Base camping: a great way to do day hiking in multiple directions

Base camping: establishing a sort of permanent temporary home away from home. When does this option make sense?

1. When you've been salivating to explore a special spot on the map. This option gives you time to immerse yourself in one area, doing several day hikes to explore interesting terrain features or spend time getting to know local flora and fauna.

2. When your time is better spent on the trail, rather than on setting up and breaking down camp, driving car shuttles, or wrestling with unpredictable factors such as weather, water or campsite availability further up the trail.

3. When you don't want to (or can't, due to an injury or physical limitation) carry your gear for long distances.

4. When the terrain limits the availability of camp sites.

5. When you want to do a "retreat" type of trip, focusing on mental or spiritual development rather than logging mileage.

6. When you are hiking with newbies or children, and want a "safe haven" to return to in case of nasty weather, an injury, or simple tiredness.

7. When you're solo, and through-hiking just doesn't appeal, for whatever reason.

8. When other hikers are going to join you in a day or two. You can maximize trail time before they arrive, while having a designated spot to meet up.

9. When you plan to hike for the entire duration of daylight and want a home base to return to easily. This is especially important if you are hiking in unfamiliar areas. Maps aren't always 100% reliable for seasonal water supplies, camp sites, water crossings, or other impediments. You can use your headlamp to get back to your familiar camp, making the absolute most of your trail time.

What should you consider when looking for a base camp?

Availability of water is a priority. You don't want to lug in water, and there's no need to if you have a method of purifying it. (Unless you are lucky enough to be in a spot where no purification is needed. WOW! You are really somewhere special then.)

Fast/easy access from the trailhead. Why knock yourself out getting to the base camp location? Save your fire power for the multiple day hikes you have planned. Of course, the flip side of this should also be considered: a rough or long hike into a special spot for a base camp can be overlooked, since you'll have several days to recover.

Opportunities for exploration. You need a spot that you don't tap out in one day. This is where earlier reconnaissance with maps, trail guides, forums, and other hikers is a great idea. Go into the base camp with more than enough day adventures planned. If the weather turns on you, or your energy levels fluctuate, you have multiple options already planned. Also, prioritize your adventures. Do the most tantalizing one first, when the weather is good and you're feeling strong.