Reddit reviews Water Purification Tablets

Land is always owned, either by the goverment or privately. Just going out randomly might get you in trouble- probably no more than a fine but still.

Most national parks I believe allow for dispersed camping, which is what you want- no services, nothing prefabricated. Looks like there are five places in California for it.

Dangers... Getting lost is a biggie- been too long since I camped off fabricated sites so can't help you much there.

Water is a biggie, no matter how clear the river or lake, never drink directly from it if you can help it or you may get sick- you'll need to boil it or use Water purification tabs- best to take some of those with you even if you don't plan on using the things. Dehydration is also a killer while camping- make sure you drink enough each day.

Fire is obviously important- and in california, you gotta be extremely careful not to, well, burn down the forest or what have you. Dig a fire pit, and make sure the area around it is cleared of dried grass, and have a bucket of sand or something to pour on the fire when you're done with it. I'd recommend a flint and steel and firestarters for emergencies even if you plan on bringing matches or a lighter.

Food obviously comes next- I'd highly recommend you plan for the possibility you find absolutely nothing edible and bring enough food for that eventuality.

Wildlife, honesty the most important thing is keeping your food away from you- tie your pack up in a tree while you're sleeping, tightly seal any food you didn't eat or burn it or bury it away from your campsite, and you'll reduce the problems greatly.

Although you say there will be clean water you can never be too safe with it. Pick up some cheap lightweight water purification tablets also you should really just get a pack cover to be safe.

Good choice on the REI flash pack. Mine has lasted a few backpacking trips, and it was great just rolling it up into nothing. Don't be afraid to wear it on your chest when you're carrying extra stuff. You'll look weird, but it's much better to carry/stow your camera quickly that way. Also quick access to snacks. Also, less unnerving than having your expensive lenses on your back, out of sight as you wade through crowds.

I don't see a waterbottle in your pack, but I might have missed it. Grab a Nalgene, and and these if you're in any areas where water will be a bit questionable.

You'll probably find that you won't use many of your toiletries, minus soap and sunscreen. Good luck and have fun!

There are many {#1, #2, #3} cheap water purification tablets that when paired with propel mix-ins provide a great and clean taste. That is if you're worried about the quality/taste of the water from a tap.

I've found that these work great on a trip, they are less expensive (long run) than bottled water.