Camping?

So, I have decided that I need to camp before joining the Peace Corps. I somehow believe that this will make me a more rustic and hardy individual.

The thing is, I have never gone camping before, therefore, I know nothing about it and do not have any equipment to camp. I have a hand-me-down sleeping bag, but it is not weather proof at all.

Of course, it is much more exciting to think about camping than revising a thesis, so I am now obsessed with travel plans, but tomorrow morning will get back to task and get'er done. But right now, my thoughts are to travel to the UP--first stopping in Mackinac Island (where there is no camping or cars allowed) and check that out for a day or two before heading to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and embarking on the camping adventure. If it proves too tough or difficult, will abandon ship, so to speak, and seek shelter elsewhere.

Why the UP? Because, I like pretty lakes, cliffs, and light houses. I am going to take pretty pictures--which I guess also means that I should get my camera fixed soon.

On the way back down, could also stop and visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or Forest or something.

Camping is also cheap and affordable, and those are the only kinds of vacations I can currently embark on. So, bring it on, I say, and if anyone has any camping advice, such as the kind of tent I should be looking to get, please let me know!