When it comes to camping, selecting the right campsite can make or break your outdoor adventure. With a myriad of options available, from public campgrounds to secluded backcountry sites, it's crucial to choose a site that suits your preferences and needs. In this guide, we'll walk you through the different types of campsites and provide valuable tips to help new campers make an informed decision. Public Campgrounds Public campgrounds are popular options for both novice and experienced campers. These campsites are typically managed by government agencies or park authorities and offer a range of amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, and sometimes even showers. They are often located in picturesque settings, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. When choosing a public campground, consider factors such as proximity to facilities, reservation requirements, and the level of privacy you desire. Private Campgrounds Private campgrounds are owned and operated by individuals or organizations. They often provide a variety of amenities such as electrical hookups, Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and camp stores. These sites are ideal for campers who prefer a more structured and comfortable camping experience. Research different private campgrounds in your desired area, read reviews, and check for available amenities and services to ensure they align with your preferences. Backcountry "Dispersed" Camping For those seeking a more immersive and secluded camping experience, backcountry camping is an excellent choice. These sites are typically located in remote areas, away from developed campgrounds. Backcountry camping allows you to connect with nature on a deeper level but requires careful planning and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Before embarking on a backcountry camping trip, research the specific regulations and permits required, and be prepared to pack in and pack out all your supplies. RV Parks If you're camping with a recreational vehicle (RV), RV parks offer designated campsites equipped with electrical, water, and sewage hookups. These sites cater specifically to RV campers and often provide amenities like laundry facilities, dump stations, and recreational areas. Consider the size of your RV, the availability of necessary hookups, and the location of the RV park in relation to your planned activities when choosing an RV park. Considerations for Choosing a Campsite: Location and Accessibility: Determine the proximity of the campsite to attractions or activities you plan to engage in during your camping trip. Also, consider accessibility in terms of roads and trails leading to the site. Amenities and Facilities: Evaluate the availability of amenities such as potable water, restrooms, showers, and fire pits. These can greatly enhance your camping experience. Privacy and Noise: Determine your desired level of privacy. Some campsites may be more crowded and noisy, while others offer seclusion and tranquility. Safety and Security: Prioritize campsites with good lighting, well-maintained trails, and appropriate safety measures. Research any potential risks or wildlife encounters in the area. Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from fellow campers or online communities to gain insights and firsthand experiences about specific campsites. Choosing the right campsite is vital for a successful and enjoyable camping trip. By understanding the different types of campsites available, such as public campgrounds, private campgrounds, backcountry sites, and RV parks, and considering factors like location, amenities, privacy, safety, and reviews, new campers can make an informed decision that aligns with their preferences and ensures a memorable outdoor experience. Happy camping!

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of principles that guide outdoor enthusiasts on how to minimize their impact on the natural environment. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply spending time in nature, practicing LNT is crucial to preserving our natural resources for future generations. In this blog post, we'll explore the seven principles of Leave No Trace and provide tips on how you can implement them on your next outdoor adventure. Plan Ahead and Prepare Planning ahead involves conducting thorough research on the camping location, understanding the weather conditions, and familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations of the area. It is important to prepare a detailed checklist of essential camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and proper clothing for various weather conditions. Make sure to bring enough food, water, and supplies for your trip, and have a backup plan in case of emergencies. Additionally, arranging for appropriate permits and reservations in advance will help avoid any last-minute complications. By planning ahead, you can ensure that you have all the necessary supplies, are aware of potential challenges, and can make the most of your camping experience. This principle not only enhances your safety and comfort but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature and create lasting memories. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Stay on established trails and designated campsites, and avoiding fragile areas such as wetlands, meadows, and tundra. Durable surfaces refer to areas that can withstand foot traffic and camping equipment without causing excessive damage. When selecting a campsite, look for established camping areas, such as designated campsites or previously used spots, as these are already compacted and less likely to suffer from erosion. Avoid setting up camp on fragile vegetation, sensitive habitats, or near water bodies, as they are easily susceptible to damage. By staying on durable surfaces, we preserve the natural beauty of our surroundings and contribute to the long-term health of the wilderness we love to explore. Dispose of Waste Properly Pack out all trash and leaving no litter behind. Proper waste disposal not only helps maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the campsite but also protects the local wildlife and ecosystems. To implement this principle effectively, campers should bring along sturdy trash bags or bins and designate specific areas for waste disposal. All waste, including food scraps, packaging materials, and personal items, should be properly sealed and securely stored to prevent attracting animals or causing litter. It is recommended to separate recyclable materials from your trash so they can be processed accordingly. Additionally, campers must refrain from burying or burning waste, as these methods can harm the environment and pose safety risks. It is important to locate a designated restroom facility. If such facilities are not available, designate an area for waste disposal. Using a trowel or shovel dig a small hole "cathole" at least six to eight inches deep, 200 feet away from water sources and campsites. After use, cover the waste with soil and make sure to pack out any toilet paper or hygiene products used. Leave What You Find Do not disturb natural objects like rocks, plants, or wildlife. To preserve the beauty and integrity of nature, we must resist the temptation to take home souvenirs or disturb the delicate balance of the environment. By leaving natural objects, such as rocks, flowers, or artifacts, untouched, we allow others to enjoy the same unspoiled experience. Take only photos and leave only footprints. Minimize Campfire Impact To minimize campfire impact, it is essential to choose established fire rings or designated fire pits whenever possible. These designated areas are designed to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading, reducing the risk of wildfires. Additionally, using small, manageable fires and burning only dry and fallen wood helps to limit the amount of fuel consumed and the production of smoke. Properly extinguishing the fire before leaving the campsite is another crucial step, as it ensures no embers are left burning and reduces the risk of accidental wildfires. By minimizing campfire impact, we can enjoy the warmth and camaraderie of a campfire while respecting the environment and leaving no trace behind. Respect Wildlife It is crucial to avoid feeding or approaching wild animals. While it may be tempting to offer food or get closer for a better view or photograph, this can disrupt their natural behavior and create dependency, which can lead to negative consequences for both the animals and humans. Secondly, campers should store food securely and dispose of waste properly to prevent attracting wildlife to the campsite. This helps to maintain their natural foraging patterns and reduces the risk of conflicts or habituation. Additionally, respecting wildlife also means observing animals from a distance and refraining from making excessive noise or sudden movements that may startle or distress them. Be Considerate of Other Visitors Be respectful of other campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Adhere to quiet hours and minimize noise pollution, especially during the evening and early morning. Consider the privacy of others by maintaining a reasonable distance between campsites and refraining from intruding on neighboring areas is equally important. Adhering to campground rules, sharing communal spaces, and being mindful of the impact your actions have on the environment all demonstrate consideration for fellow campers. By following these seven principles, you can help protect the natural environment and preserve our wild places for future generations. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply spending time in nature, practicing Leave No Trace is crucial to ensuring that our outdoor spaces remain beautiful, healthy, and accessible to everyone.

Understand the Setup A composting toilet with urine diversion is cleaner and more sustainable than a traditional pit toilet. It helps reduce odors, separates liquids for easier management, and allows waste to be buried safely without contaminating groundwater. Our compost toilet has two separate areas: Front: Urine diverter – directs liquid waste into a separate container. Rear: Solids container – for feces and heavily soiled toilet paper, combined with dry cover material like sawdust or coconut coir. Position yourself properly when using the toilet Always sit (don’t squat or stand) to ensure liquids go into the urine diverter. Make sure feces go into the rear solids container. After You Go Place lightly soiled toilet paper in the trash can. Heavily soiled toilet paper goes in the solids container. Sprinkle a scoop of dry cover material (e.g., sawdust, coconut coir, or other organic materials) over the solids to reduce odor and absorb moisture. Rinse the urine diverter by pouring a small amount of water into the front section. This helps dilute the urine for later disposal and keeps the diverter clean for the next user. Wipe down the seat with the available cleaning wipes if needed, and place used wipes in the trash bin. Close the toilet lid when finished. Close the bathroom door when exiting to help keep bugs out. What NOT to Do ❌ Do not throw wet wipes, sanitary products, or trash in the solids container, use the trash can provided. Content is later buried and these items are not allowed. ❌ Avoid urinating in the solids section. Doing so can make the content stink more than it does. ❌ Do not overload the urine bottle with liquids. Cleaning & Maintenance Check and empty the urine container daily or as needed to prevent overflow and odor. Wipe down the urine diverter and toilet seat with cleaning wipes. Keep the solids container dry – moisture causes odor. Empty the solids container when it’s about ¾ full, using the disposal guidelines below. Disposal Guidelines Solid Waste: How to Dispose Choose a discreet location at least 200 feet (about 70 steps) from water, trails, and campsites. Dig a hole about 8–10 inches deep and 10–12 inches wide. Wear disposable gloves if desired and bring a small trash bag. Carefully empty the solid waste (minus the liner, if using one) into the hole. Cover completely with dirt and disguise the spot using natural materials like leaves or rocks. On private land, you may use a compost bin if it complies with local regulations. Never dump waste on the surface or into water sources. Urine: How to Dispose Urine is generally sterile but should be handled with care to avoid odor or contamination. If water is available, dilute urine with water (1 part urine to 8 parts water) and pour around non-edible plants, at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, or campsites. If water is scarce, pour urine directly onto well-drained soil at the base of trees or large shrubs. Rotate disposal spots to avoid odor buildup. Always stay at least 200 feet from any stream, lake, river, or campsite. After Disposal If using a liner, tie it off and place it in the main trash. Replace the liner (if applicable). Rinse containers if needed and return them to the toilet setup. Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. Thank you for doing your part to protect nature and keep the site clean! 🌿 Questions? Ask your AZ Places host.

Ruby was a mining town that supported the Montana mine, about 70 miles southwest of Tucson, Arizona in the Oro Blanco Mining District, near the Mexican border. Settled at 4,200 feet altitude, amongst beautiful rolling hills and rugged canyons west of the Atascosa Mountains, the mine and old mining camp lie at the foot of 5,370-foot Montana Peak, the most distinctive landmark in the area. RUBY's HISTORY ​The first Europeans to visit the Ruby area were Spanish conquistadors in the late 1500’s. In the 19th century the region was referred to as “Oro Blanco,” or white gold after a distinctive light colored strain. Later, as colonists moved west, there was an influx of adventurers, mountain men, ranchers and miners. The first strike in the Montana vein was in the late 1870’s, and by the turn of the century, the town of Ruby had become the largest mining camp in the area. Site of fortunes made and lost and two famous double homicides, Ruby was once the largest lead and zinc producing mine in the state of Arizona. The museum houses artifacts from mining days, plus photos of what Ruby was like when 1,200 people lived near the mine at the height of its production. Visit: www.rubyaz.com #RubyAZ #GhostTown #Camping

On my birthday on July 4th 2021, in order to get to Chaco Canyon with time to spend there, we headed out of the Phoenix valley at 10:30pm after attending a party for a short time. Knowing we would have to setup camp late, we reserved a 2.5 acre camping spot near the Petrified Forest National Park for $39 by AirBNB. We arrived in the area at 2:30 in the morning to find it had recently rained and the dirt roads had large puddles. Being it was dark, we had a difficult time locating the exact spot, so we parked and walked a short distance to locate our camp site. When doing so we saw frogs and woke many birds that had been resting in the bushes. We located the camp site that was equipped with a small "shade" structure that was missing the shade, a picnic table and a fire pit with a small bundle of fire wood. We returned to retrieve our truck and made our way to setup our tent. We enjoyed looking at the stars for a bit and listening to the frogs and nearby trains before getting a little bit of sleep. In the morning we packed up and hoped the muddy roads had dried up, this was not the case. The second puddle on this narrow road, I got us stuck, due to insufficient speed. While I'm equipped with a shovel, I had yet to purchase recovery tracks. We messed around with shoveling dry dirt and rocks, but no success. We recalled the logs at camp and sent my son a short walk to bring a few. Using the logs, we were able to get free and on our way we went for the rest of our 8 day adventure. I since have purchased recovery tracks from Go Treads. I'm all about saving space and products that are made in the USA. Check them out at gotreads.com

Sedona Arizona Our last stop on the way out of Sedona, just off the 179 south of Sedona is a small parking area where we begin our really short hike to the Raven Caves. These caves are a network of small cavities overlooking Oak Creek just south of Sedona. Though they look small at first, if you keep going through the passageways, you’ll discover there’s a lot more to see than appears at first glance. Inside required ducking and stepping over obstacles. There are some drop offs to the left that I recommend exercising caution, not a good cave for young children. We passed through several passages with some having windows with a view of the Sedona landscape. While in Sedona we stayed at Los Abrigados Resort that is right on Oak Creek. We enjoyed beer and food at the Oak Creek Brewery and also enjoyed eating at the Thai Spices and The Hudson. Shopped at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. Hiked the west fork trail for the first time, one of the best hikes in Sedona. We also hiked to the Seven Sacred Pools, upon our return to our vehicle we got hailed on. The last night of our seven day stay we enjoyed the sunset at the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout, then enjoyed a night hike to the Airport Mesa. Thank for reading. Enjoy your day.

Anyone you ask has a different reason for camping. Some like to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Some families go camping to revitalize their relationships, away from all the distractions at home. Maybe it is to connect with the past or to learn new skills such as how to build a fire, pitch a tent, or read a compass. Camping means different things to different people. So why go camping? Here are some common reasons why people choose to "rough it" while camping. Explore Nature Camping is an immersive experience, providing an adventure in nature. While camping you can feel the sunshine, the rain and wind. You can see wildlife in their natural setting and hear the sounds of coyotes, songbirds and maybe an elk call. See natural features, like mountains, rivers, or sand dunes, at different times of day. Spending the nights outdoors allows you to view constellations not visible at home. ​Improve Health Camping does a body and mind good. The physical demands of camping in the backcountry clearly count as exercise. But any kind of camping has health benefits. Some are straightforward, like setting up camp or hiking. Mental health improves outside. Researchers linked outdoor activity to a decrease in depressive thoughts. Sleeping under the stars helps you get in touch with your natural circadian rhythms, a foundation for high quality sleep and health. Digital Detox Sometimes you just need a break from technology and reconnect with nature. Some AZ Places will have poor, or no cell connectivity, that you can take advantage of. Allowing you to put down the digital devices and focus on the basics. Sit back and relax with a good book, draw in a sketchbook, or write in a journal. ​Strengthen Relationships Shared experiences shape the memories that make up life-long relationships. Sitting around the fire and other camp activities allow for face-to-face conversations. Share stories. Being quiet together. Enjoying a camp meal. ​Develop Life Skills Camping requires you to rely on yourself and others to meet your basic needs such as setting up camp, building a fire, survive the elements, or being alone with your thoughts. But these are more than just survival skills; these abilities give you confidence and self-worth that carries over into all other aspects of your life. It just takes a little effort and guidance, and you'll be setting up tents in no time! What do you enjoy about camping? What benefits has it had in your life? Share by providing a comment below.

New fire restrictions to cut down on wildfires are being considered by the Flagstaff Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest. Near Flagstaff there could be an increases in areas that are banned from year-round camping and campfires. If these proposed regulations are passed, they would be implemented by April. Check out the AZfamily.com to read further.

The U.S. Forest Service is asking for public feedback on managing five popular recreation spots in the Coronado National Forest, located 1½ to three hours from Tucson. Here's a summary of the areas and how to give your input: Peña Blanca Lake: A 50-acre lake with fishing docks and camping options. Huachuca Mountains: Forested peaks with trails and historic sites. Cochise Stronghold: A rocky area for camping and climbing. Chiricahua Mountains: High peaks with campgrounds and trails. Mount Graham: Historic trails and campgrounds with high elevation. You can provide feedback until May 30 at fs.usda.gov/goto/RecreationPlanning. In-person open houses are also being held in April and May. For more details, visit fs.usda.gov/recmain/coronado/recreation. Your input will help shape the management of these recreation areas. Read full article at the Arizona Daily Star

Unravel the secret behind the red light feature on your camping headlamp with Sarah Joseph's insightful article. Delve into the science of insect vision and discover why switching to red light can keep bugs at bay while preserving your night vision. Learn how this simple yet effective tool can revolutionize your nocturnal outdoor adventures, providing both peace and functionality. Read the article "There’s actually a great reason for that red light on your camping headlamp: Why you should use the red light on your headlamp when camping" by Sarah Joseph, The Manual, March 31, 2024.

Traditional lightning safety practices, including the "lightning position," are outdated and ineffective. New research challenges common misconceptions about lightning safety, urging hikers to update their knowledge for better protection. Here are some key takeaways: The Lightning Position Isn't Effective: Experts debunk the myth that assuming the "lightning position" offers significant protection. Running for lower ground or seeking uniform tree cover is more advisable. Distance Doesn't Ensure Safety: Being up to 10 miles away from a storm doesn't guarantee safety. The first lightning flash can be the most dangerous, emphasizing the need for proactive protective measures. Standing under Trees Can Be Risky: Contrary to popular belief, standing under a tree during a storm can increase the risk of lightning-related injuries due to ground strikes. Seek shelter under shorter, uniformly tall trees instead. Metal Doesn't Attract Lightning: Lightning is attracted to tall, isolated, or pointed structures, regardless of material. However, metal can conduct electricity more efficiently, posing risks to nearby objects like tents. Crouching vs. Lying Down: While crouching reduces the risk of being the tallest point, lying down increases the likelihood of ground strikes and dangerous current paths through the body. Tent Safety: Tents offer no protection from lightning. Choosing a safe location for pitching tents, such as below treeline and away from tall ridges, is crucial. Avoiding Caves: Seeking shelter in caves during storms can be hazardous, as lightning can use the body as a shortcut to the ground. Respect Weather Forecasts: Modern forecasting is accurate, and ignoring forecasts can lead to avoidable risks. Planning hikes based on weather predictions for specific trails is essential. Bonus Lightning Fun Facts: Lightning, while dangerous, is also fascinating. It always produces thunder, different types of lightning have distinct sounds, and a single bolt can stretch across vast distances, among other intriguing phenomena. Read the Full Article: "Everything Hikers Know About Lightning Safety is Wrong," by Corey Buhay, backpacker.com, April 11, 2024. Image by Deniece Platt from Pixabay

Arizona is home to 29 breathtaking state parks that highlight the state's natural beauty, history, and recreational opportunities. In 2023, over 3 million visitors explored these parks, marking a 2% increase from the previous year. While the Grand Canyon often steals the spotlight, Arizona's state parks offer unique and diverse experiences, from the beachside camping at Lake Havasu State Park to the natural water slide at Slide Rock State Park in Sedona. Other top spots include the wildlife haven at Catalina State Park, the serene Patagonia Lake, and the lush trails of Dead Horse Ranch State Park. In 2023 these were the 10 most visited state parks, according to the Arizona Office of Tourism. Lake Havasu State Park Slide Rock State Park Catalina State Park Patagonia Lake State Park Dead Horse Ranch State Park Lost Dutchman State Park Picacho Peak State Park Kartchner Caverns State Park Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Tonto Natural Bridge State Park Read the Full Article: "These are Arizona's 10 most popular state parks. Here's why you should visit them" by Shelby Slade, The Arizona Republic, July 10, 2024. #ArizonaStateParks #ExploreAZ #TravelArizona #OutdoorAdventures #HikingArizona #NatureLovers #VisitAZ #Sedona #LakeHavasu