Don: this was the first time I had ever done winter camping, and it was an unforgettable experience! I plan on doing it again this winter, because as hard as it was, it will somehow draw you to repeat it. I was with my club group, the Etoile du Nord, and I got a lot of help with logistics, clothing, etc. We try to re-enact the FI War period, but I will say that when it comes to temps in the teens + guys in their 50's and 60's a little "controlled cheating" goes on. For example, everybody but me used a self inflating air mattress for a bit more comfort. The result of me not using one? I got three hours of sleep. But we try to use wool blankets, etc. as much as possible. It's all about layers, layers, layers! If anything modern is used it has to be HIDDEN from view. I know there are those who might find fault with this, but even with a few modern fabrics, winter camping is not an easy thing to do. You really find out what cold weather means in relation to existence and survival. It opens your eyes, I'll tell ya.
