Outdoors & Gear – Page 2 – Scout Life magazine

Go on a Virtual Safari to See Wild Animals

Even if you can't travel to Africa or visit a world-famous zoo, you can still watch live webcams to see wild animals in action.

Can You Hang a Hammock in a Tent?

Q: Is there a way to hang a hammock inside a tent?

Even at Yosemite, Prepare to Be Flexible!

One troop makes the most of a chilly Yosemite surprise.

Scouts Explore Laurel Caverns

Can these explorers keep cool when their eyes play tricks on them and their headlamps go out?

Expert Tips and Picks for Comfortable Hammock Camping

If you're going to try hammock camping, find out how to do it the right way with these essential tips and picks for the best gear.

Ouch! 10 Animals With Incredibly Strong Bites

You definitely want to avoid a crocodile's bite. Its bite strength is 3,700 pounds per square inch. An average adult human's is only 150 PSI.

Camping Blanket Instead of Sleeping Bag?

Q: What is the best camping blanket? Have you ever used a Rumpl? They look cool.

How to Keep Patrol Cooking Gear Clean?

Q: How can my patrol keep our cooking gear clean?

7 Great Gadgets for Lighting Up Your Campsite

Keep your campsite bright at night with these great camping lanterns and lighting devices.

Discover the Spirit of Philmont With a 21-Day Adventure Like This One!

It’s the ultimate experience in Scouting’s ultimate location!

Move Over Summer Camp: Scouts Have a Blast at Blizzard Camp

Earn merit badges, learn how to handle the cold and bond with friends at winter camp.

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.

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.

Expert Buying Tips to Help You Pick the Best Backpack

The Gear Guy's backpack buying guide help you pick the perfect pack.

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.

How to Buy a Good Pocketknife or Multitool

Keep sharp in your Scouting endeavors with the best knife to fit your needs.

How to Whip and Fuse the Ends of Rope

The more you use rope, the more it frays. Here's how to make one of the most important tools in Scouting last a little longer.

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?

How to Treat Backcountry Water to Make it Safer

You must treat all drinking water in the wild, no matter how clear and clean it appears to be. Here are the best water treatment options.

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.

How to Buy the Best Sleeping Bag

Synthetic vs. down? Sleep better under the stars with the Gear Guy’s tips for choosing the best sleeping bag.

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.

How to Buy a Good Rain Jacket

Get expert tips to help you buy a rain jacket that's sure to keep you dry and warm in any type of downpour.

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