hiking-boots

On The Trail: What socks should I wear hiking?

daveUncategorized

When packing for a trip to the great outdoors, items like a tent, cooking supplies, and hiking gear are the main things people think about, while socks usually fall to the bottom of the list. It’s important to pack socks both for staying warm during cold nights and for protecting your feet during long hikes. When it comes to hiking …

man-looking-and-celebrating-sunrise-and-landscape

Hiking Safety at Camp

daveUncategorized

Exploring the wonders of the outdoors is all about empowerment and freedom, but it’s easy for even experienced hikers to let excitement and fatigue cloud their judgement and lead them to some costly mistakes.  We’re not trying to rain on any camper’s enthusiasm, but there are a few all-too-common issues that can lead to dangerous outcomes. Failing to Stay on …

How to Spot (and Avoid) Poison Ivy While Camping

daveUncategorized

  Summer is one of the best seasons for exploring the outdoors, but even the most experienced hiker or camper can fall victim to that dreaded rash-inducing menace: poison ivy.  Though the plant itself can be identified with its three-leaf growth pattern, there is no other guaranteed-easy method to proving that this itchy irritant is loose in your area.  Even …

Marshmallows roasting over campfire

Autumn Camping is Awesome!

daveUncategorized

With the heat headed south, campers that have avoided the great outdoors are now in for a treat! Gone are the bugs and the sticky humid nights, meaning that now a hike through the woods or a drive through the countryside is 100% enjoyable. But if that isn’t enough to convince all of those hesitant campers out there, we thought …

Lake Irene

Are the Forests in the US Shrinking?

daveUncategorized

Much of the land in the United States and North America is rich and fertile.  As the lyrics of “America the Beautiful” state of the landscape of the US, “…amber waves of grain, for purple mountain majesties, above the fruited plain!”  When settlers from Europe came to this “new world” they were rewarded with beautiful views of lush greenery and …

woman-checking-the-gps-map

What is Geocaching and How do I Get Started?

daveUncategorized

What is Geocaching? Maybe you have heard this term before and maybe it’s new, but geocaching has been popular for several years now.  Basically it is an activity in which you use GPS locations to search for, discover, and place items for others in a network across the country. this fun trend combines the wonders of nature with the thrill …

blue rope tied in a simple knot

6 Important Knots You Should Know

daveUncategorized

Knot tying can be a surprisingly valuable skill when camping. From setting up a tent to performing first aid, you never know when you may need to tie a strong knot. Knowing six of the most important knots will prepare you for many common situations that may arise while camping.   1.  Square Knot   One of the most basic …

Sun Rise over clouds

Staying Safe While Enjoying the Sunshine!

daveUncategorized

The sunshine can be an integral part of our camping experience in the summer, and during the summer months, it will usually factor into camping preparation. While sunshine can bring joy and fun to your day, too much of a good thing can be harmful, and it is important to be careful of the sun’s adverse effects. Too much sun …