Happy Camper Radio

In Episode 55, Skip and Daniel gather around the fire for some general camp conversation.  A caller weighs-in with some thoughts and ideas for the show, and Daniel talks up his vacation plans this week in Callaway Gardens.

At some point in our travels, we will not doubt have an interaction with a law enforcement officer. In this week's episode, Skip looks back on his eighteen year law enforcement career, and shares some of his experience in working with the general public. Learn what to do, and what not to do if stopped for a traffic related offense. Hear what he has to say about police impersonators, what to look for, and things you can do to keep you and your family safe.

In this special one-hour episode of Happy Camper Radio, the ladies take to the microphone to weigh-in on Skip's topic of Campground Weddings.  And one of them is not too receptive of the idea.  For engaged couples who enjoy the life of camping and spending time with nature, see why exchanging vows at a campground may be the way to go.  Join us for this lively and informative discussion as we explore the benefits of tying-the-knot at camp.

This week, Skip and Daniel return to camp to talk about safety and security.  Most people will agree that family oriented campers have the utmost respect for other people's personal belongings.  While spending time away from your campsite, it's always a safe bet to lock up items of extreme value.  We'll take a look at different camping environments, and identify some of the things that are best stored away from public view. 

In the world of camping, people are always looking for new destinations and fun things to do.  This week, Skip kicks back as Daniel takes center stage to discuss his passion for disc golf.  But is it enough to get Skip out of his camping chair and away from the fire long enough to actively participate?  Hear what he has to say about it and how it differs from pro golf.

The conversation becomes lively this week when Daniel returns to camp....and brings his wife Deidra to weigh-in on the discussion.  In this episode, we debate the use of cell phones and other electronic devises at camp.  Is modern technology so much a part of our everyday life that we can't escape its powerful addiction, even during a short camping trip?  Hear what they have to say, and find out why Skip would much rather leave all the electronic gagets at home.

Truck owners who require few or a limited number of accomodations while camping may want to consider a "truck tent" for their overnight camping needs.  Truck tents are extremely popular among some campers, and are available in a wide range of colors, styles and designs.  This week, we look at the advantages and disadvantages of truck tent camping, including safety concerns and where to buy.

Daniel is back!  In this week's episode, Skip reflects on his days of owning a truck camper.  We discuss what it takes to stock and prepare your RV for the road ahead, and identify some things you can store on-board in anticipation of your trip.  We talk about some of the supplies and non-perishable food items you can pack ahead of time, as well as maintenance issues to consider.  Taking the time to prepare now means more time camping by the lake, and less time getting ready for your upcoming trip.    

Camping and hiking in the winter requires special preparation.  Regardless how much time you spend in the cold, it's important to be ready for any sudden change in temperature.  While spending time in the winter weather can be a memorable experience, some people choose to avoid it altogether.  In this week's episode we look at the causes of frostbite and hypothermia, and what you can do to avoid becoming a victim. 

During a second blast of winter weather that hit the southeast last Tuesday, many residents took warning and remained indoors. However, hundreds of people were not expecting to be without electricity for several hours.  Some were in the dark for several days.  Reacting to a weather related crisis at home may be easier for people who camp.  How would you respond to a winter weather event, with no electricity and no heat inside your residence?  Would your camping instincts start to kick in?  We'll talk about this week in Episode 46.

You never know when an emergency situation will cause you to take shelter in the very automobile you drive. On January 28, 2014, thousands of metro Atlanta motorists were forced into that situation when snow and freezing rain blanketed roads and interstates. Not only were people unprepared for a night of cold weather, several school children were forced to spend the night on school buses. Vehicles ran out of gas. Many stranded motorists went without food and water for nearly a day. In Episode 45, Skip describes his experiences that night, as he too was caught up in the massive gridlock that caught many unsuspecting people by surprise. Find out what he did to survive the night, and learn how you can prepare yourself for an unexpected camping trip on the road. It's a special one-hour episode of the Happy Camper Radio.

In Episode 44, Skip looks at the idea of upgrading to propane. With the cost of camp fuel skyrocketing, and the lack of duel-fuel equipment in his camping inventory, the possibility of transitioning to propane from liquid fuel is becoming closer to a reality in 2014. But is he willing to part ways with this old lanterns that have been holding up well these past twenty years?

In this week's episode, we examine the recent wild fire in Glendora, California, reportedly caused by a campfire that got out of control.  We look at the damage and destruction caused by it, including the many state and local resources needed to bring the fire under control. We also visit two important websites where campers can find forecast information and weather conditions before heading out to camp.

In this week's episode, we take a look at the conveniences and hidden dangers associated with portable generators. In the camping world, generators are known to provide electricity to operate things like air conditioners, TVs and other appliances. They are often used at times when electrical service is otherwise not available. Join us, as we explore some of the benefits and safety issues in owning an operating a generator, both at home, on the road, and while camping.

With 2013 behind us, it's now time to focus on our goals for the year ahead. In this week's show, Skip runs down a list of resolutions and ideas to enhance to your life in the world of camping. Haven't set a goal 2014? It's never to late to begin. Set a target date, and begin working on your 2014 camping resolution today.

Happy New Year, fellow campers!  It's been a great run so far.  Thank you so much for your time and dedicated following.  Look forward to meeting up again in 2014.  Have a safe one tonight, and please don't drink and drive.

In this week's episode we talk about boating safety tips and look at things you can to to enhance your safety while enjoying time on the lake.  Ever thought of owning a watercraft but thought it was too expensive?  Listen in, as we talk with Shawn Gardner from Fun2Rent.com.  Learn how you can go about renting a boat for your next weekend getaway.

With Christmas only days away, there's always one or two last minute gift ideas we suddenly think about.  Perhaps it's a stocking stuffer for the kids, or that one extra gift for under the tree.  It's never difficult to find something special for the camper in your life.  This week, we run down a list of holiday gift ideas that are easy to find, and wont break the bank.  Listen in as Skip explains how he is drawn into the Christmas spirit this time of year.  It's the Happy Camper Christmas special. This week, we travel to northwestern Pennsylvania for our featured campground of the week.

Whether you're heading out of town for a holiday camping trip, or spending time with family and loved ones, it's important to remember that home break-ins are on the rise this time of year.  In Episode 38, Skip brings his law enforcement training to the front and center in order to provide fellow campers with the safety tips they need to make their homes better secure while they're away.  Listen in, and find out what you can do to make your home less attractive to burglars.  It's an informative program you wont want to miss.  This week, we travel to the state of Arkansas for our featured campground of the week.

In this week's episode, Skip talks about holiday shopping for the camper in your life.  With Christmas fast approaching, the malls and stores are full of holiday shoppers in search of great bargains and exceptional deals. Today, however, many people are avoiding the rush by shopping online from the comfort and convenience of their home.  While Internet shopping is a popular way to buy gifts, it's important that your home computer contains a firewall, and up-to-date anti-virus software and spyware.  We'll talk about things to look for in order to make your home shopping experience a safe and pleasant one.  This week, we visit the Downstream Campground in Montana.  It's our featured campground of the week.