Great Trip (even with rain)

[JonesFamilyJayco]

Just returned from dry camping in the NC mountians over the Fourth of July with my family.  We stayed at a very remote lot next to a stream that my father in-law owns.  It rained each day, but after learning from past trips how to manage the rain, we still had a great time.  By far the most important lesson I learned is to keep it simple. I had to finally accept that I should not over-pack with things I might need.  We enjoyed the few dry moments walking and playing in the stream.  We spent the rainy time in the camper with Battleship and a small DVD player.  Thankfully, it held off raining for good fireworks (just simple fountains that do not leave the ground) and fun with a bb gun and some empty drink cans.  

Even though we also have a travel trailer and enjoy camping with all the things at a full service campground, I am so glad we kept our pop-up.  

Camping is the BEST!!!!

[Ted]

Even though we also have a travel trailer and enjoy camping with all the things at a full service campground, I am so glad we kept our pop-up.
 
Camping is the BEST!!!![/QUOTE]
I am learning that in the Texas heat a portable TV/DVD player can make all the difference from being bored and enjoying the trip.  Only so much heat you can endure and you need a break.  A PopUP with A/C and diversion makes it possible to go hiking for an hour or so and come back to a cool base camp, cool off, watch a part of a movie that is on the DVD list, get some fluids, and do it all over again, to keep it all interesting.  I also really enjoy looking at the interesting rigs that others have created for their camping fun. Many are very elaborate and look like they take a lot of time.
 
I am very simple at this point in my camping adventures, and I hope I can manage to keep it that way.  I don't want it to be a "chore" to get ready to go camping.
 
Anyone have any recommendations for PU camping in East Texas?  I want to explore the wonderful piney woods I have seen driving through.