Stories for Camp Creators

CampMate Field Notes

Deep dives, gear guides, and smarter trip workflows—crafted by the CampMate team and the community who live for fresh air.

Fresh stories, every season.Built from real CampMate trips.

Explore topics

Choose a focus to filter the stories. Every article pairs with a CampMate workflow so you can implement the advice right away.

Flat lay of camping gear organized into categories on a picnic table: stove, headlamp, water bottles, layers, and a labeled checklist

Trip SetupGear & Packing

Pack With a List That Sticks: A Camping Packing List You Will Actually Use

A good camping packing list is not just a checklist. It is a system: clear categories, realistic quantities, and pack-as-you-go checkoffs that keep essentials from slipping through the cracks.

August 2, 20267 min read

CampMate Team

Read the full story →

Latest stories

4 articles

Compact camping stove set up on a tailgate next to a rooftop tent camp kitchen

Gear & PackingTrip Setup

Primus’ New Camping Stove for Rooftop Tent Trips: What It Means for Easy Camp Cooking

Rooftop tent camping is all about quick setup and simple routines. Here is how Primus’ latest stove concept fits that style, plus practical tips for building a compact, reliable cooking kit for car-based adventures.

August 2, 20266 min read

CampMate Team

Read the full story →

Sunrise over a quiet national park overlook with empty trail and distant mountains

Trip Setup

National Park Reservation Requirements Are Changing in 2026: What Campers Should Know

Many popular national parks are adjusting how reservations work in 2026. Here is a practical, camper-friendly guide to what may change, how to plan ahead, and how to keep your trip flexible without the stress.

August 2, 20266 min read

CampMate Team

Read the full story →

A tidy campsite planning flat lay with a map, notebook, compass, and camping gear on a wooden table

Trip Setup

Plan the Trip Before You Pack: Keep Every Camping Trip Organized in One Place

A simple system for tracking dates, destinations, and packing progress so nothing slips through the cracks, plus an easy way to keep all your trips organized at a glance.

August 1, 20266 min read

CampMate Team

Read the full story →

A scenic state park entrance sign beside a forest road with no people present

Trip SetupCampMate Stories

Buying a Park Pass With Vehicle Registration: A Simple Upgrade for More Weekend Escapes

Some states are seeing a noticeable boost in park pass sales after adding an easy add-on option during vehicle registration. Here is why it works, how to use it, and how to plan more spur-of-the-moment outdoor days with less hassle.

August 1, 20266 min read

CampMate Team

Read the full story →