My Camper Friend
Journal
Practical guides, honest gear reviews, and road-tested tips for camping and RV adventures.
Aug 19, 2026
A Beginner's Guide to Photographing the Night Sky From Your Campsite
You don't need expensive gear to capture stunning star photos at camp. Here's how I started shooting the night sky with just a phone and a little patience.
Aug 14, 2026
How I Actually Handle Laundry on Long Camping Trips (Without Losing My Mind)
Nobody talks about laundry when they romanticize van life and week-long road trips. Here's my real system for keeping clothes manageable on the road.
Aug 7, 2026
The Unwritten Rules of Campground Etiquette (From Someone Who's Broken Most of Them)
Nobody hands you a rulebook when you pull into a campground. Here are the unspoken etiquette norms that keep everyone happy — learned mostly through embarrassing mistakes.
Aug 3, 2026
What I Wish I'd Known Before My First Solo Camping Trip
Going camping alone for the first time can feel intimidating. Here's what actually mattered — and what didn't — on my first solo trip to the mountains.
Jul 27, 2026
Camping With Anxiety: Honest Tips for Nervous First-Timers
If the idea of camping makes your stomach flip, you are not broken. You just need a different approach than the one Instagram shows you. Here is what actually helped me.
Jul 22, 2026
My Camp Morning Routine That Actually Works (Even Before Coffee)
Mornings at the campsite used to be chaos. After dozens of trips, here's the simple routine that turns groggy wake-ups into the best part of the day.
Jul 13, 2026
How to Choose the Right Campsite: Shade, Views, and Avoiding the Highway
Not all campsites are created equal. Learn how to scout for shade, score the best views, dodge highway noise, and land a spot that makes your whole trip better.
Jul 10, 2026
Camping Etiquette: 15 Unwritten Rules Every Camper Should Know
Nobody hands you a rulebook at the campground gate. These 15 unwritten camping rules keep everyone happy and help you avoid being 'that camper' nobody wants next to their site.
Jul 1, 2026
Dispersed Camping Explained: Rules, Gear, and Safety Tips
Dispersed camping lets you camp for free on public land with no reservations needed. Here is everything you need to know about rules, gear, safety, and Leave No Trace.
Jun 26, 2026
Best Camping Hammocks: 8 Picks for Every Budget
From ultralight backpacking hammocks to cozy double-wides, these 8 picks cover every price range and camping style. Find your perfect hang.