It's crazy to know that a few hours outside of your city there is a totally different world. A world with no cellphone-signal, beautiful trees, and the sound of birds chirping. Last week I had a great opportunity to be apart of this world not to far from me. For about 48 hours, I was away from work and family, and entered this beautiful place about one hour from my city. It was a time of relaxation and quality time with my two best friends. After this trip, I was stress-free and ready to go back to reality. I encourage you, before the summer ends, to get out there. Go and see whats outside of your city, even if it's not camping. Have fun and enjoy your surroundings!

---

1. Lodge-in.

My two best friends and I rented a cabin in Mohican Outdoor Center, a lodge just on the Appalachian Trial. Two unforgettable nights with two of the best people in my life. Forever we will remember this wonderful camping trip. If sleeping in a tent is not for you, renting a cabin is just as fun and a lot easier! Our cabin came with a full-furnished kitchen, making it easier to cook our meals.

2. Quality time with friends and nature.

Having best friends who are down for anything at any time is the best. With a busy schedule and being away for college can be very hard to connect with high school friends. Camping is a good way of spending quality time with your friends and enjoying nature. Getting off your phones for a while and reconnect with them, can make your heart very happy, just as it did to mine.

3. Hiking.

Grab your sneakers and go for a hike! But don't forget your water! Hiking was one of the best experiences on this camping trip. We went on a very short hike, about two miles up and down, with a wonderful view. Hiking gives you the chance to get your daily exercise in and appreciate the woods at the same time. Be sure to bring comfortable clothing, and a hat to avoid ticks! Don't forget to take water breaks and stay close to the trail!

4. Kayaking.

To begin with, kayaking is way more fun than canoeing! While camping, I've found that canoeing is a lot harder a lot scarier, one wrong move and your in the water! Kayaking is more stable and you are able to go the speed that you want. You are your own boat, you can take yourself where ever you want and no one can stop you!

5. Swimming.

Swimming in a pond was something to get used to. Being very cautious about what touches my feet, it took some time to adjust to swimming in the pond. Swimming with a stunning view was fantastic! Be sure when you go camping that you get a chance to swim and unleash you inner mermaid!