FREE camp for young adults with cancer & their families

Indian Rock Camps (AKA Camp Clearwaters), located in pristine Grand Lake Stream, Maine will be hosting a completely FREE week at their camps for children and young adults (up to 40 years old) with cancer and their families. While there exist several children’s cancer camps in Maine, none allow admission by young adults, until now! Jo-Anne and Ken Cannell are happy to host this annual CELEBRATION OF LIFE in loving memory of their daughter Gretchen, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of 12 and bravely fought this fight for 14 years. The camp is free for Maine residents and reservations will be honored on a first come first serve basis. For more information, or to secure one of the limited spots please contact Jo-Anne Cannell at 207-796-2822, 1-800-498-2821 or by email at: indianrockcamp@gmail.com

The Woodsman's Pal

The Woodsman’s Pal is more than just the outdoorsman’s best friend; it is also perhaps the most versatile tool a man could even dream of owning. Instantly upgrade your “Man Factor” by getting a Woodsman’s Pal. Nothing gets the testosterone pumping quite like a man ready to unleash rampant destruction at a moments notice. Astonish friends, frighten the neighbors and impress the old lady with 16.5 inches of cold, hard, steel dangling haphazardly from your tool belt.

Be amazed as the Woodsman Pal chops effortlessly through 4 inches of rock solid hardwood! 

While this elegant tool is designed for the uncharted wilds, I wonder how it will fare in a test under the rigors of suburbia. Oh sure, any man could wander into the wilderness, equipped only with his Woodsman’s Pal and emerge weeks later clean shaven, well fed and dressed in animal skins but how well does the Woodsman’s Pal thrive in the battlefield of America’s backyards, patios, garages and kitchens? Would it not be the ultimate test of this stylish “man tool”, were it subjected to the trials and tribulations of the urban jungle?

To better explore this “challenge”, I have devised a series of tests designed to push the woodsman’s pal to its breaking point and determine if this is truly the right tool for the job. Man law eloquently states that there be no more divine trinity than bacon, beer and boobies . . . BUT since this is a PG rated show, we are going to eliminate boobies. Given my devout and undying respect for the man trinity, the Woodsman’s Pal will be subjected to two tests of its functionality, based on these, the most holy of holy.

Test one BACON: Ummm, nothing is quite more intoxicating than the smell of bacon cooked over the open flame. Unfortunately, you already demolished the old ladies frying pans and the gas grill looks like it hasn’t been cleaned since the birth of Jesus. Fear not, for your need for fried pork belly will not go unanswered for, on this day, you have your Woodsman’s Pal.


Challenge one PASSED! 



Test two BEER: Hanging out around the fire and find you have misplaced your bottle opener? Have no fear; the Woodsman’s Pal comes fully equipped with a bottle opener.

Challenge two PASSED! 

Slash more than prices this holiday season, slice, split and cut away to your hearts content and remember, whether your trimming St. Nicks beard, carving the holiday season Turduckin, hacking down O’Tannenbaum, flipping reindeer burgers, cutting wrapping paper or even popping the top off a bottle Christmas ale the best tool for the job will always be the Woodsman’s Pal!

Camping, Fishing, Hunting . . . Deer Lake, Maine has it ALL!

October in Maine is the outdoors person’s paradise. The bugs finally disappear, the weather becomes blissfully cool and hunting season begins in earnest! When I was a much younger man, attending school at the University of Maine at Machias, my fraternity brothers and I would camp at Deer Lake every Columbus Day weekend to hunt woodcock and partridge and enjoy what was typically the last long weekend of good weather before old man winter descended upon the land.

Camping at Deer Lake 
Deer Lake campground (Delorme’s The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer (MAG), Map 34, E-5) provides visitors with the perfect base camp from which to launch hunting, fishing and ATVing expeditions into the surrounding hinterlands. Deer Lake campsite manager, Arthur Keenan highly recommends Deer Lake to ATV riders, as its centralized location in the Sunrise Trail System offers the best access to numerous trail riding and options. While the campsite does not have treated water for drinking, flush toilets or showers it does have outhouses, eight waterfront and twelve off lake well-maintained tent and RV sites. If reserving a site make sure to pick site number 1. This site is provides a beautiful view of the water is semi-private and offers a large lot that is RV accessible.

Trailered boats cannot be launched at Deer Lake but watercraft can be hand carried over a small beach making small boat access possible. Due to the lakes miniscule size motor driven watercraft are unnecessary and a canoe or kayak is perfect for exploring and fishing its waters. Those interested in exploring Deer Lake or staying at the campground, the directions are relatively simple. The area is accessible via the 3000 road that leaves Rt. 9 (the "Airline") in Devereaux Township (Map 24, A-1) and follows the Naraguagus River for a distance of approximately 15 miles. If driving from Bangor toward Calais, a great landmark is the Airline snack bar and the northern terminus of Rt. 193. Drive approximately 1 mile further this point and turn left onto the 3000 road at the Ranger Station. If the Narraguagus River is crossed, turn around. While this road is bumpy and not as well maintained as the typical 4500 to 3100 to Studmill to 3200 road more direct route, the 3000 road will allow bird hunters to drive through several great covers on their way to Deer Lake. Be sure to drive slowly, always keeping a keen eye on the road edging for early morning or late evening partridge. Deer Lake campground has tent/RV sites but no hook ups for electricity or water. Costs are $20 for the first night and $10 per night after. A primetime Friday/Saturday night stay costs $45. For reservations, please contact Lois Keenan (546-3828) or for additional information Arthur Keenan (664-3198). Lois and Arthur also maintain the Lower Sabao Lake (Map 35, E-1) and Cranberry Lake (Map 35, E-2) campgrounds. All three campgrounds are open Memorial Day and close when the snow flies.

Fishing Deer Lake and the Surrounding Area 
At 38 acres and a maximum depth of 21 feet, the waters of Deer Lake support warm water game species only, providing anglers with opportunities to fish yellow perch, chain pickerel and hornpout. Cold-water game species like brook trout have little chance of survival and as such, stocking of the lake does not occur. Anglers looking to catch brook trout would be better served to fish the nearby Narraguagus river (Map 34, E-5) or Mopang Stream (Map 25, A-2) that will hold ravenous trout spurred into feeding by the season’s dropping temperatures. A public boat landing at Nicatous Lake (Map 35, D-5) additionally allows anglers with larger watercraft to access salmon waters.

Hunting for Partridge at Deer Lake
Deer Lake is surrounded by a network of dirt roads that provide hunters with plenty of access to bird hunting opportunities. While some will enjoy riding these roads and “heater hunting”, know that hunters typically hit these roadways hard and shot opportunities are often sparse. Even when birds do present themselves they are often skittish and by the time hunters get out of the vehicle and load their weapon the bird has typically flown to the next county. Hunters can achieve a higher level of success by getting out and walking some of the harder to get to sections of forest via roads that have been rendered impassable by washed out culverts or blow downs. Speed need not be employed when hunting early morning and late afternoon birds, slow and steady walking while carefully scanning and searching through the roadside underbrush is a much more likely method of putting birds in the bean pot. The unimproved roads and trails around Indian Brook (Map 34, D-4) and off the Morrison Ridge Road (Map 34, D-5) contain excellent spots where hunters who wish to beat the brush can break away from the heavily traveled main roads and pursue birds in relative peace and quiet.

Start Scouting Deer Now 
Hearty souls, unafraid of cold weather and wishing to return to this area in November to hunt deer would be well served to spend some time while hunting and driving in October paying special attention to any perceivable deer sign. Making careful note of rub lines, scrapes, dropping and tracks and marking these locations with GPS coordinates will save time later and allow individuals to invest a majority of their time hunting and not scouting when deer season begins. Lightweight climbing stands are fantastic hunting tools but they are only effective when a prime location has been preselected. The Maine woods are vast and a hunter can sit for a long time and never even see a deer if a spot is not wisely chosen. It makes little sense to stumble blindly into the woods, in the early morning light, with no idea of what exists in the area for deer or even if a suitable tree exists that will effective hold a climbing stand. Then once sufficient deer sign and a suitable tree are both selected, what view will be achieved once that tree is climbed? Finding these answers and accomplishing these tasks before the season begins will pay big dividends later by putting a person at least a day ahead of their hunting brethren.

Canada Geese and Island Camping

If you have never been to Maine in September, it is my hope that perhaps I can convince you to give the state a try when the lines aren’t quite so long, the air is a bit cooler, the colors more vibrant and the experience a tad sweeter. Enjoy mornings a field where your breath can be seen sleepily wrapping up and around your head then slowly dissipating in the first rays of morning sunshine. If these moments can be shared with friends and family, they are only further enriched.

Canada Goose Hunting 
Being a passionate waterfowl hunter, there is no place I would rather be in September than in pursuit of resident Canada geese. Waking up well before dawn to set-up decoys in a productive field or on a small farm pond and waiting patiently for geese to arrive is a thrilling experience. Sitting in absolute silence, sipping rugged coffee and anticipating the moment when the calmness of the morning will be ruptured by that first echoing “honk”, indicating approaching geese. Hunting geese tends to be a mixture of about luck and location. Even when scouting and investing considerable time in locating productive feeding areas, sometimes the geese still refuse to show-up. Other times, what appears to be a terrible location will by mornings end, yield close to a limit of geese.

A majority of goose hunting occurs in fields but getting permission to hunt these prime locations can often be a hassle. A knock on a farmer’s door can be met with pleasantries and permission but also rude distain despite your best efforts. A long time ago, I simply stopped asking permission and started primarily hunting water-based locations, such as lakes, ponds and streams residing in close proximity to these feeding and afternoon resting areas. Good luck can happen on the water and both morning and evening hunts can be productive. Around 9-10:00 in the morning and about 30 minutes before the end of legal in the evening are exceptional times to hunt as geese look for drinking water after a morning feeding or a secure place to sleep for the evening. The sheer size of a goose makes it in flight appear deceptively slow. Do not be fooled, however, as geese are fast flyers and many a goose has escaped being dinner by hunters shooting behind their target. To be successful, don’t rush, keep the end of your barrel moving after the shot and always be prepared for a quick follow-up shot should the goose hit the water only wounded. Geese are powerful swimmers and can quickly disappear from view before hunters can launch a boat and retrieve.

 Geese make for fine eating and when sliced thin and fried with a little butter and salt and pepper remind me of minute steaks. For those needing a little more “spice”, lightly sprinkling the breasts with Montreal steak seasoning adds a nice zip to the taste. Combine “steaks” with a homemade thin cut french-fries fried in canola oil and a favorite micro-brew like season favorite Pumpkinhead by Shipyard brewing company and a perfect meal is created to bring conclusion to the perfect day a field. September weather can be wildly unpredictable with heavy rain and cold weather always a possibility even on mornings that start out beautiful and sunny. To be comfortable, make sure to always throw a lightweight pair rain pants and a jacket into the boat. Good luck this season and may the only precipitation encountered be geese raining from the sky!! Looking for geese? Small lakes and ponds like Fourth Machias Lake (Delorme’s The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer (MAG), Map 35, C-1), Third Machias Lake (Map 35, C-3) and Lower Sabao Lake (Map 35, E-1) have long been favorites. But remember patterns change daily so keep eyes to the skies and be prepared to quickly modify plans to stay on resident geese!

Camp on an Island
While hunting geese, it makes sense to stay close to the intended hunting location. This facilitates the early mornings and tends to make getting to prime hunting spots a bit less hectic. Camping on an island is certainly a unique experience but ultimately very similar to car camping. Gear and other heavy supplies can be transported by boat leaving less to lug on backs. While care must be taken in packing smaller watercraft like canoes, larger watercraft can easily carry the camping needs of even the most extravagant campers. Firewood on islands tends to be in limited supply, so having a small portable stove to cook meals instead relying solely on wood power is a good idea. Each of the lakes and ponds mentioned above have islands or nearby primitive campsites where intrepid waterfowlers can camp. Fourth Lake Machias (Map 35, C-1) has a beautiful primitive campsite and a very healthy population of resident geese. Use care when navigating this lake during early mornings, as this lake is notoriously rocky and replacement sheer pins a long way away. Better to take a canoe, kayak or scull boat and use the early morning fog to paddle in quietly to an unsuspecting flock and reach your limit in plenty of time to return to the campsite to enjoy a second cup of coffee and a big breakfast.

Camping at Sabao Lake & ATV Riding on the Sunrise Trail System

Easily described as one of the most serene campgrounds in the state, Lower Sabao Lake campground (Delorme’s The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer (MAG), Map 35, E-1) provides visitors with the perfect rugged wilderness experience while also providing access to basic amenities.

While the campsite does not have water for drinking, flush toilets or showers it does however have two outhouses and fire rings and picnic tables at each of its well-maintained tent and RV sites.

All sites are shaded by towering red pines that sing when the wind blows through them. A spacious white sand beach beckons sun worshipers and a gentle grade from the beach and into the water, makes it perfect swimming for young children.

Lower Sabao Lake campground is accessible over the Sabao Road, which leaves Rt.9 (the "Airline") in Township 30 (Map 25, A-2). A 10-mile drive along some fairly rough dirt roads, filled with potholes, washouts, curious moose and speeding ATV riders, add hazards so drivers should exercise caution and drive slowly to prevent accidents.

Lower Sabao Lake campground has tent/RV sites but no hook ups for electricity or water. Costs are $20 for the first night stay and $10 per night after that. A primetime Friday/Saturday night stay is $45. For reservations, please contact Lois Keenan (546-3828) or for additional information Arthur Keenan (664-3198). Lois and Arthur also maintain the Deer Lake (Map 34, E-5) and Cranberry Lake (Map 35, E-2) campgrounds. All three campgrounds are open Memorial Day and close when the snow flies.

Lower Sabao Lake At 755 acres, the waters of Lower Sabao Lake provide anglers with a multitude of opportunities to fish for white perch and chain pickerel. Though the lake is listed on the IF&W website as containing brook trout, the chances of catching one in the lake is slim. Anglers looking to catch trout would be better served to exit the lake via the west branch of the Machias River and paddle the short distance to some excellent locations to catch finicky summer trout. White perch anglers prefer fishing at the end of August and into the beginning of September when the mosquitoes are on the way out and the catch rate creeps to a level slightly above average. Anglers who bring along a small fry pan and oil will be richly rewarded with a meal of succulent white perch, caught with minimal effort. Two small islands with exquisite sand beaches make opportunities for a picnic or stretch ones legs on a “private” beach an easy proposition.

Nature watchers will enjoy plenty of opportunities for moose spotting in the early morning or evening by quietly paddling and maintaining a watchful eye on the shoreline. Moose feeding in the lakes shallow waters regularly provide campers with brilliant photographic opportunities. Additional moose watching opportunities exist by following the west branch of the Machias River out of the lake. Intrepid adventures will pass by nesting bald eagles and loons and to a small meadow perfect for observing evening moose.

Access to the lake is possible via a very good boat launch for tailored boats or canoes and kayaks right from the campgrounds beach.

ATV riders can access the largest ATV trail system East of the Mississippi. Comprised of the Sunrise Trail system (North of Route 9) and the Downeast Sunrise trail system (South of Route 9) it contains over 800 miles of approved trails. Day trips from Sabao Lake campground to Grand Lake Stream, Nicataous Lake, or the blueberry barrens near Cherryfield all present fun possibilities.

During the weekend of July 26-27, 2014 ATV riders staying at Sabao should take the short ATV ride to Grand Lake Stream and attend the Grand Lake Stream Folk Art Festival (10:00 am - 5:00 pm). This very fun and well-attended event boasting over 60 folk art vendors and playing host to music performances and many different cultural exhibits. With so much to do, there is sure to be something to interest all ages!

By late summer, the ATV trails have gotten very dry and ATV riders will find that goggles and a dust mask are mandatory to ensure everyone has a fun experience. Also make sure to bring along plenty of water and dry weather gear for all group members so that a fun day ATV riding continues to be bearable if the weather turns wet or an ATV becomes disabled.

Get into the Swing of Summer with Byer of Maine

 Byer of Maine certainly is doing their part in making sure summer is an adventure in relaxation, comfort and enjoyment and to prove this point, one need only take a look at the dizzying array of hammocks and hanging chairs available on their website!

My personal pick is the Amazonas (Paradiso) Hammock. Made in Brazil from 85% recycled cotton/15% polyester, this hammock stretches and conforms to your bodies unique curves for offer exquisite comfort. At over 8 feet long and 5 and a half feet wide, the Paradiso has room for the whole family, and maybe the dog as well!

The rich, warm, hand-crafted colors will provide you and your family with endless days of fun, and relaxation! While designed for outdoor use, we recommend indoor storage between uses.

Care should also be taken to ensure that hammock strings are not tangled or chafed. When hanging, hammocks should be hung from a flexible point…a rope, a chain or carabineer to avoid chafing at the hanging point. Be extremely careful to ensure hammocks and hanging chairs are hung from a point or points suitably strong for the anticipated use. Seek professional assistance if you have any doubts as to your ability to properly judge the strength of any hanging point.

Hammocks can be hosed-off for cleaning with clear, cold water. No detergent or other chemical cleaners should be used. No machine washing. Air dry thoroughly before storage.

Currently, several hammock models, including the Barbados and Ceara are currently 20% off! 

Make sure to follow Byer of Maine on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pintrest!

Camp Comfortably and Conveniently with Byer of Maine

For over 125 years, Byer of Maine has been a leader in camping, emergency preparedness and a long list of other outdoor products designed to make your time in the wilds comfortable and convenient. This passion for creating innovative products is highlighted in the new, award winning TriLite Line.

Washing dishes, the dreaded chore that most of us try to avoid at all costs becomes even more difficult when attempted in the wilds. When camping, one attempts to awkwardly crouch by the lake or streamside frantically scraping beanie weenies off plates and hoping that in the process they do not get their feet wet. Leave it up to the innovative folks at Byer of Maine to come up with a solution that makes washing dishes in the wilds a much easier endeavor and one that can actually be enjoyed.

The convertible TriLite seat/wash basin is a lightweight, highly portable piece of equipment that should be part of every camper’s kitchen. In seconds, one can remove the small seat from the webfoot stand and install the TriLite washbasin. Boasting 4 separate compartments, the washbasin has plenty of room to wash, rinse, and dry dishes, as well as a small pocket to hold biodegradable soap and a scrub brush. This set-up allows you to sit down comfortably and leisurely wash dishes, avoiding the typical discomforts associated with this chore.

The Tri-lite stool and wash station is currently 35% off so go and get yours today and prepare to spend the rest of the Maine summer camping season impressing friends and washing dishes in style!

Sleep Comfortably Under the Stars
Summer in Maine means camping and as I get older, comfort becomes more and more critical to my enjoyment of this outdoor activity. After years of struggling with half a dozen different models of inflatable rubber mattresses, I finally gave up patching holes and battling against the exhaustive effort of inflating and transporting these unreliable beds.

For the camper looking for a much improved sleep solution they need to look no further then the cot. Cots of today come in a wide variety of styles. Byer of Maine has an impressive line of folding cots sure to fit the needs of every type of camper and outdoor enthusiast. From lightweight and compact to full size, luxurious models, all cots are built rugged, with some models capable of supporting up to 375 pounds!

Byer even have created a handy cot comparison tool to assist shoppers in choosing the cot that best fits their specific needs and budgets! 

For me the choice of cot was as easy as ordering the lightweight and easily packable TriLite model. This ultra-light weight cot (a little over 7 lbs) is designed to be packed and brought anywhere, ensuring a great sleep wherever you need it. Perfect for hiking, car camping, motorcycle touring or even a day relaxing on the beach, the TriLite cot offers a full sleep surface of 74" long by 25" wide, that folds down to a mere 27" x 3" x 8" and fits into its rip-stop polyester travel bag that has a convenient travel strap so that the entire cot can be slung over your shoulder for easy transport.

Make sure to follow Byer of Maine on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pintrest!

Functional Elegance by Byer of Maine

The Byer Manufacturing Company has been creating what I like to call "The Goud Stuff” since 1880. This Maine based company has reinvented itself numerous times over the decades in order to keep pace with the American market place and a rapidly evolving global economy. Currently, Byer of Maine produces a wide assortment of products, most interesting perhaps its furniture and equipment specifically designed to make summah days wick’d comfortable and relaxing.

To me, a trip to the beach, hanging out on the deck, or an evening relaxing around a campfire would be incomplete without my posterior resting comfortably in the Pangean Glider. More than simply a "chair", this is an essential relaxation tool, the perfect blend of elegance, class, function and practicality these gliders are as pleasing to look at as they are comfortable to sit in. The glider literally wraps you in comfort, allowing you to lean back and rest your head and neck after a long day.

Upgrade a single glider purchase a double and reap the benefits of years of happy memories with your closest someone, watching sunsets, roasting marshmallow and dipping toes in the oceans soft sand.

The trend by most outdoor companies these days seems to be moving toward creating cheap outdoor furniture and equipment made of plastic and other inferior items that end up in the trash can after one season of hard use. Though typically inexpensive, consumers quickly realize that they truly get what they pay for and landfills are filled with these worthless pieces of garbage. With a small investment, buy the best, something that will be a joy to sit in for years to come.

Though it lacks a drink holder, it more than makes up for this deficit with the Pangean Folding Table. Purchased separately, this small functional table allows "chillaxers" a firm place to set a bottle and a couple glasses of wine, lunch or if needed, ones feet after a long and tiring day.

Remember that like all works of art, furniture made of fabric and wood must be properly cared for if it is to be enjoyed for years to come. Both the table and chair come from the factory with a basic protective stain but if one plans to keep the furniture outside for an extended length of time, the chair and table would benefit from a yearly application of a flat varnish containing UV protection. This application will seal the wood to protect it from splintering and keep the stain  from fading and losing its beauty. A fabric UV protectant like Ray Block that helps fabrics resist sun fading and dry rot can also be employed to protect the chair’s cloth seat. Embers can burn holes in the fabric, so when placing chairs close to a fire pit make sure to not leave unattended.

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Summer Car Camping and Fishing

Car Camping at Cranberry Lake 
I recently read a report, generated by the national forest service, stating 85% of the camping that takes place in the United States occurs within one mile or less of a paved roadway. While there is a certainly sense of serenity, peace and tranquility that one experiences when they hike miles into the backcountry, the simple truth is that many of us simply do not have the time, physical strength or know how necessary to accomplish these off the grid excursions safely and enjoyably.

Car camping affords busy families and those with physical limitations, an effective means of escaping into nature with much smaller time commitments and fewer toils wrought upon the body. With car camping, a vehicle is parked in close proximity to a camping spot, thus greatly facilitating the unloading of gear and affording the ability to bring luxurious camping items (large tents, cots, air mattresses, coolers, etc.), fun games and lots of food. While all of these items surly do not ensure that everyone will have a good time, they certainly go a long way making sure everyone stays happy, comfortable and well fed.

An army marches on its stomach and so does a family. Camping success can often be dictated by the quality and quantity of the food, so be sure to bring plenty of favorites. With my family pizza is king and this meal can easily be cooked in a Dutch oven. A Boboli pizza crust, spaghetti sauce and each camper’s choice of topping are put together and placed inside a 12 inch Dutch oven. The lid is shut and 4-5 charcoal briquettes are placed under and on top of the Dutch oven. In approximately 15-20 minutes, out comes hot pizza! Desert often consists of brownies or cookies, cooked next to a roaring evening campfire in a Sproul Baker reflector oven (http://www.campfirecookware.com).

While car camping may be considered by some camping purists as a blasphemous way to enjoy nature, be assured it is not. Vehicles provide an effective means of transporting at home comforts into some very unique and interesting sections of Maine, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the real world.

The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer lists 3 campground types. Those facilities listed simply as “campgrounds”, are members of the Maine Campground Owners Association (MCOA) and typically have posh amenities such as RV sites, showers, flush toilets, camp stores and wireless internet. “Maintained forest campsites”, usually have pit toilets, tent sites only and firewood available for purchase. The last classification “primitive campsites”, have tent sites available on a first come first served basis, firewood usually has to be scavenged and cat holes must be dug to safely dispose of human waste. Of the 3 available campground configurations, my favorites are the maintained forest campsites, as they provide a nice balance of easy vehicle access and basic facilities, while still offering a serene wilderness experience.

Cranberry Lake Campground (Delorme’s The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer (MAG), Map 35, E-2) sits just a few miles off Rt. 9 yet affords campers quiet isolation. (*A warning, that popular weekends like Memorial day, 4th of July and Labor day most campgrounds in the state can be quite boisterous, so if you wish for a quiet campground experience, avoid those weekends.) The campsite’s amenities do not include water for drinking or flush toilets and showers but it does have two outhouses, fire rings, picnic tables and well-maintained tent and RV sites. A small beach is available for swimming and a hand carry launch is accessible for those wanting to cruise the lake or go fishing. Cranberry lake campground has 11 tent/RV sites. Costs are $20 for the first night stay and $10 per night after that. A primetime Friday/Saturday night stay is $45. For reservations, please contact Lois Keenan (546-3828) or for additional information Arthur Keenan (664-3198). Lois and Arthur also maintain the Deer Lake (Map 34, E-5) and Lower Sabo Lake (Map 35, E-1) campgrounds.

Campers can ride the largest ATV trail system East of the Mississippi, fish local streams and ponds, boat, hike and moose watch. All three campgrounds are open Memorial Day and close when snow flies. A 20-minute drive from the campground is a small restaurant/general store located at the northern terminus of Rt. 193, perfect for restocking camping supplies or eating out should weather make cooking outside difficult.

Fishing the Cranberry Lakes
Cranberry Lake campground is situated on the eastern shore of Upper Cranberry Lake. Upper Cranberry flows into Lower Cranberry Lake which in-turn flows into the West Branch of the Machias River. Canoes and kayaks are perfect for exploring and fishing these lakes, as long as a watchful eye is kept on the horizon to watch for late afternoon thunderstorms. When fishing Cranberry lakes, Master Maine Guide Matt Whitegiver of Eagle Mountain Lodge suggests going somewhere else! The Cranberry Lakes are not know to be epic producers of trophy fish but they do provide entertainment for someone wanting to get out in the early morning or evening and wet a line. Upper Cranberry Lake contains mostly small pickerel, while Lower Cranberry is a decent white perch fishery. Matt suggests that anyone camping at the campground paddle north to the outlet and put into Lower Cranberry to fish for a few of the delectable white perch to put in the fry pan. Boat launches for both Upper and Lower Cranberry also exist about a ¼ mile from the Cranberry Lake campground for those with larger watercraft.

Hiking Lead Mountain, Exploring Beddington Lake and Camping at McClellan Park

Hiking Lead Mountain 
A few miles off Rt. 9, stands the relatively diminutive 1,479 ft. Lead Mountain (Delorme’s The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer (MAG), Map 24, A-5). An enjoyable hike, Lead Mountain provides fantastic introductory hiking possibilities for young children and adults looking to get a little exercise. My family and I have made hiking Lead Mountain an annual tradition and ever summer a group consisting of young and old alike climb the mountain together.

This past summer, my brother, our 3 children, ranging in age from 4 to 6 years old, and my 63-year-old Dad climbed it. Only the 4 year old had to be carried a couple times on the ascent and descent . . . thankfully, we didn't have to carry Dad even once!

Those interested in exploring Lead Mountain, the directions are relatively simple. Driving from Bangor toward Calais you will pass the Airline snack bar on the left and Rt. 193 shortly after on the right. Drive approximately 1 mile and turn left onto the 3000 road at the Ranger Station. If you happen to cross the bridge over the Narraguagus River, turn around. Travel up the 3000 road about 150 yards, turn left and continue to follow this dirt road till it ends at a gate and small parking area. Upon exiting the parking area, walk around the gate with the large sign that reads “No Hunting” and continue following this dirt road until it splits. Take the path to the right, which leads all the way to the summit. This trail was heavily improved, in the last few years, and provides easy walking a majority of the way to the summit.

After about 1 hour of hiking at a steady pace, hikers will reach several small shacks and some old weather monitoring equipment. From this point forward, the path to the top quickly increases in difficulty, so plan another 30 minutes of slow hiking before reaching the summit. There is no mistaking the summit, marked by an enormous cell tower. Unfortunately, there are no sweeping views from this location and hikers will miss out if they do not walk along the left hand side of the gated area. Follow the somewhat hidden trail by squeezing thorough tightly growing spruce trees, entering an open area with a small metal tower. Climbing the tower, allows visibility over the surrounding trees and the impressive views below.

Directly behind the tower, hanging on the backside of one of the thick spruce trees is an ammo can size geocache (N 44° 51.839 W 068° 06.596). When we looked, the cache had only been checked a handful of times since it was originally created, so this is definitely a very cool cache to check off your list!

Beddington Lake
After exploring Lead Mountain, tired hikers can take a refreshing dip in nearby Beddington Lake (Map 25, B-1). This 404-acre body of water has a boat launch and sandy swimming area on its western shore accessible via Rt. 193 and a ¼ mile drive down a well-maintained dirt road. Intrepid anglers can fish from shore or explore the lake by boat for epic pickerel fishing opportunities. Pickerel up to 24 inches are not uncommon and provide plenty of action for young anglers or those wanting to hone their fly-fishing skills in a high yield environment. While pickerel will bite on almost anything, I prefer to use the classic red and white daredevil or blue fox vibrax. Yellow perch, small mouth and brook trout are also possibilities but less likely given the voracious appetites of the tremendous number of pickerel.

McClellan Park
Individuals looking for a base of operations from which to conduct the adventure mentioned above would be well served to check out McClellan Park. One of the best-kept secrets in all of Downeast, McClellan Park (Map 17, A-3) provides a peaceful, quiet atmosphere and boasts impressive views of the ocean and offshore islands. Bring along a bag of charcoal and cook hamburgers and hotdogs while the kids enjoy exploring the dozens of tide pools that form at low tide. If wishing to try and fish for your lunch, Mackerel and Pollock can be fished right from shore, using lures, raw clams or bloodworms (bait may be purchased at the intersection of Wyman and Factory road). Picnic tables, grills, showers and flush toilets ensure that a day spent in the park is comfortable. Those looking at a longer stay, twelve tent sites are available at the bargain price of $10 per night and limited space is available for small campers (no electrical hookup available). The town of Millbridge assists with the operation of the park and keeps it open Memorial Day through Columbus Day. For more information specifically about the park, call the town office at (207) 546-2422. Reservations may be made through Bob Walker (207) 546-7027.

Turkeys, Coastal Access and Spring Cleaning

Spring Turkey Hunting
May means only one thing to this outdoorsman and that’s spring turkey hunting! It’s hard to believe that only a few short years ago turkeys didn’t even exist in Maine and that now we have a population that is flourishing with extreme vigor! For this hunter, nothing quite stirs my blood like the early morning gobbles of a tom turkey and the chance to harvest one of these magnificent fowl.

Turkey season this year runs from April 28th, 2014 through May 31st, 2014 with the Youth Spring Wild Turkey Hunting Day (resident and nonresident) occurring on April 26, 2014. Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IFW) have instituted a change to the 2014 turkey hunting laws, turkeys may now be hunted 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. For more specifics on turkey hunting laws, rules and regulations please see the IFW website at: www.maine.gov/ifw. These changes provide some fantastic new hunting opportunities for those who work 8 to 5:00 or find waking before sunrise an impossible task. With legal hunting times running till 8:07 PM on opening day till 8:43 PM on closing day, hunters have plenty of time to chase old Tom, long after getting out of work.

Hunters looking to find success during this time of day can be wildly successful in the late afternoon as hens return to nests and randy old Toms haphazardly look for love. Later in the day, hunters that can also locate popular roosting trees and setup ambush spots along often used travel corridors and wait for the birds to come to them . . . decoys and calling not even necessary!

Prime turkey hunting locations exist throughout Washington County, with a fun and exciting hunt starting in Northfield (Delorme’s The Maine Atlas and Gazetteer (MAG), Map 26, B-2) and driving logging roads into Smith Landing, the beautiful Great Falls (Map 26, B-2) and continuing south, following the Machias River into Whitneyville.

Maine’s Coastal Public Access Guide
Even as a “resident” Mainer, having always lived here, I am still impressed daily by the hidden beauty that exists within our state boundaries. To help unlock these secret gems the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry has published a comprehensive three-volume guide, outlining over 700 publicly accessible shoreline access sites along the coast of Maine from Kittery to Calais. The three volumes are organized by region, Southern (South Berwick to Freeport), Midcoast (Brunswick to Hampden), and Downeast (Bangor to Calais) with each guide including descriptions, directions, parking, facilities, GPS coordinates, and more for boat launches, beaches, nature preserves, parks, hiking trails, and other scenic areas. Local and regional maps further simplify planning, greatly facilitating finding a new fishing spot, hidden beach, or seaside hike!

My favorite newly found paradise is Crowley Island (Map 26, E-1). This 300+ acre oasis is open to deer and upland bird hunting, clamming and hiking opportunities! As well as motor vehicle parking, nearby West River landing offers boaters easy water access to Crowley Island.

Coastal Public Access Guides can be ordered by printing and filling out the online form (http://www.maine.gov/dacf/mcp/coastal-access-guide.htm) including a check for $8.00 plus tax per guide and mailing to the Maine Coastal Program, 93 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333. Additional questions and comments may be directed to Kathleen Leyden 287-3144.

Spring Cleaning and Organizing
May marks the final and absolute end of winter and warm days super charge my annual dance of putting away augers in exchange for outboard motors, ice traps for fishing poles and winter clothes for bug nets. It is a task I typically attempt to avoid with a vengeance but in the end, it always crashes down upon me with an unrelenting fury. During this exchange, it pays to have a plan in place to better facilitate your struggles. Years ago, I purchased large clear plastic totes to hold all my gear during the off seasons. This simple storage method saves tons of time and effort when attempting to locate critical items during the changing of the seasons. Grabbing the tote labeled, “Turkey Hunting” and I instantly have access to my turkey-hunting vest, calls, shotgun shells, Thermacell, camouflage clothes, tick spray, etc. Some of the totes even have separate compartments or clear plastic Ziploc bags that further help separate critical or smaller items. The trick obviously with employing clear plastic totes to organize is so that items can quickly be visually identified; facilitating the speed at which you can locate needed items!

Red River Camps an Outdoorsman's Paradise

Red River Camps stands as one of the few remaining classic sporting camps in the state. Nestled deep within the northern Maine forest, in the low-lying, rugged mountains of Aroostook County, Red River provides visitors with the perfect base of operations for those looking to fish, hunt or simply explore this beautiful and unique wilderness area. Due to its remote location, visitors will not encounter many of the human disturbances seen in more populated areas of the state, making Red River Camps truly an outdoorsman’s paradise.

The facilities crown jewel is an impressive and newly constructed base lodge (the original lodge was destroyed by a lightening strike and rebuilt in 2009) that boasts a large spacious dining / lounge area large enough for corporate events, family gatherings or intimate weddings. The lodge is situated only feet from crystal clear, trout rich waters and canoes and kayaks are readily available for those looking to enjoy a day of fishing or take a relaxing paddle.

The remaining parts of the complex are comprised of nine cabins, all built between 1886 and 1955 out of hand-hewn logs. The cabins are clean, comfortable and full of rustic charm. All cabins (including one located on a private island) come fully equipped with linens, sheets, pillows, and towels; full bathrooms with hot and cold running water; and wood stoves with plenty or firewood and kindling. Due to the remoteness of the location, electricity is in limited supply and propane lamps provide illumination in the evenings for quite reading. In the remote wild lands of Maine’s north country, cell service and cable television simply do not exist, instead feel the hustle and bustle of the real world melt away, as you explore the north Maine woods in pursuit of your favorite outdoor sports.

Red River Camps caters to all outdoor sporting enthusiasts, offering world-class fly-fishing, epic hunting and a wide selection of recreational opportunities, guaranteed to please all matter of outdoors men and women. Activities include:

Fly Fishing - Red River has direct access to some of the state's best fly-fishing opportunities. Within a short distance from the camps, anglers can fish for Eastern Brook Trout, Landlocked Salmon, Lake Trout, and native Arctic Charr (Blueback trout). In fact, the current state record Arctic Charr was caught in Pushineer Pond (less than a 5-minutes walk from the camps) in 2008. A previous state record Brook Trout (held from 1979 to 1997) was caught in Black Pond, a little over a mile from the camps.

Hunting - In the fall, sports flock to Red River to hunt for partridge (ruffed grouse), moose, and black bear. The camps offer non-guided partridge hunting during bird season in October and hunting dogs are welcome at Red River at no extra charge. Hunters looking to stay and “heater hunt” along the hundred of miles or dirt roads or run their dogs through the many available covers, will find both opportunities plentiful. 

For individuals lucky enough to secure a moose hunting permit in zone two, no other place to stay can compare to Red River Camps. Sitting squarely in the middle Zone 2, Red River offers moose hunters a fantastic base of operations for accessing the thousands of acres of north Maine woods. The remoteness of the camps allows hunters to get the jump on other hunters, staying at less remote locations.

In September 2013, my father, brother and I stayed at Red River while accompanying our father on his first moose hunt. During that amazing week, Dad was successful in shooting a bull moose, thus completing his life long dream of harvesting one of these impressive animals. I am confident that if not for the key component of location, location, location when hunting these impressive animals, Dad’s story could have had a much less satisfactory ending.

Black Bear - Red River offers hunters opportunities to hunt black bear in the North Maine Woods and additional details can be secured by calling them.

Paddling - For paddling enthusiasts, Red River Camp offers a rich assortment of lakes and ponds to explore, from small ponds surrounded by cliffs to giant wind-swept lakes, over a mile long and 300 acres in size. Red River keeps Old Town canoes and sport boats on many of these ponds for guest exclusive use and are included in your stay.

Hiking - Red River Camp offers great opportunities for hiking and sightseeing. Deboullie Mountain's historic fire tower (it's certified on the National Historic Lookout Register) is a must-hike for anyone with an inclination to see the sights. In addition to the mountain trails, Deboullie also offers an expanse of historic roads that criss-cross thousands of acres of pristine country. Over the past five years, the Bureau of Parks and Lands has expanded the hiking opportunities in the township to well over 30 miles of trails that take visitors to views of rock slides, ice caves and various other interesting geologic phenomenon.

Wildlife Watching - The north Maine woods serves as home to a host of wildlife, from bears and moose to fishers, pine marten, and mink. Early morning and evening hikes or slow drives through the miles of dirt roads are sure to have visitors catching a glimpse of these beautiful animals.

In 2009, we had a den of foxes on the edge of the Camps and one of them still enjoys coming back to play. Within just a few feet of the lodge a myriad of ducks including; goldeneyes, mallards, mergansers, black ducks and loons can be seen swimming in the pond and eagles, falcons, hawks and a dizzying array of song birds dance in the morning and evening sky.

Red River Camps invites visitors to come and enjoy the finest the north Maine woods have to offer this season! So make sure to give Red River Camps a call (207-554-0420) or email (Jen@redrivercamps.com) and book your stay now! Don't let the adventure of a lifetime passes you by!

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**UPON ARRIVAL AT RED RIVER CAMPS, IF YOU MENTION YOUR SAW THIS REVIEW ONLINE BY THE RABIDOUTDOORSMAN, YOU WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A FREE RED RIVER T'SHIRT!

Reflector Oven Cooking with the "Sproul Baker"

I am regularly impressed by the quality of Maine based products found throughout the state. You certainly do not have to look very far to find skilled craftsmen plying their trade out of small shops, building superior pieces of handmade merchandise. These individuals have honed their skills over decades and are masters of their craft. Because of the huge number of craftsmen, around the state, creating truly exquisite pieces of what I would categorize as “art”, I am always on constant alert as to what could be the next new and interesting Maine made outdoor product.

Enter the innovative Maine company campfirecookware, located in the town of Bowdoinham, Maine. Here operating out of a small workshop, proprietor and master metalworker Chas Gill builds what can easily be described as simply the best campfire reflector oven on the market, the “Sproul Baker”.

 The "Sproul Baker" was originally designed and built by Harley Sproul from Lincoln, Maine. Harry was displeased with the quality and effectiveness of the reflectors ovens available on the open market and decided in the late 90's to build a reflector oven that worked properly. Harry’s initial idea for the “Sproul Baker” was based on historic sketches of reflector ovens used by woodsman, trappers and loggers in the 1800s, prior the modern cooking ovens. This original design was further improved upon by 7 years of research and development, fueled by a grant from Maine’s Institute of Technology.

THIS TREMENDOUS EFFORT IN PRODUCT DESIGN AND PRODUCTION RESULTED IN THE BEST REFLECTOR BAKING OVEN AVAILABLE TODAY.

Finally, in 2004 the “Sproul Baker” reached a point of perfection and the first ovens began being sold. After many years of success, Harley discontinued production and for a period of time it appeared that the infamous “Sproul Baker” might fade into oblivion. Thankfully, in the spring of 2011, after over a year of communications, Harry came to an agreement with current owner Chas Gill who took over the business in the fall of 2012, continuing the “Sproul Baker” legacy.

What makes the “Sproul Baker” so wildly successful is its elegant and simplistic design. Easy to assemble, collapse and store it is truly a marvel of engineering. Its tinned steel construction makes it lightweight (2 lbs 4 ozs), rugged and sturdy allowing a single unit to be enjoyed by generations of outdoorsmen.

THESE OVENS ARE INDIVIDUALLY HAND MADE FROM MAINE SOURCED PARTS AND ARE SUPERIOR TO ANY OTHER REFLECTOR OVEN AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET.

What makes this oven so amazing is the quality construction and the care and attention to detail that goes into the creation of each unit. All the forming and assembly of the oven is painstakingly completed by hand, over the course of approximately 2 hours. The oven boasts many critical features, lacking in the “competition”. These include a baking pan coated on the sides and bottom with high heat black paint, allowing complete heat absorption to maintain proper baking temperatures. Also, an innovative handle that remains cool (not requiring the use of hot mitts!) enough to allow the unit to be picked up and moved to facilitate proper baking results. Lastly, the shiny interior surface of the oven provides complete reflection of heat from the flames of a campfire, allowing the oven to absorb heat better, allowing the ability to bake anything just like at home.

FOR THE ULTIMATE CAMPING EXPERIENCE, MORE PEOPLE NEED TO EXPLORE THE REFLECTOR OVEN ALTERNATIVE!

Reflector ovens have been around since the Maine woodsmen and river drivers started cutting Maine's forest down, starting back in the early 19th century. Almost all meals were prepared in the outdoors and the only way they could prepare baked goods was with the reflector oven. No better method has since been invented and with the proper procedure the results are always excellent.

ENJOYING HOT BISCUITS COOKED IN A REFLECTOR OVEN IS A MAINE THING, ENJOYED BY A SELECT FEW.

Chas is well acquainted with reflector oven baking from his many years, spent working at the Wilderness Bound camp owned and operated by Pierce Pond camps. Every summer Chas would lead groups of 12-20 campers on treks around the Allagash and Katahdin areas. Chas knew well that the key to a fun and enjoyable trip is the quality of food. During these adventures, Chas would use his reflector oven to bake biscuits, cornbread, brownies, cake, and even fresh raspberry and blueberry pies for the ravenous campers. Chas is currently working on recipe book based on Harleys Sproul’s original Reflector Oven cookbook!

Need a few recipes to hold you over before Chas releases his new cook book? Why not try these two sure to please camping favorites!

Cheese-Garlic Biscuits
2 cups Bisquick baking mix
2/3-cup milk
1/2-cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted
1/4-teaspoon garlic powder
*Mix Bisquick, milk and cheese until a soft dough forms. Beat vigorously 30 seconds. Drop dough by spoonfuls onto a sheet of lightly greased aluminum foil cut to fit the shelf of your reflector oven. Bake 8-10 minutes or till golden brown. Mix margarine and garlic powder; brush over tops of warm biscuits.

Easy Cobbler 
3/4 cup melted butter
1-cup sugar
1-cup flour
2/3-cup milk
1 large can sliced fruit
*Pour butter in 8-inch square casserole. Combine sugar, flour and milk. Pour over butter. Add fruit. Bake until golden brown.

Please consider purchasing your very own SPROUL BAKER and make sure when you do to tell Chas  Gill that the Rabid Outdoorsman sent you! Thanks!

Maine's Hidden Gems

It certainly is no secret that Maine contains many hidden or secret “gems”, places so beautiful and pristine, that you might at first believe they could only exist in one’s imagination. The location of these amazing destinations is only whispered between local Mainah’s and NEVER revealed to those classified as tourists or “not from round heah”. To even breathe a suggestion, as to the whereabouts of these enchanted spots, could be enough to warrant a public flogging or at the very least, a horrific tongue lashing by the family elders.

Now being a pretty nice guy and one heck of a Maine guide, you might be under the impression that upon ample prodding and copious amounts of alcohol, I might be talked into openly sharing the particulars, of a couple of these extraordinary locations. Well, I’m here to tell you mistah that it just ain’t gonna happen! I haven’t yet given up great Grandma’s blue ribbon winning dill pickle recipe and I certainly ain’t tellin’ you about the remote corners of Down East, Maine.

Damn, now do you see what you have made me do!?! I done went and let the proverbial cat out of bag! Well, since it is highly likely that I will suffer a beating due to my indiscretion, I might just as well tell you the rest of the story! Truth be told, Maine contains many impressive wilds and waters that even the “natives” don’t know exist. By straying off the beaten path, locals and tourists alike will be treated to many truly unique and beautiful areas of our state that are rarely explored. The impressive Down East coast and the endless expanse of logging roads above the infamous Route 9, provide access to remote areas of the state still only bearing surveyed number designations, such as TWP 24 MD BPP.

Due to the geographically isolated nature of this area of the state, visitors will enjoy vast stretches of interrupted solitude. The large crowds of tourists that flock places along Rt. 1 south, typically never chance to drive to its beautiful Down East section. Down East Maine is the area of the state where I was born and raised. Even with a rabid love of the outdoors, this rural area of the state still contains many remote sections that even I have yet to fully explore. Simply stated, it is just too damn big. For the local and tourist alike, Down East contains something for every adventurer’s ability level, including hiking trails, remote campsites, ATVing and off road 4x4 opportunities.

Down East Maine’s Granite Coast: 

Great / Western Head Trail – Cutler – This trail is a bit tricky to find BUT for the person willing to put in a little extra effort, the views are truly impressive. This loop trail can be found in the town of Cutler. If traveling to Cutler from nearby Machias on Rt. 191, you will note a sharp bend in the road and immediately after a narrow road on the right that parallels the Little River. Follow this road to a tiny parking lot at the end. The Great /Western Head Trail roughly follows the tree line on the right hand side. After walking a short way down the small field, the rest of the trail becomes apparent.

Great Wass Island – Two trails begin together at the eastern edge of the parking lot, then diverge 100 yards into the woods. They may be difficult or even dangerous in bad weather -- especially in the frequent fogs. Please come well prepared for any kind of weather and be sure to wear sturdy shoes that will comfortably take you on a long hike through all kinds of terrain. Click HERE for more information!

ATV Riding in Washington County – Calais - Opened in 2010, the Downeast Sunrise Trail project has preserved 85 miles of the Calais Branch railroad corridor for future rail use, while additionally providing a wide, compact gravel-based trail for recreational opportunities. The scenic trail runs from Calais to Ellsworth, along the entire Downeast coastal area, connecting to multiple scenic conservation areas, intersecting the Downeast salmon rivers, and closely shadowing two state designated scenic highways. Click HERE for more information!

Wild Crows Motorcycle Tour  - Join me for an exciting motorcycle tour or Washington County!

The Wildlands: 

Lead Mountain - TWP 28 - Those interested in exploring this small 1,479 ft. monolith, the directions are relatively simple. Driving from Bangor toward Calais you will pass the Airline snack bar on your left and Rt. 193 shortly after on your right. Drive (approximately 1 mile) turn left onto the 3000 road at the Ranger Station. If you cross the bridge over the Narraguagus River, you will want to turn around. In about 150 yards, turn left . . . accidentally following the road straight will take you up the 3000 road into great partridge hunting territory but not to Lead Mt. Simply follow this dirt road to the end and you will see a small parking area.  Click HERE for more information.

Boulder Erratic - GPS Location: N 44 41.365 W068 18.748 - From Ellsworth, Maine take Route 179 North to the intersection of Route 200 heading toward Eastbrook. In a mile or so turn right onto Leona Wilbur Road. Turn right at the intersection and pull into the small parking area. The immensity of this boulder is truly awesome. Click HERE for more information.

Remote Camping at a Primitive Campsite - Wildlands- The most remote wilderness camping locations can be visited with the help of a Registered Maine Guide. From an island in a remote lake to a mountainside lookout, an expert guide can safely bring campers to remarkable places while sharing their knowledge of local history and geography.

Car Camping for Dummies

For some perverse reason, I find great joy in organizing trips. I make no excuses for this obvious dysfunction, having always been a planner, list maker, organizer and perhaps even possessing a squirt of anal-retentive behavior. Those of us, who are slaves to logistics, are sure to understand and appreciate my degree of dedication to pre-trip preparations and packing. Anyone who experiences joy, in organizing an expedition, trip or jaunt, understands the finer points of, “a place for everything and everything in its place”. No doubt, there are lost souls out there, who are much less organized and would think not of haphazardly throwing gear and children into a wooden paneled station wagon with reckless abandon. To this rabble, I do pray that they someday find the light.

Perhaps, I should have seen the warning signs earlier, as four vehicles would be required to transport the “required” gear, Grammie, Curmudgeon, Kids, Wife, Dog and two other outlaws approximately 150 miles to Salisbury State Park, Massachusetts. Like Hannibal preparing to cross the Alps or Scott’s expedition to the South Pole, thus was the logistical equivalent of getting the family organized for a long weekend of camping, fishing and beach activities. Awakening at 4:30 AM Friday, I began the arduous task of packing, repacking and then packing again. A full two hours later, my task was nearing completion and I retired to the kitchen for a well deserved cup of coffee.

Family and friends who have followed my climbing and mountaineering exploits, are sure to be chuckling at my predicament, for they know I would saw the handle off my toothbrush and cut the labels from my clothes to save carrying a few less ounces on my back. However, what you would be forgetting is that “car camping” is very different from “backpacking”. After decades of going “ultra-light” and being a minimalist, a perverse satisfaction is obtained when weight restrictions are nominal and luxury maximized. To stress this point, the family size L.L. Bean’s BIG Woods tent, that I barely managed to cram into the car trunk, is three rooms and must weigh close to 100 lbs.

I was talking to a friend of mine on the phone the other night and he boldly mentioned that by bringing all that “gear” I wasn’t really “camping”. To him “camping” was a time to rough it, improvise or make do with the basic component of survival. As I hung up the phone, I shook my head and vowed to invite him on my next high altitude climbing expedition, with his only allowance a toothbrush and one change of underwear. See if that takes the poor boy back to “basics”! The point that my good friend was missing was the ecstasy that can only be achieved by a healthy dose of over indulgence, extravagance and excess that comes with car camping.

For the uninitiated, who have yet to take an extended car camping weekend with the family, it may pay to heed a few basic thoughts and suggestions. First, if there is room in the vehicle and you think that there is even the slightest chance that an item may be needed, bring it. Secondly, watch “National Lampoons Vacation” at least three times before departing. Thirdly, bring an air freshener . . . four days in a tent with a wet dog and kids still in diapers . . . enough said. Lastly, enjoy your time with your family, in one of the most fantastic ways possible to get your kids out and experiencing the great outdoors!

P.S. Its my birthday today! As a birthday present, anyone who read "Car Camping for Dummies" and enjoyed it please drop a comment wishing me a happy birthday!