We are the Know Nothing Nomads
The idea is simple: everyone starts from nothing. From nothing, passion evolves into purpose, and that is where experience breeds expertise. Through this process the Know Nothing Nomads have developed an unmatched level of expertise in camping, hiking, and climbing. Our purpose is to share our expertise with our readers, just like you
Featured on
We believe a life outside is a life well lived
The fresh smell of pine trees, the pitter patter of rain on a tent, and the golden warmth of the summer sun
That is what we live for.
We are here to share our passion and knowledge of the outdoors with you through the lense of people that have been there before. We are here to tell you that these feelings you have of wanderlust and escapism are not impossible to satisfy.
In fact, it is quite easy; take one step, no matter how small, and the next steps will follow. Whether it is buying your first tent, finding a local hike, joining your local climbing gym, or just having a campfire at the park, any small action is an adventure in it itself.
So what are you going to do?
Discover Your Next Adventure
From packing to planning, get usable advice for enjoying the outdoors
Camping
Hiking
Climbing
Trails
Check Out Our Latest Blog Posts
Molley and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)
Molley is an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking, van life-ing, surfing, and skiing, and she's currently training for her first half-marathon! In 2017, Molley thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) with her boyfriend (now husband) Matt. She loves spending time outside, but she hadn't backpacked more than 40-ish miles…
Sustainability Certifications to Look For on Outdoor Gear
Explore sustainable outdoor gear shopping with our guide on eco-friendly certifications and green initiatives, helping you make responsible choices.
Fall Quotes You NEED in Your Life
As the canvas of nature is daintily brushed with hues of amber and maroon, a symphony of crisp leaves underfoot and the sweet, spicy wafts of pumpkin and cinnamon, the enchanting essence of fall quietly weaves into our souls. Welcome, dear readers, to a world where every leaf tells
The Ultimate Fall Bucket List for the Adventurous Soul
As the leaves turn bright shades of gold and red, embark on some new journeys that get you outside and moving in this beautiful season.
Michael & The TransAmerica Bike Route
In 2022, Michael rode his bicycle across the United States on the TransAmerica Trail. It took Michael 84 days to complete the route, which is approximately 4,200 miles and runs from Astoria, Oregon, to Yorktown, Virginia. Before this ride, he hadn’t been on a bike for more than 10
Alpine Adventures: Top 19 Camping Spots Near Aspen, Colorado
The crisp mountain air, the rustling of aspen leaves, and the gentle flow of pristine rivers – these are the sensory delights that have accompanied many of my camping trips near Aspen, Colorado. Over the years, my boots have treaded countless trails, and my tent has been pitched under
From Lakeside to Mountain Top: 13 Best Camping Near Telluride
Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, has been a frequent waypoint on my many camping adventures. From the echoing silence of the high-altitude passes to the gentle hum of the town’s bustling festivals, Telluride offers a unique blend of wilderness and culture. This is
Camping Near Crested Butte: A Camper’s Guide to the Best Spots
Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Crested Butte has been a cherished waypoint in our numerous camping adventures. From the rustling aspen groves of Kebler Pass to the serene banks of the Slate River, the region has consistently offered a blend of nature’s tranquility and the thrill
Tent Waterproof Rating Guide: Staying High and Dry
Water can be a camper’s best friend, but sometimes it’s our greatest adversary. Nothing dampens the spirit of an outdoor adventure quite like the unexpected seeping of moisture through your tent’s fabric during a heavy downpour. But, with today’s technological advancements, tents have been engineered to stand up to
What To Do If A Bear Is Outside Your Tent
The serenity of nature, the distant calls of birds, the whisper of trees, and then, the unmistakable rustling of something large just beyond your tent's thin walls. It's a scenario many campers fear: a bear right outside your tent. While camping offers an immersive experience in the wilderness, it also…
What Material Are Camping Chairs Made Of? Seat of Adventure
The simple camping chair: an emblem of relaxation amidst nature’s grandeur. Whether it’s perched beside a roaring campfire or nestled in a serene meadow, the humble camping chair offers solace to weary travelers and adventurers alike. But have you ever paused to consider what allows this foldable marvel to
Is It Safe To Sleep Outside Without A Tent?
The great outdoors beckons with its vast expanse, promising an unparalleled connection with nature. For some adventurers, this means forgoing the traditional shelter of a tent and opting instead to sleep directly under the canopy of stars. This raw, unfiltered experience allows for an intimacy with the wilderness that’s
Search our expert outdoor advice
Looking for a specific gear recommendation or your next favorite trail? Or do you want to know how hot a campfire really is?
Hi! We’re Derek and Ashley.
The founders of Know Nothing Nomads.
Over the last 30+ years, we‘ve been adventuring outside. From the early days when we visited National Parks with our families, all the way through to adulthood where we pursue this lifestyle as a married couple. We camp, hike, and climb as many days of the year as possible, and we love every second of it.
Spending our entire lives on a trail, in a tent, or camping in an RV has been the catalyst to our enormous amount of knowledge and experience we have in the outdoors.
And I know what you are thinking…. OK, that’s cool and all but why are you here?
Well, we saw a major problem with other outdoor adventure blogs. They could be classified into 2 major categories; AI written crap by people that could care less about this great planet we live on, or people that are experts, but they get way too technical into the nitty gritty details and it makes these hobbies and lifestyle seem unapproachable.
Know Nothing Nomads fits in between these two. Our purpose here is to share our expert knowledge and in an approachable and usable way, in hopes that you will feel inspired and empowered to pursue your dreams in the same way that we have. We strive to provide information that will make camping, hiking, and climbing feel safer and more enjoyable through giving you unbiased gear reviews, detailed trail and travel guides, and answering some of the most common questions in hiking, camping, and climbing.
Outdoor Gear Guides
Hike further, stay comfortable, and enjoy your adventure more
As they say, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. Faulty gear can quickly take your adventure from magical to miserable in a matter of seconds. Explore the best in gear here.
Tents
Camping Gear
Hiking Gear
Climbing Gear
Apparel
Camping
A cozy campfire, gooey s’mores, and sleeping under the stars
Find your own little corner of the forest in the mountains somewhere, set up camp, and go. Camping has been our go-to way to wake up in some of the most beautiful places in the world. When the sun comes up you are met with serene views, and all the outdoor adventure you can imagine. Explore these invaluable tips & tricks we’ve learned over the last few decades of sleeping in the wilderness.
What To Bring Camping: The Ultimate Checklist
Camping Clothes: What to Wear on Your Next Camping Trip
Benefits of Camping: Why Do People Like it Anyway?
How to Build The Warmest Campfire You've Ever Had
15 Common Camping Mistakes to Avoid
Hiking
Warm sunshine, a mountain breeze in the air, and soft trail under your feet
In essence, hiking is is really simple. A good pair of hiking shoes, a day-pack, some snacks, and a water bottle is all you need to have a great day on the trail. It isn’t even about climbing a mountain every day or hiking seven miles before lunch time. Hiking is about slowing down, enjoying the fresh air, and even getting in some good exercise. Prepare for breathtaking trails confidently with our expert hiking tips and in-depth reviews of hiking gear.
Day Hiking Essentials Checklist: What To Bring on a Hike
What to Eat Before a Hike (AND During & After!)
Planning a Hiking Trip: Tips for A Stress Free Adventure
How Much Water to Bring on a Hike
Foot Care for Hiking: Welcome to the No-Blister-Zone
Climbing
Chalked hands, the warmth of the rock, and feeling of success after the send
Climbing offers a gateway to unparalleled adventures, requiring nothing more than essential gear like chalk, ropes, and a spirit of perseverance. This sport is less about the altitude gained and more about the experiences and lessons along the way. It’s a celebration of nature, a test of physical and mental strength, and a path to inner peace. Delve into our expert climbing tips and in-depth gear reviews designed to elevate your climbing experiences, whether you’re bouldering, sport climbing, or tackling traditional routes.
20 Beginner Climbing Tips to Help Get You Started
Sport Climbing for Beginners: Everything You Need To Know
Indoor Climbing Gyms: A Beginner’s Guide
What is Bouldering? Here’s A Beginner’s Guide
Rock Climbing Gear for Beginners: What You Need & What You Don’t
What Our Readers Say
