Camp Etiquette for Holiday Hunters

article by Dan Chason

Most hunters have had at least one experience or more in what we refer to as “The Camp.” In the old days, that camp may have been a tent pitched on public land or a camper with a wood burning stove or barrel ablaze outside to take away the late night nip. Either way any camp has some components that are pretty similar. Take for example the camp cook. Every camp has one and some are better than others. Probably my favorite camp cook of all time was Allen Butler. Allen was a exceptional cook and jokester, but with that he was also a very gifted hunter. Back in the 80s, Allen came up with a video series called “From the Hoof to the Skillet.” This video took the nimrod from the field to the kitchen and showed the secrets of the harvest, processing and cooking of venison. I still use some of Allen’s tips to this day, as the man knew his stuff when it came to critters. But not all camp cooks are of the Allen Butler variety. We lost Allen last year and is his cooking is one thing of many that I will miss.

I remember as a kid, this “camp” was an old school bus. After a long morning of rabbit hunting, this old Cajun woman had cooked up some rabbit jambalaya. I don’t know if it was because I was starving at the time, but it was one of the most memorable meals I have ever eaten in the field. Then there is the not so gifted camp cook. I’ve eaten my share of burnt biscuits and gravy that tasted like pure flour, but most camp cooks I have met have shared some recipes that I still use to this day.

Camp food is generally pretty simple. We don’t do low carb, keto or low fat at the camp. The more butter the better, and portions are whatever makes you full. This of course, is complimented by football on the tv or at the least a hunting show. No girlie shows or news is of interest, unless, of course it is election time. But the one constant in a camp cook that is paramount is “can you cook a good breakfast?” Breakfast is usually a brunch. We tote honey buns and sweets with a thermos of coffee first thing and then come back after a morning hunt to the full meal deal, followed by a welcomed nap. Pretty simple life. That is until you get that one wrong member in the camp.

This member does not understand the routine. He will come into the camp, slamming doors, talking loud or turning up the tv. This is usually the same one who thinks it is ok to get in your box stand that you have corned for a month. This member wants to ride his four wheeler to the stand instead of walk and is usually the one who gripes the most about what other members do. If you are this guy in the camp, your tenure will be short. Hunters hunt to escape drama and controversy. And if you don’t know what common courtesy in the woods/camp is, you need to hunt alone.

Then there is the member who can fix anything. Whether it’s plumbing, electrical or a wheeler that has quit, this is the VIP of the hunting camp. I have seen more major repairs done in the camp yard than at the local ATV location. The VIP will never worry about his tenure and will almost always be the first served by the camp cook and the last one asked to wash dishes.

My favorite type of member is the one who isn’t afraid to do his homework. He does his own scouting, his own stand placement and is always there for work day with his own tools. This is the same guy who will not only fix his stand but be just as willing to fix anyone’s stand or equipment for a smoother season.

Probably the most overlooked member is the clean freak. He is a little OCD and is constantly sweeping, using a blower or power washer and gets a little upset when guests don’t remove their boots at the door of the camp. But you won’t find trash in your stand if he asks to hunt it and you never worry about a mess being left, even if he didn’t make it. This member is lovingly referred to as the “camp wife,” because if you leave your stuff laying around, he will move it. Kind of like being at home with the wife. But without him, the camp would be a mess.

Whether your camp is a camper, tent, shack or mansion there are some basic rules. Let me disclose them, in case you don’t know them:
• If you mess it up, clean it up
• Hunt your own stuff and spot. Don’t use another member’s stand/stuff without asking.
• Always bring more groceries than you will eat.
• You are the member. You are responsible for you and your guests, even if they are family.
• Abide by and don’t gripe about the rules. The rules were made from experiences before you got here.
• Think of other members’ rights and honor them. Stay off of ATVs near and around their hunting areas, even if they are not present. Would you sleep in their bed because they are absent?
• Pay your way. That means groceries, beer, gas or any expense. Dues pay the rent and there are other expenses.
• You are a member but you are a guest of whoever owns/manages the land. Act like one.

The camp is a great place to get away and can be a nice refuge from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives. It is our responsibility to manage and maintain leased or owned lands for the future camps of our kids and grandkids. The beauty of any camp is in the eye of the beholder. Just remember, the camp is what you make it. Happy Holidays, and enjoy your camp time this year.