Field Tested Review: Outdoor Vitals StormLoft 15° Quilt in the Sierra Nevada

Guy in Hammock and top quilt

For the past five years, I’ve relied on quilts as my primary sleep system, especially when hammock camping in the Sierra Nevada. They give me the freedom to move naturally, regulate heat, and stay cozy in ways a traditional mummy bag never has. So when I came across the Outdoor Vitals StormLoftâ„¢ 15° Quilt (Long) … Read more

Highland Lakes Dispersed Camping & Gardner Meadow Loop Hike

North Fork of the Mokelumne River

Words & Photos by Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine Sponsored by Mountain House, EXPED, and Nestout Summer is finally here, and with it comes our favorite way to explore the Sierra: boondocking adventures that get us closer to trailheads, earlier on the trail, and deeper into the wild. This past weekend, we kicked off … Read more

Kammok Launches Ursaâ„¢ Sleep System

Couple Camping

Kammok Redefining Comfort at Camp. Austin, TX. (March 7, 2023) — Kammok, designer of high-performance outdoor gear, announced the launch of its latest product, the Ursa Sleep System, on Kickstarter. The Ursa is the ultimate camping bed, offering maximum comfort for more restorative outdoor sleep.The Ursa Sleep System is a comprehensive sleeping solution that promises … Read more

5 Must-Have Items for Your Spring Camping Trip

Night Camping and stars

(StatePoint) The spring camping season is here and it’s time to get ready. These five must-have items are not only compact, they’ll ensure you have fun and make the most of your trip: Rest and relaxation: After a day of vigorous activity, you deserve to put your feet up. And there is no better way … Read more

Camping in Yosemite National Park in 2022

Sunrise at May Lake over the Cathedral range

Summer Camping Updates in Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park – March 21, 2022 – Are you considering a visit to Yosemite national Park in 2022? Several changes are in place for 2022 that can effect how you enjoy your stay. This is a quick post to get an update on Camping, Entry and Backpacking … Read more

California State Parks Launches Mobile App, Making It Easier to Connect Visitors to Nation’s Largest State Park System

Bodie State Historic Ghost town

SACRAMENTO, Calif.— California State Parks is proud to announce the availability of a new mobile app that will make it easier for visitors to connect with nature and enhance access for all to the nation’s largest state park system. Powered by OuterSpatial, the mobile app is free and provides visitors with real-time updates about on-the-ground conditions and access … Read more

Drought related water shortage at some Plumas National Forest campgrounds

camping lassen national forest

Spring failure at select Little Grass Valley Reservoir Campgrounds QUINCY, Calif. – July 1, 2021 – There is no potable water (no drinking or dish-washing use) available at several Plumas National Forest recreation sites located at Little Grass Valley Reservoir near La Porte, CA.Non-potable water availability is also very limited.Affected sites include: Little Beaver, Red … Read more

Plumas National Forest Fire Use Restrictions Now in Effect in 2021

Campfire

Quincy, CA – June 14, 2021 – Fire use restrictions are effective June 15, 2021, within the PlumasNational Forest (public land), according to Chris Carlton, Forest Supervisor.Fire Use Restrictions You may not build, maintain, attend, or use a fire, campfire or stove fire except in the designatedrecreation sites noted in Exhibit A of the PNF … Read more

Hammock Camping in California National Parks

Hammock Sierra 2016

Tent or Hammock? It has become one of the most asked questions for backcountry backpackers and national park visitors over the past 6-7 years. About four years ago, I switched from tent camping to hammock camping and had never looked back. My sleep comfort level is unmatched, and adding a mosquito net to my setup … Read more