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Camping purists may put away their phones when they head into the woods, but many of us would rather stay connected.
Most Canadians – 74 per cent – bring their cellphone camping, and WiFi is among the top three camping priorities, according to the 2015 North American Camping Report from Kampgrounds of America, Inc.
Some might prefer playing FarmVille, but smartphones need not be a distraction.
They could even make camping better.
"When I was growing up as a Scout I had a compass and a map," says Jim Rogers, CEO of KOA.
"Now I've got my phone. It's the same applications, just the different tool."
It's a tool that can do so much more at a campsite than that compass ever could. Start with these apps to elevate your camping experience.
First Aid
The official Canadian Red Cross First Aid app offers step-by-step instructions for a wide range of everyday emergencies. Nobody wants to get into a bad situation in the wilderness, but everyone should know how to get out of one.
WhatKnot
Whether you're hanging your food to keep it out of reach of animals or putting up a tarp to shelter you from rain, knowing your way around knots can be key when you're camping. This app has instructions on how to tie 70 different kinds.
Star Walk 2
The stars are never better than when you're camping. Use this app to geek out as you gaze up at the sky. Move your phone (or tablet) around the sky and the app will show you everything – major stars, planets, constellations.
Audubon Birds Pro
Weekend ornithologists who don't know a western grebe from a gadwall will get plenty of help from this app. With descriptions of more than 800 species and eight hours of bird sounds, you'll be able to identify just about any bird you see on your trip.
Campfire Songs
This app, by Scoutapps.net, comes with 175 classics. Kumbaya? Of course. Boom Chicka Boom? Obviously. Home on the Range? You betcha. You never know, the group might be in the mood for a sing-a-long. Camping can do that.
Dave McGinn