hot days, wild skies: camping through the heat, the rain, and the buzz

You can check the radar all you want, but weather—and bugs—have their own agenda. One minute, you’re sweating under still skies; the next, you’re racing to tarp your firewood while thunder rolls and gnats swarm your face.

Summer is wild, humid, and full of surprises—but that’s part of the magic. Here’s how to stay cool, stay dry, and stay sane when the heat rises, the skies open, and the bugs start biting.

Beating the Heat, Primitive Style

Primitive camping in the summer is a test of patience, preparation, and pacing. But with a little know-how, you can keep cool—even when the air stands still.

1. Choose Your Campsite Wisely

Some sites catch more breeze or stay shaded longer. Hilltop campsites tend to be breezier and cooler (and less buggy), while forested spots offer all-day shade. Pond-front? Beautiful and shady, but bring your bug spray—stiller air and water make it bug heaven.

2. Make Shade Work for You

• Hang a large tarp (at least 20'x20') above your tent, and be sure it has a silver side. Fold it in half with the reflective silver side facing out. The silver surface helps bounce sunlight away, while the folded layer traps an air pocket that acts as insulation—keeping the heat from seeping down into your tent.

• In a pinch if you don't have a tarp, hang a reflective emergency blanket over your tent to block sun and trap a breeze.

• Set up your eating area under trees or a canopy to stay cool and out of reach from flying insects.

• Consider a mesh bug shelter for longer stays—it’s worth the weight.

  
  

3. Hydrate Like You Mean It

Bring double the water you think you’ll need. Freeze a gallon jug before your trip for a slow-melt, ice-cold drink supply. Don’t forget—we have a shared water spigot at Gray Hills for refills anytime.

4. Cool Down & Bug Up

• A damp bandana around your neck works wonders for heat—and citronella oil helps keep bugs at bay.

• Take breaks near breezy spots. Wind helps with heat and keeps the gnats moving.

• Apply unscented sunscreen first, then bug spray. Reapply both often.

  
  

5. Dress Smart

Loose, light-colored clothes help you stay cool—and bugs are less attracted to light fabric. Long sleeves and pants may sound crazy, but they’re your best defense during peak bug hours (dawn and dusk).

Summer Storms? Bring 'Em On

You haven’t truly camped until you’ve cooked dinner while thunder rumbles and mosquitoes circle the fire.

1. Tarp It Like a Pro

• Set up a large tarp over your tent or common area to keep dry.

• Slant it to direct runoff away from your gear—and consider a second tarp on the ground to reduce splash-back (and mud-loving bugs).

• If hammock camping, secure a long tarp above with mosquito netting underneath.

  
  

2. Keep Gear Dry (and Bug-Free)

• Store clothes and gear in bins or dry sacks. Wet fabric = mosquito party.

• Double-bag your food to reduce smell and attractants.

• Line your backpack with a trash bag for extra waterproofing.

  
  

3. Rainy Fire Skills

• Keep fire-starting materials dry in a sealed bag or tin.

• Use cotton balls soaked in wax or petroleum jelly—they’ll light even in damp weather.

• Build a raised fire bed with dry logs to stay above the wet ground.

  
  

4. Mud Happens

• Choose higher ground for your tent to avoid runoff.

• Bring boots with good grip, and maybe a backup pair of dry socks.

• A small tarp or mat at your tent door goes a long way in keeping the inside clean and critter-free.

  
  

5. What to Do When the Rain Starts (and the Bugs Come Out)

• Read, write, whittle, or nap while the rain taps your tent.

• Play cards or listen to the frogs call back and forth.

• Bonus: bugs are often less active during heavy downpours—embrace the window.

• Bring your ponchos, pull on those rain boots, and don’t be afraid to dance in the rain.

  
  

Beating the Buzz: Bug Wisdom from the Holler

Bugs are part of the ecosystem, and out here, you're the guest. But there are ways to camp smart and keep your trip comfortable:

• Natural repellents like citronella, lemongrass, and eucalyptus work well (and won’t spook the wildlife).

• Avoid scented lotions, soaps, or snacks—you’ll smell like dessert to insects.

• Don’t leave food or trash out—it attracts more than just bugs.

• Mosquito hours are dawn, dusk, and just after a summer rain. That’s your cue to grab long sleeves and a little spray.

  
  

Camping in summer means embracing the whole experience—sun, storms, and skeeters included. Come prepared, and you'll find that these so-called "hassles" are just part of the story you’ll tell later.

Book your stay at Gray Hills, and bring the bug spray, the tarp, and your sense of adventure.

Rain, bugs, and all—it’s still a better story than whatever you’d be doing at home. Wild weather makes wild memories.

Breathe Deep. Stay Wild. Stay Dry. Stay Cool.