the explorer's notebook

Want to find dispersed camping in the Alabama Hills? We have all the information you need on permits, BLM campsite locations, and what to see and do.

Wondering if a Harvest Hosts membership is worth it for you? Here's a review after several years of using it across the United States.

Whether you choose to stop at Trona Pinnacles for the day while going to Death Valley National Park or set up camp beside these amazing rock spires for a few nights, we have all the information on how to get there and what to expect when you arrive.

Pitching your tent on Second Beach and camping out next to crashing waves and sea stacks is an unforgettable experience. Learn everything you need to know about permits, the hike, and what to pack in our complete guide.

Cape Alava is special not only as the westernmost point in the contiguous US, it's also a beautiful and secluded piece of nature where you can hike and even camp along the beach.

That feeling of being on top of the world comes to mind when we think of Mount Storm King. Prepare for this steep and challenging hike with our complete trail guide.

Goldbug Hot Springs is one of the most popular in Idaho and once you see it you'll understand why. Use our complete guide to prepare for the short hike out to see this hidden gem.

Willow Creek Hot Springs feels like a private oasis of relaxation, surrounded by endless views in Oregon's eastern high desert region. Our complete guide will get you there and help you make the most out of your stay.

Hidden away in south central Oregon there's an off-the-beaten-path gem called Hart Mountain Hot Springs. Use our complete guide to plan your trip here, where you can camp and soak away all your stress.

Everything you need to know about how to get to Umpqua hot springs and enjoy your soak. Use our guide to find places to stay, what to do in the area, and what you should bring.

Our full list of van life essentials, put together after being on the road for years. Grab our complete packing list and you'll be well prepared to hit the road.

A collection of our own tried and tested outdoor gear, this gift guide is perfect for adventure lovers - campers, backpackers, hikers, and just all around outdoorsy people.

The out-of-this-world landscapes in Leslie Gulch are almost too good to be true. Discover this hidden eastern Oregon gem, along with the famed Timber Gulch Trail, in our complete guide.

To fully appreciate New Hampshire's Kancamagus Highway you'll want to know about all the best stops along the way. Follow our guide to plan your ultimate road trip down this scenic byway.

Rock scrambling and scaling sheer cliffs on iron rungs and ladders make the Precipice Trail the most thrilling and challenging hike in Acadia. Come fully prepared with our guide.

No other hike in New England will give you more bang for your buck. And this guide is the only one you need to discover the waterfalls, covered bridges, and brilliant fall colors of Flume Gorge.

Colorful fall foliage drives, quaint little towns, hiking trails, and of course, cider donuts. Vermont has everything you could dream up for a perfect fall getaway.

The Beehive Trail is a thrilling climb up iron rungs and ladders that will reward you with epic, panoramic views of Acadia. Use our guide to come fully prepared for your hike.

Gorgeous fall foliage, rugged coastlines, and hikes in the crisp autumn air. Visiting Acadia National Park in the fall is a dream, and we've covered everything you need to know in this guide.

Wander through Stowe's quaint outskirts, taking in the fall colors, or challenge yourself on a day hike with summit views of the village. Here are all the best trails for your getaway to Stowe, Vermont.

The water in Ichetucknee Springs State Park is mind blowingly clear. Tubing down the river is an absolute must-do when you're in Florida. Learn all about it with our guide.

Check the hike to Myakka River's mysterious Deep Hole off your Florida bucket list with our guide. This sinkhole is home to hundreds of alligators, making it one of the most unique hikes in the state.

On the canopy walk you'll experience forest treetops up close, along with panoramic views of Myakka River State Park. Plan a visit with our guide to this unique Florida trail.

The incredibly clear water of the Emerald Cut, surrounded by lush foliage is one of the best places in Florida to paddle. Plan your visit to this one of a kind place with our guide.

Silver Glen is a wildly popular spot to enjoy Florida's natural springs. Our guide covers the best times to visit and insider tips for an unforgettable day in the water.

Peanut Island is a tropical oasis right in Palm Beach with beautiful beaches and clear waters perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. Here are all the best things to do on Peanut Island.

The pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Peanut Island are a camper's dream, just a short trip from Palm Beach. Plan your overnight island getaway with our complete guide.

A dive or swim in this pre-historic spring is an experience you won't soon forget. Plan a snorkel or diving adventure to Devil's Den Cave with our complete guide.

The crystal clear turquoise waters of Gilchrist Blue Springs make it one of the best in Florida. Plan your visit with our complete guide to this natural gem.

The hidden river campsites along Rock Springs Run are an excellent way to see the wild side of Florida. We're sharing everything you need to know before paddling in to a primitve campsite with King's Landing.

The best way to see Biscayne, which is 95% underwater, is by hopping on a snorkeling tour. Our complete guide will help you explore mangrove forests, coral reef, and even a shipwreck.

Our complete guide to visiting Buhl Idaho's Miracle Hot Springs, a relaxing geothermal spring and campground.

Our guide to the warm and crystal clear waters of Rum Island Springs. How to get to the park, how much it costs, and what activities you can enjoy here.

Hanksville is home to some of Utah's most remarkable landscapes. We have the guide to hiking, off-roading, and camping while exploring these epic views.

Our guide to finding Moonscape Overlook has everything you need to know about this unforgettable Utah destination and its otherworldly views.

In a state full of extreme landscapes, Factory Butte is one of the most stunning. We have everything you need to know about this incredible rock formation.

Considering a DIY campervan conversion? We're sharing the total cost of our van build with a full breakdown to help you plan your own.

There's no shortage of amazing trails in Sedona, but nothing beats Little Sugarloaf Summit when it comes to a quick hike with a beautiful view at the top.

Everything you need to know about the enchanting Hoh Rainforest, a beautiful temperate rainforest right in the heart of Olympic National Park.

It's one of Utah's best hidden gems. The Long Dong Silver rock formation isn't easy to find, but we have everything you need to know in this guide.

Have a look inside our campervan and get all the details on our conversion! We've been living in our van full time since the beginning of 2023 and spent over a year turning it into the off-grid adventure mobile that it is today.

Save precious battery power with a Starlink 12V conversion. We'll guide you through the steps needed to power your Starlink more efficiently.

Everything you need to know about Idaho's Kirkham Hot Springs - how to reach the waterfall, when to go, and what to pack. We've got it all covered in our in our complete guide to Kirkham.

Pine Flats Hot Springs is one of the most unique places to soak in central Idaho. Follow the tips in our guide for making the most of your visit.

If you're looking for a tranquil yet adventurous getaway in the Idaho wilderness, our guide is here to help. Come explore Sacajawea Hot Springs, where nature's warmth meets the wild heart of the outdoors.

Visit Sunbeam Hot Springs' unique riverside soaking tubs and experience the history of Idaho's thermal springs with our complete guide.

A private soak shack in the forest and pools of hot water along a scenic creek. Need we say more? Discover why Bonneville Hot Springs is one of the best in Idaho.

Our list of campervan gift ideas is all the inspiration you'll need. We rounded up the best gifts for vanlife and covered everything from practical to luxurious.

Our guide to the best hot springs near Stanley Idaho, the gateway to the Sawtooth Mountains, is all you need to plan a trip that's adventurous yet relaxing.

Saint Augustine Florida is full of history, food and fun. If you're planning a visit or just wondering if it's worth visiting, use our guide to plan the perfect itinerary in America's oldest city.

Trying to decide if you should drive the Cathedral Valley Loop in Capitol Reef National Park? Want to know what you'll see along the way and how to prepare? We've got everything you need to know in this guide.

Everything in a campervan conversion starts with a solid base. Use our guide to learn the best methods for insulating and installing a subfloor and finished floor in your van build.

Plan your visit to Rocky Mountain National Park, learn about the best trails, how to prepare for elevation, and experience three days of unmatched alpine hiking.

Looking for the best hikes in Shenandoah National Park? You’ve come to the right place. This guide will give you the details on all the best trails, so you can make the most of your time in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Three days exploring one of our favorite national parks. From viewing the Milky Way over Delicate Arch to hiking Devil's Garden, find out everything we did in Arches and plan your own trip to this iconic Utah destination.

There's free camping all around. Realize the full potential of being a nomad by learning to find boondocking sites anywhere. 

Converting a campervan on your own can be a daunting task. Follow our step by step guide and find out exactly what you need to do in the prep phase to ensure your van stands the test of time.

One of the most exciting things about a campervan conversion is choosing your vehicle, but it can be a little overwhelming. Find out all the factors you need to consider before choosing what to convert for your van build.

Thinking of visiting one of America's newest national parks? From what beaches to see, how to get around, where to stay and where to eat, we've put together everything you need to know about Indiana Dunes.

Learn about the unique history and significance of Cuyahoga Valley National Park in our guide, along with the best things to see and do. The most popular sights and trails, along with a hidden gem or two. We've covered everything you need to know for your visit.

Uncover some of the fun to be had along Lake Erie's Shores and Islands in this list. Quiet strolls along the beach, historic landmarks, and a world class amusement park means there's something for everyone.

Even with its pristine freshwater shorelines and untouched swaths of forest, northern Michigan is sometimes overlooked as a destination for nature lovers. Follow along on our summer road trip into the Upper Peninsula, where we unlock this natural hidden gem.

We'd been in need of a relaxing escape. A few inches of snow gave us even more of an excuse to stay put in the Gladiola Tiny House and enjoy our winter getaway in Ohio's Hocking Hills.

Looking for a quick and easy but delicious meal? We love putting together these mini pizzas using flatbread and a few simple ingredients. They practically make themselves and they taste amazing.

A pasta dish that checks all the boxes for home cooking on the road. Quick, easy, and delicious. Find out what you need for this meal that can be made in one pot with only one appliance and give it a try for yourself.