Outdoor Blog

Can You Pitch a Tent Anywhere? Everything You Need to Know About Wild Camping

Published

4 years ago

October 23, 2019

Camping is the ultimate salvation from the long working week and allows you to be at one with nature. You can feel liberated out in the wild with no one to answer to, and free of tedious technology clogging up your days and nights.

Wild camping has become a sort of cult movement, with more and more campers and hikers choosing to pitch their tents in vast open meadows and in deep lush forests, rather than join others at designated camping sites with the usual basic amenities. Whether you’re on a backpacking trip, doing some tent camping, or on a road trip, it’s nice to be able to find tent sites or free campsites that aren’t on private land.

And while sleeping out in wide open spaces under the stars sounds like the ultimate act of defiance against rules and the daily grind, there are bound to be some regulations and restrictions. The last thing you want to have on your camping trip is a police officer waking you up and telling you to move on, or receiving a heavy penalty for being in a no camping zone.

So can you pitch a tent anywhere? Not exactly, but there are plenty of stunning places across the country that allow you to camp without costs, you just need to know what to look for.

Camping in National Forests and Grasslands

In the USA, there is a general rule that you can camp anywhere that is within the borders of National Grasslands. This gives you millions of acres of public land greenery to play with across the Rocky Mountains and the West Coast.

You could be waking up to pronghorn antelope grazing outside your tent in Grand River National Grasslands in South Dakota, or taking in the view of Mt. Hood while you sip your morning coffee in your sleeping bag in Crooked River National Grassland in Oregon. Make sure that upon arrival you check for cattle as you won’t be able to pitch tents in those fields.

You also have the luxury of being able to camp in any National Forests all across the US. Some National Forests may require permits which can be picked up from ranger stations, so check online before arrival. This gives you the freedom of free camping from the uppermost corners of Washington, through the Pacific Northwest and Southwest, down to the expansive prairies of Arizona and beyond.

You could set up camp by Lake Valentine in Kisatchie National Forest in Louisiana for the ultimate in peace and solitude. Or spend some time relaxing by the water in Croatan National Forest in North Carolina – just keep a close eye on those ‘gators! Keeping a close eye on the wildlife of the area in which you’re camping is paramount.

While camping in areas where bears may be living and hunting, you should ensure that anything scented, from food to gasoline to toothpaste, should be wrapped in airtight containers and hidden inside vehicles or in food storage lockers provided at some campsites. Using bear spray and cooking food away from your sleeping area will also help to deter bears from your campsite, but exercise caution nonetheless.

Camping in National Parks

National parks have a lot more restrictions when it comes to pitching your tent compared to our forests and grasslands. Not all of the 392 national parks have developed campsites, but many of them do provide campgrounds, often for a small fee per night. There are often entrance fees to national parks, so check to see if those costs include camping fees.

There are two types of camping to consider when looking at exploring national parks. The first is developed campsites, ranging from basic sites with the bare minimum when it comes to toilets and other amenities, to more modernized grounds with electricity outputs and hot water. Researching beforehand on the national park’s official website is the best way to be prepared, especially if the campgrounds require prior booking and fees paid in advance.

The other type of camping is backcountry. This requires you to pack your entire night’s supplies on your backs and make your way up and through the national park until you find somewhere to pitch and sleep.

Some national parks may have designated backcountry camping spots, whereas others may give you the freedom of choice. Checking before you make the journey and paying any camping fees ahead of time will make your trip a lot more straightforward and enjoyable.

The Best National Parks for Camping

The United States is blessed with some of the most beautiful national parks in the world, with sixty-one parks across 29 states protected by the National Park Service.

Yosemite National Park

Trekking deep into California’s Sierra Nevada mountains will take you to the notoriously picturesque Yosemite National park. It boasts 1,200 square miles of towering mountains, standing proudly over serene meadows, dramatic waterfalls and deep valleys.

As it’s one of the most famous national parks in the US, it attracts a deluge of campers from all corners of the world. Thankfully, the park is home to thirteen campsites, so you may be able to avoid the chatter of too many fellow campers.

Seven of the thirteen campsites require reservations to be made, which can be done on the official National Park Service website. Note that peak times, between April and September, can be uncomfortably busy with campsite bookings a necessity well in advance.

Yellowstone National Park

With twelve designated campgrounds and over three hundred backcountry campsites available, Yellowstone is a camper’s dream. Famous for its breathtaking waterfalls and active geysers, the park is a must for anyone fascinated by nature.

Have a dip in the park’s Boiling river – a large steaming hot spring cool enough to swim in. Don’t leave without making the trip to the Steamboat Geyser in the Norris Geyser Basin, which holds the title for the tallest active geyser on earth.

Due to Yellowstone being a seasonal destination, most official campgrounds are closed between November and March, with only the Upper Pines, Camp 4, Wawona and Hodgdon Meadow campsites open year round.

Glacier National Park

Affectionately known by Native Americans as the ‘Backbone of the World’, the Glacier National Park in Montana is the US’s answer to the Swiss Alps. If you’re a fan of skyscraping mountains,cradling glistening lakes in their valleys and long hikes through untouched wilderness, Glacier National Park could be your nirvana.

There are thirteen designated campsites to choose from, nestled in all corners of the park. For a backcountry camping adventure, there are many sites available, but a permit is required, and from May through to October you will need to pay seven dollars for the privilege. Wild camping throughout the rest of the year is free.

Sleeping at Truck and Rest Stops

When you’re not going to make it to a campsite before nightfall, you may need to park up and sleep anywhere available. This is a much easier feat when you are travelling in an RV, as pitching a tent not only takes time but also the right location and good enough ground for pegs, if used.

Some rest stops may only provide parking spaces on concrete, so taking up extra room and sleeping on a hard surface may be a no-go for you. In this case, it’s usually a lot less hassle if you sleep in your car, depending on its size and the number of travelers.

Each rest stop and truck stop has its own rules when it comes to overnight parking and camping, so read the signs first and read reviews online to see what other campers say.

There are also an abundance of camping apps that help you locate nearby camping spots, free or otherwise, with trusty reviews, maps, a list of the available amenities and pictures. If you are in the middle of a town with no sign of local campsites or truck stops, make your way to the nearest Walmart.

Many of the retailers offer free RV parking overnight, however time limits will usually apply. Not all Walmarts allow this as they may share parking lots with other businesses, so check in advance online for the individual Walmart store’s rules.

Sleeping in your car or van in a Walmart parking lot doesn’t sound like the stuff grand camping adventure dreams are made of, but at least you can pick up some food and use clean, flushable toilets inside!

Research the Rules First

At certain times of the year in particular states there may be varying rules on campfires. Check online or pay a quick visit to a ranger’s station if you’re not sure if you can light a fire.

Doing a quick Google search of each place you intend to lay your head that night is also recommended, just in case a permit is needed. Keeping a close eye on road signs for private property and camping areas could also be the difference between a good night’s sleep and a hefty fine.

Be Prepared for No Amenities

In designated campsites across parks and forests you can usually enjoy basic amenities like lamps, compost toilets and running water. There may also be fire pits or barbecues and parking areas. When pitching your tent in the middle of nowhere, be ready to improvise for a night in total darkness without a water source!

Having a decent camping stove, plenty of toilet paper and drinking water on hand will make your night a lot more comfortable! It’s also highly likely that setting up camp in the middle of a forest will take you off the grid. If you’re lucky enough to get phone signal to make calls, you sure won’t be able to access the internet! So packing an atlas, maps of National Parks and a compass will make sure you can get from A to B with ease.

Leave No Trace

It goes without saying, but camping out in the wild means that you need to be extra careful about not leaving a single trace on exit. There should be no sign of where you pitched your tent, no food wrappers floating in the wind, and no food waste lying in the bushes.

It’s imperative that you take everything with you, leaving not a single bag of trash behind. If campers stick to this mentality that this land is for everyone, and it’s wild and beautiful and not to be tainted by humans, we can continue to sleep under those wide open skies, leaving pristine natural spaces for the next generation of wild campers.

Outdoor Blog

Living Life on the Edge: Embracing Adrenaline-Fueled Moments

Published

1 week ago

September 20, 2023

rokumedia

Life is an adventure, a journey filled with countless opportunities for thrill and excitement. For some, the idea of living life on the edge, embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is an exhilarating concept that fuels their passion for adventure. This article delves into the world of adrenaline-chasing, highlighting the benefits and experiences of such a lifestyle.

Kitesurfing: Riding the waves of excitement

The first step to living on the edge is stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. Kitesurfing, a water sport combining wakeboarding, windsurfing, and paragliding elements, is an excellent example of an adrenaline-fueled activity. The activity entails utilizing a sizable maneuverable kite to capture the force of the wind, enabling the rider to traverse the water on a board specifically designed for kiteboarding. There is nothing quite like the exhilaration of soaring through the air, feeling the breeze caress your cheeks, and mastering the art of maneuvering a kite. Kitesurfing is a remarkable adventure that captures the spirit of embracing excitement and pushing boundaries.

The psychological thrill

In addition to the excitement of the tangible experience, embracing a daring lifestyle offers a mental rush that is just as stimulating. Engaging in these activities provides an exhilarating experience that stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s innate pain relievers. This results in a profound sense of joy and an overwhelming feeling of invulnerability. The thrill of this frenzy can become habit-forming, compelling thrill-seekers to pursue fresh and increasingly demanding adventures consistently.

The benefits of embracing the edge

Embracing a daring lifestyle goes beyond pursuing excitement; it presents many advantages. Participating in thrilling adventures can enhance physical well-being, as numerous pursuits demand robustness, stamina, and skill. Furthermore, they have the potential to enhance one’s emotional well-being by offering a means to alleviate tension and unease. Engaging in these activities demands concentration, which can effectively alleviate mental clutter, resulting in a serene state once the surge of excitement diminishes.

The balance of risk and reward

While living life on the edge can be exhilarating, it’s important to remember the balance of risk and reward. Adrenaline-fueled activities often involve a certain level of risk, and it’s essential to approach them with a healthy respect for safety. Proper training, equipment, and precautions can help mitigate these risks, allowing you to enjoy the thrill without unnecessary danger.

Always research your activities and location. This understanding can help you decide if the risk is acceptable and if you have the skills and equipment. Check and maintain your gear, and never sacrifice safety. Finally, embracing adventure with a responsible and safety-conscious mentality lets you enjoy high-risk activities without risking injury.

Living life on the edge embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is a lifestyle choice that offers a unique blend of thrill, excitement, and personal growth. Whether kitesurfing across the waves, scaling a mountain, or skydiving from a plane, these activities provide an escape from the mundane, a chance to challenge oneself, and an opportunity to experience life at its most vibrant. So, step out of your comfort zone, embrace the adrenaline, and start living on the edge. After all, life is not meant to be lived in the slow lane; rather, it’s about experiencing every thrilling moment it offers.

Outdoor Blog

Renewable Energy Farms That Make Beautiful Hiking Trails

Published

1 month ago

August 24, 2023

Matt Colletta

Wind farms and solar panels are not just alternative means to get our natural resources. They have now combined with another industry and are making some unexpected news.

The tourism industry has marked renewable energy farms as hiking trails, and hikers are here for it. You can read more about renewable energy sites. Although you might not think of hiking on a wind farm as beautiful as hiking along a famous mountain trail, you might just be in for a surprise.

Let’s discuss the benefits that renewable energy farms have as hiking trails.

Why are Renewable Energy Farms Important?

Renewable energy farms are important for the future of civilization. These farms provide an alternative to our natural resources, such as wind and energy.

The most important benefit of renewable energy is that it doesn’t produce any greenhouse emissions and reduces the air pollution other traditional processes create when providing natural resources.

These farms also allow for the creation of the country’s own resources without having to import natural resources from another country and save their limited natural resources.

Here are some of the reasons why energy farms are important:

Allows for sustainable rural development

This will allow landowners to make an extra income by generating energy.

Test new technologies

Providing the opportunity to test technologies to find new ways to create renewable energy.

Improving the effect of climate change

Climate change has left the environment filled with toxic pollutants, which has led people to become sick and breathe in harmful air.

Renewable energy can change this by lessening the number of pollutants that are released into the atmosphere and providing much safer, cleaner, breathable air.

This leads to job creation

Job creation within the renewable energy farms industry is plentiful as there is a need for skilled workers such as construction, maintenance and manufacturing to build the necessary infrastructure that is needed to generate these wind and solar farms.

The Benefits of Renewable Energy Farms As Hiking Trails

Renewable energy farms have many benefits for both the environment and people who love spending their time outdoors.

Embracing the Use of Green Technology

Since wind farms and solar plants are located in areas that are unpopulated, they make for great hiking trails.

By visiting these sites, people get to experience green technology, and by integrating them into recreational spaces, people can visit these sites and embrace green technology by seeing how they work and the positive effects that it has on the environment.

The more people embrace the shift to green technology, the easier it will be to use it.

Energy Farms Offer A Unique Experience For Visitors

Visiting energy farms means you will have a unique experience while there. You will get to see how these large devices work and how they replace the basic resources needed to survive.

Tours can give visitors more information on the background of the construction of devices, their environmental impact and why it is important for us to switch to sustainable energy resources.

Visitors Get to Enjoy Natural Beauty

The sites for these renewable energy farms are often located in areas that are surrounded by natural beauty, such as large landscapes.

Natural pathways can be used as hiking trails without the need for carving out new roads and damaging the ecosystem.

Visitors can even discover native plant life and explore the natural wonders that are located at these energy farms, as they are often placed where no infrastructure has been built on the property before.

Providing Health and Wellness Benefits

Hiking has many health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving fitness, and helping aid mental well-being.

Energy Farms have Community Benefits and Increase the Economy

These hiking trails can help boost economic sales, bringing tourists to the community. This will give the local people the opportunity to expand their businesses.

This can also help increase employment within the community as these sites will be visited frequently and lead to new business openings to cater to tourists.

Conclusion

Renewable energy farms greatly benefit both the economy and the people who want to spend their time on them. These farms are especially important for transitioning from natural resources to newer energy resource power plants.

From learning how to embrace green technology to getting health and wellness benefits to enjoying nature’s natural beauty and finding job opportunities within the market.

Spending time on these renewable energy farms can be educational and recreational for anyone who visits them. To find more renewable energy farm hiking trails, you can visit https://outsidebozeman.com.

Outdoor Blog

Top Recommendations for RV Window Maintenance

Published

1 month ago

August 23, 2023

Samantha Bos

Much like other sections of your RV, the windows sometimes need a bit of maintenance. It is essential to clean off dirt and insect smudges and also make sure they are adequately sealed to avoid leaks and water harm.

If you have a broken RV window, then you may want to consult Van Isle Glass. However, if you wish to know more about simple measures to ensure your RV windows stay spotless and secure, you are in the right spot! Continue reading below.

Polish Your Windshield Using Ultra-Fine #0000 Steel Wool

Numerous RV enthusiasts have praised the use of the finest grade of steel wool #0000 for removing stubborn bugs and water marks from their windshields. Before proceeding, first test the #0000 steel wool on a small portion of your windshield. Apply it with light, circular motions. Sweep away any remaining steel wool bits with a microfiber towel. Next, spritz the surface with a residue-free glass cleaner and wipe it down with a separate cloth.

Steel wool is also great when used with a spray lubricant for cleaning tires, maintaining grills, starting campfires, and repelling mice. A gentler alternative is cleansing dish pads. These pads are versatile, suitable for cleaning various materials such as wood, porcelain, stainless steel, chrome, painted areas, and glass.

Apply a Sealant to Avoid Leaks

Silicone sealant is effective in stopping leaks in areas like your windshield, RV windows, sunroof, and vents. It penetrates tiny gaps, creating a robust waterproof barrier. Ensure the surfaces are clean before application and do not have old caulk, dirt, oil, and other residues.

Furthermore, clear away any standing water on windows to prevent hard water stains. Make sure the inside of your windows stay dry to avoid condensation and mold build-up. If there is significant condensation on your windows, consider getting a small dehumidifier.

Use Tools to Access Difficult Regions

Using cleaners with long handles can prevent you from straining to clean those distant parts of your windshield. Windshield cleaning tools often feature a lengthy, swiveling triangular head that is ideal for getting into corners and spots difficult to access manually.

Opt for a Residue-Free Glass Cleaner

A high-quality glass cleaner will maintain the clarity of your windows and windshield. A great glass cleaner performs well on both standard and tinted windows, making sure to remove streaks or leftover residue. Another option is a natural concoction of half vinegar and half water, with a touch of lemon essential oil.

Steer Clear of Cleaning RV Windows in Bright Sunlight

A sunny afternoon may feel perfect for washing your RV windows, but the warmth can speed up the drying of the cleaner, resulting in streaks or spots. It is advisable to tackle your RV window cleaning during early morning, late evening, or when stationed in a shaded area for the best outcome.

Endnote

Keeping your RV windows clean and clear is not only about aesthetics, but is also vital for safety. The subtleties in cleaning, like steering clear of the sun and using the appropriate products, play a key role. Adhering to these guidelines will help you maintain a pristine view during your various journeys.