The following incident was recently reported to Holliday Lake State Park staff by campers who wish to remain anonymous.
Mr and Mrs Camper pulled in to a camping spot around 5:00 p.m. and quickly got to work. Mr Camper set up the camper taking time to make sure it was all level. Mrs Camper checked out the nearby bath house (for future reference) and took the dog for a look around the park. There were only a few other campers on this fall weekend. She picked up some firewood from the honor rack near the Contact Station, after leaving her $3.00 in the little honor box.
Back at camp, supper prep began with Mr Camper building a fire and Mrs Camper getting the kitchen in order. They had stopped at the Wal-Mart in Appomattox for groceries.
After supper, they were settling in for some campfire watching only to discover they had forgotten to pick up three essential camping supplies: marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate bars. The Contact Station was closed by now; oh well, no s’mores tonight. There was a bit of lively discussion about who did the forgetting.
The Campers decided to call it a night around 10:30. They settled the dog securely with his comfort items: a soft blanket and his squeaky toy. The next morning, they woke to discover that the dog had somehow gotten loose during the night and apparently raided another campsite.
Interestingly, his stash included only three things:two bags of marshmallows, one box of graham crackers, and several small chocolate bars. He had eaten one sleeve of graham crackers, but was leaving the rest for his people.
Had the dog understood the campfire conversation about the forgotten items? Was he helping his family out? He wasn’t saying. Embarrassed, Mr and Mrs Camper quickly put the items away and avoided contact with other campers that day.
Park staff never got any reports of stolen s’mores supplies.
Now, I’d say, that’s one smart dog who understands and enjoys the camping experience! Make a reservation for your next camping trip and don’t forget to bring your s’more supplies!