Silly question... Tent Pads. - Wild Texas Forums: Parks, Travel & Recreation

SunshineSnuz · 04-27-2006, 08:13 AM

Okay, everyone hold in the giggles here it comes...

Made reservations at Palmetto SP for next weekend and they told me that all tents must be set up on one of the tent pads for the spot. Ummm, so how do you 'stake' the tent? And what exactly is the purpose for these pads? Are they made out of concrete or what? :confused:

So, if y'all have stopped laughing can someone please enlighten me?

Thanx! :rolleyes:

ploddinTod · 04-27-2006, 08:43 AM

A tent pad is merely a designated area within a campsite in which to setup the tent. It is usually framed by lumber like landscaping timbers and graded with some type of earthen material or combination of earth/crushed rock. You should have no problem "planting" your tent stakes in this material.

The purpose of tent pads is to limit erosion in the campsite.

DayTripper · 04-28-2006, 04:05 AM

In addition to Tod's comments, tent pads usually ensure a level area for your tent.

SunshineSnuz · 04-28-2006, 09:53 AM

ah, it's all so clear now! :cool:
Thanks for the replies, I knew it would be something relatively obvious...
Of course I think I still like the idea of grass or dirt better but such is life

Have a great weekend!

CyberCelt · 04-28-2006, 08:06 PM

Using tent pads minimizes the impact of humans on the environment.

Palmetto is a neat place, enjoy.

SunshineSnuz · 05-01-2006, 11:23 AM

Thanks again!
We always try to make sure that we leave our area the way it was (or cleaner) than when we came in. In fact my daughter and I always carry a plastic bag while 'hiking' to pick up any loose litter we find on the trails b/c I want to teach her at a young age the importance of 'leaving no trace'.

Have you stayed at Palmetto before and if so do you have any recommendations for tent sites?

thanks!

Shannon · 05-01-2006, 11:46 AM

I recommend site #34 along the San Marcos River, if it's available. It's where Justin and I have stayed on multiple occasions (we tent camp.)

Here's an (old) trip report from one of our outings at Palmetto State Park.

SunshineSnuz · 05-01-2006, 12:46 PM

Wonderful!! I can only hope that we have half as many wildlife 'encounters' as y'all did during your trip, thanks!!

It turns out that we have supposedly reserved the one large capacity tent site (wit a big enough tent pad to fit two 8 man tents)... does anyone have any idea where it is located? :confused:
Thanks!