First-time campers can get gear and a reservation for two nights at a participating state park for just $20, thanks to a partnership between the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Gander Mountain.
"This is the second year we are offering this hands-on instruction on camping, and we've added five additional parks to the original 14," DCNR Secretary Richard Allan said. "You can't beat this offer as far as the cost (and) the opportunity to enjoy many other activities at our state parks such as hiking and fishing. A park staffer will even help you set up camp."
The participating parks, and the counties they are in, are:
Reservations should be made by calling the park office directly. The program will run through the summer.
Loaned gear includes a four-person tent, rain tarp, sleeping pads, camp chairs, flashlight, lantern, camp stove and hot dog sticks. It must be returned upon departure.
