Car camping and dispersed camping are exploding across the Sierra Nevada — and for good reason.
In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, Charlie Pankey sits down with Emma from Napier Outdoors — one of the original innovators behind truck tents and SUV tents — to break down what vehicle camping really means, why it’s growing so quickly, and how families are using car camping to explore the Sierra.
If you’ve been curious about:
• Car camping in the Sierra
• Dispersed camping on BLM land
• Truck camping setups
• SUV tents and vehicle tents
• Camping with kids or first-time campers
• Camping near Yosemite, Mammoth, Bishop or Death Valley
This conversation walks through real-world setup, beginner tips, and the evolving camping trends reshaping outdoor recreation.
Charlie also shares his own experience sleeping out of his truck across the Sierra and why adding an SUV tent is opening up new possibilities for family camping and trailhead access.
Whether you’re new to camping or looking to expand into dispersed camping and vehicle camping, this episode will help you simplify your setup and get outside.
Sierra Rec Now is your weekly podcast covering hiking, camping, backpacking, gear, and exploration across the Sierra Nevada. #napiernation
