2017

HCR-17-180 Cold Camping, Hot Meals

When venturing out on a cold weather camping trip, keeping warm both inside and out will be your primary focus. In this episode, Skip digs into his menu of camp favorites. Whether it be breakfast, lunch, dinner, or anytime in between, piping hot food right off the stove is sure to satisfy any appetite. Download

HCR-17-179 Black Friday Shopping and Gift Ideas

Whether shopping online or in the brick and mortar stores, there are Black Friday deals galore. And camping supplies are no exception. In Episode 179, Skip shares a few gift ideas for the camper on your list, as well some very important safety tips to help keep you safe during this festive time of year. Download

HCR-17-178 Tom Brooks Talks About Thanksgiving Day Camping at the South Padre Island KOA

If you ever had the dream of camping over the Thanksgiving holiday, one campground outside of Brownsville, Texas can provide you many reasons why you should consider a future Thanksgiving camping trip. This week, Tom Brooks of the South Padre Island KOA share his experience, and how Thanksgiving camping has become an annual tradition at his KOA campground. Download

HCR-17-177 The Hearts of the Father; Interview With Andrew J. Martin

There’s no greater feeling than to watch a youngster experience his or her first camping trip. In this edition of Happy Camper Radio, we are delighted to have as our guest, a gentleman from the Houston area, who spends time with kids from foster homes and single parent households, and takes them on authentic Texas style camping trips. Andrew J. Martin from “The Hearts of the Father” is here to talk about this wonderful program. Download

HCR-17-176 Darren Kirby Interview: The Best Tent Camping Guide From Novice to Expert

Camping provide us loads of fun and exciting memories each and every time we venture into the outdoors. it doesn’t matter if you’re just getting started or have been an experienced camper for many years. There’s always something to learn. In Episode 176, Darren Kirby talks about his brand new book “The Best Tent Camping Guide From Novice to Expert”. The book is so detailed that Skip has proudly endorsed it. Listen as Darren describes what inspired him to write this exciting book, and where you can get your copy today. Download

HCR-17-175 Halloween Camping 2017

In a changing world, some adults have reservations about sending their youngsters into the neighborhood to enjoy a night of trick or treating. No child should be deprived of the opportunity to be a kid. More and more campgrounds are creating safe and festive environments for families to enjoy Halloween. We’ll look at some of the benefits of a Halloween Camping trip in this episode of Happy Camper Radio. Download

HCR-17-174 Too Much Gear; Short on Space

In Episode 174, Skip talks about what it’s like to build an extensive supply of camping gear, and what can happen when you run out of storage space. Skip believes accumulating camping equipment is always a good thing. But what happens when you run out of space to store your gear? We’ll take a look at the options, and how you can utilize more storage space. Download

HCR-17-173 Camping and Natural Disasters

In light of recent hurricanes, it’s more important than ever to have your camping equipment handy in the event a natural disaster or long term power outage strikes your community. As campers, many of us are well prepared. Camping stoves, tent heaters, and other assorted gear can be put to good use at a time we least expect it. In this episode, we’ll look at some possibilities and touch again on the hidden dangers involving emergency generators. Download

HCR-17-172 Replacing an Existing Tent

Is the tent you’re currently sleeping in showing signs of excessive wear? Is it time to consider replacing it with something better? A new tent is something each and every camper will require at some point, and there are many options out there to choose from. In this episode, Skip talks about the new tent he plans to buy, including one very important house cleaning issue that’s easily overlooked. Download

HCR-17-171 Personal Vehicles or Rental Units. What’s Best?

Getting to the campground and back safely is the ultimate goal. But what if you own an older model vehicle? Do you feel comfortable driving your vehicle, and are you confident that it will get you there and back without any problems? Perhaps a rental vehicle is something you ought to consider. We’ll take a look at the options and things you should consider when planning a long distance camping trip. Download

HCR-17-170 Snake Season

The last thing any of us want to think about is coming across a snake while camping this summer. On rare occasions, some campers will encounter one of these slithery creatures while they’re out and about. How would you react if you suddenly and unexpectedly stumbled upon a snake? We’ll look at some things you should do and things you should avoid in this edition of Happy Camper Radio. Download

HCR-17-169 Camping and Checking-in with the Office

Camping is about relaxing and spending quality time with our family and those we love. While many of us choose to shut-out the rest of the world, some campers still find themselves attached to the office. In this episode, Skip explains what you can do to detach yourself from the job while vacationing. Download

HCR-17-168 Camping and Politics

Just about everywhere you turn these days, people are engaged in political discussion. Issues that affect our everyday lives are making their way into the workplace, at social events and throughout our hometown communities. But should we allow ourselves to engage in political conversations at camp? In this episode, Skip explains why campgrounds are the one place where political talk should be avoided. Download

HCR-17-167 Hidden Dangers: Camping Near Large Trees

While camping beneath the stars is a refreshing experience, it’s always important to take note of the conditions that surround us. In the summer months, many campers will take advantage of a shaded area to pitch their tent. In this episode, Skip explains why every camper should take note of nearby trees, and some of the things you should consider before setting up camp. Download

HCR-17-166 Rental Vehicles For Long Distance Camping Trips

The last thing any of us need is car trouble while traveling to and from our camping destination. As our vehicles grow older and absorb greater mileage, the question becomes whether or not the vehicle can withstand a long distance trip from home. In this episode, Skip describes the benefits of renting a vehicle when planning for out-of-town travel. Download

HCR-17-165 Personal Backyard Campsites

Although nothing beats a public or private campground with a running stream or lakeside view, there’s no reason to sit on the sofa this weekend when you have your own personal campsite just a minute or two away. By establishing a dedicated campsite site in your own backyard, you have the freedom to go camping at a moment’s notice. This week, Skip explains how he came up with the idea, and shares his plans for an upcoming trip close to home in the next couple weeks. Download

HCR-17-164 Camp Dinner Ware vs. Paper Plates

When it comes to camping, some campers are known for packing in everything, which includes re-usable dinner ware. Some prefer paper plates and other disposable products. Which is best? Is there a right way and a wrong way when it’s time to serve up a great meal at camp? We’ll look at the benefits and all the options in this edition of Happy Camper Radio. Download

HCR-17-163 Sleeping Bag Replacement

Sleeping bags, if properly cared for, will provide many great years of camping comfort. But like anything, there will come a time when you’ll need to consider replacing it. Your nightly rest and comfort is equally important to the amount of relaxation time you spend next to the fire with family and loved ones. In episode 163, we’ll take a look at some of the options in deciding which sleeping bag is right for you. Download

HCR-17-162 Cold Weather Camping

With brisk temperatures upon us, Skip takes a look at cold weather camping. While many families are known to camp during the spring and summer months, there are plenty of great opportunities to venture out into the cold environment. This week, we’ll take a look at some of the additional preparations you’ll need to make if planning a cold weather camping trip. Download