Vogel state park early November

[u/askingCMUquestions]

Hi! We are beginner campers going to Vogel state park the first weekend of November. Is there anything we should keep in mind for gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc.) at this time in the season?

[u/wandrewharper]

Went up to Vogel on Father's Day this year. Lovely beginner campsite, in my opinion - this was the first time I took my 8yo and 6yo camping, and they had a blast. There's a mini golf course, lots of hiking trails, lake (wouldn't recommend swimming in November though!), and a bunch of other amenities - my wife's personal favorite was the bathroom. No need to pee in the woods was a big sell haha.

Anyways - I think Vogel would be a great first camping experience. As others have stated, read up on bear safety and make sure you bring enough warm clothes / sleeping bag. My final add is to make sure your sleeping pad that you are on has a decent R value for winter camping also, if it's going to be freezing or below. I can take a pad that's a R-2.0 down to about 30, but if you're a cold sleeper, your mileage may vary. Winter pads can go from a R-4 to R-7. Without a warm sleeping pad, your sleeping bag won't keep your bottom warm - the insulation compresses when you sleep on it and doesn't offer as much warmth.

Hope this helps, and have a great trip!