Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site of Canada

Backcountry Camping

Equipment Checklist

Essential:

• topographical map such as Kejimkujik's Backcountry Guide, available at the Visitor Centre. Travelers in the woods should carry with them a map and compass and know how to use them. A GPS unit is a good additional tool but doesn't take the place of map and compass.
• drinking water or water purification (tablets, pump filters). Never assume that any water source in the backcountry is safe to drink.
• axe to make kindling from the firewood provided on your site
• portable camp stove for cooking. Be aware that open fires may be banned in dry conditions.

You should also bring the following:

• axe and knife
• sunscreen and insect repellent
• First Aid kit
• rainwear
• compass and map
• change of clothes (waterproof)
• portable stove and fuel
• waterproof matches
• layered clothing
• extra food, emergency provisions
• fire starter cubes
• tent, tarp, and rope
• flashlight or candles
• water filter or purification tablets
• sunglasses
• whistle

For winter add:

• cross country skis or snowshoes
• ski/snowshoe repair kits (spare bindings and ski tips)
• four-season tent
• four-season sleeping bag and pad (cabins do not have mattresses on the bunks)
• long underwear
• fleece pants and vest
• gaiters
• outer shell pants and top
• insulated top - down or synthetic
• gloves/mitts
• toque
• warm socks with wicking liner

Avoid:

• individually packaged items
• disposable items
• canned and bottled items

Choose:

• powdered drinks, soups and dried foods
• bulk foods, to eliminate redundant packaging
• reusable items such as ceramic mugs, plates and bowls
• durable pots and cutlery, liquid fuel stoves and lanterns, etc.