Category: Glamping

  • Camp Chef Deluxe Outdoor Camp Oven

    Camp Chef Deluxe Outdoor Camp Oven

    First Impressions and Setup

    I set the Camp Chef Deluxe Outdoor Camp Oven on the picnic table and smiled at its polished steel shell. It weighed about 32 pounds but felt solid when I lifted it with the padded side handles and slipped it into its carry bag. The bag made transport easy and protected the finish from scratches and dew at night.

    Ignition and Cooking Surface

    On that first morning, I clicked the oven’s ignition. A blue flame bloomed through the glass door in under a minute. It felt like watching a match strike inside a glass box. That quick start meant I wasn’t stuck fiddling with lighters. Every burner has a built-in igniter, one for the main oven and one for each of the two top burners.

    The stove top runs on two 9,000 BTU burners. They handle morning coffee, bacon in a cast-iron skillet, or a boiling pot easily. They do not match a high-end camp stove, but they work well alongside the oven. One user noted they feel “too wimpy for more than keeping things warm,” yet they still pulled their weight on routine campsite cooking.

    Oven Performance and Temperature Control

    The oven’s single 3,000 BTU burner powers the interior. Camp Chef and user tests show it can reach up to 400°F. I saw it hit that high on a calm, moderately cool morning. The internal size is 11 by 16 by 9 inches and will fit a standard 9×13 casserole pan with room to spare. That fits dinner casseroles, brownies, cornbread or biscuits. One test reached 350°F in about ten minutes and held it for hours with a one-pound propane bottle.

    The oven’s gauge adds comfort, though it reads a few degrees off at times. I learned to watch food, rotate pans halfway through, and adjust flame when needed. It taught me to stay by the oven, not wander off trusting its gauge. User reviews and tests match: the oven “heats up fairly quickly… can definitely do legitimate baking,” yet it calls for monitoring.

    Weather Conditions and Durability

    Weather plays a role. On some nights, after dinner, I stayed out to watch the fireflies in Western North Carolina flicker near the edge of camp. On windy mornings, I struggled to hit 400°F until I folded down the windscreen. Camp Chef built it to shield the burners, but winds over 10 mph still caused flickers. I kept the unit on the leeward side of my shelter and waited for gusts to die. That solved most of the issue.

    Inside, I baked cobblers, biscuits, brownies, and even reheated frozen pizza. The glass window glowed amber as dough rose. One fan cooked chicken, then cookies, in a single session. Another baked mini cobblers during full-time van life for eight years. A Reddit user summed it up:

    “It’s bulky, but we’re foodies and love the added options for cooking. We have had it for 6 years and use it 30 nights a year, so it’s pretty durable.”

    That durability shows in my own tests. The steel body shrugged off scratches, and the enamel-coated cook-top cleaned easily after spilled bacon grease. The carry bag had marks, but no rips. The igniters worked most times, though my oven’s igniter needed a few attempts on very cold starts, something a van-life blogger also noted after eight years of use.

    Rotation, Fuel Use, and Cooking Experience

    Baking rotation mattered most. The oven doesn’t use a dial thermostat. It has three settings: high, ignition hold, and low. You make fine adjustments with flame size and by opening the door briefly. I learned to peek at the gauge every ten minutes and lift the door briefly to tame overshoots.

    That approach paid off. I baked cornbread in 25 minutes, with a crisp top and moist center. I pulled casseroles at just the right moment. I never burned anything. That said, I stayed nearby the whole time. It did not allow a sit-and-forget attitude. That focus felt familiar after my recent solo backpacking trip in the mountains.

    I used small propane bottles on quick trips. If I planned several meals, I attached a 20-pound tank. A one-pound bottle will sustain 350°F for around seven hours, Camp Chef and tests agree. With a large tank, I cooked day and night, even watching Netflix under a tarp. I kept communication steady using Meshtastic devices to check in with other campers.

    That brought a change in how I cooked outdoors. No longer did I settle for cold beans or burnt sausages. I baked biscuits at sunrise, cinnamon rolls at lunch, leftovers by dinner. One of those mornings, I packed my bag for a quick loop to some wild blueberry trails in Western NC. I used the burners to fry then switched to bake to keep food warm. A YouTube reviewer praised it for readiness during power outages.

    Practical Limits and Tradeoffs

    Still, this oven shows its limits. It won’t bake large turkey or loaf-pan cakes reliably. Cold air seeps in at the door seam. Rotation and pan size matter. Rain or heavy wind slows the fire. It demands attention—but so does an outdoor camp meal.

    At thirty-two pounds, it is not a backpacker’s gear. But it rides well in a car, a van, or a trailer. Many users bring it to tailgates, cabins, or family campouts. They cook roasted potatoes, pizza rolls, wings and casseroles, meals that go beyond the standard skillet fare. One user swapped out Dutch ovens entirely.

    The oven comes with two adjustable racks. You can bake two small trays or stack pans at different levels. Handy for multitasking meals. You can lift the entire top grate to clean spills or grease safely.

    Camp Chef lists a suggested retail price of $329.99. Sales bring it under $300, even $150 at times. For what it delivers, that feels fair. The warranty lasts one year, and replacement parts are available.

    End Thoughts

    At the end of trips, I would carry the cooled oven into my garage and unpack it from its bag. The metal felt cooler under my hands after hot flames. I stored muffin tins and pizza stone inside until the next adventure.

    This oven reshaped how I cook outside. It blends stovetop and oven into one durable, car-camp-ready box. Like the routines that restore calm and balance on a long trip, it reminded me of the ideas in The Camping Effect. It calls for attention, but rewards with crust and crumb, warm meals and fewer cold nights. It does not replace a kitchen, nor a fine dining stove, but it brings enough comfort to feel like home.

    If your campsite allows a vehicle and you want more than burnt dogs, this oven answers the call. It weighs 32 pounds. It bakes full casseroles and cookies. It lasts through years of use. It asks for wind shields, pan rotation, and a sharp eye on temperature. That attention pays off. It returns meals we want to eat and moments I still remember.

  • Big Agnes Skyline UL Ultralight Backpacking Chair

    Big Agnes Skyline UL Ultralight Backpacking Chair

    Big Agnes Skyline UL Ultralight Backpacking Chair
    Big Agnes Skyline UL Ultralight Backpacking Aqua Chair

    As an ultralight backpacker, I want gear that’s light and dependable. The Big Agnes Skyline UL Chair (1 lb 11 oz trail weight) hits that balance. It packs down to about 17 inches long and slides into my pack without much fuss. At camp, setup is quick: the shock-corded, color-coded aluminum poles click into place fast. No plastic connectors here. Just metal joints that feel solid.

    Design Highlights

    • Shock-corded, color-coded frame: Each pole is pre-attached and matched, so setup is fast and even by touch.
    • All-metal joints: No plastic hubs means fewer failure points and better durability.
    • Self-leveling center pole: Keeps the chair stable on rocky or uneven ground.
    • Tough materials: Robic nylon ripstop with UTS waterproof coating. It holds up in wet grass and rain.
    • Pack size & weight: About 3.5″×3.5″×17″, weighing just under 2 lbs. Not the lightest out there, but still in the ultralight range.

    It sells for $150 and feels worth it. You get solid aluminum construction and quality fabric. It’s not a flimsy camp chair.

    Comfort in the Backcountry

    The Skyline UL is one of the most comfortable ultralight chairs I’ve tried. At 15 inches off the ground, it’s tied for tallest in its class. That height makes a difference: less strain on knees and easier to get in and out.

    The scoop-shaped seat cradles you without slouching. I can shift and stretch without feeling cramped. It stays stable thanks to its wide, splayed-leg base. Even when leaning forward or sitting on uneven ground, it doesn’t wobble. The back legs are slightly stepped out, adding to that locked-in feel.

    It supports up to 275 pounds. I’m around 170, and it feels solid. There are no creaks, no sinking. It’s a real chair, not a sling or stool.

    Durability in the Wild

    This chair can take a beating. I’ve scraped it against rocks, set it on wet dirt, and brushed it off after spills. No damage so far. The waterproof fabric dries quickly, and the metal frame feels tough.

    CleverHiker calls it a “durable, well-built choice” and I have to agree. I’ve used it on muddy campsites and rocky trails in Western NC, and it still looks new. No PFAS added to the coating, which is good news. For more on how water and weather affect trail gear, see our piece on Skinny Dip Falls.

    Real-World Use

    I tested the Skyline on solo trips in Pisgah National Forest and along the Art Loeb Trail. One July evening, I picked wild blueberries and sat under pine trees watching blue ghost fireflies. That 15-inch seat height made it easy to sit upright and see my stove. The deep seat let me lean back and enjoy the show without perching on cold ground.

    After long hikes, setting it up felt like a reward. It’s not instant but stretching the seat over the legs took effort the first few times. The stuff sack is snug, so folding it neatly is key. But it’s still faster than blowing up a pad.

    Compared to the Helinox Chair Zero, the Skyline is heavier but more stable and supportive. I knew I was carrying extra weight, but I didn’t mind. For longer camp sessions, the comfort wins.

    Final Thoughts

    The Big Agnes Skyline UL Chair works well for backpackers who want comfort without bulk. It’s solidly built with smart details: color-coded poles, metal joints, and a tall, supportive seat. At 15 inches off the ground and weighing 28 ounces, it’s not for every trip but it’s perfect for those where comfort matters.

    For trips in Western North Carolina, whether snacking on wild blueberries, watching blue ghost fireflies, backpacking solo, or hiking the Art Loeb Trail. The Skyline UL has earned its place in my pack. It adds real value to camp life without dragging me down the trail.

  • The Camping Lifestyle: Uncovering the Appeal of Outdoor Adventures

    Camping is a timeless outdoor activity that has captivated the hearts and minds of adventurers, nature lovers, and casual travelers alike. This fascinating exploration delves into the diverse aspects of camping, from its status as a sport and a hobby to its varying costs and the types of people who embrace it. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the intriguing world of camping and the essential principles that guide it.

    Is Camping a Sport or a Hobby?

    The definition of a sport often involves physical exertion, skill, and competition. Although camping does entail some degree of physical activity, it is not inherently competitive, making it more suitable to be classified as a hobby. Camping is a form of outdoor recreation that involves spending time in nature and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether setting up a tent, cooking over an open fire, or exploring the wilderness, camping offers a wide array of experiences catering to various interests and skill levels.

    The Costs of Camping: An Expensive Hobby?

    Camping can be as affordable or as expensive as one chooses to make it. The costs associated with camping vary depending on factors such as the type of camping, the gear used, and the location. For instance, backpacking or tent camping can be relatively inexpensive, especially if you own the necessary equipment or opt for budget-friendly options. However, luxury camping, also known as “glamping,” can be a more costly experience, as it often includes high-end amenities and accommodations, such as furnished tents or cabins.

    Is Camping a Physical Activity?

    Camping can indeed be considered a physical activity, as it often involves a range of outdoor pursuits that engage the body. From setting up tents and gathering firewood to hiking, canoeing, or even rock climbing, camping provides countless opportunities for physical exercise and adventure. The level of physical activity involved in camping largely depends on the individual and the type of camping experience they choose.

    The Two Types of Camping: A Closer Look

    Camping can be broadly categorized into two main types: traditional camping and glamping. Traditional camping typically involves spending the night in a tent or a simple shelter, cooking meals over a fire, and immersing oneself in nature. This type of camping can range from backpacking trips in remote wilderness areas to family outings at established campgrounds.

    On the other hand, glamping is a more luxurious form of camping that combines the comforts of a hotel with the natural beauty of the outdoors. Glamping accommodations can include upscale tents, yurts, treehouses, or cabins, often featuring amenities such as comfortable beds, electricity, and private bathrooms. This type of camping caters to those who seek a more comfortable and pampered outdoor experience.

    Who Goes Camping? A Diverse Array of Enthusiasts

    Camping attracts a diverse range of individuals, from seasoned outdoor enthusiasts to families seeking a weekend getaway or an extended vacation. People of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels can find enjoyment in camping, as it offers a wide variety of experiences and challenges that cater to different preferences and abilities. In recent years, camping has become increasingly popular among Americans, with surveys indicating that around 40% of the U.S. population has engaged in camping at some point.

    The Lingo of Camping: What Are Camping People Called?

    Campers, as they are often called, are people who partake in camping activities. This term encompasses a wide range of individuals, from those who venture into the backcountry and set up a minimalist bivouac shelter to families who enjoy the amenities of a fully equipped campground or those who embark on canoe camping expeditions. Regardless of their preferred camping style, these individuals share a love for the outdoors and the unique experiences that camping has to offer.

    The Number One Rule of Camping: A Guiding Principle

    The number one rule of camping is to be prepared. This essential principle emphasizes the importance of having the right gear, food, clothing, and knowledge to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience. Being prepared also involves being aware of the area in which you will be camping, understanding potential dangers, and adhering to the regulations and guidelines set forth by park authorities or land managers.

    In addition to being prepared, another crucial rule of camping is to leave no trace. This environmentally responsible approach promotes the conservation and preservation of natural spaces by minimizing the impact of human activities. Campers should strive to leave the environment in the same condition in which they found it, dispose of waste properly, respect wildlife, and avoid damaging natural features or resources.

    Closing

    Camping is a multifaceted outdoor activity that has captivated people for generations, offering a diverse range of experiences that cater to various interests, abilities, and budgets. As a hobby that promotes physical activity, connection with nature, and personal growth, camping continues to attract a diverse array of enthusiasts who share a love for the great outdoors.

    By adhering to the guiding principles of preparedness and environmental responsibility, campers can not only ensure their own safety and enjoyment but also contribute to the conservation of the natural world for future generations to appreciate and explore. So, whether you are a seasoned camper or a curious novice, embrace the wonders of camping and discover the countless rewards that await you in the great outdoors.