Camping
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Backyard Escapes: Bear Creek State Park
Sometimes I forget how much adventure is hiding right in my backyard, and Bear Creek State Park was a perfect reminder. Tucked inside Cumberland State Forest, it’s a peaceful spot for hiking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, or just setting up camp and letting the woods work their magic. Trails to Wander Bear Creek has a handful…
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Solo Camping: Finding the Right Campsite (That Doesn’t Make You Want to Turn Around)
There’s nothing quite like waking up to birdsong, the smell of damp earth, and the quiet rustle of leaves all around you. Don’t get me wrong, I love camping with my partner. But there’s something incredibly peaceful and empowering about heading out solo. It’s a blend of self-reliance, stillness, and freedom that’s hard to beat….
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6 Outdoor Adventures to Explore in Central Virginia
One of the things I love most about living in Central Virginia is how easy it is to find adventure right outside your door. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, camping, or just wandering through the woods, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Here are six of my favorite ways to get outside and soak…
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Get the Most Out of Your Hiking and Camping Gear
Because Nothing Ruins a Trip Like a Busted Air Mattress (Ask Me How I Know) So you’re ready to hit the trail. Backpack’s loaded, boots laced, excitement dialed up. You’ve got your favorite snack bars packed and a trail playlist humming in the back of your mind. But before you disappear into the woods or…
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Camping by the Ocean: Huntington Beach State Park
I love camping in the mountains. There’s something about the trees, the cool air, and the quiet that grounds me. But this year, our annual friends trip took us somewhere a little different, camping at the beach. And while we couldn’t see the ocean from our site, we could hear it. The sound of waves…
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Hiking Hanging Rock State Park: A Weekend of Love and Adventure
This past weekend, I had the absolute honor of being part of a dear friend’s wedding vow renewal, and while I was there, I also got to conquer some new heights in North Carolina. What made it even more special was that they chose Hanging Rock State Park for their ceremony. That gave me the…
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Leave No Trace: Hiking with Respect
Leave No Trace might sound like a simple idea, but it’s often overlooked. I’ve been on trails where everything looked untouched and beautiful, and I’ve also come across spots littered with wrappers, broken gear, and even full trash bags left behind. The truth is, when you leave trash behind, it does more than ruin the…