Outdoor Blog

How to Hide a Trail Camera

Published

5 years ago

April 14, 2020

When you’re out in the backcountry in the off-season you’ll be looking for some game trails and other great spots to set up a trail camera. A well set up trail camera can improve your hunting success as well as your understanding of the wildlife in the area. If your trail camera is not well hidden then it may not bear much fruit. There is no point putting time, effort, and money into a project if the success is going to be limited.

Trail cameras should blend into their natural surroundings so as to not disturb the deer and other animals that you are trying to capture. When hunting and interacting with wildlife in general you must always be aware of the sensitivity of the animals. The slightest changes to their environment are enough to spook. So anyone looking to set up a trail camera should always bear this in mind.

Not only should trail cameras be well hidden from animals they should be hidden from humans too. A camera placed in plain sight can easily be noticed and scooped up by someone looking to make a quick buck. Game cameras are expensive devices and many hunters have lost hundreds of dollars worth of technology from thieves. Imagine if you left your laptop or smartphone out in the forest in plain sight. You would be lucky if you returned a week later and it was still there.

Take your time scouting out the right trail

Before set-up

Before you get to the stage where it comes to hiding your trail camera you first need to do some scouting for a good location. Choose a forest or area that you are permitted to hunt in during the open season. If you just want to capture wildlife footage this shouldn’t matter but make sure that you avoid trespassing on private land when scouting. Forested areas tend to be ideal as trees are ideal hiding spots for trail cameras.

Once you have chosen an area to scout out, take a hike around the area. Keep a keen eye out for game trails while doing so. You will notice a degree of disruption to the undergrowth that is caused by animals walking over it. Now you need to determine whether or not it is a trail caused by deer humans or a predator that you don’t aim to hunt. Trails that deer have tread upon are often disrupted from the impact of hooves upon them. Whereas ones caused by predators are lighter due to paws spreading the animal’s weight out more evenly.

At times the differences between trails caused by deer and ones caused by humans can be less obvious. Pay particular attention to the distance between the lines that the feet have made. If you imagine a human’s footprints in the snow they tend to be approximately one behind the other. A deer’s hoof prints, on the other hand, are more dotted about and spread further apart.

As well as this, take a careful examination of any leaves that are lying on the ground. If they seem to be embedded into the ground then it is likely that deer pass over this trail. Their hooves will push the leaves deeper into the ground as they power their way through the undergrowth.

Another way to spot the difference is to look at the ground surrounding the trail. A trail that’s been produced by humans is likely to be flatter and more distinct. This is because of the flat soles of shoes and hiking boots creating an impact upon the ground. Deer, on the other hand, will place their feet time and time again in the same position due to their muscle memory placing them back into the same place when on that route.

Deer will continuously use the same trails for their whole lives. These trails link them between their sleeping areas, water source, and food plots. Many deer even stick to the same trails that the generations before them did. As long as it leads them to places that aid them in their survival they have no need to change it.

That is one of the beauties of finding a good game trail. You can keep returning to the same one year after year if there are many deer using it – just don’t get greedy when it’s open season! Once you have found a trail that you are fairly certain has been caused by deer it’s time to set up a trail camera to prove this.

Another thing to consider about the potential location is human traffic in the area. The best way to avoid having your trail camera stolen is to place your camera in an area where humans don’t tend to trek too often. You must make a fine balance between a place that is not likely to have humans walking past yet is also accessible for yourself. Deeper forest away from footpaths yet not too deep that you are going to get caught in the thicket is ideal. Also, when you are going to check on your camera make sure you are discreet about it so that no one spots you doing it and thinks to return to take it once you’re gone.

Tips to hide your camera, the camera itself

The next thing that you need to decide is what type of camera is best to keep it hidden. An infrared game camera is an excellent option as it is less obvious to both humans and to animals. These are used when there is a lack of direct sunlight in the area that your camera is located in and for some night vision shots when it is after dark. There is no bright flash thus both humans and animals cannot pick up on the camera’s presence when they are walking by when there is a lack of light.

There are various types of these cameras. No glow, low glow, and red glow. The no glow camera’s infrared light is not visible to humans or to animals so it should be strongly considered since there will be no light at all to give away its position. A low glow camera has a very faint light that comes from it. It is quite unlikely that a thief would notice it but it can always happen.

The red glows light is visible to the human eye and it can sometimes be obvious. Although they can give out better pictures these are best to place in areas where people seldom pass by. Many people actually use this type as home security cameras. This is because it is put in plain sight so that it deters burglars and trespassers from carrying out misdeeds.

Camouflage your game camera

A little bit of effort to place some camouflage on your game camera can go a long way in protecting it. There are various types that you can put on it and it is a simple yet effective way to ensure that your camera stays put.

One option for this is to buy a pre-camoflaged game camera. Take a good look at the colors on the camouflage pattern. You need to be sure that the colors are going to match to the terrain that your camera is going to placed in. Before you decide on this make sure you know the color of the trees that it’s going to be installed in. A bright green camera shall be no use if the rest of the foliage is dark brown.

The other option that you have is to create your own camouflage from the items that are lying around the forest. This has the distinct advantage that the leaves and thicket that you collect will be of the colors of that area. Now, this can be a delicate job and quite frustrating. It is best to pack some glue, tape, and sting for this so you can build it in a manner so that it won’t fall apart.

Carefully stick or attach various bits of foliage lying around to your game camera. You must be precise with this as to not cover your camera’s lens or its motion sensor. Any infliction to its line of sight can ruin your whole month’s long trail camera session. Just the slightest infringement over either of these can and will lead to blurred images or your camera’s SD card being full due to the motion sensor continuously going off.

One thing to bear in mind with your DIY foliage camouflage is that it will change color. The leaves and moss will die, turning them from green to brown so make sure that this shouldn’t have a big impact on it beforehand. One way to overcome this is by painting camouflage on your game camera yourself at home before you set out. Just ensure first that the paint is waterproof and will take a while before the rain damages it. Another option is to buy plastic plants as these will always retain their green colors.

Use the tools that nature has provided for you to make a hide for your trail camera from the surrounding thicket.

Placing your game camera at a good height

The optimum height for a game camera is often around three feet off the ground to capture deer from around their shoulder height. This is not the safest area though when it comes to potential thieves. If a camera is placed higher than a person’s eye level then it is much more likely to be safe. People hardly stare to the sky when they are walking, particularly in the forest when you could lose your footing very easily.

If your camera is placed around ten feet high this you’ll be high enough that it is not noticed by the common passerby. It also means that if it is a regular walker who may be tempted to swipe it that their temptation could subside if it means they have to climb to retrieve it. A camera within arms reach is much easier to take as there is little to no effort to do so. Just make sure that you’re fit enough and have the right kit to install it at height. We don’t want any injuries now.

Build a box

A box surrounding your camera will not only help to camouflage it. It will also add an extra layer of protection from the elements or if it should happen to fall from its elevated position. Not only that but it gives you more flexibility about where you can place your camera. If good branches to place it upon are scarce then a camera box can be nailed upon a tree trunk.

These are fairly simple to construct either at home or out in the forest. Now, a homemade one can be designed to look like a bird box. The trick with this one is to leave the camera in plain sight to anyone walking by. All they will see is a bird box that they assume that birds are nesting in.

It’s very unlikely that this will be tampered with. A normal passer-by who may be tempted by a game camera sitting at eye level wouldn’t even think about mindlessly destroying a bird box. Even common vandals are very unlikely to destroy it. Even though they may damage or steal your game camera, destroying a bird’s nest and killing its chicks for the sake of it is not something that many people’s consciences would permit.

A box can also be constructed to hide the camera further and not to place it in plain sight. Take a look in the woodland for dead trees from which you can construct a basic box to cover up your game camera with. Take an old tree stump or large bra get and clear out the inside. Next, carve out an opening so your camera’s lens and motion sensor have a clear line of sight. Your camera can be placed inside and then the top covered so that it looks as inconspicuous as possible.

Specifically designed lockboxes can also be purchased as a deterrent to thieves. These are not hidden as easily but are instead designed to be very hard to break into which deters the thieves. These are secured onto the tree trunk in a manner that would require bolt cutters or a hacksaw in order to break in to steal it. Although some people may try their hand at taking it, the majority won’t bother trying to interfere with this security system.

Build a dummy camera

If you’ve had a camera or two stolen or some of your hunting buddies have been warning you about thieves in the area, it could be a good idea to try and catch them out. A dummy camera can be purchased for a very cheap price and then placed in an obvious position as to catch the thieves attention for them to commit another theft. You should place your real trail camera in a very discreet location so as to not give away where the expensive kit is.

When you are next checking on it first look to see if the dummy camera is missing or has been tampered with. If so, check your real game camera’s photos to see if there is evidence of criminal activity and if the faces and clothing are obvious in the pictures. It’s now up to you what to do next. You can either hand the photos over to the authorities or you could print out the pictures around the woods so that the thief notices them and is scared off from the area. This sort of detective work can be a lot more fun than picking up footage from animals!

After all, no one will ever suspect that a game camera is in here, nor will the animals.

Final Verdict:

Setting up a game camera and waiting for the results is a long arduous process. You must scout out an area, find a good game trail, set up your game camera, and check on it time and time again to see if it is producing results. To have that camera stolen or obvious to the animals will ruin all of that hard work. It’s not just the price of the camera that matters here, it’s the time that you’ve invested into the setting up of that would really hurt if it were to be stolen.

As a hunter caution and patience are your two most important qualities. If you’re not cautious on the hunt you’ll lose the whitetail you’re after. If you’re not cautious with your game camera you may not get good footage or worst of all it could get stolen. Make sure you are cautious and follow our tips so as to not go through the pain of having all of your hard work undone.

Bonus tip: Check out this quick video to help you stop making silly mistakes that could affect your footage or even lose it all!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

2 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

3 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

5 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.