6 Inventive Gadgets to Make Camping More Fun
A little ingenuity and the right gadgets can add a great deal of comfort and convenience at camp.
Outdoors & Gear
Guide to camping, hiking and other outdoor sports and adventures. Includes buying guides for tents, camping gear, sleeping bags and other outdoor equipment.
How Do I Keep Gear Dry in a Kayak?
Q: I'm going on a six-day kayak trek. I know what to bring, but don't know how to pack it to keep it dry. Any suggestions?
How Do You Clean a Bugle?
Q: How do you clean a bugle that hasn't been used for several years?
How to Determine Distance On a Map
A map and compass can point you in the direction you wish to travel, but don't forget to also calculate the length of your route.
How to Measure Distance By Counting Your Steps
Counting your steps is a good way to estimate distances as you hike. Here's how to do it.
10 Fast Facts About Platypuses
The platypus is one of nature's most interesting animals. It has body like an otter, a bill like a duck, and a tail like a beaver.
How to Stop Rolling Off Your Sleeping Pad
Q: I keep rolling off my sleeping pad. What can I do to sleep better?
The Truth About 5 of North America’s Most Misunderstood Animals
From "friendly bison" to the "big bad wolf," these myths about North American wildlife just won't go away.
What is the Most Important Backcountry Skill?
Q: What is the most important backcountry skill all Scouts should know?
How to Dispose of Dirty Water in the Backcountry
After you’ve washed your dishes and scrubbed your face and hands, what do you do with the leftover soapy water?
No Cotton? Here’s the Best Clothing to Wear When Camping
Q: My friends say I can't wear my normal cotton T-shirts when we go camping. What should I wear instead?
Meet the 7 Species of Sea Turtles
Sea turtles are some of the most ancient and fascinating creatures around, their oldest ancestor having shared Earth with dinosaurs 120 million years ago. Today, seven
How to Avoid Ticks on Hikes
Q: I keep getting attacked by ticks on hikes! What can I do?
Can You Name These Official State Animals?
Each state has an official state animal. Some have more than one. Can you match these creatures to their state?
Help! How Can I Stop Smelly Gear?
All my gear reeks! How can I prevent that smell?
Which Lightweight Jacket is Best?
Q. What kind of jacket do you recommend for a spring trip to Philmont? If possible, I need it to be lightweight and around $100.
How to Start a Rock Collection
Becoming a rock hound -- an amateur collector of rocks and minerals -- is easy! Here's how to get started.
Take Care of Your Feet for Happier Hiking
It's easy to take your feet for granted on a day hike or backpacking trip. Take our expert's advice: Don't do it.
Answer One Question to See if You Have What It Takes to Survive
No one said survival is easy. Your fate in this scenario depends on how you answer only one question. Troop 16 of Parker, Colorado, took the Survivorman challenge with
How to Pack a Backpack
VIDEO: Backpacking can be hard, but here are some ways you can make it easier by packing the right way.
The Rules of Fishing – How to Be a Good Neighbor While Angling
Not only should you be familiar with your state and local fishing rules, there are also some other rules you should know.
9 Things to Know About Wilderness First Aid
Here's how to Be Prepared to treat injuries and ailments in the backcountry.
Have the Best Week Ever at One of These Chill Summer Camps for 2019
Make plans for fun with our guide to eight amazing Scout camps.
How to Make a DIY Wilderness Survival Kit
This 2-pound do-it-yourself wilderness survival kit could save your life for at least three days in the wild.
Venturing’s Epic 20th Birthday Party at the Summit Bechtel Reserve
At the Summit Bechtel Reserve, Venturers learn you don’t have to face your fears alone.
How to Fuel Your Body in the Backcountry
Q. What's the trick to having enough energy while on a big outing?
3 Fun Wintertime Projects When It’s Cold Outside
Don't stay indoors during the winter! Here are three fun projects that you can only do when it's cold outside.
How to Roast a Turkey in a Dutch oven
Break out your Dutch oven and roast a turkey over coals using this delicious recipe.
12 Tips for Sustainable Hammock Camping
How to protect trees and leave no trace while hammock camping.
8 Expert Tips for Comfortable Hammock Camping
Whether you’re a veteran “hanger” or just starting out, here are eight tips to make the most of your hammock.
How to Start Hammock Camping Without Spending Too Much Cash
With these expert tips, you can jump into hammock camping without breaking the bank.
How to Buy an Action Camera
Ready to record YouTube-worthy video on your outdoor adventure? Here's what you need to know to buy an action camera.
How to Start a Campfire Without Matches or a Lighter
Watch our step-by-step video to learn how to start a fire using flint and steel, friction or a magnifying glass. No matches or lighter needed!
7 Animal Myths That Everyone Thinks Are True
Fact or fiction? True or false? It's time to debunk some of the most popular myths from the animal kingdom.
Fuel Your Body With These 6 Nutritious and Delicious Trail Snacks
What's the trick to having the energy to be active all day? Food! Keep strong all day long on the trail with these snacks.
10 Tips to Take Your Camping Trip to the Next Level
Camping is always fun, but these expert tips and ideas can make your camping trip even better.
How to Build a Bat House
This simple one-chamber roost will give those beneficial bug-eaters a much-needed boost! Here's how to build a bat house.
How Do I Store a Camp Kitchen?
Q. I have everything I need for my first camp kitchen except for a good way to store it. Any ideas?
Can You Identify These 5 Animal Eyes?
Let's test how closely you've observed animals in this challenge to select what their eyes look like!
How Tall Should a Walking Stick Be?
Q. I'm making my own walking stick. How big should it be?
Do I Need to Pack a Pillow?
Q. How important is it to pack a pillow for my upcoming backpacking trip?
3 Tips for Setting Up Your Tent
Q. My friends keep telling me I'm setting up my tent wrong. How should I be setting it up?
How to Buy the Right Backpacking Tent
Tips for choosing a tent that will keep your backcountry nights comfortable.
Spotted an Animal in the Wild? Add It to Our Wildlife Photo Gallery
Have you taken a photo of a wild animal in its natural habitat? Check out these wildlife photos and then send us your wild animal photos.
Can You Name These Birds?
If you're into birding or just know a lot about birds, we have a challenge for you!
How to Keep Dirt Out of Your Tent
Q. I hate when the inside of my tent gets filthy. I always track in dirt from my boots. Any tips for keeping it cleaner?
Comfortable Camping With a Bad Back
Q. I have a bad back. I don’t care if it’s a mat or a cot, but I need something to keep me more comfortable while camping.
How to Build a Stand-Alone Camp Table
Here's how to lash together a small camp table to provide a convenient raised surface.
Stuff We Like: Phoozy
The Phoozy is a thermal capsule that protects your smartphone from heat or cold.
How to Build a Hand Wash Station
This wash station is sturdy, portable and very useful when camping away from washroom facilities.