Two people roast marshmallows at a campfire.

Introduction to Camping Trip

This trip is a perfect way to try camping and get to know new friends! We will cover the basics of camping at Mohawk Trail State Forest, in Charlemont, Massachusetts.

We will be "car-camping" which means we will camp in the beautiful woods right next to our van. We won't need to carry our gear any distance, so we can focus on the skills of tent set-up, meal cooking, and general outdoor knowledge.

We provide all the gear - comfy sleeping bags and sleeping pads, plus tents. We provide all the food, with a menu that works with any dietary restrictions you may have (Vegetarian, peanuts, dairy, gluten, we can work with you!). Participants have the opportunity to learn how to use the camp stove and cook outside.

If the weather allows, we can swim at the campground in the lovely river there. On Saturday evening, we will enjoy a campfire with s'mores, mmm. The group will likely have an enjoyable hike in the state forest if time allows on Sunday morning.

  • Dates: September 19-20, 2026
  • Prep Meeting: There is a pre-trip meeting scheduled for Monday, September 14 at 5 p.m. If you can't make it due to class or other responsibilities, the trip leaders will update you separately, no worries.
  • Cost: $65; Cost covers everything: van transportation from Lowell; camping fees, food, gear and guidance and instruction from your OAP trip leaders.

Register online for OAP 2026 - September 19-20 - Introduction to Camping Trip

A pile of 5 people sit leaning on each other against a wooden shelter, smiling and lit by headlamps.
  • Group size: Group size is 10 people plus our two trip leaders. A waitlist is maintained once the trip is filled. Encourage your friends to join!
  • Skill Level/Prerequisites: No previous experience required.
  • Physical exertion: Easy. This trip is planned for beginners.
Leaf covered trail in a forest in fall.

Packing List

The items on this list are strongly recommended for your trip. The weather forecast and your thermal perception (i.e. if you generally feel cold easily or often feel hot) should be considered when packing.

*Denotes items we have (limited quantities) that you can borrow for free.

CLOTHING

  • Shirt Recommend 1 long-sleeve and 1 short-sleeve, quick-dry, lightweight. 
  • Jacket Recommend 1 fleece, wool, or puffy top layer, should be compact
  • Underwear Quick-dry (non-cotton) preferable
  • Pants Recommend quick-drying material such as nylon or polyester
  • Socks Socks for wearing at camp may be any material, 1 pair.
  • Shoes Athletic shoes or sport sandals are ideal—no flip flops or open-toed sandals

Other clothes

  • *Rain jacket Used for both rain and wind.
  • *Rain Pants Used for both rain and wind. Bottoms are a must, as weather can change suddenly
  • Pajamas everyone should always have a dry set of clothes to sleep in
  • Sunglasses Recommend with leash
  • *Warm Hat Sun and/or cold protection (Yes, this may be needed even in the summer)
  • *Gloves Lightweight
  • Baseball hat or sun hat
  • Swimsuit & Towel

PERSONAL

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
  • Feminine hygiene supplies plus toiletries disposal bag, pee rag (women)
  • Personal environmental supplies Sunscreen, lip balm, bug spray
  • If needed: Hair ties
  • If needed: Glasses or Contacts or contact lens solution
  • Small pack towel and / or Bandana Washcloth is a perfect size. Versatile: use as sweat rag, hanky, napkin and more.
  • Personal Medications
  • Medical Insurance Card
  • Optional: Hand sanitizer Small bottle

EQUIPMENT

  • *Headlamp
  • *Sleeping bag Plan to use a 15-20 degree bag
  • *Sleeping pad
A person sits on the ground amidst cooking items at a campsite.

FOOD AND WATER

  • *Bowl recommend a small plastic Tupperware-type bowl. No plate needed.
  • *Mug or cup lightweight plastic for warm drinks
  • *Utensils
  • *Water Bottle

OPTIONAL

  • Camp pillow
  • Money For food on the road and/or possible souvenirs
  • Camera (or camera phone)
  • Book or journal or notebook
  • Lightweight rechargeable battery pack and charging cables
  • Multi-tool or pocketknife
  • Binoculars
  • Extra snacks for yourself - no more than 1 extra per day, please

*All items with an asterisk are available to check-out and included in the cost of your registration.

If you have any personal equipment (sleeping bag, etc.) that you would like to bring, please bring it to the pre-trip meeting so trip leaders can make sure it is appropriate for the needs of this trip.

OAP will provide all the necessary group items, including tents, cooking supplies, stoves and fuel, all the food, water purification, hygiene kit (hand sanitizer and biodegradable soap), first aid kit, emergency communication device, and maps.

Check out all of our upcoming trips on our Trips and Events Calendar webpage.

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