Stargazing Camping Trips: Planning for Dark Western Skies
How to plan a camping trip around the night sky: choosing dark locations, timing with the moon, protecting night vision, staying warm and what to look for.
Read · 4 minField notes
The Online Camp Grid blog
Practical, unhurried articles on planning, packing, cooking, safety and low-impact camping across the western United States.
- Night Sky
- Family
- Skills
- Planning
- Safety
- Low Impact
- Camp Kitchen
Camping with Dogs: Rules, Gear and Good Trail Manners
How to plan a safe and courteous camping trip with your dog in the American West, including where dogs are allowed, gear, heat, wildlife and etiquette.
Read · 4 min
Layering for Cold Nights: How to Sleep Warm Outdoors
How to use base, mid and outer layers, sleeping pads and sleeping bags together to stay warm on cold mountain and desert nights.
Read · 4 min
Reserving Campsites on Public Lands: How the System Works
A clear guide to how campsite reservations, first-come sites, dispersed camping and wilderness permits work on federal and state public lands in the West.
Read · 4 min
Staying Cool in Desert Heat: A Camper's Field Guide
Practical strategies for camping safely in hot desert weather: timing, shade, water, clothing, recognizing heat illness and knowing when to change plans.
Read · 4 min
Camping with Kids: A Calm Plan for Happy Family Trips
How to plan a family camping trip that works for children of all ages, with tips on choosing a campground, sleep, food, safety and keeping everyone engaged.
Read · 4 min
Leave No Trace Explained: The Seven Principles in Practice
A plain-language guide to the seven Leave No Trace principles, with practical examples for campers in the Sierra, Great Basin and desert West.
Read · 4 min
Camp Cooking Basics: Simple Meals, Smart Kitchens
How to set up an efficient camp kitchen, plan easy meals, cook safely over a stove or fire, keep food cold and clean up without leaving a trace.
Read · 4 min
How to Choose a Campsite: Reading Terrain Like a Map
Learn how to pick a safe, comfortable and low-impact campsite in the western mountains and deserts by reading wind, slope, trees, water and sun.
Read · 4 min
The First-Time Camping Checklist: What You Actually Need
A calm, practical checklist for your first camping trip in the American West, organized by system so nothing important gets left at home.
Read · 4 min