My parents owned a 1972 orange Volkswagen Westfalia bus. We would load up on a Friday evening, and on Saturday morning would drive somewhere that felt far away and different, but was actually about 45 minutes from home. My brother slept in the pop-up top of the camper; I slept in a hammock stretched between the two front doors. The back bench seat folded out into a double bed for my parents.
MY BEST CHILDHOOD MEMORIES ARE OF CAMPING.
Sleep Outside • Must-visit parks fill every state from Florida to Alaska and everywhere in between.
CHAPTER 1 Know Before You Go • Preparation before any camping trip means more fun and a safe return.
Ways to Camp • Everyone enjoys a night outside differently. Find your path.
How to Start a Fire • The Ultimate Guide to Modern Fire Building
How to Pick the Perfect Campsite • 10 rules for avoiding bears, widow-makers and dangerous weather, all while being as comfortable as possible.
10 Reasons People Get Lost in the Wild • And what to do when it happens.
Ethics of Camping • Learn how to be a good neighbor to the natural world and other campers.
CHAPTER 2 Where To Go • The country is your playground. Explore woods and plains, mountains and valleys, rivers and lakes.
Must-See National Parks • Figure out which park suits your needs (and interests) the most.
Explore Your National Forests • A guide to how to disperse camp safely, leave no trace and take advantage of one of the country’s best-kept secrets.
Learn the System • Tips and tricks for successfully securing the best campsites online.
CHAPTER 3 Gear Up • Bring what you need (and a few things you really want), then leave the rest behind.
Buy What You Need • The best camping gear to get started.
Create an Outdoor Kitchen • How to make (and maintain) a culinary camp box.
Go Light, but Don’t Stress • Get started backpacking with these basics.
Bring Them With You • Best camping gear for kids.
Clean Your Water • Make sure you, your friends and family stay hydrated anywhere, anytime.
The Best Camping Accessories of 2023 • Complete your campground setup with our picks for some of the top add-ons for the outdoors.
Best Camping Games • Some outdoor fun requires gear, but other times you just need creativity.
When the Weather Turns • What to do when rain, snow, wind or hail forces you into Plan B.
CHAPTER 4 Eat in the Woods • Everything tastes better outside, whether cooked in foil over coals or in a pot over propane.
Perfection Over Coals • Roast meals with wood
Cook to Impress • Camp food can be delicious and easy.
Feed Picky Eaters • Best meals for camping with kids.
Outdoor Life - The Complete Guide to Camping
PHOTO CREDITS
