Many a camper has been soured on the activity by inconsiderate (read: noisy) neighbors. Remember that many people head to the woods for piece and quiet. When you camp, observe quiet hours (10 p.m. to 8 a.m. in Minnesota state parks). Pets along? At state parks, they must be on a leash six feet or shorter, and never left alone. Here are three more camp-friendly tips:

• If you arrive at your campsite late at night, unload your gear without slamming car doors.

• A "Kumbaya" singalong around the campfire is just fine, as long as it's not at midnight.

• Minnesota parks prohibit alcohol in part because drinking campers often turn into loud campers (but don't expect to get hassled over a beer if you're quiet).

Jeff Moravec

See the camping big list