For some people, camping, may it be setting camp in the wilderness or a state park camping, is more than just a recreational activity; it is a challenge.

Some may go on a camping trip with other groups of people in some undeclared contest to find out which group could survive living in the wild best. Although there would be no actual winner to this “cold war” between camping groups, the price would be the satisfaction in knowing that you have the best skills and knowledge of surviving outdoors. This may seem ridiculous, yet this happens in reality, especially if neighbors go out on a camping trip together. Mothers would discuss how well they have prepared for the trip while fathers would discuss how much they know about camping. Children on the other hand, may discuss whoever has a great dad or a cool mom.

This scenario does not mean that the competition between families and groups would end up in some wacky riot just like what is often seen in the movies. People in real life know better than to ruin someone else’s vacation as well as their own. More often than not, this kind of healthy competition leads to the sharing of ideas, knowledge and stories as well as the sharing of the wonderful experience with nature.