Several people have asked me what to bring on the Talking Rocks Tour. I’ll give a list below, but consider it tentative and provisional. These are camping trips. I presume those who come on our tours have some prior experience camping. If you do not, please call me. I want to make sure your first camping experience is pleasant as well as inspirational and informative.
Talking Rocks Camping List
Sleeping bag and pad.
Tent. Some of us sleep under the stars–no tent. If you are not bringing a tent, I need to know so I can have a spare in case of rain.
Food: It is all provided. The menus will be be lacto-ovo vegetarian. Let me know of any special dietary needs.
Dinner ware: provided. However, if you would like to bring your own personal cup and fork and spoon, you can help reduce the waste of disposables.
Coffee and tea: provided.
Lunches and snacks: provided.
Alcohol: none provided.
Water bottles: First one provided. You will need to carry a liter for ordinary hikes.
Sun protection: Bring it. Use it. Hat, long sleeves, long pants, sun screen. If you are inexperienced in desert sun, go overboard with protection. It is easy to uncover. It is hard to reverse sunburn.
Day pack. In addition to a jacket/shell/outer layer, it would be good to include a couple of band-aids, tissue, lip balm,
Hiking footwear: Some wear boots. I wear running shoes. We often hike in sandy washes. Sand is a bigger challenge than angular rocks. You might even want gaiters.
Warm jacket, knit hat, gloves. Nights can be cool. I even take overpants, just to be extra sure.
Trekking poles. Might be useful.
Shorts/swim suit: If we find water, we’ll get into it.
Toiletries/Towel: There will be opportunities to shower every day.
Flipflops or camp shoes.
Headlamp and batteries. Hopefully, this will only be needed in the evening in camp. However, it is required on long hikes, just in case.
If you are driving:
Camp chair. A really valuable item. The tour will provide as many as we can.
A cot. Especially if you enjoy sleeping under the stars.
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