PopUp Times

I just bought my camper and have never camped in a popup.  I have a question about security at campsites.

What do people typically carry for personal protection in a popup since it's virtually a tent on wheels?  Pepper spray, tazer, firearm?  

Have any of you ever had any problems in a public campground such as a state park?  

Hopefully this will never be a problem but I like to be prepared.  


Any information will be helpful
Thanks

We've only had our pup since last year, but we've never had any problems.  If you feel you need the protection, then pepper spray would probably do the trick.

Quote from: uchwearI just bought my camper and have never camped in a popup.  I have a question about security at campsites.

What do people typically carry for personal protection in a popup since it's virtually a tent on wheels?  Pepper spray, tazer, firearm?  

Have any of you ever had any problems in a public campground such as a state park?  

Hopefully this will never be a problem but I like to be prepared.  


Any information will be helpful
Thanks

 In my opinion if you need to take some sort of defense with you when you go camping, your bringing too much. Sorry just saw personal protection, Have never had a problem and don't plan on it. With all the stuff Laying around at all camps the only thing I've every heard of was cooler raids! :mad:  They mess with my fridge outside and they will meet trouble! :Z  Of course there are some invasions of the critter kind, thats when I bungee the fridge door closed! You should see the claw marks. (only had that problem at state parks.

We've never carried any thing like that. We have had some firewood stolen, and even a flashlight while Holly was showering (she had it in the shower stall with her). However, both steals happened on a holiday weekend when all cg's were full, and there were definitely some unprepared/unprofessional campers. We rarely camp on Holiday weekends anymore. Terrible experience.

Other than that, we have never had any problems.

Larry

I agree, if you think you need to carry a weapon you probably should be picking out a new camping location.

I'll be the "over the top", "crazy" on this one.
I carry a Glock .40 everytime we camp.  Too many crazy people in the world today.  Never had to use a gun, never had to show a gun, but if the time comes, it's there...
flame...on :D

If I have to start carrying some sort of protection while I am camping, I will put the trailer up for sale.

One of the reasons we have camped all these years is because of the great people that we have met.

If you have something of value, lock it in the tv and don't leave it in the camper.

Unfortunately, we are seeing more and more signs in parks (private, state, and national) that warn you not to leave valuables in your vehicle.

If someone wants something out of my trailer, they are welcome to it.  I can always get another.  Might be a bit peeved, but that's life.

Of course if you camp beside Larry and Holly, you had better lock everything down.  They have a new trailer to furnish. :)

Seriously, we have never had a problem in about 20 years of camping.

The only people that truly scare me are the ones who have firearms.  I have no trust in THEIR judgement.  Many are not trained, and have never faced a use/don't use decision (Service vets and law enforcement excepted).  Those that I hear from online usually say "I've never had an opportunity to use it, but I have it just in case."  If you've not had an opportunity to use it, then you have not needed it thusfar and really won't need it in the future.  You certainly have no need to protect yourself from me or my family.  If I or anyone else in my family is shot at for any reason (which would be mistaken, BTW), the lawsuits will start.  If this action results in anyone's death, be prepared to spend a long time away somewhere.
 
 I have never had a reason to have "protection" while camping, and I don't anticipate ever having to have it.  Thus, I don't carry anything.  Common sense seems to work fine.
 
 Consider this a flame if you wish, but I think the NRA is overrated and promoting a Wild West mentality.  I won't see replies to this, as we're leaving for a camping trip in about an hour!  We're going to enjoy ourselves, not worry about security issues.  Most likely the moderators will delete this thread anyway before we get back.
 
 To actually answer the OP, we have never had a  problem in any camping situation we've been in.  We've always felt very safe.  We've never had anyone "borrow" anything of ours.  I think we feel safer camping than at home.

Quote from: dthurkThe only people that truly scare me are the ones who have firearms.  I have no trust in THEIR judgement.  Many are not trained, and have never faced a use/don't use decision (Service vets and law enforcement excepted).  Those that I hear from online usually say "I've never had an opportunity to use it, but I have it just in case."  If you've not had an opportunity to use it, then you have not needed it thusfar and really won't need it in the future.  You certainly have no need to protect yourself from me or my family.  If I or anyone else in my family is shot at for any reason (which would be mistaken, BTW), the lawsuits will start.  If this action results in anyone's death, be prepared to spend a long time away somewhere.
 
 I have never had a reason to have "protection" while camping, and I don't anticipate ever having to have it.  Thus, I don't carry anything.  Common sense seems to work fine.
 
 Consider this a flame if you wish, but I think the NRA is overrated and promoting a Wild West mentality.  I won't see replies to this, as we're leaving for a camping trip in about an hour!  We're going to enjoy ourselves, not worry about security issues.  Most likely the moderators will delete this thread anyway before we get back.
 
 To actually answer the OP, we have never had a  problem in any camping situation we've been in.  We've always felt very safe.  We've never had anyone "borrow" anything of ours.  I think we feel safer camping than at home.

I'm guess that the law enforcement is also someone that you fear.  Armed citizens shoot the "wrong" person less than 11% of the time.  Still too high, but consider this.  For law enforcement, the percentage is 22.

I support the police and everything they do for us and they do it for next to nothing in pay.  But they are usually to a scene late and often have to make difficult decisions about shoot/don't shoot.

Like everyone here, I never expect to have a problem in a campground.  Folks are always friendly and helpful.  I have many people offer to be an extra set of eyes while parking as well sharing meals.  But that doesn't mean that everyone is guaranteed to be that way.  

Please don't take pepper spray to a campground.  In the wind, pepper spray is more dangerous to you than the perp.

Hunt4Fun

The rules at PUT state "No gun topics".  These always seem to end up in a fight over the right to carry guns everywhere.

If we can stay closer to the "Have any of you ever had any problems in a public campground such as a state park?" question I'll keep the thread open.  If it continues to slide into discussion over guns it will get locked.

Thanks for understanding

Pepper spray is not a good idea.  If you spray that inside somewhere, you'll be in it from then on yourself.  It is not dangerous however unless you hurt your self after getting the effects (like a non-poisonous snake LOL).  I've been a LEO for 11 years, and quit taking my sidearm with me years ago.  If someone threatens me with a gun, I don't have time to get the weapon.  If I go for it and they see it, I'm shot for sure and all the witnesses too (ie.  family).  I choose not to take anything for this purpose except my self defense training and BJJ.  We always camped in a tent, never had any problems at all.  On this last trip, we left our PUP unattended for a day and a half, coolers outside, and the park was full when we came back.  There wasn't so much as a footprint in our site when we got to return.  Just my opinion of course.

Quote from: moderator1The rules at PUT state "No gun topics".  These always seem to end up in a fight over the right to carry guns everywhere.

If we can stay closer to the "Have any of you ever had any problems in a public campground such as a state park?" question I'll keep the thread open.  If it continues to slide into discussion over guns it will get locked.

Thanks for understanding

My mistake.  Where are the "rules" posted?

Quote from: Hunt4FunMy mistake.  Where are the "rules" posted?

It's a "Sticky" at the top of the General Board


***Information on Pop Up Times ** New Users, Please Read***

Please understand, we want a free and open exchange of ideas, but some topics just seem to start fights :(

I've never had a problem in the 30 years I've been camping except for one time. Maybe the dog is a deturrant. We did have a bike stolen about 5 yrs ago while still tent camping. It was the first time (and last) that we didn't lock thew bikes to a tree at night. According to the Park Police there were 3 bikes taken that night and their feeling was that it was the local migrant workers stealing them to get to work.
  That was at a county park here on Long Island. The bike was leaning on a tree less than 2 feet from the tent and nobody heard it.

Quote from: moderator1The rules at PUT state "No gun topics".  These always seem to end up in a fight over the right to carry guns everywhere.

If we can stay closer to the "Have any of you ever had any problems in a public campground such as a state park?" question I'll keep the thread open.  If it continues to slide into discussion over guns it will get locked.

Thanks for understanding

Nothing like a good dose of censorship to stimulate open discussion!

Quote from: uchwearI just bought my camper and have never camped in a popup.  I have a question about security at campsites.

What do people typically carry for personal protection in a popup since it's virtually a tent on wheels?  Pepper spray, tazer, firearm?  

Have any of you ever had any problems in a public campground such as a state park?  

Hopefully this will never be a problem but I like to be prepared.  


Any information will be helpful
Thanks

The vast majority of my camping is in the National Forests; first their regular campgrounds and then some backoff into the boonies with no amenities or facilities. Second to the national forests would be the state forests and that would be about the same - their regular C/G's and then some back into the boonies. Next I'd have to say the national & state park C/G's. There are also a couple of private tracks of land that I have permission to access. All of these places are primarily used for my pursuit of fly fishing and not only have enjoyed the fellowship of fellow campers but also the fly fishing fraternity, where we look out for one another.  I have stayed overnight, while enroute to somewhere or coming back again, at a private C/G, like maybe a K.O.A. - but remember, this is stricly a layover for the night to rest my weary bones.

I've been camping for a lot of years and campground incidents have been far and few between. What has topped the list is excess noise caused by some rowdy drunks; but most places will not put up that kind of behavior. There was one incident that happened at a C/G we were staying at, maybe half dozen years ago, where a couple got into a domestic donny-brook (alcohol was involved) - I was down at the river fishing so I really don't know the details - but when I came back up to the C/G the sheriff was just taking them BOTH off. A little later the national forest crew showed up to take their tent down and a wrecker hauled their car off. Bottom line here is that a national forest C/G is not the place to have a quarrel with your significant other - believe me, the national forest folks have a close working relationship with the local sheriff - there's no alcohol allowed in NFS C/G's so if an incident occurs and whoever is drinking is subject to come under those rules and regs.

The only thievery in a campground that I've been aware of has been coolers; and I don't believe this was so much for the coolers themselves as it was for the contents ... BEER! (why does that not surprise me?) - I think someone once posted they lost a couple of lawn chairs and a towel off the line. When I set-up camp and plan to be there for a few days, besides the popup, I also pitch a 9' X 9' dome tent which serves as my "storage shed" - I try and keep temptation down to a minimum - I stow everything out of sight when I leave the area. And I take care of what items I leave on the truck seat - I have a secure place to valuables.

Let me say something about firearms. Pulling a gun out to use on someone or something is very serious business, with a lot of legal entaglements to follow  afterward. To say this requires some real deep thought is an understatement.



Fly

Quote from: ranger97Nothing like a good dose of censorship to stimulate open discussion!

While you may consider it censorship, we look at it as keeping the board on topic.  If someone wants to debate guns, gun ownership, carrying guns or any such topic there are plents of places to do it; LIKE HERE

Now, before this gets too far off topic please direct any more comments about how we moderate the board to me via PM.

My wife and I have been camping in our PUP for 3 years now, before that, 2 years in a tent. Before I went out on my own, my parents, my 3 brothers and I camped for as long as I can remember. I can't remember anything that would have required such actions as to have to use pepper spray or a firearm of some kind.
    I do own a pistol, I have a concealed carry permit and I have been trained on how to use it including when and where to use it. I don't bring it camping with us. It stays home locked up in my floorsafe. The main reason I don't bring it is because most campgrounds do not allow you to possess such weapons on their property, and if I'm not mistaken, by law you aren't allowed to have them in any state or national park. The other reason I don't carry it camping is because of reasons already stated elsewhere in this thread-take too long to get it and the possibility of my family also getting hurt. It's just way too risky.
    I have met many wonderful poeple on our camping trips. There are always "eyes" around watching everything. I know that when I'm at my campsite, I'm always looking around, something catches my attention or a car driving by.
    Just my 2 cents!
Dave

Quote from: moderator1While you may consider it censorship, we look at it as keeping the board on topic.  If someone wants to debate guns, gun ownership, carrying guns or any such topic there are plents of places to do it; LIKE HERE

Now, before this gets too far off topic please direct any more comments about how we moderate the board to me via PM.

Can we disuss hand grenades??? :sombraro:
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Just trying to ease off of the other topic slowly......kinda like methadone. ;)

I have a pistol that travels with me on long trips. Not so much for campground protection but more incase of a vehicle break-down in bad areas. It's more psychological than pratical since it's always locked and packed deep in the middle of my stuff and the ammo is at an oposite end of the vehicle that I'd have a better chance out of out running any danger.

So if you're going to mess with me, give me about 10 minutes notice so I find my my piece, unlock it, load it and then think about what I'm about to do.


Bruce

:eyecrazy:

I'm amazed. Sure glad I'm not a moderator :banghead:

Mr. Moderator

thanks.  I remember when.

Quote from: wavery:eyecrazy:

I'm amazed. Sure glad I'm not a moderator

The pay is great!

Quote from: GeneFMr. Moderator

thanks.  I remember when.

So do I, that's why I don't want things to get out of hand again.

For protection against mosquito's and ticks I usually carry "Ticks-Off" which has a very high DEET concentration.
 
For protection against the sun, we use anything with an SPF of 15 or better.
 
Never had a problem with people form tent camping, popup camping and now hybrid camping.

As a law enforcement officer I find it amusing when people who have never had  to do my job cite statistics to make a ridiculous point.  Saying you "support law enforcement" does not hide the true nature of the statement.  There are many reasons for the tragedy of shooting an innocent person but this is not the forum to go into that.

To answer the question I always have my glock with me.  I dont carry it around the campground but I keep it close by while in the camper at night.  Many people live their lives in oblivion and sometimes I envy that.  Most campgrounds dont require id to check in.  Because of the gates and limited access most police officers dont go in campgrounds to patrol.  Many wanted criminals know this and many have been found staying in campgrounds for these reasons.  

I know this and I still camp with my family.  Overall it is a very safe activity  I just know what is out there and try to be prepared.  

By the way criminals love gun control because then they would be the only ones with guns.....And yes I am a "deer hunting NRA gun nut".

Wow!!  when I posted this topic I didn't realize all the input I'd get and I didn't realize that it was against the rules.  I think I'm probably going to leave my side arm at home and carry a big stick.

Every place we've camped at had specifically listed in their site rules that posession of a firearm = instant removal from the CG.  Certain things should be left at home.  Now if you're out in the middle of nowhere and are using your camper to hunt with.. then a firearm is pretty handy.  Beats having to try and take down a deer with mosquito spray or a weenie roasting stick!
 
 We've never felt in danger enough where we felt we needed to have protection.  If things get out of hand, I use a cell phone for protection.  I pay taxes for law enforcement.  Let them keep the peace.
 
 Do us all a favor and leave the weapons at home for the weekend.

Quote from: ranger97Nothing like a good dose of censorship to stimulate open discussion!

You are more than welcome to move on to a board you find more to your liking.  If you want to stay here, them's the rules!

I pack only a smile and it's always worked for me.  I have met the best people ever while camping, we have had a few problems with some inconsiderate loud campers but when it's out of control there is always a ranger or sheriff around.  Next time you go camping try talking to a few campers in your camp ground, you just might make a few more friends.


Toby.

In over sixty years of camping I have never had a problem with theft or intruders. Some campers carry a spray can of oven cleaner. A squirt in the puss  from a can of this will convince any unwanted human or animal not to enter your quarters...

I'm not worried about the people who occupy the campgrounds, it's the ones who come in looking for whatever trouble they can find. It doesn't hurt to be prepared for whatever problem may arise. Most campers carry tools and equipment for all emergencies, self defense is just another.
For those that fear others who carry protection legally, keep in mind that those people have gone through training, and FBI background checks. The ones you should fear are the ones who carry illegally.

In more years than I can count of tent camping, and now beginning our second year of PUP camping, We've never had a problem.  Campers just seem to look out for each other.  

We just use common sense when we leave for long periods of time, and put stuff away.  Bikes go under the bunk ends.  All the kayak gear goes in the boats, and the cockpits are covered.  Sometimes locked, but usualy not.  Depends on the camp ground.  

I agree that more clowns seem to be camping on the big holiday weekends, so we're more alert then.  We've seen our fair share of loud drunks, but the Rangers usually settle them down pretty quickly.  My favorite was a guy last year cutting firewood with his chain saw at 11PM!  He had lit his site with a pair of 500 watt halogen work lights, drawing every bug from 100 miles around!  A drunk with a chain saw, now THAT was scary!

Happy Spring!

Having grown up in a neighborhood that scared me to death, there's only one thing I trust to keep me and my family safe when we are camping - intuition.

If I pull into a campground/site that makes me uncomfortable, then I pull out and find another. That being said, it is not that often that I have to do that. I'm sure that I've misjudged the surroundings and left some places that were perfectly safe, but I also haven't had any negative experiences either. I spend more time worrying about my camper when I leave it and the truck in a parking lot while the family and I are traveling than I ever do when its in a campground.

If you can't relax long enough to enjoy yourself, what's the point of going?

Have fun!
David

Keep in mind when you are deciding what form of protection to bring there is no id required to  check into most campgrounds.  Most campgrounds are gated so law enforcement does not generally check them unless specifically asked to.  I can tell you as a veteran law enforcement officer wanted criminals know this and frequently stay in campgrounds.  As a detective we have located numerous fugitives in campgrounds-some that we stay in regularly.  In addition sexual predators see campgrounds as a buffet with all the unsupervised children running around.  The fact that you have "never had a problem" does not mean you won't.  Trust me it only takes one problem to affect you for life.  

With this knowledge I camp regularly (twice a month) with my family.  I do bring protection but I am not paranoid.  I just look at life with the knowledge of what "nice people" are capable of.  Use common sense when in contact with people you don't know.  Most people are good honest people but the best criminals are experts at gaining your confidence.....

I have never had anything stolen from our camper or site and we regularly leave for hours hiking, canoeing etc.  I really am more concerned with my families personal safety than the things we bring.  I don't take anything that can't be replaced or I don't want to lose.

and by the way I can tell you from personal experience mace/ pepper spray just aggravates a determined attacker....

Quote from: mjdfarmKeep in mind when you are deciding what form of protection to bring there is no id required to  check into most campgrounds.  Most campgrounds are gated so law enforcement does not generally check them unless specifically asked to.  I can tell you as a veteran law enforcement officer wanted criminals know this and frequently stay in campgrounds.  As a detective we have located numerous fugitives in campgrounds-some that we stay in regularly.  In addition sexual predators see campgrounds as a buffet with all the unsupervised children running around.  The fact that you have "never had a problem" does not mean you won't.  Trust me it only takes one problem to affect you for life.  

With this knowledge I camp regularly (twice a month) with my family.  I do bring protection but I am not paranoid.  I just look at life with the knowledge of what "nice people" are capable of.  Use common sense when in contact with people you don't know.  Most people are good honest people but the best criminals are experts at gaining your confidence.....

I have never had anything stolen from our camper or site and we regularly leave for hours hiking, canoeing etc.  I really am more concerned with my families personal safety than the things we bring.  I don't take anything that can't be replaced or I don't want to lose.

and by the way I can tell you from personal experience mace/ pepper spray just aggravates a determined attacker....

Good points!

Jeremy, your comment "Do us all a favor and leave the weapons at home for the weekend."  Sorry.  Not me.  Protection is always with me.  But understand, I'm different in that if I'm camping, I'm hunting.  But even for a weekend of scouting, I always have a handgun close by.  But that has something to do with how comfortable you are with any form of protection.  Some folks feel safer with a cell phone, others a handgun.  And by now it's obvious that everything in between works for somebody.

Be friendly to all, and trust no one to start.

Better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6.  :)

Quote from: Hunt4FunGood points!

Jeremy, your comment "Do us all a favor and leave the weapons at home for the weekend."  Sorry.  Not me.  Protection is always with me.  But understand, I'm different in that if I'm camping, I'm hunting.  But even for a weekend of scouting, I always have a handgun close by.  But that has something to do with how comfortable you are with any form of protection.  Some folks feel safer with a cell phone, others a handgun.  And by now it's obvious that everything in between works for somebody.

Be friendly to all, and trust no one to start.

Better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6.  :)

Amen!!!

We camp usually two times a year.  We are NASCAR fans.  and yes we both carry protection.  Our house has been broken into while no one was home and all they took was a big jar of money,(replaceable) my viedo camera, (which took us two months to notice), and lastly my registered 38 special.  That's what brought the law to our house. It's a felony.  We both have conceled carry permits.  No need to draw unless you are physically in danger.  

The sad part about this is homeowners insurance won't replace cash.  The camera was a gift 2 Christmas's before.  and the reciept for my 38 was for the amount of our deductable.  So we lost all around.  That is what sucks about life sometimes.

just my two cents worth.

everyone where we camp for the races are always looking out.  this spring some people reported "cooler raids".  but usually everyone is great to be around no problems for us.  so we keep "stuff" locked up outa site outa mind.

I've got to agree with the gun owners on this one. I've never had an encounter in a campground other than the occasional noisy drunk and one very loud enamorous couple. I did have a box of donuts stolen off the picnic table by a wild group of squirrels though. We found it later in the top of a nearby tree (damned litterbugs!). They were up all night partying on a sugar high!
While thoughts of fighting off bears in the wild is entertaining, feral dogs are more of a problem. I do know someone that was bitten by a wild dog while leading a boyscout troop in SE Louisiana. Since the dog couldn't be found after biting her she had to suffer through the rabies injections. No fun...
I have had two incidents on the way to/from a campground where I was glad to have a firearm along (and no, I didn't shoot them). Also, while backpacking on Black Creek Trail in MS we ran into a couple of juvenile escapees asking if we had seen any cops and could we give them a ride somewhere. They eventually went one way, we the other. Three miles later we set up camp. That was a nervous night in a tent, weapon or no weapon. Two legged critters are probably your biggest concern. I've got to add that I really like the over cleaner idea! That is some nasty stuff!
It comes down to this: campgrounds are very safe, probably safer than camping on your front lawn. There are more law enforcement officers there per capita than at home. The further you get from society, the less likely it is that the police will be there to protect you, the more you have to take care of yourself. On the other hand, from a criminal point of view, prowling 10 miles from the nearest road is not going to garner you a wide selection of victims. You are much less likely to run into problems there, but you're probably on your own if something does happen. Cell signals are intermitten. Response times are measured in hours at best.
Also, keep in mind that I mainly camp in rural Mississippi or Louisiana. You are expected to be a little more self-reliant than say, on the Appalacian Trail. Things may be different where you are.
As they say, actual results may vary...

Thanks for lightening the conversation, LACamper. I had to LOL at the squirrel story! I always feel safe camping whether or not my husband brings his firearm or not. For us, it totally depends on where we are camping. As for the oven cleaner, I am definitely getting an extra can to keep in the PUP!! I can honestly say that in all my years of camping, I can't recall any time in which we have been burglarized or terrorized. Campers just seem to keep an eye out for each other.

------------------

DW - 69
DH - 67
DS - 00

1985 Coleman Aspen, AKA "Patches"

You're quite welcome. The story of the loud enamarous couple is even better but this is a family website so I won't post it... but I will say the look on their faces when the rangers pulled the tent open (to the cheers of 20 other campers) was priceless!

LACamper
1998 Coleman Redwood

info for the state of Texas
http://www.packing.org/state/documents/texas_phpYS16Bw_texas_parks_letter.gif

Only incident has been a stolen bike.  Have had loud, drunken neighbors a few times that made me a little cautious.  But nothing that made me fear for the safety of my family.  I tend to keep close track of the 2 little ones (7&8).
I respect that people have there own views on safetly and what they need, but I feel that I can protect my family when camping without bullets.  Heck, I've got axes, hammers, items needed to make a small flamethrower, chemicals and hopefully some good ole nosy neighbors that'll pick up the slack if I need the help.

Been lurking for a while, but I wanted to chime in here....

I regularly camp and hunt in northern lower Michigan.  This one particular day I was sitting on a log in a clearing on some state land hunting deer out behind my friend's hunting property.  It was early evening on a warm November day.  We began hearing coyotes snarling, barking and what sounded like fighting just over a low ridge to our south (more of a mound really) about 150 ft. away.  About 10 minutes later, we saw a coyote enter the clearing directly opposite our position.  Had there not been two of us, I don't know if either of us would have seen the other two come over the rise to the south while we were fixated on the one to the east.  When the lone dog to the east began advancing on us, ears back and head down, my friend and I both decided this was a flanking maneuver.  Unfortunately we had to put two of them down before the third retreated into the distance.

I'll never camp in the woods without protection at hand.  It's not other campers I'm worried about, it's the wildlife.  Racoons, squirrels, chipmunks, even porcuipines are A-OK in my book.  But when wild dogs roam, you can be sure I'll be ready for them.

As for dealing with unruly fellow campers, I don't.  That's the job of the campground security/DNR/officers, not me.  Should I be confronted, there are plenty of other ways to diffuse the situation.  I've only seen the oven cleaner trick used once on an unruly raccoon.  It worked quite well!!

Quote from: uchwearI just bought my camper and have never camped in a popup.  I have a question about security at campsites.

What do people typically carry for personal protection in a popup since it's virtually a tent on wheels?  Pepper spray, tazer, firearm?  

Have any of you ever had any problems in a public campground such as a state park?  

Hopefully this will never be a problem but I like to be prepared.  


Any information will be helpful
Thanks

Hopefully you will find a place to take your pop up and camp with your family where you don't need to feel like you have to pack a gun unless it is to either plink or hunt. I usually always take a rifle or two for those purposes only. Be very careful taking a gun with you on a camping trip for protection chances are if you shoot someone out camping you will lose bigtime.

The only think that I keep for protection is a baseball bat.  The few times in my life I have had a problem with other people, it was usually just a drunk, unruly homeless person, or some other type of nucklehead.  Brandishing a baseball bat will usually scare those types away.

Good luck with that.  I guess you can hope the bad guys have the same no bullets policy.....

Having a CCW in 2 states and having spent 12 years in the military and 21 months in various combat zones, I tend to carry a gun wherever I go.  I've been doing it for a number of years, if you know I have one it's because I just used it to save myself or a loved one.  So far that's never happenend.  In campgrounds I tend to think the biggest threat is from snakes and domestic dogs.  I have had one situation with a domestic dog, that almost got shot.  She eventually decided for whatever reason to turn around and go away, but she was about 2 inches away from my mental "Do Not Cross Line".  I have shot numerous snakes in central Texas with a pistol.  A .45 with rat shot does a great job, hence the reason it's the first round in the mag.

I have never had any problems in camping as far as anything getting stolen.  I have had numerous issues with drunken campers making noise etc.  I have had even more problems with parents not containing their young.  

Having stated the above: The facts are we live in a dangerous world but, it is the same dangerous world that has always existed.(not the ever increasing dangerous place the media would have you believe) There are predators and prey, always has been always will be.  I myself always err on the side of being prepared and caution.  Common sense is be prepared to defend yourself and your loved ones.  Do it in a responsible manner that matches your abilities and willingness.  Be honest with yourself about your abilities and limitations and just because you can own one doesn't make it a good choice for you.  I personally say the same thing about children just because you can have one doesn't mean you should have one or even should be allowed to have one.  If more people exercised birth control we wouldn't have to talk as much about security.  Fact:"Poorly raised humans become criminals".  Get this fact through the liberals and conservatives heads and we will all be better off!

My opinion is if you have to worry about security, you may want to find a different campground. I have never worried about security or locked doors.

I carry my hydraulic jack and a fire extinguisher with me everywhere I go. Not because I have expectations to need to use either at any campgrounds or anywhere else for that matter, but if the need ever arises that I need them then I

Quote from: skidsareforkidsHaving a CCW in 2 states and having spent 12 years in the military and 21 months in various combat zones, I tend to carry a gun wherever I go.  I've been doing it for a number of years, if you know I have one it's because I just used it to save myself or a loved one.  So far that's never happenend.  In campgrounds I tend to think the biggest threat is from snakes and domestic dogs.  I have had one situation with a domestic dog, that almost got shot.  She eventually decided for whatever reason to turn around and go away, but she was about 2 inches away from my mental "Do Not Cross Line".  I have shot numerous snakes in central Texas with a pistol.  A .45 with rat shot does a great job, hence the reason it's the first round in the mag.

you have 2 ccw in 2 states?????????????

Just curious.....why doesn't someone close this thread? :confused:

I own a firearm myself,  Do I take it camping with me?  Maybe I do, Maybe I don't.  I would not advertise it either way.  I have found that in all my years of camping, the people that feel they have to tell everyone they come accross that they are packing, are usually the one's to be afraid of.

Quote from: TheVikingI own a firearm myself,  Do I take it camping with me?  Maybe I do, Maybe I don't.  I would not advertise it either way.  I have found that in all my years of camping, the people that feel they have to tell everyone they come accross that they are packing, are usually the one's to be afraid of.

Yes, there is a reason most CCW's don't allow you to show (a.k.a. "flash") the weapon in public...

Austin

Quote from: waveryJust curious.....why doesn't someone close this thread? :confused:

It hasn't gotten hot enough to get a moderator's attention yet.  :D

Austin

Quote from: AustinBostonYes, there is a reason most CCW's don't allow you to show (a.k.a. "flash") the weapon in public...
 
Austin

 
Funny part is, back in Arizona where we are from, you can have it in a holster strapped to your side, or sitting on the dash of your vehicle and everything is fine.  If it looks like you are trying to conceal it that whe your troubles start with the law.  One of my friends is a cop in Tempe, Az.,  he told me it's a huge No-No to put a weapon in your glovebox, that would deem it concealed.  If you lock the gloveb box, it's not concidered concealed anymore.  Out here in California they are so tight with gun laws you can get arrested for watching a movie with guns in it.

Quote from: AustinBostonIt hasn't gotten hot enough to get a moderator's attention yet.  :D

Austin

I was merely referring to post #10 which I agree with 100%. This is a "Camping Forum". :D

Quote from: waveryI was merely referring to post #10 which I agree with 100%. This is a "Camping Forum". :D

 
In all fairness Wayne, there are threads on here regarding Kayaking, GPS, etc.
These things have no more to do with camping than say taking rifles out target shooting while dry camping in the desert does.   You like to Kayak, "Johnny" likes shooting targets.  Technically he could say "I thought this was a Camping Forum, not a Kayaking Forum.  It's all relative.  As long as the conversation doesn't get out of hand, I see no problem.  Just my cent and a half.

Quote from: TheVikingIn all fairness Wayne, there are threads on here regarding Kayaking, GPS, etc.
These things have no more to do with camping than say taking rifles out target shooting while dry camping in the desert does.   You like to Kayak, "Johnny" likes shooting targets.  Technically he could say "I thought this was a Camping Forum, not a Kayaking Forum.  It's all relative.  As long as the conversation doesn't get out of hand, I see no problem.  Just my cent and a half.

I couldn't agree more. Sometimes we even talk about aliens on Mars :p . However, I didn't make the rules about this particular subject and "Just curious" why the threat was made if it was not going to be followed through with. #10 was not my post. :D

Quote from: waveryI couldn't agree more. Sometimes we even talk about aliens on Mars :p . However, I didn't make the rules about this particular subject and "Just curious" why the threat was made if it was not going to be followed through with. #10 was not my post. :D

This is just one of those message board topics that is Taboo, like Politics & Religion, there will be arguments.
 
 
Bottom line, in my opinion is, lock your stuff up when you leave your campsite for the day, and at night when you go to bed. Keep you camper door locked at night. And mostly, don't try to diffuse a bad situation with other campers yourself, get a ranger, police, or camphost involved. If you had stuff stolen, or there were undesirable people there, don't return.
 
Now close the thread.

Quote from: ourecvyou have 2 ccw in 2 states?????????????

Yep lots of states have "Shall Issue" non resident permits.

Quote from: waveryI couldn't agree more. Sometimes we even talk about aliens on Mars :p . However, I didn't make the rules about this particular subject and "Just curious" why the threat was made if it was not going to be followed through with. #10 was not my post. :D

Now you're asking for trouble...things happen to those who criticize the moderators!  :p

Austin

Quote from: AustinBostonNow you're asking for trouble...things happen to those who criticize the moderators!  :p

Austin

Not criticizing........"Just curious". :sombraro:

Perhaps it's not been "moderated" yet because, for the most part, people have been relatively considerate......so far on this thread. People have stated their personal opinion and not really flamed each other.  That is a good way to disagree. Too bad it's not that way in the rest of life. I'm sure if somebody brings politics into the discussion......things would get out of hand in a hurry though.

I think this is a very valid subject on this site.  I have questions regarding security.  After all we are one step above a tent in our PUPs.  Most people who I know that camp in tents carry a gun when they camp.  It only makes sense.  If you are sleeping in on the same ground that rats and snakes sleep and tread, you should be prepared to protect yourself.  

I don't understand the problem with politics and religion either.  I think well thought conversations about these topics are both stimulating and enjoyable.  I suppose that is because I like logic rather than emotion.  Emotional types get feelings hurt when someone says anything about personal responsiblity and liberty. OOPS! I started it!

Quote from: TheVikingIn all fairness Wayne, there are threads on here regarding Kayaking, GPS, etc.
These things have no more to do with camping than say taking rifles out target shooting while dry camping in the desert does.   You like to Kayak, "Johnny" likes shooting targets.  Technically he could say "I thought this was a Camping Forum, not a Kayaking Forum.  It's all relative.  As long as the conversation doesn't get out of hand, I see no problem.  Just my cent and a half.

I have been away from "digging" in the boards lately; just a cursory pass-through over the past two weeks. Hadn't noticed this topic had resurfaced about guns.

For the most part, if not all, you guys/gals have kept this discussion quite civilized, and un-super-emotional. Thank you.

That may be why other moderators have not closed it. Other gun threads that I have locked got out of hand quickly, or was heading that way.

Larry

I would have to say that I'm suprised it hasn't been locked or deleted yet. If you have read the quote at the bottom of my threads you probably know how I feel about the subject.