly/3asknnq.
On the Missouri River, you have several camping options:
bit.ly/3zovtnR.
Also, note regulations on open fi res and fi rewood. No open
fi res are allowed on wildlife management areas, and the
collection of fi rewood is prohibited. During dry conditions,
make sure to call ahead about fi re bans on other Game and
Parks properties. Campers should plan on bringing their own
self-contained heat source if they must have one, such as a
small camp stove for cooking. In private campgrounds that
allow campfi res, use local wood only to prevent the spread of
emerald ash borer.
Kayaking Essentials
Jen Corman of Bassett off ers some great tips on packing:
"If kayaking in spring or fall, bring appropriate clothing and
gear to prevent hypothermia in case of an inevitable water
entry. I say inevitable, because I learned the hard way — it
was the 'easy' stretches and non-risky activities that got me.
Also, bring a dry bag for gear and food that shouldn't get wet,
and use carabiners to secure items to your kayak or canoe in
case your boat capsizes. Any lines should be stashed in bags
or compartments to avoid entanglement hazards. I always
bring a headlamp, in case we are stuck on the river after
dark."
Other essentials to bring:
•
Water
•
PFD
•
Pocket knife
•
Folding saw
•
Sunglasses
•
Food
•
Hat
•
Sunblock
•
Paddling gloves
•
Rain gear
•
River map
•
Face/hand wipes
Jen Corman also added: "I have grown as a person, so now
I wear my PFD while kayaking instead of just stashing it on
the boat." Also, wear secure sandals or water shoes instead
of fl ip fl ops.
Marilyn Tabor of Raymond is a fan of softshell coolers,
Fog rises from the Niobrara River at sunrise at Anderson Bridge Wildlife Management Area south of Kilgore.