Looking to get in touch with nature? Surround yourself with the natural world and plan a camping adventure. From backpacking to glamping, we have resources to help you.
For an overview of beginning camping know-how, check out REI’s blog series Intro to Camping. From how to pick equipment to some basic campsite skills, this short series of articles can help get you started.
To plan a local escape, check out the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website for more information on camping and reservations or more rustic backpacking sites. For Michigan campgrounds and activities around the state, explore the Michigan Activity Pass program, accessible with your Canton Public Library card. There are many Metroparks and campgrounds that will waive their daily pass rates with a MAP, but check individual locations for details.
We have a variety of print and digital book resources to help you prepare for a camping trip. If you need assistance looking for additional resources, please stop by one of our Information Desks or call and chat with a librarian. In the meantime, take a look at some of these titles to get you started.
General Information
Camping – Every issue of Camping magazine provides inspiration for UK and overseas travel and the best campsites to stay at while enjoying life under the canvas. Libby has other e-magazines available as well including Outside, Backpacker, and Field & Stream.
Camping's Top Secrets – Seasoned camping veteran Cliff Jacobson shares insider tips and shortcuts to comfort and security in the bush.
Camping in Michigan
Best Tent Camping – An escape for all who wish to find those special locales that recharge the mind, body and spirit. This guide is a keeper. There are other titles in this series for other states.
50 Hikes in Michigan – Explore the hills, ridges, sand dunes and breathtaking views of the Great Lake State, one trail at a time. Pick a new place to hike, and then plan a camping trip close by.
Scouting Other Locations
50 States, 500 Campgrounds – This beautifully illustrated guide from National Geographic reveals 500 of the best tent, cabin, glamping and RV campgrounds including opening dates, booking information, activity recommendations and more.
Where Should We Camp Next? – Your essential planning guidebook for family-friendly camping trips featuring 300 of the best camping and glamping spots in the USA.
Where Should We Camp Next: National Parks – The best camping in and around over 100 national parks, lakeshores, monuments and more.
Family-Friendly Camping
Family Camping – A camping handbook for families featuring food and drink recipes, family activities, nature hacks, expert know-how, and other information for the outdoor-lover looking for a memorable weekend with the family.
See You at the Campground – A family-friendly guide to planning amazing outdoor adventures—because the best memories are the ones made around the campfire.
Cooking While Camping
Feast by Firelight – Whether you pack your bags or stick closer to home, try some outdoor cooking tips for a camping vibe.
The Campout Cookbook – For foodies who camp.
Inspirational and Aspirational
The Camping Life – Fantastic photographs and instructions offer inspiration for the practicalities of a camping trip.
A Year in the Wilderness – In an age when humans are more disconnected from nature than ever, the future of our species and the ecosystems that support us will be endangered if wilderness is lost. We must not lose sight of its value, and we must speak loudly for these quiet places.
Survival Skills
Ninja Wilderness Survival Guide – If you find yourself in an unexpected extreme situation while wilderness camping, hiking or adventuring off the beaten path, a fundamental understanding of your surroundings can make the difference between life and death.
The Scouting Guide to Survival – Find time-tested advice on emergency preparedness in this book chock full of practical tips.
Backpacking to Glamping
The Complete Guide to Backpacking – An introduction for those preparing to take a more rustic approach to their camping adventure.
Glamping With MaryJane – A guide to glamping, or glamorous camping, in trailers and five wall tents that include modern amenities. Nature is for everyone, even if you’re not into sleeping on the ground.
Hiking
Trail Tested – Hundreds of valuable tips and advice based on Justin Lichter's experience in hiking over 35,000 miles across the country and beyond.
Fat Girls Hiking – Brimming with heartfelt stories, practical advice, personal profiles and trail reviews, this book shares a message of inclusivity in the outdoors.
Camping History
Under the Stars – Explore how camping took hold of the national imagination and evolved alongside a changing country. This book is great for campers who like to have the full context before planning.
Heading Out – Author Young humanizes camping's history by spotlighting key figures in its development. These characters give readers a reason to don a headlamp, pull up a chair beside the campfire, and discover the invigorating and refreshing history of sleeping under the stars.
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