retreat at ram island, maine
.: wilderness camping :.
Ram Island is a wild place with potentially extreme conditions, no facilities and no regular transportation. We must bring all the necessities for 5 days: water, food, clothing and shelter.
Summer temperatures can range from 80 degrees F (daytime) to 40 degrees F at night. Storms are possible, as are fog and heavy rain. The sun can be intense during long summer days, and there is little shade (there is one tree on the island).
As usual with wilderness camping, carry in > carry out. We will not need to carry our gear over long distances, as the island is not that big.
We'll cooperate as much as practical, but when in doubt assume that you need to be self-sufficient for the survival necessities.
stuff you must bring
- sleeping pad
- warm clothes
- footwear for climbing on wet rocks, running around in tall sea grass, wading in water
- rain gear
- flashlight
- extra batteries
- sunscreen, hat
- clothes for athletic activities
- personal eating utensils, plate or bowl, mug
- toilet paper
- medications
- personal toiletries
- tent --
(unless you have arranged to double up with a friend or asked for space in the common tent). Contact us to let us know if you want a space in the common tent.- food for 5 days --
(we will be making a group food purchase. Plan to chip in about $30 for 5 days. Someone has volunteered to organize meal planning and cooking. If you need special foods, bring them.)- water for 5 days (1.5 gallons per person per day). Same deal as with food.
stuff you probably want to bring
- road map of maine
- camera
- pillow
- cell phone -- for emergencies. They will mostly work on the island.
stuff the organizers will bring
- rope
- cook gear, pots, pans
- 2-burner coleman stove
- white gas fuel
- two 10-ft x 10-ft common tents
- 1st aid kit
- matches, lighter
- hatchet
- lantern