MO Magic: Explore the Best Missouri Ozarks Campgrounds for Any Budget Some states are hidden gems. Missouri is a hidden goldmine. The Show-Me State is home to gigantic springs, crystal-clear rivers, and mighty mountains spread across an astoundingly beautiful landscape of vibrant greens and blues. Once you visit, you’ll fall in love. I’m here to help you get started planning your trip, so strap in and get ready to take a tour of some stellar Missouri campgrounds just waiting to be d...
Photography Tips for Winter Campers in the Pacific Northwest Like me, outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the pristine landscapes and snow-covered forests for unforgettable camping adventures in the Pacific Northwest. From snow-capped mountains and icy lakes to towering evergreens, the winter scenery here offers endless opportunities for stunning photography. So, here are some photography tips for winter campers in the Pacific Northwest. As an iPhone photographer, I will include some sp...
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...
Guide to Provincial Park Booking in BC Nestled in the majestic mountains, lush forests, and pristine coastlines, British Columbia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a connection with nature. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse themselves in nature, camping in BC is an unparalleled adventure. If you’ve camped in BC before, you know that getting the most popular sites on almost any weekend in the summer is challenging. In 2022, BC Parks updated its o...
Camping and New Year’s Resolutions As the New Year unfolds, many contemplate resolutions that promise personal growth, self-improvement, and a renewed sense of purpose. While I don't love New Year's resolutions , I support making positive changes in our lives (this doesn't have to happen at the start of the year). While traditional resolutions often revolve around fitness, career, or personal relationships, there's an alternative approach that offers a unique blend of adventure and self-di...
The Pacific Northwest is renowned for its lush forests, rugged coastlines, and vibrant culture. While summer may be the go-to season for camping, winter offers an entirely different, enchanting experience for the adventurous at heart. Imagine cozying up next to a crackling fire while the rain patters on your tent, or waking up to a snowy wonderland outside your campsite. Winter camping in the Pacific Northwest is a truly magical experience, but it does require some preparation and know-how. I’ve...
Best Free RV Campgrounds in the Buffalo National River Area Want to do the Buffalo on a budget? You’ve come to the right place. There are plenty of campgrounds on the Buffalo River, but many are costly or inaccessible with an RV. Finding beautiful free campsites where you can safely bring your rig can be tricky, especially without local knowledge. Luckily, I’ve got you covered. Read on for a complete guide to the best free RV campgrounds in the Buffalo National River area, incl...
With more than half a million acres of Appalachian landscape to explore, Pisgah National Forest is a nature lover’s paradise. Nestled in the westernmost part of North Carolina and wrapping around Ashville, Pisgah is home to jaw-dropping mountain views, whitewater rivers, towering waterfalls, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Pisgah was the first tract of land purchased under the Weeks Act , which authorized the federal government to buy private land to preserve and protect r...
Who doesn’t love a hot cup of coffee first thing in the morning when camping out in the woods? As a regular camper and a faithful coffee drinker, it’s essential for me to find ways to brew a good cup of coffee while camping. Here are the common ways of brewing coffee during your outdoor adventures for you to try, and, of course, I will tell you what my favourite method is. Campfire Brewing This traditional method involves boiling water over a campfire and adding coffee grounds direct...
LAKESIDE CAMPGROUNDS AROUND LAKE TAHOE The jewel of the Sierra, Lake Tahoe is renowned for its stunning scenery, with clear blue waters, snow-capped mountains, and towering pine forests. The largest and second deepest alpine lake in the country, it offers 72 miles of shoreline, beaches and parks, and hundreds of miles of trails. Camping is a great option for experiencing Lake Tahoe. And while there are more than 15 campgrounds around the lake, only 9 are truly lakeside, where you w...
Van life for sure has its perks. Waking up to mountain views, chasing sunsets, and the freedom to go wherever the road takes you. But after a few too many ramen packets, PB&J sandwiches, and overly ambitious cook-ups that leave a pile of dishes in the sink, reality hit me. I really needed to find some recipes that were quick, healthy, and actually satisfying. These campervan meals are some of my favorites because they’re healthy, delicious, and designed to make campervan cooking simple. Plus...
I’ll never forget the first time I woke up at 3 a.m., fully zipped into my sleeping bag, teeth chattering, completely miserable. I couldn’t stop shaking and I was just white knuckling until the sun came up. Since then, I’ve picked up a bunch of tricks that actually work. Tent camping in colder temps can still be a lot of fun, as long as you go in with the right setup. From understanding sleeping bag ratings to boosting body heat with simple gear hacks, here’s how I stay warm (and get real sleep)...
There’s something incredibly freeing about hitting the trail alone. No compromises, no pressure—just you, the outdoors, and the chance to move at your own pace. Solo hiking offers solitude, clarity, and a real sense of self-reliance. But with that freedom comes responsibility. Being alone on the trail is empowering, but it also means you need to be more intentional about planning and safety. In this guide, I’m covering everything first-time solo hikers need to know: how to prepare before you go,...
I’ve been camping with dogs for years. Sometimes car camping, sometimes deep in the backcountry. As any seasoned pet owner will tell you, bringing your four-legged friend on a camping trip can be a lot of fun... but it also takes way more prep than you’d think, especially the first time. From gear that’s actually worth packing to keeping your dog safe, dry, and (somewhat) calm (I have herding breeds so iykyk), here’s everything I’ve learned the hard way. Getting Ready Before the Trip Vaccination...
Fifth Water Hot Springs has become one of Utah’s most famous soaking spots, thanks to its milky blue water and easy access from Salt Lake City. But with popularity comes crowds, and not everyone loves what it’s turned into. Some say it’s overrun with influencers, drones, and too many people, while others think it’s just part of the deal with well-known outdoor destinations. If you still want to visit, here’s how to avoid the madness and get the most out of your experience. How to Get to the Fift...