When you think of lanterns, the name that comes to mind is Coleman. (See all Coleman Camping Equipment) Coleman lanterns have been around for a hundred years and counting.  In the beginning, before dependable electricity reached small towns and rural residents, Coleman lanterns were responsible for keeping streetlights lit and supplied gas lamps for farm houses, but in 1914 the company introduced a small "white gas" powered lantern that produced three hundred candlepower and could provide good light for a hundred yards enabling factory workers during WWI to be more productive.

Although you can still get "white gas" powered Coleman lanterns, with the advances in technology there are many more choices.  Some units can now burn unleaded fuel as well as "white gas" and can provide light for up to 14 hours.  The ability to burn unleaded could come in very handy when out at the campsite.  There are battery-powered lights that run on D-cell batteries that use krypton bulbs and are weather resistant.  The battery-powered lanterns come in different sizes and can be easily adapted to lighting a campsite or providing light on the trail.  There are also electric units that can be useful if you find yourself at a campsite with electricity.  Some have built in nightlights or a remote control that can be operated from up to 50 feet away.  One of the most popular however, is the propane lantern.  It uses pressure filled propane canisters that are inexpensive and last for long periods of time.