BMcCoy/10-26-2023

Time to Unplug In today's digital age, the need to unplug and engage in digital withdrawal has become more crucial than ever. Our constant connection to screens, be it through smartphones, computers, or other devices, can lead to information overload, increased stress, and a sense of being always "on." A digital reprieve allows us to reclaim our time and mental space, promoting better focus, improved productivity, and enhanced well-being. It also boosts more meaningful face-to-face interactions ...

BMcCoy/06-08-2023

Critters in the Camp Various critters can invade a campsite, and the actions to rid them and the level of concern for health issues may vary. Here are some common critters you may encounter while camping and what to do about them: Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes are common in many camping areas and can spread diseases, including West Nile virus or Zika virus. To protect yourself, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and set up mosquito netting around your sleeping area. If you develop sympt...

BMcCoy/06-08-2023

"Lost? Not Anymore! Harnessing the Power of Compass in Camping and Hiking" In the past 50 years, technology has opened us up to life-changing advances. From long 50, feet curled phone chords to speaking to people around the world with a watch. While watching Get Smart, we never thought our lives would resemble the crazy inventions they used, but here we are. I remember all of my teachers demanding we be able to do percentages and long division because we would not always have a calculator. They ...

BMcCoy/03-06-2023

God is the God of the Mountain and the Valley: The Great Smokey Mountains, Tennesee Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg are located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The town of Sevierville is situated in Sevier county and is home to approximately 17,000 residents. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are the most popular destinations because of their bustling attractions. All of these small towns are a part of Sevier county, TN. History The history of Sevier county dates back to the e...

BMcCoy/02-10-2023

Cave City, Kentucky: The World Down Under The 5000 years of history displayed in Cave City is phenomenal. The caves served many purposes through the years. Some say we owe the triumph of the revolutionary war to Mammoth Cave, carved under Cave City. Along with being every spelunker's dream, it is every camper's perfect retreat. Cave City, Kentucky, is a small town located in the heart of Kentucky's Cave Country, which is known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and abundance of out...

BMcCoy/02-04-2023

Gods Country, Lake Cumberland, Kentucky Kentucky is home to magnificent mountains, national forests, and the most beautiful horse park in the world. We can brag about our friendliness, fantastic home cooking, and bourbon. Kentucky is so much more. I was raised in this hillbilly heaven. Our definition of fun is horse racing, basketball watching, and enjoying God's creation. Some outdoor activities include hiking, Jeep crawls, hunting, and fishing. Lakes, rivers, and creeks are bountiful in our sm...

BMcCoy/12-13-2022

Christmas Without Camping? Christmas is a magical time of the year. The weather gets colder, and families make plans to spend time together. Good food, games, and weather-appropriate activities. Camping makes the list. Warm climates draw people to the south, and snowy climates draw people to the north. RV camps put up their Christmas lights, and the festivities begin.  In the Florida Keys, December doesn't put a hamper on outdoor excursions, but on the contrary, it is the best weather of th...

BMcCoy/11-10-2022

Did You Know Camping is Very Popular at Thanksgiving? Campground spots are in high demand during the Thanksgiving season. Many Campgrounds require reservations up to a year in advance. Family campouts are the perfect way to spend time reconnecting with extended family and connecting to history.  It doesn't matter if you are at the beach or in the mountains, there are a lot of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Snow or sunshine both are great options. Imagine sitting by a campfire, talking about al...

BMcCoy/10-20-2022

Taking Lessons From the GOAT of Camping So as fate would have it, our GOAT learned everything he knew from his Father. His Father seemed to invent camping. He was an expert. He knew every tree, plant, berry, and stone. He could predict the weather. He could tell you about every living creature. His voice would keep you mesmerized and in awe. He single-handedly created a camp that was beautiful and entirely self-sufficient. That camp ended up closing. I will spare you the sad details. His Dad did...

BMcCoy/08-30-2022

Alone So full disclosure, My husband and I frequently watch survival reality shows. Each one has its own set of rules and expectations. Many learn to thrive, while others submit to failure pretty quickly.  I can tell you right now I am not spending 5 minutes naked in the wilderness with biting bugs. And I wouldn't do it for 30 seconds on national television. Sometimes you are left with others, and your survival depends on that dynamic. Other times you are all alone.  You have to be rea...