Camping prices feel random until you sort them into two buckets: where you’re camping and what amenities you’re paying for. This guide explains what’s normal for U.S. camping, where the hidden fees show up, and which passes actually save money. Key takeaways Quick comparison: where you’re paying and what you’re getting State parks Often higher demand, good amenities,…
A great campsite layout prevents the biggest beginner problems: smoke in the tent, food smells attracting wildlife, tripping hazards at night, and fire risk. Use this simple layout: Sleep zone → Kitchen zone → Fire zone, with safe spacing and good wind direction. Key takeaways Quick layout (the simple map) Step 1: Pick the tent spot…
Dispersed camping is amazing—until you accidentally camp where it’s not allowed, break a fire restriction, or miss a stay limit. This guide gives you a legal-first checklist for U.S. BLM and USFS dispersed camping, plus a practical setup routine that reduces impact. Important: Rules vary by field office/forest/district. Always follow local orders and posted signage. Key takeaways The…
If your tent is tilted, you’ll slide all night, your pad will migrate, and you’ll wake up annoyed. The good news: you can fix 90% of tent-tilt problems without digging and without damaging the site. This guide gives you a fast leveling routine and “what to do if…” fixes for uneven ground. Key takeaways The 5-minute leveling…
Leave No Trace isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being consistent. This 10-minute departure routine helps you leave a campsite cleaner than you found it, reduces wildlife problems, and prevents the most common “oops, we forgot…” moments. Key takeaways The 10-minute routine (set a timer) Minute 0–2: Trash sweep (micro-trash first) Look for: Put it all…
