Outdoor Adventures at Night: How to Stay Safe

After gaining confidence with daytime outdoor activities, the next step is to explore after-dark or overnight adventures for an elevated experience.

During adventures at night you are witness to a different side of the environment that is not visible during the day. The darkness adds a layer of mystery to the surroundings, and the noises of nocturnal animals create an eerie but fascinating ambiance.

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Adventures at Night: Guided Activities

One of the best (and safest) ways to go on adventures at night is by going on a guided activity. Not only does it provide a safe environment, but the guide can also point out different plants and animals that are active during the night hours. It’s a chance to learn more about the nocturnal habits of these creatures and appreciate the beauty of nature in a different light.

State parks often offer nighttime guided activities, such as hiking or kayaking. Our most recent nighttime guided hike was at Petit Jean State Park to Rockhouse Cave, led by a Park Ranger. This “cave” is a large bluff dwelling with ancient pictographs that was fascinating to visit in the dark with our flashlights. Having a park interpreter by your side- Pure gold.

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Just a little Adventures at Night

Another way to step into the nighttime atmosphere is to start your activity before sunrise or continue it after sunset to get a small dose of the dark hours. We have tried this with both hiking and kayaking for some gorgeous sunrise and sunset viewings.

Hiking is the easier option to push into the dark hours by an hour or so. Kayaking takes much more planning to be on the water at night, as it is the riskier activity after dark.

Camping Adventures at Night

If you want to fully experience the essence of the great outdoors at night, overnight camping is an excellent option. Camping can be done in a more primitive way (in a tent with no electricity or bathhouse), or a more social way (in a camper with electricity at a campground).

Pros of tent camping

• Affordable: Tent camping is one of the most affordable ways to enjoy the outdoors. You don’t need to pay for a hotel room or campsite fees (depending on where you camp), and you can cook your meals to save even more money.
• Connects you with nature: Tent camping is a great way to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the outdoors. You can sleep under the stars, listen to the sounds of the forest, and wake up to the sunrise.
• Fun and challenging: Tent camping can be a fun and challenging activity for people of all ages. It’s a great way to get exercise, learn new skills, and bond with friends and family.

Cons of tent camping

• Uncomfortable: Tent camping can be uncomfortable, especially if you are not used to it. The ground can be hard, the air can be cold, and the bugs can be annoying.
• Weather dependent: Tent camping is weather dependent, so if it rains or snows, your trip can be ruined.
• Dangerous: Tent camping can be dangerous if you are not prepared. There is always the risk of encountering wild animals, getting lost in the wilderness, or injuring yourself.

Pros of camping in a camper

• Comfortable: Camping in an rv can be much more comfortable than tent camping. You have a bed to sleep in, a kitchen to cook in, and a bathroom to use.
• Convenient: Campers come with a variety of amenities, such as refrigerators, stoves, and microwaves. This makes it easy to prepare meals and stay comfortable while camping.
• Safe: Being inside a camper offers a layer of protection between you, mother nature, and animals.

Cons of camping in a camper

• Expensive: Campers can be expensive to buy and maintain. You also may need to pay for campground fees (especially if you want electrical hookup).
• Limited access: Campers can’t go everywhere that tents can go. For example, you may not be able to camp in dispersed areas or on backcountry roads.
• Less rustic: Camping in a camper is less rustic than tent camping. You may not feel as connected to nature when you are staying in a camper.

Pros of camping in a campground

• Amenities: Campgrounds typically have a variety of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and camp stores. This can make camping more comfortable and convenient, especially for families with young children.
• Safety: Campgrounds are typically well-maintained and have security measures in place, such as staff on duty and locked gates. This can make camping feel safer than camping in dispersed areas.
• Social activities: Campgrounds often offer organized activities and events for campers to participate in, such as campfires, potlucks, and games. This can be a great way to meet new people and make friends.
• Accessibility: Campgrounds are often located in scenic areas and are easily accessible by car. This makes them a good option for people who are new to camping or who have mobility issues.

Cons of camping in a campground

• Cost: Campgrounds can be expensive, especially during peak season. You also need to pay for any extras, such as firewood and ice.
• Crowds: Campgrounds can be crowded, especially during peak season. This can take away from the peace and tranquility of camping.
• Rules and regulations: Campgrounds typically have several rules and regulations that campers must follow, such as noise restrictions and campfire curfews. This can make camping feel less rustic and more restrictive.
• Limited access: Campgrounds are typically located in developed areas, so you may not have access to the same level of wilderness and solitude as you would if you were camping in a dispersed area.

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Safety First with Adventures at Night

• Plan ahead: Before you go on any adventures at night, be sure to research the area, check the weather forecast, and plan your route. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
• Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear that is appropriate for the activity you are doing and the weather conditions. Be sure to pack layers so that you can adjust to changing temperatures.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks: It is important to stay hydrated and fueled, especially when you are exercising or spending time in hot weather.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife, steep drop-offs, and loose rocks.
• Don’t take unnecessary risks: If you are unsure about something, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Better safe than sorry.

• Stick to well-marked trails: Avoid hiking off-trail, especially with adventures at night, as this can be dangerous and can lead you to get lost.
• Tell someone where you are going: Let a friend, family member, or park ranger know where you are going and when you expect to be back. This way, someone can come looking for you if you don’t return on time.
• Be aware of the weather: Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changes in the weather conditions.
• Bring a first-aid kit: It is always a good idea to bring a first-aid kit with you, even if you are only going on a short hike.
• Leave no trace: When you are finished enjoying the outdoors, be sure to pack out all of your trash and leave the area as you found it.

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My Favorite Adventures at Night

My favorite of the adventures at night is a combination of the above ideas: Boondock overnight in a camper van (because I need that bed, toilet, and electricity!) and leave out early on a hike to catch the sunrise from an amazing overlook. We camp at a trailhead, usually alone, but sometimes there are one or 2 others with the same plane.

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We leave out early enough on our hike to arrive at the destination a half hour before sunrise to greet the day with a stunning sunrise. Tip: The best sunrise colors are in the half-hour before actual sunrise (when the sun is over the horizon).

For a fun bit of random information:

Phases of Sunrise

1. Astronomical twilight -The phase begins when the sun is 18 degrees below the horizon and ends when the sun is 12 degrees below the horizon. The sky is dark, but the faintest stars and planets begin to appear.

2. Nautical twilight- The phase begins when the sun is 12 degrees below the horizon and ends when the sun is 6 degrees below the horizon. The sky is lighter, and the brighter stars and planets are visible. Sailors can use the horizon to navigate during this phase.

3. Civil twilight- The phase begins when the sun is 6 degrees below the horizon and ends when the sun rises. The sky is light enough to see objects without the aid of artificial light. This is the phase of sunrise that most people are familiar with.

4. Sunrise- This is the moment when the top edge of the sun appears above the horizon. The sky is bright, and most stars and planets are no longer visible.

The phases of sunrise can vary in length depending on the time of year and the latitude. For example, sunrises are longer in the summer and shorter in the winter. Sunrises are also longer at higher latitudes than at lower latitudes.

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Final Thoughts on Adventures at Night

Exploring nature at night is an adventure that can provide a unique perspective on the environment. It’s a chance to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and appreciate the beauty of the natural world in a unique way.

Nighttime gives animals that are typically hidden during the day a chance to come out and showcase their behavior. Owls can be heard hooting in the distance, bats can be seen fluttering around catching insects, and fireflies light up the sky.

It’s easy to take for granted the natural world around us, but taking the time to explore it at night can remind us of its wonder and magic. Not to mention, the peacefulness and tranquility of being in nature can be a refreshing break from the noise and chaos of modern life. So why not take a walk under the stars and see what you can discover in the great outdoors at night?

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Take a moment to visit…

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