Have you tried Citronella-based insect repellents? You can find them most any place that supplies hikers/campers. I've had some luck with them, but there's a huge caveat: If you really, really like the smell of citronella candles and if you really, really don't mind smelling like one for half a week, then go ahead. When I was a kid, I remember my mom would give me sulphur tablets for a few days before going off on long camping trips. This was supposed to keep mosquitoes and chiggers away (for those of you who haven't experienced chiggers, don't start). They made you smell awful and I don't think they did squat. Some people also experiment by putting citronella candles or coils in a circle around the viewing site. That sort of works, but I don't know if it has any effect of vampires, werewolves, etc. In the end, I've come back to DEET. I don't spend as many nights outside as many others on the list and I felt the risks were minimal. Of course, my wife makes me take off everything before I come into the house. Was that more than you needed to know?
I've come to the conclusion that I do not want to put any chemicals on my skin. Therefore I'm looking for a more natural substitute to protect myself from mosquitos. Last July, I got over 50 bites while observing at BlackRock Rd in AZ. Hence, I'm wondering how to safely protect myself. Any ideas?