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Last-minute Fourth of July camping spots

Good things come to those who wait, right?  There is, generally, this crazy notion that for campsites and reservations, you have to be on top of your scheduling game (as in, set a calendar alert to book Yosemite the day after Christmas). But fear not, procrastinators and last minute schedule makers : you can absolutely find a great campsite in the eleventh hour. 

Since the Fourth of July, AKA one of the most epic camping weekends ever, is upon us, we thought that this would be a great occasion to showcase a few of our favorite spots.

  Lassen Volcanic, Manzanita Lake Campground

In our opinion, this is one of the most underrated parks in Northern California. Plus, anywhere with “volcanic” in the name absolutely deserves a visit. And, yes, there is still camping available! This campground is actually first-come, first-serve, meaning that you get to channel your inner Manifest Destiny and literally plant your stakes to claim a spot. In fact, this is one of SIX first-come first-serve spots in Lassen, including cabins (pretty great, right?).

You’ll want to get there right as the park opens, but a beautiful morning drive is nothing to complain about. Plus, this is such a fabulous spot, the nap you’ll have in one of the most beautiful places in California will be well worth it. Check out the park, then get details and head up!

Henry W. Coe, Coe Ranch Campground

A campground? With reservable spots? Four days before the Fourth of July? In one of the Central Coast’s loveliest places to camp?

Yes, yes, yes and yes. As of Tuesday, July 1, at 11 a.m., there are still 5 out of 9 sites available for the taking, so hustle on over and secure yourself a spot! Clicked as frantically as you could, but still didn’t make it in time? No worries, there are still ample opportunities to find yourself a campsite (please see below!).

Bothe-Napa, Bothe-Napa Valley Campground

We’ve already sung the praises of this particular spot, and, to make things even better, there are totally sites available. Similarly first-come first-serve, the spots also happen to be in one of the nicest areas of the campground, really putting that whole “early-bird-gets-the-worm” theory to the test. You will, of course, want to get there nice and early, but the drive through the valley as the sun sifts through the mists means you won’t need TOO much incentive to hit the road. It is also an easy, hour drive outside of SF, so you can decide to head up last minute no problem. Read about all there is to do, scope out which site you want, then get to Napa-ing!

Mt. Tamalpais, Bootjack Campground

Also located a short jaunt from SF, and, you guessed it, first-come first-serve, is Bootjack Campground in the glorious Mt. Tam.  You still totally have a chance to sleep under the giants (and explore the glorious nearby Muir Woods and Stinson Beach) for the Fourth of July weekend. One of our favorite things to do is to get to the park just before dawn, then head to the summit to watch the sun rise over the valley (the views are, as you would think, absolutely breathtaking). You can then head back down, grab your site and rustle up some grub! Sounds like a pretty fabulous way to spend a weekend to us….check it out here!

We honestly can’t think of anything more American than heading outdoors to appreciate those spacious skies, and, happily, there are still ample opportunities for you to do so! If you want to explore more campgrounds available this weekend (or next weekend, or any weekend you want), head over to Hipcamp and click on the handy-dandy corresponding buttons. You’d be surprised at how many sites are actually still available (we even saw some first-come, first-serve spots at Yosemite for the weekend of July 12th!). Check it out, and, of course, have an awesome Fourth of July!

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Healing Herbs & Edible Fruits: Foraging for Treasure

            In addition to being a hipcamper, guest blogger Natalie Schoeppler is an amazing cook, master yoga instructor and budding forager. She will be stopping by to give insights and awesome advice as often as we can grab her!

Last week, on a sunny June afternoon, I met my friend William Morningsun for a hike up in Tilden Regional Park.  The park sits tucked away in the hills just above Berkeley, offering a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities below. I’d been there a few times before, so I wasn’t expecting much more than a pleasant hike through the hills, but it turned out to be one of the most educational and eye-opening hikes of my life. William, who grew up in the jungles of Belize before moving to California, has a deep understanding and connection to the earth, and was kind enough to share a piece of his knowledge with me on that day.

To my joyful surprise, it turns out that we are surrounded by an abundance of edible, healing, and useful plants, waiting for us just beyond the walls of our concrete jungle.

We began our hike, weaving around the ominous poison oak leaves that leaned out onto the trail. William pointed to a mugwort bush growing nearby and explained that its leaves, when ground up or chewed into a poultice, can relieve the itchy rash that poison oak can cause. Magically enough, mugwort and poison oak usually grow in close proximity to one another, so if you find yourself itching in the woods, go scout out some mugwort. It grows in bushes, usually a few feet high, and the leaves have a silvery underside. When crushed, it releases a distinctively strong herbal smell, easily distinguishing it from the common ragweed. Mugwort poultice also can help heal a bad cut when applied directly to the wound.

Additionally, William said that mugwort is known at the ‘dreaming sage.’ If consumed as a tea, it can open the doorway to lucid dreaming. 

Another remarkable plant to know about in the wild is the plantain. Not to be confused with the delicious oversized ‘banana’ that grows in the tropics, the small leafy plantain that grows like weeds all over northern California. Look for broad flat leaves with parallel running veins and a fresh green color.  Being a natural coagulant and antiseptic, plantain can be made into a poultice and applied to a cut or wound. Since it is also anti-inflammatory and fights viral infections, it can significantly help prevent infection and speed up healing. Additionally, it can be brewed into a tea to help clear up an infection in the body, such as a UTI. 

Since we embarked upon a short hike that day, neither of us had thought to bring food or water. But the day was hot and I was starting to feel a bit parched.  Conveniently, we passed by some native California blackberry bushes. You can tell they are the native species because they have numerous thin prickles along their stems, rather than thick thorns. This variety is more plentiful, and, even though the season is only just beginning, I picked the out the ripe black ones and shared them with William. They were still a bit tart, but a delicious promise of what the coming summer months will bring.

Foraging for wild blackberries is simple in that they are easy to spot and identify, but the thorny bushes certainly do their job at protecting the fruit, so watch out.  If you want to collect more than a couple handfuls, you can gently lay down a piece of cardboard or plywood on the lower growth and step on it to reach the farther away berries.

Wild strawberries are much easier to pick. Look for small, leafy, green plants growing close to the ground. The little red berries get ripe in the early summer months and taste of earth and sunshine.

  Always forage with caution though; not everything in the wild is meant to be eaten. If in doubt, leave it be. For example, near the beginning of the trailhead, I had stopped to sniff at some dainty white flowers growing on a large bush. William turned around and told me I was actually sniffing poison Hemlock, the herb that Socrates- a philosopher once far too advanced for his times- was forced to drink the tea of to end his own life.  So, be curious, but be careful!

On our way back, William pointed to a Bay Laurel tree. Like me, many of you have probably used Bay leaves in your cooking for its fresh and spicy flavor. Just pick a few and throw them in your soups & sauces. What I didn’t know was that the same leaves can be crumpled and rubbed on your skin for a natural insect repellant. Forget about the chemical sprays you find in drug stores, bay leaves smell much more pleasant AND don’t harm you or the environment. You can also leave a few bay leaves in your kitchen to deter ants and other insects away from your stored food.

  Lastly, if you really find yourself out in the wild for some time, you can use bay berries to make candles. Pick and peel the berries, and boil them until you can scoop the waxy substance off the top. Pour into a small container, add a string for a wick, and burn away, keeping your space lit and free of bugs.

We stopped at the peak of our hike, looking down at the cities below us and feeling grateful to be outside of it all, even for just an afternoon. I looked at the wilderness around me with new lessons in my eyes- and began to see the real healing power that quietly hides beneath the beauty of the forest.

A few days later, William called me and said that he had forgotten to mention one important thing: that when harvesting medicinal plants, to ask the plant for its medicine before you pick it. Otherwise, the medicine might slip back down the roots into the earth. Call it superstition if you will, but a little extra respect for mother earth never did hurt.

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The Best Way to Wine Country

We’ve all imagined what spending a weekend in California wine country is like. Beautiful? Yes. Sun-soaked? Of course. Full of delicious wine? Duh. But what is the primary thing that probably comes to mind? “I’d absolutely love to do it, but can’t because it is completely, heartbreakingly, never-mind-that’s-an-absolutely-insane-price expensive”.

Thankfully, there is another way to experience the valley in a way that doesn’t involve over-priced B&Bs (you can make your own darn breakfast, right?). You, my friend, are in luck, as we are about to show you a whole new world of exploring wine country on a dime, and give you a chance to spend some quality time outside in one of the most beautiful spots in California. The key? Not being afraid of a little dirt and being into sleeping under the stars (which we assume you are down with, because you are here!).

When it comes to camping in wine country, there are really two superstar parks that you are going to want to focus on: Bothe-Napa in (rather obviously) Napa Valley, and Sugarloaf in Sonoma County. Both offer some absolutely stunning landscapes, and, most importantly, proximity to some of the best wine in the US. So without further ado, here’s the breakdown on what’s going on at both parks, and how to make the most out of your trip!

1) Bothe-Napa

Where: St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, California

Why: Rolling hills, a badass swimming pool, hiking through coastal redwoods and, of course, great proximity to some of the world’s best wineries. Oh, and did we mention yurts? (!)

(A few of many) Wineries within walking distance:

Frank's Family Vineyards, which was named the 2012 “Winery of the Year”  by the Connoisseur's Guide to California wine.

The epic and grandiose Castello di Amorosa, which, in addition to scoring a 92 Robert Parker rating, features Italian architecture and, delightfully, a small farm with goats, sheep and chickens.

The historical, 150-acre Larkmead Vineyards, nestled in the beautiful heart of the valley.

(A few of even more) Wineries within biking distance:

Tristant Vineyards, which features all organically-grown wine.

Benessere Vineyard, a charming, family-owned winery named after the Italian word for well-being.

Sterling Vineyards which, in addition to being a household name and having some delicious wines, also includes a pretty spectacular gondola ride with your tasting & tour ticket.

If you wind up camping out here, you should definitely look into getting a yurt. It’s a little bit more expensive (about $75 instead of the standard $35 for a site), but, come on. Staying in a wine country yurt means you have massively upped your glamping game. With this in mind, we’ve included a few yurt hacks, which are as follows:

Site 6 is the best yurt spot

There is no electricity, so bring a lantern to keep up that ambiance

If you are the private type, bring an extra sheet to cover the window

Don’t forget your bedding!

If you are a dairy fan, grab some local cheese to go with that amazing bottle you snagged earlier. That, my friends, is living.

Ready to book? Come on over, we’ve got all the details worked out, all you need to do is pick the time! Oh, and be sure to bring your ‘kini and trunks, because that pool is going to look AWESOME after your long bike ride.

2) Sugarloaf

Okay okay, so maybe you’ve been-there done-that with Napa and you are looking for a new experience. Or maybe you are looking for more of a wilderness-meets-wine-country mash up, heavy on the wilderness side. If this is the case, then Sugarloaf Ridge is definitely your answer.

Where:  2605 Adobe Canyon Rd, Kenwood, CA

Why: A breathtaking waterfall, 25 miles of awesome hikes, gorges, a view of the golden gate bridge from the top of Bald Mountain, oh, and it’s just a short bike ride away from some spectacular wine.

  Wineries within biking distance:

How about Chateau St. Jean? Gorgeous mansion? Check. Beautiful grounds? Check. 2008 winemaker of the year? Oh, hell yes! (Check).

Kenwood Vineyards, devoted to sustainable, “small lot” wine, three of which are organic. Small lots means tons of variety but consistent quality.

You’ll probably be hungry, so why not enjoy dinner along with Robert Parker-certified delicious wine at St. Francis Winery?

Want to try a wide variety of wines in one spot? Try the NakedWine.com’s Wine Studio and Tasting Lounge.

  Ready to roll? You know we’ve got you covered!

Wine country isn’t exclusively for drinking wine, however. If you are looking for a respite from the sniffing and swirling, you should absolutely check out some of the amazing parks in the area. Jack London’s home is actually located in Sonoma County, about 10 minutes away from Sugarloaf. The frontier comes to life at Bale Grist Mill in Napa, which was once the spot settlers gathered to have their corn and wheat ground into flour. And, of course, the respective downtowns of Sonoma and Napa have all the charm, delicious food and strollable streets that you would expect.

The moral of the story here is that you can absolutely have a spectacular vacation in wine country for, literally, 25% of the cost. Because at the end of the day, staring at the stars in a sleeping bag beats a fancy ceiling (disclaimer: they are all the same) any day.  

PS: Since there are approximately a bazillion wineries that are nearby if you are traveling via automobile, we excluded that from our list. We did, however, find a few of the best in Napa and Sonoma, for your perusing pleasure. It goes without saying, but please please please drink responsibly!

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The Next Level of Camping: Shelter Co.

What happens when you take an expert at destination event planning and combine it with a love for camping? You have Shelter Co., a company that specializes in pop-up lodging for groups looking for an overnight outdoor experience. The brainchild of CEO Kelsey Sheofsky, the idea takes outdoor spaces to a whole new level.

Far from the sticky, smelly cabins of summer camp, imagine fully furnished, beautiful tents and amenities like catering and restrooms… in the middle of a stunning campground.

We met up with Kelsey to ask her about her favorite camping spots and how Shelter Co. all began.

An Interview with Kelsey Sheofsky of Shelter Co.

Hipcamp: What kind of work background do you come from?

Kelsey: I was the creative director of an event planning company for 6 years before launching Shelter Co. We specialized in destination weddings and events, so I traveled all around the world for our productions. My husband Mike, who is also my business partner, was working in custom furniture fabrication.  

HC: What is your camping experience and do you have any favorite spots you can share with us?

Kelsey: Mike and I both grew up camping with our families. Our first real date was actually camping at Jalama beach down near Santa Barbara and we have gone on at least one camping excursion every year for the past 12 years. Jalama remains a favorite spot. We also love Big Basin. We do a big camping trip with about 30 friends every winter there. Big Sur is also a great spot!

HC: How did the idea come about, what inspired you?

Kelsey: The idea first came up after seeing so many of my weddings and events dictating their location on hotel proximity and availability. I thought it would be so cool to be able to bring the accommodations to the event, not the other way around. And our love for the outdoors helped drive the aesthetic towards a modern luxury take on camping. We cater to a lot of larger groups and events but also can provide full camp set ups for couples and families looking for a unique outdoor experience.

HC: Are the shelters being used by campers/glampers or mainly for events?

Kelsey: It's probably half and half. We love working with both types!

HC: What if I want to make a skinny almond milk macchiato, is there electricity? Are there lights, and if so, there’s obviously no power hookups, so how do you get electricity to the tents?

Kelsey: Macchiatos are always an option! Some of our properties do have electricity but most don't.  If it's something that's desired we can bring it in. If it's not, we use oil and battery powered lanterns for all the lighting at camp.  

HC: Do you decide where the camping experience is or does the user?

Kelsey: We do it both ways. A lot of clients come to us with a specific location in mind but many don't have any idea. We help guide them based on their specific needs and geography.

HC: How do you find the land where you have these experiences? Do you rent from the landowner?

Kelsey: We are lucky to have a lot of landowners approach us about becoming property partners. But we also love working with properties our clients have selected. And of course we love working with the State and National Park system, when it makes sense.  Our tents are large and don't always fit in a traditional campsite, but group sites work well for what we do.

HC: Do you think these glamping experiences are on the rise and do you think they’re here to stay?

Kelsey: Enjoying the outdoors isn't a fad, nor is comfort. So I think it's here to stay.

HC: How many of these camping experiences do you do per year?

Kelsey: We do about 40 per year, but we are expanding to the East Coast, Utah, and Texas in 2014 so we will be doing a lot more in those markets which we are excited about!

HC: What can we look forward to in the Shelter Co. future?

Kelsey: As stated above, expansion! This year we had so many inquiries for doing trips out of state but our travel expenses can be cost-prohibitive. So we are going to have inventory in 4 locations starting this spring so we can service the whole country a lot more affordably. We will also be retailing the tents beginning in January (2014), and are working on an entire product line which will likely launch next fall. Our other big development is bringing Shelter Co. to some of the bigger music festivals this coming year, starting with an entire private camp for Coachella. We are pumped!

As promised, new locations and tents are available on the Shelter Co website!

All images copyright of Shelter Co.

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Duct Tape: Your New BFF

Ahh, Duct Tape. Nature's answer to all your camping woes. One of the most important hacks that we could ever recommend is, simply, carrying the ever-necessary Duct Tape. Seriously people, this stuff saves lives. Our capitalizations are no error: it really is that damn important. So, where to begin? Let's start with the oldest (and we would argue, best) hack of all: wrapping it around your water bottle, knife sheath, or any article you will have easily accessible at any time for immediate access. Just slap it on any item (I prefer a Nalgene, as it adds that nice, rugged look to your water bottle that many campers love) before you head out, and you're bound to find a use for it somewhere.

  Our next use can be found in your shoes: specifically, wrapped around your feet. You know those pesky little things called blisters? We sure do, and hey, guess what, we also know that duct tape is a great temporary solution to this hiker's enemy. When you feel those symptoms of an impeding blister (friction, burning, irritation, all that uncomfortable jazz), simply apply Duct Tape over the spot and boomshakalaka you are set. If the blister is already there, then we honestly can't help you...Ha! Totally kidding, you thought Duct Tape would fail you then? One thing you will learn, padawan, is that it never fails. Simply protect your formed pustule from the DT glue by putting a circle of paper or gauze right over the blister itself, then just apply our gray godsend on top. Bam, no more blisters, and happy hiking!

  Here's yet another one for the books: use Duct Tape as a tool to trap bugs. Really. Nobody likes sleeping with bugs gettin' all up in their bizness, so keep em at bay by simply hanging long strips of DT from the ceiling of your shelter. If you're also looking for a sweet cardio workout and insect trapper, wrap some Duct Tape around a tennis racket (sticky side out, clearly) and then head outside and practice your forehand to your heart's desire.

  Last but not least (and definitely not last in terms of the amount of possibilities), is using Duct Tape to repair ripped gear. We all know this as the normal usage, but Duct Tape is seriously one of the best tools around when you are in dire straights and need to prevent that camping trip from spiraling downhill. Hole in your air mattress? Check. Rip in your tent or sleeping bag? Check. Pocket on your backpack split open? Check. Use our favorite sticky friend to fix up any tear or hole in your camping gear.

  While this is just a very short list, it shows some of the endless opportunities provided by such a simple product. We hope this is enough to convince you of it's magical universal abilities, and as always, may the Duct Tape be with you.

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Skyline to Sea

Simply put, Skyline to Sea is the jam. Straight up, if you haven’t done this trip, then shame on you (just kidding, it’s cool, but seriously you need to get out there)! Traditionally, this 3-day 29-mile backpacking journey takes you into the heart of 3 different parks. You’re literally walking from one park to the next, with a bag on your back and walking stick in hand, if you’re into that sorta thing. The traditional way of doing this very popular trip is by starting at Saratoga Gap in Castle Rock State Park, cruising through Big Basin on the second day, and finally arriving at Waddell Beach on the last day. It’s mostly downhill, but trust me, you will definitely get the old dogs barking (AKA your legs will be sore). For this particular hike, you need 2 cars. One car needs to be parked at the end of the trail at Waddell Creek Beach; from there you and your amigos drive to Castle Rock State Park and start the trek from the parking lot.

However, being the non-traditional dudes that we are, we decided to take the less-traveled route and start from Portola Redwoods State Park. Apparently this was the more “challenging and remote” route, so we decided to go for it… and what a challenge it was! Our first day consisted of nothing but climbing. Don’t get me wrong, it was awesome sweating all over the redwood forests of Portola, but holy crap, this was not for amateurs. As any backpacker knows, your pack is always heaviest on the first day, so our dogs were already barking! This was tough even though I love a good challenge (shirtless rock-throwing competitions are a regular activity for me in the wild); I would suggest passing up on this route unless you are super fit. Instead, opt for the traditional route through Castle Rock. By the time we got to our camp at the Lane Trail Camp we were thoroughly exhausted, but a little Bulleit Rye helped calm our weary bones.

The second day we woke up early, fried some bacon & eggs (yep, I’m one of those dudes that brings a small cast iron with me and packs ice around a slab o’ bacon). Ultralight backpackers will turn their heads with shame, but I’m a big believer in cooking quality food on trips such as these. Yes, your legs will take a little more of a beating, but you know what… the food just tastes so much better. After packing up camp and leaving no trace (or MOOP for you burners), we took off.

We entered what looked like our first old-growth redwood forest. They were small but beautiful, and only increased in size and capacity as we continued. Before we knew it, we were enveloped in the forest’s lush arms. This was the first time we had experienced the big boy grandiose redwoods (not the scientific term) that we were expecting. They were huge and created a fairytale landscape of epic proportions-- think Fern Gully on steroids.

The latter portion of the second day consisted of climbing up an impossibly green ravine that leads you from one waterfall to the next. This eventually leads you to the coup de gras, Berry Creek Falls. This is a series of tiered waterfalls, which are absolutely stunning. Apparently it is the “best water in the world.” We were told this by a wandering shirtless (and barefoot) hippy, who had an empty glass jug to fill up at the falls. If you are staying at Sunset Camp, the trail to the falls is literally right above it. This gives you spectacular views as you can look right over the falls and yell at your buddies below. Eventually we descended to Sunset Camp, made a solid meal, drank whiskey, and listened to some quality camping tunes before settling down for the night-- the camping ritual.

We awoke on our final day with our minds set on jumping into the ocean as soon as we arrived at Waddell Creek Beach. Although it was about 7-8 miles, it was probably the easiest day. By this point we were glad that it was a bit more mellow, which gave us a chance to really calm our minds and take it all in. It was a reflective day for all of us, and perhaps the most beautiful. As we stood among the massive redwoods and fields of wildflowers, we breathed in the amazing smells of the forest and imagined being in the water. For a large portion of the day, we were walking along a river (okay we had a drought this year, maybe it was more of a creek), but there are a couple of deep portions to hop in. Just do it on a sunny day because it ain’t warm! After a liter of water, a pack of beef jerky, a couple of dips in the creek, and lots of laughs, we ended up at Waddell Creek Beach. We smiled, gave each other high fives and nods of approval. The Skyline to Sea was complete and it was even more epic than we had imagined. Now on to the next goal… a cold beer!

For all of you that were enticed by this trip report and want to get the heck out there… Check out Redwood Hikes and California State Parks for the deets. We highly suggest you book and commit (it’s just a quick phone call)-- you will not be sorry!

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The Ultimate Guide to Pooping in the Outdoors

Here’s the scenario: you and some buddies are backpacking through some beautiful backcountry when suddenly that unmistakable feeling that we all know far too well strikes fear into your heart. You look around--everyone is blissfully enjoying the jaunt, but you have other things on your mind. With unparalleled immediacy and sense of urgency, you tell your friends you’ll be right back and run ahead to find a quiet spot where you can be alone with the glory your body has produced.

You find that tranquil location, squat down, and let it all rip. Completely satisfied, but only for a moment, you snap back to reality and realize the work is only half done. The comfort of your two-plie godsend is nowhere to be found when your only company is good ol’ Mother Nature, so you frantically look around and lock eyes with a seemingly harmless plant a couple of feet away. A couple wipes later, with your organically-enhanced leaves scattered around you carelessly, you stand up, pull up dem britches, and walk back to your group with a renewed sense of purpose. That’s when you realize you were 2 minutes away from your campground for the night and your ordure (a fancy word for it all) is lying right next to the trail and your site. After not one but TWO of your friends step in it, who wrongfully condemn mother nature, your product calls for some more unwanted attention.

Next thing you know, bears have gone through your entire camp and taken everything, leaving your group stranded and forced to go home early. You think the pain is over, but when that gluteal itchiness doesn’t seem to stop after a couple days back in civilization you decide to get a second opinion. With a quick visit to the doctor, you learn that said irritation isn’t due to just poor wiping execution, rather a nasty rash from that little plant you thought was safe during the heat of the moment. Now you’re stuck with friends who are sour and smell, a doctor’s recommendation to apply cream where the sun don’t shine six times a day, and a torn up backpack, all because you never learned how to go to the bathroom in the woods.

As long-winded as that scenario may seem, it’s not even the worst that can happen when you go unprepared into the glory that is a nature poop. Let’s start with the basics and teach you how to be an expert in the art. Unless you are a scat psychic and can foresee all things doo doo (if so, then call our office, we definitely have a job for you), we don’t expect you to have the materials gathered at any given time. So, when you first feel that distinct urge, make sure to establish a nice spot far away from any camp, water source, or trail. (#1: find the perfect poop location.)

Once you’ve found your perfect locale, search the area for wiping materials. This part is actually a lot easier than many believe--look for smooth rocks and sticks, large leaves (granted you have a basic knowledge of what’s poisonous and what’s safe), or you could even use your hand. Big ups if you utilize the hand technique, that’s definitely a power move (gruesome, yes, but quite valid nonetheless). If you’re lucky enough to be in an area where mullein (otherwise known as the Miner’s TP) is readily available, then we recommend utilizing nature’s own competitor to Charmin®. Always remember that plants with a waxy coating will consistently make for a poor wipe, and this is also a common characteristic of plants like poison ivy and oak, so watch out! (#2: find some solid wiping materials around the area)

On every trip, you should bring a ziploc bag filled with a trowel and hand sanitizer (and TP if that’s what you’re into). I like to name the shovel at the beginning of every trip so you don’t have to explicitly ask for the materials when you gotta go, some suggested names include: Silvia, Leroy, The Hamburgler, or literally any other potential title for any type of being; fictional or real.

OK, you’ve gathered sufficient cleansing materials, now get to diggin’. A crucial step of any nature poop is the hole that your dookie will call home. We like to make it around 6 inches deep, so use your hands or a shovel if you brought it and plow that burrow.  Now let’s get to the good stuff--unhitching the load itself. (#3: dig a hole)

We prefer the “koala-bear technique,” where you hug a tree and dangle, legs at EXACTLY a 90˚ angle, and let it all go. With this glorious expulsion, you are near the end. After wiping with your previously gathered necessaries, you can put them in the hole itself, and then cover the crater up. (#4: do the deed and cover it up). Always mark the space with some sticks and a sweet design so others know not to step there (this is one of my favorite parts, I like to make a “stick-henge” of sorts), and return to your group. (#5: label your spot) As always, make sure to use hand sanitizer (especially if you use your hand as TP), to keep everyone healthy. Anddd voila! You have completed a seamless and majestic nature poop!

If you want a more personal touch, I like to always rate my bum brownies based on three categories: comfort, the view, and witnessing a miracle in nature. It should be customary that people in your group ask for a rating after every expulsion, but remember that the perfect poop is very rare to come by. (#6: rate your poop) Flawless scores in comfort and the vista are possible but are still hard to come by, while the nature miracle is completely up to your discretion. If you can nail a perfect score in all three categories (which I have only seen happen once), then you, my friend, have mastered the beauty that is going to the bathroom in the outdoors.

Good luck and happy pooping!

P.S. This is a completely eco-friendly guide, but if you do bring toilet paper then make sure to pack it out with you! While you may not like the idea of this, burying toilet paper is not healthy and you should never leave anything other than footprints. Bring a ziploc bag with you to bring back any garbage like used TP.

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Meet the Interns

Summer in San Francisco is the time of year when the air chills, the fog rolls in, and you can finally use that dust-collecting fireplace you’ve been eyeing down (actually, that’s all year). It’s also the time of year when college students go on break and flock to sprawling cities in search of coveted internships. Most of the students that end up making the voyage to SF have no idea who that dude “Karl” (the nickname for the famous San Francisco fog) is when he rolls through the city, thus masking any grandiose visions of that always slightly beyond reach “California Summer.” No worries, as San Franciscans-- both long time residents and temporary interns-- we must prevail and if not, we can always run to the hills just past the Golden Gate, where the sun still shines and warms our weary bones.

This brings me to our interns… just like the climate of the city, they are thick-skinned (although I’m not sure that was in the job description). Our new office is located close to Union Square, which means it is also close to everyone’s favorite neighborhood, the Tenderloin. I’m proud to say that our “terns” have confidently walked through these parts without hesitation. For any out-of-towner new to the city, that can be quite the feat.

However, the process for these highly coveted positions was fairly in depth. We posted on InternMatch awhile back and had over 80 applicants. We went through the process of handpicking our faves, setting up interviews, and whittling it down to our top 4. Each of them are extremely bright, unique, have a zest for creative writing, and of course, love the outdoors. We are extremely fortunate to have them on the team and they have already brought so much value. When they’re not snacking on different cheeses, sipping espressos, or singing their own rendition of “Come On Eileen,” they’re hard at work writing and researching content, marketing, and busting out all sorts of projects. So, without further ado, I bring you the Hipcamp Summer 2014 interns!

Ashley Ames

  Ashley was born in the hills just outside of Boise, Idaho, where she spent the first 7 years of her life running wild on the side of a mountain and wasn’t allowed to watch TV until she was 12 (but could recite Lewis Carroll’s  Jabberwocky on demand). At age 11, she moved with her family to the gulf coast of Florida, where she lived among some of the world’s most beautiful coastline and fell in love, once again, with the natural beauty of her home. She graduated from Florida State University in 2011 with a bachelor's degree in English and is currently pursuing her MBA at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. She is passionate about using smart business skills and creativity to make the world a better place, and loves being outside (of course), exploring and discovering new places, and masterfully roasting a marshmallow over a campfire. (She still can do the Jabberwocky, but only if you ask really nicely and probably buy her a beer.)

Dana Belott

  Dana is a New Jersey native (and she gets a lot of flack for it, so hush!) which caused her to fall in love with the Atlantic Ocean from an early age. She is a rising senior at Oberlin College, in the middle of nowhere, Ohio, where she studies Religion and Creative Writing. In her spare time, she flees as far away from the barren flatlands of Ohio as possible, usually in her bright orange box car, to national parks all over the country. Her most recent move has taken her to San Francisco where she is already falling in love with the jaw-dropping California beauty. A lover of driving, poetry, the perfect campfire quesadilla, Spanish guitar, and being on the move as often as physically possible, Dana is pumped to be settled with the chill folk of Cali... for now. She is damn near militant with her encouragement to get other people outside, so Hipcamp is a healthy outlet for her.

Irene Lam

  Irene is going into her sophomore year at Occidental College and is currently studying studio art and English. Hailing from Oakland, California, she is happy to finally be reunited with redwoods, since Los Angeles palm trees cannot even come close to comparing (and they’re really the only things around). Her other favorite things include: concerts and diners (traditionally one after the other), English Breakfast, cartoons, and of course, the outdoors. Chances are she will be wearing flip flops on a hike (she hasn’t owned a pair of sneakers for years) and either a dented Olympus camera or an analog Minolta around her neck. She is constantly working on creative DIY projects and dreams about traveling the world, but as for right now, she’s pretty happy being home on the west coast.

Brett Klapper

Brett is a born ‘n raised San Franciscan currently studying a mix of Environmental Studies and Hispanic Literatures & Cultures (we know, it’s quite the mouthful) at Wesleyan University out in Connecticut. He has an unbridled appreciation for bagels and the outdoors and tries to mix the two as often as he can. He also likes to spend his time harassing members of the Hipcamp team, watching strange foreign films on Netflix, furiously petting his Cavalier King Charles, and discovering music. Brett is actually headed out to Chile come Fall 2014 to study abroad, and we’ll see if he even decides to come back!

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Top 3 Favorite Camping Meals

Camping or hiking doesn't necessarily mean your tummy has to be roughing it, too. You can be outside, be active, and STILL have a delicious meal, and there are so many options beyond nuts, berries, granola bars, and sliced bread. In fact, camping snacks can be some of the tastiest, and most satisfying. Nothing like a smoky tortilla with melted cheese and freshly cooked vegetables or pesto, spinach, and olives over bowtie pasta after a long day of hiking. Even your old college friends, the classic Ramen noodle packets, can come in handy to make a delicious, protein-filled and camping-efficient meal. Here are 3 recipe options to help you become as adventurous in your camp-cooking as you are with your outdoor expeditions, depending on your trip.

1) If you are planning on car camping, try out this tasty pasta dish, inspired by our friends at DirtyGourmet:

Pesto Pasta, 6 Servings

-       3/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts

-       3/4 cup sun dried tomatoes

-       1/2 cup olive oil

-       10 ounces spinach

-       1/3 cup water

-       salt and pepper to taste

-       1 pound bowtie pasta

-       12 ounce jar kalamata olives

What you’ll need:

a knife, a cutting board, a food processor, a large pot, and a strainer.

We would recommend doing some of the prep work at home first. Combine your nuts, tomatoes, oil, and water in a food processor. Then throw it in a Tupperware container and bring it on the road. Once you’re at your campground, all you have to do is boil a pot of water over your campfire, cook your pasta as directed, and pour your premade sauce over your steaming noodles. Add in the olives and spinach, and voila!

Make it quicker:

If you’re not the type to have a food processor at home, no worries! Throw in the nuts, tomatoes, spinach, and olives in a saucepan with a pre-made marinara sauce instead. Pack it up in your tupperware container, and you’re good to go.

2) Going backpacking? No worries, we have a great recipe for you, too:

Ramen Quinoa, 2 Servings

-       1 cup quinoa

-       2 cups water

-       2 Ramen seasoning packets

-       1/2 cup canned corn

-       10 ounces of spinach

-       1/4 cup nuts

What you’ll need:

backpacking stove, can opener, measuring cup, spoon

First boil the water with your backpacking stove and cook quinoa until it absorbs most of the water. Stir in your corn, spinach, nuts, and seasoning. Quinoa is packed with protein and will get you the nutrients you need to carry on your hike.

Make it quicker:

Buy par-cooked quinoa to cut your cooking time in half!

3) This recipe can be tweaked and used for just about any kind of outdoor adventure, backpacking, car camping, hiking, etc.

Campfire Burritos, 4 Servings

-       2 cans of black beans

-       1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

-       1/2 cup pre-chopped mushrooms

-       2 chopped green onions

-       4 tortillas

What you’ll need:

can opener, tin foil, knife

Rip or chop your green onions into small pieces. Divide up all the ingredients amongst 4 tortillas and wrap them up into burritos. Then cover them each in foil, throw ‘em in the fire, and let ‘em roast!

Make it quicker:

Bringing along a cooler? Why not do all the prep work at home first? Wrap up your burritos in foil before you hit the trail, then simply toss them on the fire when you set up camp.

Quick Breakfast Tip:

Boil eggs the night before you head out. Keep them in an egg carton in your cooler. Peel and eat as you desire, wherever your adventures take you.

(Shout out to the folks at DirtyGourmet.com. Check out their website for more great camping recipes!) 

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Hipcamp hits the road: Angel Island

So lately we’ve been getting some pretty severe summer weather (don’t worry, we forgive you  Karl the fog for rolling in this week). Instead of sitting in the heat, wondering what the heck is going on, we decided it was the perfect opportunity for a waterside adventure. Our destination: Angel Island, a natural oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle of San Francisco Bay.

We kicked off our first trip of the season (Memorial Day is the unofficial beginning, right?) at Tiburon, quite literally sparkling in the beautiful weather, to catch our ferry out.

We were met with a warm greeting and a grin by Captain Maggie McDonough, who, in addition to being a really cool person, also owns and operates the last family-run ferry company, Angel Island Ferry, in the area. Along with her children, who also help with the company, they represent five generations of family tradition. The part that really blew us away? Her father and grandfather were raised in the same spot that now holds the bustling office of Angel Island Ferry (and the homes where they grew up are still there).

 After a short jaunt across the bay, which included seal and porpoise sightings, we organized our gear and headed up the mile-and-a-half hike to our site, located on the ridge. The hike (which was only difficult for the first quarter-mile or so) was absolutely worth the view, which, quite literally, took our breath away.

Figuring out the best spot to set up camp was pretty difficult (as they were all pretty awesome), and required a little bit of tent moving and negotiating. We had some truly amazing gear, courtesy of Alite Designs, who gave us beautiful tents that were extremely light and super easy to set up (double score!).

After final spots were negotiated and we had located a spigot to refill our water bottles, we headed out in search of an adventure.

Angel Island has a rich and complex history, glimpses of which can be found in the faded, abandoned structures that are scattered across the island. Seemingly uncharted territory will give way suddenly to an eerie, empty row of homesteads, or a shuttered and silent former hospital, still ominous as it watches over the bay. Civil War era forts, built in anticipation of a Confederate invasion from the south, stand as a reminder of the war’s reach west, as well as the island’s continuing use as processing point and POW/internment camp during the second world war. If you stand still and listen long enough, you can feel the history in the landscape, and imagine the city across the bay growing and becoming what it is today. And, needless to say, it makes for excellent ghost story fodder.

  Our afternoon hike took us along the northeastern side of the island, where we saw several of the local residents (deer, not ghosts) and made our way to Quarry Beach, where the hot day made the normally frigid bay water refreshing on our feet, the sand warm, and the secluded spot a perfect place to sift for sea glass and soak up the view.

  We got back to camp just in time to catch a truly stunning sunset and get the grill fired up. Fresh burgers and roasted veggies were eaten with gusto and, after securing our supplies from raccoons (oh yeah, those guys are more than happy to check out your leftovers), we hit the sack in preparation for our hike out.

We woke up to a spectacular sunrise over the city, and enjoyed a beautiful morning reading and watching the world wake up before packing up and heading out.

All in all, it was a pretty spectacular kick off to the summer camping season, and the first of what we are sure will be a long and adventurous few months!

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The best swimming holes in the Bay Area...period.

You may not know this, but the Bay Area has some pretty cool swim holes. Granted they may not match the natural splendor of Tahoe or Yosemite, but for a short drive, they can be an awesome time! There's also some great campgrounds near these holes. Trust us, there’s nothing better than warming your bones by the campfire after a long day cannonballs! Here are our top picks..

Bass Lake: This midsize lake is just over the Golden Gate and up the Point Reyes Coast. You’ll have to earn the swim with a 2.7 mile hike in, but then you can frolic like a greek god (bathing suits are optional). You may want to consider a raft or a noodle (are you really going to be that person?), but we just usually stick with the rope swing! Camping? There's so many awesome spots to camp. Check it out!

  Sunset & Willow Creek Beach (Russian River): Sunset is very well known swimming hole in the Russian River in Sonoma County Sunset Park near Guerneville and attracts a diverse crowd. Like most swimming holes in the Bay Area, clothing is optional, although we hear people have been wearing a bit less of their birthday suits lately. However, you can change that!

Memorial Park, Redwood City, La Honda: This is a small swimming hole/creek, but it’s  a top car-camping experience if you are up for it! You won’t find Memorial Park on many maps, but it is a beautiful spot (especially if you can get one of the creekside sites, C20-C22). You’ll be camping right on a beautiful creek amongst the redwoods. It's also only a 30 minute drive from the epicness (we're aware this isn't a word) that is Big Basin Redwoods. Best part is...you can grab your spot with us!

Big Sur River (The Gorge): The “Garden of Eden” is a top beach on the San Lorenzo River in Felton. It’s just south of the Big Basin Redwoods State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains and is about as majestic as they come in the “outer bay area.” Not to mention there are insanely beautiful hikes all around, as well as perfect campgrounds to stay at. There are two deep pools, big rocks and even a waterfall. It is an adventure just to get there, but one that is well worth it..

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Walking Among Giants: Muir Woods National Monument

This journal entry brought to you by Hal Gordon, a student outdoor leader at the University of Redlands.

The natural beauty of the Bay Area is often overshadowed by the impressive man-made structures dotting the skyline.  However, a short ten mile drive north of the Golden Gate Bridge places you far from the hustle and bustle of the city.  One of the most memorable experiences I have had in the Bay Area was a visit to Muir Woods National Monument.  I visited the old growth Redwood forest on a crisp Friday morning in late February 2012.  

Muir Woods sits on a plot of land donated to the federal government in 1907 by William Kent, a U.S. Congressman passionate about protecting the Redwoods.  President Theodore Roosevelt created the National Monument, the first of its kind, on January 9, 1908.  Per Kent’s request, the monument was named after renowned naturalist John Muir.  On the property today there is a visitor center, bookstore, gift shop and trails.  There is a great cafe committed to sustainability attached to the gift shop.  The usual displays, a variety of weekend programs, and other information about Muir Woods are easily obtained at the visitor center.  Also, keep in mind that there is a $7 fee for adults 16 and older. 

From the visitor center, I struck out on the Main Trail, which follows Redwood Creek through the forest of old growth Redwoods.  The most popular trail in the park, the Main Trail, is an out and back, well maintained path, partially on boardwalks, along opposite sides of Redwood Creek.  Roughly two miles round trip, there are two opportunities to shorten the hike into 1/2 hour and 1 hour loops instead of the full 1 1/2 hours.

After a third of a mile, I began to enter the Redwood groves.  The most impressive of all, the Cathedral Grove, was just a few minutes further down the trail.  Wandering through these groves, the immense size and beauty struck me deeply.  Between 600 and 800 years old, these Redwoods, towering over 200 feet, are the last remaining old growth forest in the Bay Area.  I paused often and marveled at just how small a part we are of a larger whole.

  Cathedral Grove

I decided to take the Hillside Trail back to the visitor center.  Similar in length, but not as hard packed or wide as the Main Trail, the Hillside Trail runs along the hill on the west side of Redwood Creek.  The trail provided a welcome break from other visitors and allowed me to become engrossed in the living giants.

Muir Woods offers no camping options, but the surrounding Mount Tamalpais State Park has several possibilities.  The Steep Ravine Cabins and Campground are a particularly good choice.  Just off Highway 1 and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it offers visitors nine cabins and seven primitive sites for those willing to rough it.  Book early as the cabins get snatched up fast.  As often happens, civilization cut my time in nature short, but I will definitely be back to visit again soon!

Steep Ravine Cabins

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Surfing the Lost Coast

This journal entry is authored by Hipcamp contributor Lucas Via. Lucas is an avid surfer, outdoorsman, and dear friend. 

Photo by Lucas Via

Buried between Northern California's King Range and the Pacific Ocean lies the largest stretch of uninhabited coast in the continental U.S. states -- The Lost Coast. This 80 mile stretch came about because California deemed this area too rugged for Highway 1 to be built through it in the 1930s. As a result, the Highway Commission took the highway inland about 30 miles to Highway 101.  Largely uninhabited except for the local wildlife, accessing the Lost Coast can only be done so by foot or boat (although boat is not recommended).  The Lost Coast trail is the most popular way of travel at around 25 miles long.  This trail consists of almost entirely beach hiking with many areas that can only be passed on a low tide.  Known for hiding a few world class surfbreaks, this area is a destination for many avid surfers.  The most popular break is called Ghost Point (AKA Big Flat) and is a 9 mile hike from Shelter Cove unless you charter a small plane to land on the private airstrip located at Big Flat.  Typically best in Fall or Winter, waves can range from inconsistent ground swell to double overhead barrels so it is wise that surfers bring as much patience as possible.

Photo by National Geographic 

I visited Ghost Point recently with two friends.  We knew a 6 foot swell was coming through and we wanted to escape Ocean Beach's crowded breaks while getting a quick backpacking trip in.  About a 5 hour drive from San Francisco, we headed toward Shelter Cove, a small fishing town in Humboldt County.  Once there we strapped our boards on our packs and headed towards Ghost Point (AKA Big Flat).  Be sure to pick up a tide chart and a bear canister at the Ranger Station near Shelter Cove as the tide plays a big part of this hike.  It took us about 6 hours total to get to Big Flat and we camped in between while the tide went down.  The hike consists of hiking on the beach, gravel, and large rocks.  

Photo by National Geographic

Once we arrived, there were fortunately only 3 other groups at Big Flat and one group with surfboards.  Camping at the break was a huge luxury although there was no shade, so bring a lot of sunscreen.  The first day's surf was flat and we'd thought we missed the swell but at dawn on our second day, there were 6 foot A frames to be had.  In addition to catching a few bombs, we brought a fishing pole and did some short casting. I also brought my climbing shoes and did some bouldering.  After two nights and three days in the sun, with very chapped lips, we headed south back to home.  Landing in Shelter Cove was a godsend since we could head into town and grab a real dinner with a beer. I'd definitely recommend this trip if you're willing to rough it and want some incredible views. The surf is worth it.

Photo by National Geographic 

                                                                       Lucas Via 

                                                        http://www.lucasvia.com/

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Glamped Out!

This journal entry is brought to you by our friend Mia Gralla, who blogs about her glamping experiences at Glamped Out. Make sure to check out her site for tips, tricks and secret spots for all your glamping needs.

It is often assumed that the term “glamping” equates to a luxury trip complete with someone setting up giant tents full of luxurious pillows and cooking three gourmet meals a day. But I’ve learned that glamping can also mean that camping does not have to be daunting, requiring a pre-requisite of expensive camping gear and extensive survival skills. Camping can be quite simple when you have the basics down and know the right places to go. And the right type of wine to bring.

One of the best glamping spots I have been to is Salt Point State Park on the Sonoma Coast. With wineries and beautiful hikes in close proximity, it doesn’t take much effort to create a luxury camping experience.

Drive a few hours north of San Francisco on the infamous Highway 1 and you will soon be rewarded with gorgeous coastline views, massive cliffs and open grasslands. Salt Point State Park is right in the thick of this with campsites situated right near the ocean. While the ocean view is somewhat limited, you can still smell the saltwater and hear the faint crash of waves. What better scenery for glamping?

Since all the campsites are drive-ins, you can easily bring lots of food, blankets and gear. I love this vintage Coleman stove, which is perfect for cooking oatmeal in the morning and Glamping Paella in the evening. And keeping warm, since the Sonoma Coast can get quite chilly at night. Luckily, campfires are allowed at Salt Point, so packing chairs (like these comfy Alite Monarch Chairs) are also important.

In the morning, hop on the trail leading into the town of Sea Cliff. The views on this short hike are unparalleled and will take you right along the coastline with opportunities to spot whales, sea lions and gorgeous flowers. And in true accordance with my glamping guidelines, Sea Cliff is also very close to Healdsburg, so you can pop over for a post-hike for wine tasting and stock up for a night of glamping.

The best part about glamping is that there are tons of destinations just like Salt Point all over California. That’s where HipCamp comes in- just pick your destination, follow my glamping tips, and enjoy!

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Best of 2013: Gear of the Year

2013 is a big year for outdoor gear (hell every year is big!). We’ve picked out our favorites, although there was a lot to choose from. The biggest thing we noticed about this year was how easy it is to for newcomers to make awesome gear utilizing crowd-funding. Kickstarter has changed the landscape and now gear that previously would never be made, will be making its way to campgrounds near you. We’ve had the opportunity to test some of this gear enjoying the best camping in California, everything below gets our seal of approval.

Flint Outdoors Rucksack

Rugged, classic styling, waxed canvas and veg tanned leather (yes..vegetable tanned leather). Although this may not be as technical as some daypacks, it is about as sexy as they come.

http://flintoutdoors.com/project/rucksack/

SnowMiner Headlamp

A headlamp and a lantern in one. It’s got 80 lumens to keep you lighting up your campsite and you can use it as an ambient lantern. Yeah!

http://www.snowpeak.com/snowminer-headlamp-lantern.html

Filson Tin Cloth Medium Duffle

C.C. Filson has been outfitting expeditions since 1897—only they were mining, logging, and pioneering expeditions—and the tough-as-nails ethos that launched the company is still evident in every one of its products. This one is a lifer!

http://www.filson.com/products/tin-cloth-medium-duffle.70015.html

Mantis Camping Chair by Alite Designs

Why is it that so many camping chairs make you look like you are being awkwardly hugged by unsupportive nylon material? The Mantis changes all of this with it’s super solid design, 4 legs, large sling and extreme durability. This thing will have you lounging for hours...so much better than a rock.

http://shop.alitedesigns.com/mantis-chair.html

Stanley E-Cycle Flask

Stanley has been a long standing friend of ours, but this new addition brings our relationship to the next level! The E-Cycle flask is made of recycled materials AND it has a two stage lid...meaning you can take the entire top off to fill it up and clean or just use the small sipper to sip on. There’s nothing wrong with getting your buzz on in the jungle!

http://www.stanley-pmi.com/

Salomon S-Lab Sense Ultra Trail Shoe

These bright red beauties are back and badder than ever. We were blown away by last years model, but Salomon have taken it a step further. They are lighter, more durable and are extremely fast in rough terrain. Check em out.

http://www.salomon.com/us/activity/trail-running.html

Biolite Campstove USB Charger

This propane-free stove is for the tech geeks of the great outdoors. It cooks your grub using wood from around your campsite and charges up your USB devices. We suggest turning off that iphone, but at least when you are done with your trip, you’ll have a full battery!

http://shop.biolitestove.com/index.html

Vapur Microfilter Water Bottle

This “anti-bottle” is about as cool as it gets. It can roll up into your back pocket and includes a build in SureAqua straw, which strains water; eliminating 99.9999% of bacteria. It can treat up to 500 liters at a time. We love this thing.

vapur.us

Handpresso Wild Hybrid Espresso Machine

If you cannot part ways with your espresso machine for a few days, then this is for you. Yes we can understand your pain, but it’s also pathetic. However, the Handpresso is here to save the day! This is the bike pump of luxury hand espresso machines. It creates the perfect amount of pressure when pumped and nothing but goodness comes out. Trust us..

handpresso.com

Boreas Packs Bootlegger

It’s rare that I use the word revolutionary when it comes to outdoor gear, but the Boreas pack might just be leading the revolution. After an extremely successful Kickstarter campaign, this three-in-one pack is getting ready for production.  It shares a single frame but makes it possible to interchange bags for different applications. Why buy 3 separate packs when all you need is one?

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/179527514/bootlegger-modular-pack-system

Nube the Perfected Hammock Shelter

If you really must sleep at an elevated state then Nube will soon be the way to go. These guys have apparently perfected the “Hammock Shelter.” You will be protected against insects, rain, and it keeps all of your gear elevated and protected. Did we mention that you will be sleeping in midair?

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1313173787/nube-the-perfected-hammock-shelter-by-sierra-madre

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Hipcamp Team Trip: Tomales Bay Kayaking

Every once and awhile the Hipcamp team gets together and does something awesome (ok, lately it’s been happening more often than not). One of these “moments of awesome” was had this past weekend just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. We began our journey early on Sunday morning and made way for Point Reyes. On the way we decided to stop by Tomales Bay Oyster Company (tomalesbayoysters.com/). We kind of have a thing for these little suckers and this place has ridiculously fresh ones. Also a fun fact we learned, 40% of California’s oysters come from Tomales Bay! So, we grabbed a 50 pack, some garlic sauce, a shucker and headed for the town.

We decided to stop by Blue Water Kayaking (www.bwkayak.com/‎) to visit our friends there. We learned that bioluminescence were in full swing and that were in for “a treat.” For those of you unfamiliar with these things, here is the wikipedia description for ya: “Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by a living organism. Bioluminescence occurs widely in marine vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as in some fungi, microorganisms and terrestrial invertebrates. Some symbiotic organisms carried within larger organisms produce light.”

After this final stop we loaded up our gear in/on our kayaks and  jumped in; heading for open water (well Bay water). The sun was shining, spirits were high and we were in closed top fiberglass kayaks...so we were flying! Alyssa and Nick were in the lead most of the way, but Eric and Li were only a couple strokes behind (we were saving our energy for the bioluminescence paddle).

The bay was serene, with only a few ripples on the water, which made paddling easy. We passed by lush green countryside and massive rock outcroppings. Small seals would swim up to us on occasion with a look of disbelief. One thing was for certain, we were in their world now. After about 1.5  hours of easy paddling we arrived at our camp , just past Marshall Beach.

We setup camp right on the beach and decided to go on another paddle. We headed north towards Hog Island, which sadly does not have hogs on it. What it does have is an insane amount of birds, seals and all sorts of other wildlife. We sat in our kayaks staring as hundreds of birds landed on a single tree. The sun was setting and we were enveloped in a golden hue. It was actually quite magical. We also kayaked past White Gulch, where we saw several elk (also staring at us in disbelief).

Once back at camp, we got the fire going and started grilling up oysters. We had a system of eating one raw oyster for every grilled one...it worked out quite well. There’s nothing like eating oysters on the beach, right next to where they are sourced from. It’s nice to get in touch with your more primal side every once and awhile.

After stuffing our faces it was time to head back out into the dark sea and hunt for the allusive bioluminescence. As we walked up to our kayaks we immediately noticed something different...our footsteps were glowing! Just like in MJ’s Billie Jean video, the area surrounding our feets were glowing away, so we danced! To our amazement, the water around the kayaks was glowing as well. After jumping in and taking a few paddles, the small glowing dots turned into brilliant streaks of color. It really is hard to describe and must be experienced first hand, but it felt like Fantasia. The paddles were our wands and if we made a splash, it turned into bright waterfall of light.

With every splash it made us feel like kids again. Unfortunately the water was way too cold to go swimming in, but nonetheless, it was awesome. We made our way back to camp, footsteps still glowing. After warming up by the fire, we decided to call it a night. The next morning we woke up, had a small bite to eat and got back in our kayaks. It was another beautiful day and we were a bit reluctant to leave our gorgeous camp. It was the end of a short trip, but a great one. The best trips are the ones in which you have many cool experiences in a short period of time and this was exactly that. Throw in the fact that there was awesome company, well then you have yourself an epic trip!

  Blue Waters Kayaking

www.bwkayak.com/‎

(415) 669-2600

Tomales Bay Oyster Company

www.tomalesbayoysters.com/)

(415) 663-1243

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Weekend User Testing at REI

This past weekend we had the great opportunity to spend the day at REI stores in San Francisco, Berkeley and Santa Barbara to administer our first round of user surveys. We were up late the night before making the final touches and we had just gotten our Hipcamp t-shirts printed (despite the short timing, they are pretty darn hip!). With t-shirts, stickers and coupons in hand we drove to the SF store and set up shop.

Learning to craft our “pitch” was an interesting process. Yes, we weren’t selling anything, but we were still asking for people’s time and personal feedback on the surveys. So, the obvious opening line became, “hello, do you like camping?” This seemed to draw attention to our crowd and the common bond for the outdoors compelled them to take part (or maybe it was the coupons). Regardless, the feedback we got from the surveys, but more importantly, the conversations we had were invaluable. Many people exclaimed their annoyances with the existing system and you could sense that there was overwhelming thirst for change. When we explained the Hipcamp product, people were genuinely excited about it (a few literally jumped with excitement). We also got great insight as to what features people really desire in the product and made some valuable connections.

This was a special day for several reasons. Firstly, it was amazing to see the Hipcamp team all hanging out with our logo t-shirts on. It’s one thing to work together, but its another to work together with matching thin fit t-shirts on; you REALLY feel the team atmosphere. Also our conversations with each other conveyed the passion that we had towards the movement that we were actively creating. This common bond held us together like glue and we learned that we really do work well together! Even more amazing were the people that we met and befriended throughout the day. The REI staff embraced us with open arms, gave us their feedback on the product and even let us speak at their team meeting.

Being part of a startup has many different challenges and obstacles that you have to overcome. Many teams are sold on the vision of their company and truly believe that it has the potential for success. This most definitely is a must, however we see incredible value in getting out there and conversing with your potential users. This whole experience at REI affirmed our belief - we are doing the right thing. People want this. They need it.

Thank you to all of REI - the staff, and the beautiful people that were in the stores that day, you guys are rock stars!