Tubing and canoeing has always been one of our favorite activities while camping. Having small children put a stop to the day long tube or canoe float. Wanting to get back on the river we decided that rafting would be a safe alternative to get us back on the water. After researching the prices the outfitters charge for rafts, we decided to purchase our own boat.
Doing what anyone else would do we turned to the internet and started doing research. We finally decided to purchase a inflatable raft from Sea Eagle. The raft of choice was the Sea Eagle 9 with the startup package. The start up package includes the boat, oar set, foot pump, high seat and rowing seat. We purchased directly from Sea Eagle and received free shipping on the entire package. Having small children on the raft we also decided to purchase the optional canopy to keep the little ones shaded during the trip. We hit a few snags during the ordering process, but there customer service is top notch and took care of our problem promptly.

Once the raft arrived we opened up the packaging and found everything to be in perfect condition. The raft has five separate chambers made from 38 mil polykrylar, and I must say this material feels very strong. The raft weighs in at 38 lbs. and is very easy to carry. Wanting to get a feel for everything prior to hitting the river we followed the instructions to inflate the boat. Using the foot pump was very fast and the deluxe valves made the inflation process painless. Once inflated the children got in for a closer inspection and it of course passed. Take down was just as fast using the deluxe valves, following the directions the raft folded up very nicely.

The real test came in July when we took the raft to Jacks Fork river in southern Missouri. After shuttling vehicles around we set up the raft for our trip which was an 8 mile float from Alley Springs to Emminence. Again set up fast and uneventful and we set out on our trip. The Jacks Fork river is somewhat shallow this time of year so dragging was definitely an issue. The raft handled the river rocks and the stray tree stumps without suffering any damage. The canopy was a great add-on as it kept the front passenger in the shade and out of the cold rain that caught us about 1 mile from the take out point. We also managed to hit a few low hanging trees with the canopy and it made it through without damage.

The Sea Eagle 9 also has a motor-mount option that allows the use of up to a 4 hp gas motor. Wood floorboards are also available to allow a fisherman to stand in the boat. Overall I would say the SE 9 is a great value for the weekend rafter. I would not hesitate to purchase another boat from Sea Eagle. They also have inflatable kayaks, yacht tenders and small sailboats.

It won’t be long before the leaves begin to change and temperature drops, but that should not stop you from camping. Camping in the fall is very enjoyable and can be a whole new experience. Many things change during the fall. The trees begin to change, the animals prepare for the winter and most notable the temperature begins to fall. When packing for a fall trip care must be taken to bring the appropriate clothing and bedding. Shorts and t-shirts may be comfortable during the day, but as the sun begins to set the temperatures can drop by 30 degrees or more. Taking care to pack long pants and jackets is very important to insure a fun filled trip. Bedding is another area that must be addressed. While packing for the trip make sure to include extra covers or sleeping bags. When you think you have packed enough add one more just to be sure, you can always remove layers if needed.

Activities also change this time of year as swimming gives way to hiking or biking. Taking a little time to plan ahead will make for a wonderful trip. Research the area where you will be camping and find out what activities are available. Many parks and campgrounds offer special programs in the fall, these can be very fun especially if you have little ones coming along. Be sure to bring along the camera, as the fall foliage can make for some very spectacular photos. Last but not least have fun.

Coolers are a must when camping and having the right cooler is important. When we camp we take along multiple coolers, 2 large and a couple small ones for day trips. We use one of the large coolers for the perishable foods and the other for beverages, this way we are not opening the food cooler as often, keeping it colder for much longer. Packing correctly will also prolong your ice.

Tips to prolong your ice:

• Freeze meat and drinks that you will not use in the first day or two
• Chill your drinks before packing in the cooler
• Fill the cooler with food then add ice on top
• Open the cooler as little as possible
• Keep the lid closed tight
• Keep the cooler in the shade
• Do not drain all the water
• If space allows use some blocks of ice as these will last much longer than cubes

If you tire of running to the camp store for ice and have an electric site you may want to invest in this next pricey gadget. A portable ice maker may be just what you need. Some models make ice in just minutes and can make over 20 pounds a day.

For the gadget savvy camper electric coolers are available for around $100 or less. I have not used this type of cooler, but I am sure you can find many reviews elswhere.

23 Qt. Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer

What ever your choice just remember to chill out and have fun!