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Camp the Falls: The Ultimate Fun-draiser

Yellow tent at night

The “What” and “When” of Camp the Falls:

If you’re a Greenville local, there’s a good chance you’ve heard about Camp the Falls happening this September. If not don’t worry, this blog is here to answer all your questions! First up: what exactly is Camp the Falls? This event is an urban camping experience where 10 lucky winners will be chosen on September 8th for a chance to camp out in Falls Park the following week. This event has been coordinated by Rotary Charities, South Carolina’s largest and oldest club. The members of the Rotary Club work hard to help improve the South Carolina community through creative and unique fundraising events, such as this one. Through their affiliation with many different charities and programs, the Rotary Club has helped improve the lives of many. All profits from this year’s Camp the Falls event will go to various charities and causes including but not limited to:

  1. The Literacy Association of Greenville
  2. The “Service Above Self” Scholarships to help less fortunate individuals pay for college
  3. Mentors for Veterans struggling to re-integrate into society
  4. Assisting the students and teachers of the Rotary Charity’s 2019 partner school, Alexander Elementary

People camping and admiring the clear blue sky

The Details:

On September 8th, from 2-6 PM, don’t miss out on the free and family friendly outdoor festival and raffle event at Falls Park. Along with plenty of games, activities, and clinics focused on outdoor living, a total of 9 campsites (including 1 “glampsite”) will be raffled off. We are excited to be a sponsor for 1 of the 9 sites, so make sure to stop by our Frugal Backpacker tent that will be set up that day. In addition, another campsite will be donated to a family from Alexander Elementary (Rotary Charity’s partner school for 2019), for a total of 10 campsites all together. The winners of the campsites will receive:

  1. The chance to camp overnight in Falls Park from September 14th -15th.
  2. About $2,000 worth of camping gear, provided by Outdoor Sports Marketing, to not only use during the campout, but also take home and use in the future!
  3. Gift cards to eat out in downtown Greenville, as well as a free Sunday brunch after the campout. 

Campfire burning in the foreground with people camping in the background

For even more information, head over to the Camp the Falls website here . This event is perfect for families wanting to get into camping but don’t know where to start. Along with raffling off free gear, this event provides a safe and less-daunting environment for individuals wanting to dip their toes into the wonderful world of camping.

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Planning Your Swamp Rabbit Trail Adventure

Photo of Falls Park in Greenville, SC

The Swamp Rabbit Trail

With a new Frugal Backpacker location in the beautiful Greenville SC, we are so excited to be a part of this community and explore all that the city has to offer! From restaurants, breweries, trails, and more, there is so much to discover, and we want to help you all do the same through posts like these! Today we are highlighting the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 20-mile greenway opened in 2009 that runs through the heart of Greenville along the Reedy River. We have inserted a fantastic four minute video tour of the trail, so definitely check that out above.

Oh The Things You Can Do

This trail has it all, from a detailed map highlighting where the restrooms, parking, and water fountains are), to an extensive guide called “ The Carrot ” highlighting the restaurants and breweries along the way. Not to mention every one of these locations are within either a 1 mile bike ride or ¼ mile walk from the trail! The Swamp Rabbit Trail is also dog friendly, so that means you and your (on leash) furry friend can enjoy the journey together! Biking is among the most popular activities on the trail, and if you don’t have a bike, don’t worry! Just stop by Reedy Rides on your way, Greenville’s dedicated bike rental business for the trail.

Teal Bike on part of The Swamp Rabbit Trail

Photo taken by @galemanor on Instagram

Great Routes for a Biking Adventure

If you are looking to get the Downtown Greenville experience, consider starting your adventure at Cleveland Park and heading into the city to find out everything it has to offer. If you prefer something a bit more laid back, try starting around Furman University and make your way over to Traveler’s Rest. There you can spend the day exploring all of the cute shops and restaurants on your route!

 

Some of our staff had planned on biking the trail this past Saturday, but were unfortunately thwarted by rain. That didn’t stop us from having a good time though, and enjoying one of the restaurants along the trail, The Swamp Rabbit Café! As you can see, everyone had a great time and really enjoyed the laid back atmosphere of this cute café, regardless of the rainy weather. 

Photo from outside of The Swamp Rabbit Café

Photo of staff members outside of the Swamp Rabbit Café

We want to hear from you guys what YOUR favorite part of the Swamp Rabbit Trail is, so leave a comment on Facebook under this article and let us know where your adventure takes you!

 

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6 Tips for Winter Hiking

Fewer crowds and bare trees make winter hikes unbeatable for solitude and sweeping views. Be prepared to get the most out of winter adventures with these 6 tips.
Check the Weather
Before any hike you should check the weather, but this is even more important when winter hiking. You’ll want to check not only the temperature, but the predicted precipitation, wind and daylight hours so you can plan accordingly. Don’t forget that high elevation and bald peaks can make trail temps much colder than in town.
Layers, Layers, Layers…
Be prepared for all conditions. You may work up a sweat going up a steep incline and times but be cold walking a flat section or taking a moment to enjoy the view.  Be prepared for unexpected changes in the weather by bringing layers that offer insulation and wind/water protection.
Pack Safety Equipment
Hiking in the winter can be unpredictable at times. Trails and conditions may not be what you are used to during the warmer months. Make sure that you have the necessary emergency equipment (see our blog post on Outdoor Safety Basics). It is always a good idea to throw a basic first aid kit in your bag and let someone know your planned route and return time.
Start Early and Be Flexible
Because of the limited sunlight during the winter months, you might want to start earlier than usual on your adventure. Plan a turn-around time and stick to it so you can get out of the elements before the sun goes down and the temperature drops.
Invest in Good Gear
With winter hiking, it’s critical to have the appropriate gear when heading out. Avoid cotton, it loses its warmth when wet and takes a long time to dry. Instead opt for synthetic, merino, or bamboo apparel.
A few gear essentials are waterproof or insulated boots, baselayer, something to keep your head warm (hat, balaclava, etc), an insulated jacket, and a weatherproof shell. It is always good to have a change of clothes in your bag or waiting for you in your car!
Treat yo’ self!
After braving the harsh conditions of winter, treat yourself to a nice warm meal and a hot cup of cocoa or tea. It’s always good to have a thermos of something hot waiting for you at your car or in your pack.
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