– Boys Life Magazine

Editor’s note: Yosemite is operating under special restrictions right now. Find details from National Park Service.  Plan. Prepare. Adjust. Great. Only a couple of miles into a multiday trek, and it’s getting late and there’s already a water crossing. A wide one. Sure, it’s not that deep, and there are spotters ready to help. But…

Q: My troop is going on a hike, and there will be several ponds where I’d like to fish along the way. What pole should I take that can handle being carried around and that will fit in my pack? — Caden, Mount Pleasant, Utah A: If you want to something to put in your…

Even if you can’t travel to Africa or visit a world-famous zoo, you can still watch wild animals in action. Many zoos, aquariums and nature parks provide live web cameras with 24-hour video feeds so you can do your animal watching at home on your computer, tablet or smartphone. There are dozens of live animal…

Q: Is there a way to hang a hammock inside a tent? — Cory, Dallas Georgia A: Tent poles aren’t designed to safely hang a hammock, but you have a couple of options: Many manufacturers sell tarps designed to go over your hammock to shield you from rain and wind. You can find some for…

Can these explorers keep cool when their eyes play tricks on them and their headlamps go out? The group of Scouts and Venturers from Olney, Maryland, can’t believe their eyes. After making their way deep underground through a cave called Laurel Caverns, they had just seen a golf ball roll uphill. Was the lack of…

Hammock camping looks so fun, right? It can be a comfortable alternative to tent camping for backpacking and drive-in campgrounds. If you’re going to try it, do it right with these expert tips and picks for the best gear. PROS AND CONS OF HAMMOCK CAMPING For starters, understand the pros and cons of hammock camping.…

[embedded content] The heart knot is easy to tie, and you can use it to make a necklace, bracelet or keychain. It makes a great gift for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day or birthdays. WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE A HEART KNOT 3 feet of rope, paracord or leather lacing Tape measure Tape Scissors WHAT YOU’LL…