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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

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