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How to read a topo map
When you plan a hike, the distance you will walk is only half the story. You’ll also need to know if you’ll have to climb hills and what kind of terrain you’ll be traveling. Topographic maps are the...
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17 tasty Dutch oven recipes
For the past few months on boyslife.org, you guys have shown us some of your favorite camp recipes. And, boy, are we getting full from testing your work. Now we’ll return the favor. Here are some...
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Snowboarding tips from pro Red Gerard
Professional snowboarder Red Gerard seems like a normal 13-year-old. But when the snow starts to fall … things change. Red started snowboarding when he was 2. By the time he was 4, he could keep up...
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How to care for hiking boots
Boots are one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll take on the trail. A worn-out pair can make you miserable. So take care of your footwear, and it’ll take care of you. Always clean your boots...
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How to build a campfire safely and responsibly
Campfire building is an important camping skill. However, overuse of campfires and an increasing demand for firewood has degraded the natural appearance of many areas. When building a fire, remember to...
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How to stay safe from bears
Here are some tips to help keep you safe from bears. Never snack in your tent. Keep all camp “smellables” stored properly, using bear-resistant containers to protect them from hungry bears. Smellables...
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Use the moon and a watch to find north
The moon will tell you where the sun is, and from the sun’s position, you can figure out north. Face the full moon, and the sun is right behind you. When the moon is new and you see it as only a thin...
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How to treat and purify water
Here are three ways to treat water so it’s safe to drink. 1. Boil water over a stove or campfire. Once it comes to a rolling boil (when 1/2-inch bubbles are rising from the bottom of the pot), then...
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How to set up a tent
Before leaving for your trip, be sure you’re comfortable setting up — and taking down — your tent. That means reading the instruction booklet and getting plenty of practice. Here are a few tips for...
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How to choose a campsite
Remember these six keys to choosing a good campsite. Safety: Find a site away from low-lying places that could fill with water during a flash flood. Stay away from valleys, canyons and banks of small,...
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Choosing the most effective bug spray
Mosquitos and other bugs can spread disease and drive you crazy in the wilderness. Have no fear; bug sprays are here. But before you buy something to spray on your skin, consider the pluses and...
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How to pack a backpack
When it comes to experiencing the outdoors, nothing beats backpacking. But carrying around all that gear on a trail isn’t easy. Here are some ways you can make it easier by packing the right way:...
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How to prevent and treat blisters
There’s nothing better than hiking or backpacking in the great outdoors, but a blister can quickly ruin your day. Here are tips for how to avoid getting blisters and how to treat them. Some of the most...
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Keeping warm on a cold night in an igloo
When it comes to building igloos, Troop 392 in Normandy Park, Washington, knows where to find paradise. Almost every winter since 2000, the troop has sent Scouts to Paradise — a popular recreation...
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Test your skills in 10 emergency scenarios
Studying the First Aid merit badge pamphlet is great, but to really Be Prepared you need to put everything you think you know to the test. That’s the idea behind the First Aid Meet, an annual event...
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Video tips for better biking
You can make biking easier, safer and more fun with these video tips and tricks from bicycling experts. Pre-Ride Checklist for a Safe Ride Every time you go for a ride, there are a few things you...
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How to perform a canoe-over-canoe rescue
If you go canoeing enough, eventually you’re going to fall in the water. Sometimes you might flip over. Other times, you canoe might become overwhelmed with water. (We call this “swamping.”) When it...
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How to start a rock collection
A rock hound is an amateur collector of rocks and minerals. Although it’s not difficult to become a rock hound (just pick up a rock!), there are a few ideas and concepts that can help you get started...
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Ridiculously awesome camping stuff
Camping gear is awesome, and we’re always looking for the latest outdoor tools, gadgets and equipment. But sometimes we discover camping stuff that makes us pause. Is this tool useful or over-the-top?...
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