Tag: outdoor activities

SUP Yoga: The Basics

Posted on Camille Smith

Are you someone who enjoys yoga on the boat dock? If you’re feeling like taking on a new lake hobby, consider SUP yoga. An acronym for Stand Up Paddleboard yoga, this activity refers to standing up on a paddleboard in a body of water. Typically, this sport is practiced in calmer bodies of water such as lakes or harbors. SUP yoga has become a trending activity in recent years, embraced both by yogis and paddleboarders alike. Today, we’re going to be answering some common questions about SUP yoga on the lake.

What exactly is SUP yoga?

Image courtesy of Real Style Network

Essentially, SUP yoga involves doing the same types of yoga positions that you would in a traditional yoga class and applying them to a paddleboard surface on the water. In yoga, finding balance is a key component of the practice. And what better place to challenge your stability than standing on a paddleboard? 

However, the physical component is only a surface-level part of this activity. The origins of SUP yoga come from yoga itself, a 5,000-year-old practice from Northern India, with roots in Hinduism and Buddhism. At its core, yoga is less about challenging your body and more about the mind-body connection. Therefore, when doing SUP yoga, it’s helpful to consider what a pose may be teaching you or even settle into the experience of quietly breathing.

How difficult is SUP yoga?

Image courtesy of Isle

As you might expect, SUP yoga is considerably more challenging than yoga on land. You’re always grounded on a solid surface on land, whereas with SUP, you have to adjust your movements to the wind and water currents. Plus, your surface (a paddleboard) is more restricted than it would be on land. These extra challenges require a more intense sense of balance.

What equipment do I need?

Photo courtesy of REI

First and foremost, you’ll need a paddleboard. While there are a few different options you can choose from, a stable inflatable platform is generally recommended. This is because the thickness of the board affects its stability. You’ll also need a leash and personal flotation device (PFD) for your safety. When doing SUP yoga, it’s also important to wear proper attire. Clothes that are both stretchy and water-resistant are ideal. Bathing suits with a rashguard will usually do the trick! 

What are the benefits?

Image courtesy of Little Rock Soiree

One of the most apparent benefits of SUP yoga is the joy of being outdoors. Doing yoga on the water is a unique experience that will allow you to connect with nature. In addition, the mental health benefits of being outdoors, especially near a body of water, are well-documented. With SUP yoga, you’ll get these stress-relieving benefits. Additionally, from a physical standpoint, SUP yoga practice will help you build muscles that on-land yoga won’t. It’s a full-body workout that increases your flexibility and strengthens your muscles.

How do I get started?

Image courtesy of Pau Hana Surf Supply

Probably the best way to get started with SUP yoga is by taking a class. If you Google search for “SUP yoga classes {insert name of your town or city}” you’re bound to come up with results. If you choose to start out on your own, the following poses are suitable for beginners: downward-facing dog, chair pose, warrior 2, boat pose, and savasana. You can also check out several YouTube videos detailing how to do these poses on your paddleboard. 

If you’re looking to jump on board the trend of SUP yoga (no pun intended), we hope this information helps! And most of all, we hope you enjoy your time on the lake this summer.

A Beginner’s Guide to Ice Fishing

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Briarwood Club.

It’s no secret that fishing is a favorite activity among lake homeowners. Whether you enjoy cooking a dish with your latest catch or prefer to catch and release, something is exciting yet meditative about this popular hobby.

However, fewer lake dwellers have tried the winter version of this sport. But with the right equipment and guidance, ice fishing can be just as fun — if not more — than the traditional canoe setting. If you live on a northern lake and want to give ice fishing a try, check out this beginner’s guide!

Get the Right Gear

Photo courtesy of Ice Force.

To ice fish properly, you’ll need a different set of gear than for regular fishing. You’ll most definitely need to invest in an auger, a sled, an ice scoop, and a few jigs.

Unless you want to go old-school and use an ax to cut a hole in the ice, the most necessary piece of equipment is an auger. Fuel-powered augers tend to work more quickly, while less expensive hand-powered augers take longer to drill holes. Either way, you’ll create a hole between 6-10 inches to use for fishing.

Besides this tool, a sled is necessary to transport gear from your car to the fishing hole, and the ice scoop keeps your fishing hole clear of slush. Although this gear can be a financial investment, it’s certainly possible to keep costs low and get started for around $200.

Because ice fishing is an extreme-weather sport, warm and dry clothes are essential. Remember to layer up as much as possible — you can always remove layers if you get too warm, but you can’t add more layers if you’ve left them behind. Also, don’t forget a personal flotation device (PFD) in case of an emergency. 

Scout Out a Location

Photo courtesy of Jessica Haydahl Richardson via Outdoor Life.

One of the biggest things that scare anglers away from ice fishing is the potential of falling through the ice. While this is a legitimate concern, it shouldn’t deter you from practicing this sport at all. Instead, there are some considerations to keep in mind.

First, according to anglr.com, you need at least four inches of clear, solid ice to go ice fishing. This ice type typically forms around a lake’s edges, which means you won’t need to sled too far. Once you’ve found a spot, it’s wise to drill a few test holes with your auger to see if fish are moving. If not, pick a new location! 

It’s also important to choose your lake or reservoir wisely. Jim Root, angler and guest writer for Deeper Sonar’s blog, says to avoid rivers, streams, and spring-fed lakes, which often have weak ice. Instead, pick lakes with large fish populations or ponds deeper than 10 feet.

The Perfect Technique

Photo courtesy of AP Photo/Mike Groll via NewYorkUpstate.com.

Finally, it’s time for the fun part — the actual process of ice fishing. At this stage, you have the possibility of catching trout, walleye, perch, and crappie, among others. As Teeg Stouffer, founder of Recycled Fish, told Dick’s Sporting Goods’ blog, “If it can be caught, it can be caught through ice.”

To catch these fish, you need to have good tools and techniques. While a traditional fishing rod and line can still work in a pinch, it’s worth investing in a jigging rod for ice fishing, which will allow you to catch fish at greater depths than a standard rod.

When ice fishing, keep in mind that jig color matters for catching fish. Just set up a simple trap with a sinker and minnow, then wait for the fish to come to you! If you don’t get any action for about an hour, it’s worth trying a different spot. 

If you’re an angler who doesn’t mind extreme weather, ice fishing may be your perfect sport! We hope you reel in some good ones this winter.

Which Winter Activity Should You Do Today?

Posted on Camille Smith

Throughout the pandemic, health professionals have encouraged us to stay inside more often. And when engaging in outdoor activities, we should stay at least 6 feet away from those who aren’t in our household.

Thankfully for those of us who live at the lake, social distancing is easier than ever. We have the luxury of a remote location, surrounding nature, and plenty of space to enjoy the lake lifestyle. 

During the winter, it’s easy to get bummed about the impending cold weather. However, the chill outside shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a variety of socially distant winter activities! If you’re having trouble picking an activity for today, check out this flowchart we’ve created. Just start at the top, answer each question, and determine what activity is right for you today! 

Download Flowchart

Indoor Activities

If your result landed on one of the indoor winter activities, we hope you’re excited about a cozy day inside, full of hygge and relaxation. As fellow lake lovers, we know there’s nothing more relaxing than snuggling up with a blanket while looking out your window at falling snow around your lake’s shoreline. It’s the essence of winter comfort.

If you’re feeling like lounging around, try starting the fireplace and picking up one of the popular books in 2020. If you’re interested in a DIY project, start a winter-themed craft such as paper snowflakes.

Today, for those of us who love baking, it may also be a great day to begin a new cooking project. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party over Zoom or baking cookies for one, there’s something about homemade dishes that warm the soul during this cold season. 

Outdoor Activities

If your quiz results settled on an outdoor activity, make sure to bundle up! Depending on your lake house’s region, you might be in for some snow activities.

If you live in a northeastern lake area such Lake Placid, you might be lucky enough to hit the slopes. Skiing is one of the winter activities that are COVID-ready. It already requires an eye shield and neck warmers that can double as face masks — win-win for social distancing!

For a stationary adventure, you can try ice fishing. Especially if you’re an avid angler, this winter version of your favorite hobby is sure to be a fun adventure.

If you’d rather stay at home, you can still enjoy being outside in your backyard. For a more low-key day, gather around the fire pit with some blankets. For a more active afternoon, enjoy the snow layers by building a snowman or playing footprint tag.

If you’re not familiar with footprint tag, it’s the same as the traditional game — except you can only walk in each other’s snow footprints! 

Enjoy Your Winter Wonderland

Regardless of which kind of winter activities you pick for today, we hope you make the most of your time at the lake. Even in the cold weather, embracing both the cozy indoors and the exciting natural world is what the lake lifestyle is all about. From our lake house to yours, we hope you enjoy your winter wonderland!

Camping Series #4: Five Camping Gear Must-Haves

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Fresh Off the Grid.

You might be familiar with the famous Franz Kafka quote: “Better to have and not need than to need and not have.” This quote certainly applies to camping gear. When you’re in the woods, it’s every camper’s nightmare to need something that you’ve forgotten at home desperately. 

However, this rule is difficult to follow when there’s limited space in your backpack or car. How can you know what’s essential? To help you with that list of essentials, our final installment in our Camping Series is dedicated to the topic. Check out this list of five camping gear must-haves for your next outdoor adventure.

Bag Water Bottles

DuoLock Soft Bottle – Platypus.com.

When you’re out camping, especially with a smaller backpack, space is precious. Carrying around an empty Camelback or Swell can feel like a serious waste of room in your pack, although these are excellent brands. 

While plastic water bottles are certainly an option because you can crumple them when you’re done, they are not reusable and wasteful to the environment—introducing the perfect solution – bag water bottles. 

This piece of camping gear’s novelty is that they’re both foldable and reusable. When you’re done, fold the bag in your backpack to save space and refill it when you’re ready! Essentially, it’s every camper’s dream. You can find this product from brands like Platypus or on Amazon. 

Camp Kitchen

Portable Camp Kitchen – Costway.

If you’re out hiking for just an afternoon, it’s easy to pack a non-refrigerated sandwich like a classic PBJ or a Cliff Bar. However, when you’re camping overnight, you need more than just snacks. If you’re wondering how to replicate your home kitchen at a campsite, camp kitchens are the answer. 

Smaller kitchen supplies like the Soto Amicus Cookset are perfect for backpacking or picnic trips. This compact, lightweight piece includes two pots and a stove, ideal for cooking pasta in the woods. 

If you’re staying at a campsite with the luxury of bringing your car, try this set from Trail Kitchens. Portable, yet comprehensive, this piece of camping gear is ideal for outdoor trips with large groups. 

Portable Furniture

Photo courtesy of Caleigh Waldman via NYTimes.com.

When roasting marshmallows around the fire at your campsite, you may not be lucky enough to find solid logs for sitting. And even then, it might be uncomfortable. Incorporate more relaxation into your camping trip with portable furniture. 

For low-to-the-ground seating, Crazy Creek chairs are an excellent choice. The original chair has been popular for over 30 years, earning the title of “toughest gear” from Backpacker Magazine. For more elevation from the ground, check out the co-op chair from REI. Sturdy, flexible, and easy to assemble; this product is ideal for campers. 

Headlamp

Photo courtesy of Vincent Guth via Popular Science.

Although stars are undoubtedly brighter when you’re out in the woods than at your lake house, they likely won’t be sufficient for guiding your way if you’re lost. If you’re camping overnight, a high-quality headlamp is a must-have piece of hiking equipment. 

One of the top-ranked products is the Petzel Actik Core Headlamp. With night vision features and a rechargeable battery, this piece of camping gear is sure to last for years of adventures. However, it’s also not necessary to break the bank on a headlamp. 

For a more affordable option, check out the similar Petzel Tikkina Headlamp. Although it isn’t rechargeable, it comes with multiple lighting levels and an adjustable head strap. 

Collapsible Dog Bowl

Photo courtesy of The Dog Outdoors.

If you frequently go on camping adventures with your pup, a collapsible dog bowl is an essential piece of camping gear. Since it’s foldable, it can easily store in your backpack, and you can reuse it whenever your dog needs a refreshing drink of water. Ruffwear’s collapsible dog bowl is one of the top brands, made with a durable fabric. 

Besides dog bowls, this company makes various camping and outdoor activity equipment for our furry companions. 

For more information about camping, check out our previous blog posts in the Camping Series. From activities like starting a campfire to pitching a tent, we’re covering the essentials of braving the great outdoors. 

Sky Phenomenon to View from Your Lake House

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Popular Science.

There’s something magical about the night sky. Valerie Stimeck, the author of the book Dark Skies, refers to the stars as “one of the few unifying features of human history.” 

Unfortunately, modern skies, shrouded in city lights, don’t allow for proper stargazing. It’s reported that 90% of the United States population lives with significant light pollution. Given the pervasiveness of artificial lights, you’re probably missing out on more stars than you realize. 

If your lake house is in a rural area, you might be part of the lucky 10%. On the next clear night, venture to your boat dock and see if you can spot these five sky phenomena from your lake house. 

Constellations

Photo courtesy of Hubpages.com.

Constellations are perhaps the most famous sky phenomenon — and they have been for a long time. Of the 88 constellations recognized by astronomers today, 48 of them date back to the Ancient Greek and Babylonian times. Each night since the dawn of time, these patterns of stars have returned to their places, and their predictability is part of why stargazers love them. 

The prominence of constellations differs based on seasonality. During the summer, the Big Dipper is easiest to spot in the Northern Hemisphere. As fall approaches, be on the lookout for Pegasus and Andromeda. Need help finding constellations in the night sky? An app can help with that. With Sky Guide, point your phone to the sky above, and it will outline constellations for you.

Planets

Photo courtesy of Sky & Telescope.

Constellations are perhaps the most famous sky phenomenon — and they have been for a long time. Of the 88 constellations recognized by astronomers today, 48 of them date back to the Ancient Greek and Babylonian times. Each night since the dawn of time, these patterns of stars have returned to their places, and their predictability is part of why stargazers love them. 

However, their prominence differs based on seasonality. During the summer, the Big Dipper is easiest to spot in the Northern Hemisphere. As fall approaches, be on the lookout for Pegasus and Andromeda. Need help finding constellations in the night sky? An app can help with that. With Sky Guide, simply point your phone to the sky above, and it will outline constellations for you.

Milky Way

Photo courtesy of Dan’s Camera.

At one point in time, the Milky Way was always visible on every moonless night. However, due to light pollution, its appearance isn’t as consistent. It’s brightest in the southern hemisphere of the modern sky, but you can still view this sky phenomenon from your lake house. You’ll see dust lanes, nebulas, and star clusters within the constellation Sagittarius, making up the brightest part of the galaxy. Between June and August, our galaxy appears most brilliant, while December through February is when it’s invisible and too close to the sun. Right now, it’s a perfect time of year to look for the Milky Way on a clear night!

Comets

Photo courtesy of @alisonleedham via Twenty20.

According to NASA, comets are “cosmic snowballs of frozen gasses.” As they travel close to the sun, they spew gas and dust, forming a tail that stretches millions of miles. On rare occasions, you may be lucky enough to spot a comet at your lake house. Typically, they appear just around sunrise or sunset. 

Although comets are rare to witness, some reliably appear in the night sky. You may have recently heard of Comet Neowise, which came closest to the Earth in late July 2020. Famously, Halley’s Comet reappears every 75 years, so it’s possible to see it twice in one average lifetime. Mark Twain was born in a year when Halley’s Comet was visible, and he died the year it was visible again. Other well-known comets include Comet Hale-Bopp and Comet Encke. Regardless of which comet you’ve set out to see, owning a lake home in a less light-polluted area increases your chances of witnessing this sky phenomenon.

Northern Lights

Photo courtesy of SUOMI PHOTOGRAPHY via Pexels

This one is for lake homeowners in the northern U.S. You likely won’t see the Northern Lights directly from your patio, but many of our markets with listings are close to parks where this sky phenomenon is visible. For instance, stargazers have witnessed the aurora borealis in the Panhandle National Forest in Idaho, Acadia National Park in Maine, and Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Michigan. If you’re lucky enough to witness this beautiful sky phenomenon, in which earth’s gases collide with sun particles, your photos won’t do justice to its magnificence.

If you can’t see every sky phenomenon at your lake house, no need to worry. There are plenty of ways to tackle light pollution at your own home to increase visibility. So grab a pair of binoculars and start stargazing! 

Fall Lake Activity: Spotting Wildlife

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of nps.org.

With winter just around the corner, we’re all trying to squeeze in the remaining months of enjoyable weather. In particular, autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors at your lake house.

There’s Halloween and Thanksgiving’s seasonal charm, an array of beautiful fall leaves, and there’s exciting wildlife to spot. The next time you’re lounging in an Adirondack chair in your backyard this season, keep an eye out for these creatures!

Squirrels and Chipmunks

Wild chipmunk in a Boreal forest, North Quebec, Canada.
Photo courtesy of eekwi.org.

Perhaps one of the most common creatures you’ll find at your lake house is the squirrel. Squirrels are one of the quintessential animals of fall. They spend the entire season preparing for the long winter ahead. This preparation means “fattening up” and burying acorns all across your property. Once winter hits, you’ll find them digging up the acorns that they stashed in October.

Squirrels have the uncanny ability to smell their buried acorns beneath a foot of snow. What’s in store for the nuts they forget? They’ll eventually become trees in your backyard!

Peregrine Falcons

Photo courtesy of fieldmuseum.org.

During autumn, spotting wildlife is not too difficult due to the influx of migrating birds heading south for the winter. One migratory species is the Peregrine falcon. Able to fly up to 200 miles per hour, these majestic birds are the fastest animal on earth.

Each fall, Peregrines travel to South America, and typically, they take a short break in South Florida before crossing the Gulf of Mexico on the remainder of their trip. If you own a lake house in the southern U.S., it’s worth making a Florida Keys trip to watch peak migration during October. Make sure to bring your binoculars! 

Monarch Butterflies

Photo courtesy of wkms.org.

Birds aren’t the only creatures that you’ll find migrating this season. According to the International Union for Conservation and Natural Resources, the monarch butterfly migration northward from Mexico each spring is a “threatened phenomenon.” Despite this endangered state, you’re still likely to spot these stunning butterflies on their journey back to Mexico in October. By November and December, they’ll have settled down, so be sure to enjoy them while you can!

Beavers

Photo courtesy of boredpanda.com.

One advantage of spotting wildlife on the lake is getting double the possibilities of sightings with land and water creatures. During the fall, you may find adorable families of beavers around the shoreline of your lake or another nearby body of water. More than likely, they’ll be busy gnawing at a tree to build their dams.

It’s no wonder beavers are known as “nature’s engineers” as they’re masterfully skilled at constructing habitats. If you’re lucky enough to spot one, be sure to keep a safe distance. If you notice them slap their tail on the water, it’s a sign you’re too close.

Elk

Photo courtesy of Explore Big Sky.

If you own a lake house in the American west, you may be fortunate enough to spot an elk. These massive animals (the largest animal in the deer family) enjoy mountainous areas such as Yellowstone National Park. However, some elk herds have been found in more wooded areas.

If you’re hoping to find an elk during your next outdoor adventure, a piercing bugling noise may reveal this creature’s presence. During the fall mating season, male elk let out these high-pitched calls to attract females. October is part of peak bugling season, so keep your ears open! 

Although we are in the midst of a pandemic, it’s provided an optimal time for lake-lovers like us to observe the natural world around us. Spotting wildlife at your lake house is a fun, timely hobby for the whole family. All you need is a camera, a pair of binoculars, and a keen sense of observation!

Camping Series #2: Pitching a Tent

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Pinterest.

Nothing says “autumn” more than a good old fashioned camping trip near your lake house. This time of year, roasting marshmallows and sleeping under the stars is a great way to get in touch with nature. However, this classic activity comes with some arduous responsibilities, such as building a campfire. But perhaps the most daunting task is pitching a tent. Unless you’re a seasoned camper or former Eagle scout, this endeavor isn’t intuitive. With so many poles, ties, and fabric, how do you know where to start? To help you prepare for your next camping adventure, we’ve compiled a list of pointers for pitching a tent!

1. Make Sure You Have Everything

Photo courtesy of Fresh Air Junkie.

There’s nothing worse than starting your journey, being deep in the woods, reaching into your tent bag, and realizing that you’re missing pieces. You don’t want to be stranded without everything you need to construct your tent. As such, it’s best to make sure everything’s in the bag first. Ideally, you should accomplish this step before you leave your lake house. Better yet — set up a practice tent in your backyard by the water! 

Depending on the type of tent that you have, the required components will be different. However, the most standard tents include the main body, a rain fly, ground cloth, and stakes.

2. Lay the Groundwork

Photo courtesy of Camping Maniacs.

Just like a proper foundation is essential for any home, it’s also crucial for pitching a tent. This means choosing a site with a flat surface and clearing away any sharp rocks, twigs, and stones from the general area. After all, you want to create a comfortable environment conducive to sleeping soundly. Once you’ve found your spot, lay all of your components out of the bag onto the ground and line them up visibly. This way, you’ll be able to assemble them quickly without fumbling around at every step. 

Once you’ve found a spot, cleared the ground, and laid out your pieces, the real work comes next. First, lay the tent’s main body on top of the ground cloth. The hooks should be facing up so that you can assemble the poles later. Typically, the tent corners have color-coded tags, making sure the colors on the ground cloth align with those on the main body.

3. Assemble the Poles

Photo courtesy of REI.

Usually, a standard tent comes with four poles – two larger ones and two smaller ones. Since the tent curves at the top, assemble the poles so that the smaller pieces are facing towards the center. Then, lay the assembled poles onto the main body and set them up one at a time. 

To set up a pole, first, insert the end piece into the holder on the tag. Then loop it through the provided slots in the tent, as though you’re looping a belt onto a pair of jeans. Once you’ve pulled the pole through all the loops, insert the other end into the hole or slot provided. Repeat the process for other poles! 

If this step is the most frustrating for you, you’re not alone! It’s the most detailed step, and you’re bound to make errors, especially if this is your first time pitching a tent. If you’re camping with others, ask for help on this part to minimize errors. 

4. Stake the Tent

Photo courtesy of GudGear.com.

Each corner of the tent should come with loops for staking. Loop these features around the stake. Then, using a foot or hammer, stake the tent into the ground at a 45-degree angle (this angle should be facing away from the tent to create tension and keep the tent standing). Do this for all four corners of the tent. As a pro tip, it’s helpful to stake opposite corners first for the utmost stability. 

Finally, slide the rain fly over the tent’s top and attach it to the same loop as the stake loops. Hopefully, you won’t catch too much rain. But if you’re unlucky, there’s plenty of advice on pitching a tent in bad weather.

5. Enjoy the Tent

Photo courtesy of @heidi.mag via Twenty20.

Finally, your tent is ready! It’s time to unroll your sleeping bags inside and enjoy your camping trip to the fullest. Clean air and cool temps make for the best sleeping experience. Waking up to a slice of nature is divine. If you have never tent camped or if it has been a while, do yourself a favor and reconnect with the natural world in a tent!

Camping Series #1: A Guide to Campfires

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of lovetoknow.com.

Especially in the fall, camping is a fan-favorite hobby for lake homeowners who love the outdoors. There’s nothing better than waking to beautiful foliage when the leaves are in peak season. 

Since the air is crisp this time of year, making a bonfire is a beloved part of camping. However, if you’ve recently been watching the news in California, you’re aware of how wildfires can quickly spread. 

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to stay safe while still enjoying a warm fire on the trail. Check out our advice on how to create a safe and fun bonfire while camping this fall! 

Know the Local Rules

Photo courtesy of Zion National Park.

Depending on your campground, the rules surrounding where and when you can light a fire may differ. It’s best to call the campground or visitor center before making the trip (and before you lose cell phone service in the woods) so you can find out the regulations.

These fire rules can also change depending on weather conditions. If it’s been windy or dry lately, for example, the park might ban campfires due to potential hazards.

Use Local Kindling Wood

When choosing wood to start a campfire, be sure to buy it near the campground. Better yet, choose a variety of sticks and tree branches from the local campground.

 If you buy wood elsewhere, you never know what pests it might bring along with it! The last thing you want to do is introduce non-native pests to the natural environment. 

Once you have the firewood, remember not to stack them in a dense pile. Instead, lay down larger pieces in a crosshatch pattern (much like when playing Jenga).

Place the dried leaves and twigs at the bottom of your “tower’ and light the fire. For more detailed insight, check out REI’s video “How to Build a Campfire.” 

Know What Accelerants to Use

Photo courtesy of lovetoknow.com.

Next to starting a fire, the second challenge is keeping the fire going. Perhaps “gasoline” is the first word that comes to mind when you think of accelerants, but it’s hazardous to add gas to a campfire.

Instead, stick to using lighter fluids if you must use an accelerant — and remember to never use it directly on open flames. Also, be sure to confirm with the campground’s visitor center that the use of lighter fluids is okay. 

Besides accelerant products, one practical way to create long-lasting campfires is by picking the right wood. Dry wood will burn quickly, but wetter woods tend to burn slower. If you can, choose the latter! 

Don’t Sit So Close

Photo courtesy of Marthastewart.com.

Although you created the fire, you’re not immune to getting burned. As a general rule, campfires should be close enough for marshmallow roasting but far away to prevent burning your hands. 

Also, remember that fires can burn synthetic materials. So, keep your fleece coat’s wellbeing in mind, as well as your own, next time you build a campfire. As for the distance from your tent, a good rule of thumb is 50 feet.

Extinguish Properly

Photo courtesy of REI.

According to the National Parks Service, almost 85% of wildland fires are caused by humans. This statistic includes campfires that are left unattended and not extinguished properly. 

To keep the site safe, be sure to extinguish the fire with water (but don’t stand too close to the steam), then stir the ashes and pour water again. You should repeat this process until the ashes are cool to the touch. 

Although some recommend it, don’t use dirt or sand to extinguish campfires. In doing so, hot coals can remain insulated and cause another flame. 

Before leaving the campsite, remember to burn trash that can be fully consumed by fire. Anything that can’t burn (e.g., plastic, cans, and aluminum foil) should be carried and thrown away accordingly. It’s just good etiquette! 

As nature lovers who live on the lake, we find it essential to leave no trace when camping. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your campfires are safe, effective, and fun! 

Sun Protection Series #2: Why You Should Always Wear Sunglasses on the Lake

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Rheos.

When you hear the phrase “sun protection,” do you only think of sunscreen? Of course, using SPF is vital for healthy skin and cancer prevention. However, you may not realize that UVA and UVB rays can harm the eyes just like they can damage the skin. For lake homeowners who love spending time outdoors, wearing sunglasses is a critical step in practicing sun protection. Whether you spend $10 or $200, a pair of sunnies aren’t just for style, and Lake Homes is here to explain why.

How Does the Sun Affect My Eyes?

Photo courtesy of medexpress.com.

As John Denver once said in a song, “sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy, sunshine in my eyes can make me cry.” Despite Denver’s words, the sun can do a lot more to your eyes than cause tears. Sun exposure has positive benefits like improving eyesight, but too much exposure can cause eye damage. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, eyelid skin cancer accounts for 5-10% of skin cancer cases. Many people haven’t considered the possibility of eyelid cancer, but this unknown aspect makes it dangerous. Left untreated, it can cause tissue damage and even blindness. Sun exposure to the eyes can also result in other conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. These ailments can take a long time to develop, so it’s best to begin sun protection early on. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, babies and kids should wear sunglasses and hats just like adults. 

Why Are Sunglasses Important on the Lake?

Photo courtesy of njozilife.com.

If you own a lake home, you’re already spending a lot of time outside. As such, the increased frequency of sun exposure warrants more careful attention to sun protection. If you’re a hiker or cycler, UV intensity increases with altitude, making sun protection even more crucial. Additionally, a glaring (no pun intended) concern specific to lake dwellers is proximity to the water. According to Rebecca Berton, co-founder of Rheos Nautical Eyewear, “Water can reflect up to 100% of UV rays, doubling your exposure and increasing your risk of sun damage.” Water’s high refractive index can even result in corneal sunburn (snow blindness). This condition happens quickly and dramatically. In one instance, dog sled racer Doug Swingley developed corneal sunburn in seconds in the 2004 Iditarod sledding competition. Although water posits a lower risk than snow, it’s still possible.

What Are Some Good Sunglasses Brands?

Photo courtesy of Rheos.

Despite these plentiful risks, Rebecca shares that according to research, only half of Americans are likely to wear sunglasses near a water body. Whether due to ignorance of the threat or carelessness, there are ramifications for chronically skipping the sunglasses. To avoid contributing to the statistic, you can invest in a pair of well-made sunglasses. Rheos is one of these brands — their floatable lenses provide 100% UV protection and polarization. Rebecca describes, “We created a collection of eyewear built specifically for the water, so you can spend time doing what you love on the boat or dock without worrying about losing your shades. Your sunglasses should protect you and not the other way around.”

Another brand dedicated to sun protection on the water is Flying Fisherman. The glasses are designed specifically for fishing and boating. Flying Fisherman products have trademarked AcuTint lenses that eliminate reflective glare and add contrast and clarity to your vision. They also block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Vice president, Linda Sheldon, adds, “For 35 years, the biggest thing we’re known for is offering quality, affordable, polarized eyewear… we offer an excellent product for a very reasonable price.” Their glasses are available in 50 different styles for women, men, and kids. One of their kids’ styles, The Buoy, was featured in the Wall Street Journal. 

By investing in a high-quality pair of sunglasses, you’re investing in long-term skin and eye care. And you’ll look fabulous doing it!