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Course Outline

Hunter sitting under a lean-to shelter

Start preparing your camp well before dark.

  • Look for a natural shelter, such as a rock overhang or a thick stand of evergreens. The site should be dry and well drained, and protect you from the wind. Ideally, it also should be near water and plenty of firewood.
  • If no natural shelter is available, pick an area with materials nearby to build a lean-to or debris hut.
    • A lean-to is constructed by leaning branches against a horizontal support to form a frame for a roof. Be sure to orient the opening away from the wind.
    • Cover the frame with evergreen branches to block wind or precipitation. Leaves and twigs are another option.
    • If you need additional protection, you can add side walls.
  • Build your fire where its heat will radiate into the shelter. Your sleeping area should be located between the shelter wall and the fire.
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