SCHOOLS return this coming week but summer is not over just yet which means there is still plenty of time to go camping and enjoy the High Country.

Weekends are free to venture into the bush and escape the heat of the towns and city.

Summer is a wonderful time to get into nature – but this summer has been different.

Some of Victoria's most popular parks have been significantly impacted by recent storms and floods. As thunderstorms continue it could mean flooded or boggy campgrounds, muddy roads, unpredictable waterways or slippery hiking trails.

With high levels of water across the state before the late arrival of summer, Parks Victoria advises there is an increased risk of falling trees and branches and an increase in snake sightings.

"You can still get out and enjoy nature this summer, but make sure you plan ahead, stay informed and be mindful," A Parks Victoria representative said.

"Your favourite holiday, camping and day–trip spots may be closed or operating differently, so make sure you're up to date with the latest information.

We don't want a little rain to dampen your enthusiasm for nature but planning appropriately for storm and flood conditions (including having multiple options) will mean a safer and more enjoyable time.

Advice given before setting off from home to go camping is:

1. Check the BOM website for weather and water conditions.

2. Have the VicEmergency App on your phone and set up watch zones for the area you intend to visit.

3. Check the park page for the area you plan to visit for any changes of conditions or closures. Some parks are closed when high winds or other severe weather is predicted. Look for alternative places to visit that are outside the forecast weather area or are more suitable during wet and windy weather. Check for severe weather closures on the Change of Conditions and Closures page (www.parks.vic.gov.au)

4. Know your limitations – that includes you and anyone you are travelling with, your vehicle, and technology you carry with you.

Camping of course includes sitting around a glowing campfire but with around 10 per cent of bushfires caused by escaped campfires, it's essential to follow the rules and do the right thing.

Not all parks or campgrounds allow campfires.

Make sure you check the park signs in the campground before you light a campfire.

Use this safety checklist before you light a campfire:

1. Find out by checking campground signage or asking a park ranger. If you don't see a sign, play it safe and don't have a campfire.

2. If you are in a national or state park, campfires can only be lit in the purpose–built fireplaces provided by the park.

3. Campfires must not be lit on a Total Fire Ban – or be allowed to burn through the night if the next day is a Total Fire Ban.

4. A responsible adult must stay within 50 metres and be able to see the solid fuel campfire or barbeque at all times. Never leave a campfire unattended.

5. You will need at least 10 litres of water, which is about a standard–sized bucket filled to the brim.

6. Use water to put out a campfire. When you leave your campsite, always put the campfire out with water, not soil. The fire can smoulder under soil and start burning again later.

7. Once you put out your campfire with water, put your hand near the ashes and unburnt wood. Be careful not to touch hot coals. If the ashes are cool to touch, then it's safe for you to leave the campfire. If the ashes are still warm, pour more water on the campfire until the ashes are cool.