Any pansies here? Or those that hike/hunt/camp with them

Try not to make it a chest thumping king of the woods kind of thing, best is to teach one need at a time as they arise, not necessarily showing the direct answer, but guiding the way to it. This can be a relaxing eye opening experience for all or it could be the last time the "newbs" want to go out and the last time the "experienced hikers" want to teach.:)
 
Make sure to keep a very sharp eye on those new campers who use sharp edges!! Accidents happen, especially to those who are using unfamiliar tools. A bad cut out in the woods can spoil one's entire day... and experience with being "off the pavement."

Also, although you didn't bother to list your location or where you'll be camping, you should check weather reports before going. This time of the year in certain parts of the country, there can be wild weather fluctuations, especially in mountainous areas. Taking neophytes into the boonies, and then having to sit under a tarp or in a flimsy tent for two days soaking wet and cold, doesn't reinforce a new-to-the-boonies camper's desire to ever go back. :(

Good luck.

L.W.
 
Baby steps yes- reducing it to a park walk, no.

One of the reasons for baby steps is to give people a chance to enjoy, explore, and figure things out. You may end up with a birdwatcher and a basketweaver, and a flint knapper.
But while you have to balance the relative efforts and challenges, coddling as such isn't necessary :)


That would be great...then they could teach me flintknapping...When I was "taught" how to do it, it looked like some guy just bangin 2 rocks togethr and magically ending up with one sharp one. I couldn't get the hang of it. My consolation was his inability to make a decent fire with wet tinder...

runsalone...that is not my intent. That is the main reason I was trying to glean experience off of those who have introduced newbs to this kind of stuff. I grew up around it, so it has always been something I do.

gaazati...or they have the worse problem of not drinking enough or waiting too late to drink. The other guys going with me and I have decided that there will be mandated water breaks. It saves lives and time...lead by example

leanwolf...I am trying to do this in the Texas Hill Country where I live. While summer is a bit hot, the weather is usually steady. It is not unbearable in the woods.
 
I would Mabey Start with a day hike with basic gear someplace local to you, Walking on trails is differnt than walking on roads and side walks.

I agree with fire starting or even an overnighter in a yard first.


these guys sound like they are in shape and with the right direction should be okay.


Work on navigation Map reading and emergency survival before you go, and just keep an eye on them, are they hydrated and fed, cold, overheated etc. you should know the signs and teach them to these guys.
 
Car camping is always easy and people know they have an out if something goes downhill.

The swimming idea is a good one.

Other people may just want to relax and read or drink the day/night away.

Keeping it low pressure is easier on everyone. But a head full of "activities" is good for those that are more motivated.

Have fun!
J.
 
I see no problems with overnight hikes for a starter trip! You just have to plan a little.

That being said, I'm ALL ABOUT car base camping for 2 weeks and really gettin into things, doing overnights during that time. Problem is finding 2 weeks.

mental security, real safety, fun. That doesn't preclude a bit of strenuous exercise- physical or mental.

A lot of people know how to use knives safely- ask, and show each other what you do. I tend to stay away from folders except for an SAK that has a can, bottle, wine opener and scissors. I could actually care less about the blade. Fixed blades are safer IMO. Just, PLEASE, no Buck 119s for general camp use, kay? ;)
 
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