People drive hundreds of miles to visit a good waterfall. Each state boasts its own famous falls that draw in outdoor adventurers like moths to a flame, with some of the most prestigious receiving millions of tourists each year. Unfortunately, excessive visitation can pose some issues. Waterfalls get crowded and decidedly un-magical. Parking areas and trails are overrun with trash, and once-pristine locations become loud and dirty. Want to avoid all that? Get off the beaten path. &nb...
"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 ...
Hemmed-In Hollow Falls: Your Ozark Hike for Stunning Springtime Views Spring has officially sprung. The wildflowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and the rain is coming down in buckets. Here in the Ozarks, spring rains signify an important time for outdoor enthusiasts. That’s right, folks— it’s waterfall season. There’s nowhere better to see the waterworks than Hemmed-In Hollow Falls. Measuring 209 feet high, this is the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the App...
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...
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...
The Ozark Mountains are pure paradise for the outdoorsman. Old-growth forests, seeping springs, and high waterfalls ignite our passion. We want to go deeper here, to get dirty and bruised. Yet for many, exploring the heart of these mountains is nearly impossible. Pockmarked with massive cave systems and high rock bluffs, these hills hold secrets that most people will never see. Exploring the deepest parts of the Ozarks is an incredibly difficult and dangerous undertaking. Sinkholes, rockfa...
In 2024, the founder of Camping Tools, Robert, posted a story about why he created Camping Tools . He shared some lovely stories about his love for the outdoors and how that love was passed down to him from his father and how he then passed it down to his sons. Reading this story made me reflect on my own relationship with the outdoors and the connection to my family. So, that’s what I am going to share here. The History Now that I am in my 30s, my memories from my childhood feel a bit clo...
Planning a camping trip can be a thrilling experience, but when you’re preparing for an entire year’s worth of outdoor adventures, it’s essential to get organized. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting out, a month-by-month plan can help ensure that you’re making the most of every season and exploring new destinations along the way. Here’s a helpful guide to planning your 2025 camping trips, ensuring you get the best of each month’s outdoor opportunities. January – Winter Wonderland ...
A new year is the perfect time to set goals, and for camping enthusiasts, it’s a chance to plan exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just starting, setting specific resolutions can help you explore more, try new activities, and challenge yourself. Here are five camping goals to kickstart your 2025 adventures. 1. Try a New Type of Camping Switch up your usual camping routine by trying a new style of camping. If you're used to car camping, consider backpacking for a mor...
In the ever-evolving landscape of work, the open road calls not just to the wanderlust in us but also to our entrepreneurial spirit. The concept of the mobile office is no longer a distant dream but a tangible reality for many. For RV enthusiasts, combining the freedom of the road with the necessity of work presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. Here's how to seamlessly integrate your professional life into your RV adventures, ensuring productivity and pleasure go hand in hand. E...
Winter camping is an incredibly peaceful way to connect with nature, offering a serene escape from the chaos of everyday life. While December might seem like an unlikely time for camping, it actually provides a magical opportunity to experience the outdoors in a way that few others can. The crisp air, snow-dusted landscapes, and quieter campgrounds make for a cozy and unforgettable winter getaway. If you're considering a winter camping trip this December, here are some top destinations that will...
