A. Hyatt Verrill

Connect to nature and live to tell the tale with this camping guide packed with practical knowledge from a time before ultralight backpacking gadgets, synthetic rainwear, and cell phones. The emphasis is on preparation and survival, starting with how to plan your trip, pick your companions, how to get to your campsite, and what gear, food, and clothes to bring along. You'll learn to choose a good campsite and set up your tarp or build a lean-to, and navigate on your backcountry trek. There's an extensive section on wilderness first aid, plus guides to backwoods housekeeping and cooking, blazing a trail, starting a fire without a match, sending smoke signals, and choosing the best axe. In the words of the author, "Camping calls for old clothes, lack of luxuries and conveniences, primitive life, and unfailing good temper and cheerfulness under all conditions, as well as plenty of hard work and a willingness to do one's share of anything and everything without being asked." If roughing it is more your style than glamping, this guide will spark your imagination and help you plan your next trip.