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For many folks, the nice weather provides a great opportunity for some outdoor exploration. Whether you’re camping, hiking, rock climbing, or canoeing, there are a number of amazing and beautiful places to explore within driving distance. But doing it well outdoors can take some preparation. Take a hike with “Doin’ It Well” as we uncover the keys to happy campers!

Hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities can be amazing aphrodisiacs. When fording streams, climbing mountains, or doing other strenuous activities, the cooperative work involved brings campers closer — sometimes intimately. The long stretches of solitude surrounded by nature provide ample opportunity for flirting and sex. Whether there’s a thin layer of tent between you and nature (or other campers), or you’re having sex outdoors, it can be a fun, safe way to explore your exhibitionist fantasies! So it’s no wonder that campers have been doing it for years.

Essential Gear

Campers (especially those who backpack) are infamous for meticulous packing. For backpackers the weight of each of the items is critical. People who are traveling by RV or “car camping” (camping at a drive-up site) may have a lot more room to bring both essentials and indulgences. Fortunately, there are a lot of supplies that will make sex a lot quicker and easier whether you’re in the backcountry or a state park — and they won’t weigh you down!

When you’re bedding down, think about bringing a sleeping pad to provide a little cushion; you’ll appreciate the extra padding. Additionally, there are a number of accessories for sleeping bags which will make your romp more comfortable. Some sleeping bags are designed to zip together (making your twin-sized bed into a double), and you can also purchase a soft silk sleeping bag liner which will add a luxurious touch. In addition, bring a lightweight sheet or blanket. Whether you’re away from the tent when the mood strikes or if you just want to protect your sleeping bag from unnecessary fluids, the blanket may be your best friend.

You’ll also want to pack your normal sexcessories. Whether or not you need them for safe sex, condoms will help with the cleanup. And unless you want to recreate the tent scene from Brokeback Mountain, you may want to bring some lube. Many lubes are sold in tiny pillow pouches, perfect for the traveler. Keep these in an easy-to-reach spot in your pack.

When you’ve gone several days without a shower — let alone running water — it may be difficult to feel fresh enough to get fresh. Toothpaste, gum, or mouthwash can all be handy. For below the belt, take some personal wipes for a quick pre-sex wash or post-sex cleanup.

Finally, think about what else you might be able to bring to set the mood. Scented candles and incense may seem sexy, but could also be fire hazards in the right circumstances. Instead, bring massage oils, which can bring the erotic aromas without the forest fire. Additionally, pack one or two “romantic meals” — something that may be special and require slightly more preparation. When you’re camping, the smallest treats can feel like an amazing luxury.

Camping in Bare Country

Seasoned campers follow a number of rules both for their own safety and to protect the environment. When you’re having sex, be aware that you might not be the only ones on that trail, river, or bluff. Although the thought of people watching or listening may add to the excitement, nothing interrupts a family campout quicker than noisy sex from the tent next door. Have fun with silent sex. Find a secluded location for your tent, or for outdoor sex, a spot well off the trail. Remember how easily noise travels in the stillness of nature; although trees or running water muffle noise — it might also mean that you will be just as surprised as anyone who stumbles across you!

Remember poison ivy, oak, sumac, and stinging nettle can make a fun romp sadly unforgettable. Also, although sex in the water may seem like a good idea, bacteria and microorganisms can cause infections.

Give a Hoot!

For our fellow campers, we have to leave everything better than we found it. Pick up discarded condoms and wrappers, and pack them back to a garbage can. When you are backpacking, bodily fluids can attract animals, so be sure to keep your trash tied up and secured properly. Or, you can buy eco-friendly lube and lambskin condoms (though these don’t protect against STDs), which are biodegradable!

Additionally, when you’re looking for a place to lay, find a spot where you won’t disturb the plants or compact the soil. In many forests, the leaves or pine needles create a soft natural mattress. But you may also find that sandy beaches, stone outcroppings, or even snow (with some good insulation) make great beds without disturbing the ecosystem.

Remember, take only pictures, leave only back prints. We want to make sure that these natural areas are protected for all of us to enjoy!