Ashley grew up in North Texas but spent her summers at a cabin in Ontario, Canada. It was rustic enough that there wasn’t much to do inside, so we went on adventure after adventure. Whether it was hiking, jumping off a waterfall, swimming in the Great Lakes, finding a cave, or rolling down some sand dunes, we were up for pretty much anything. Combine that with family vacations abroad and you have a young girl with a full heart.
Fast forward to high school, where my priority became sports, and then on to college where my studies captured my attention. After college, we took a family trip to Crested Butte during the summer and I immediately fell in love with the mountains. We vowed to move there one day, and a few years later we did it!

Since then, my focus has been hiking as much as possible during the summer months. Once the higher elevations turn from snow to dirt, my feet hit the ground hard. I hiked hundreds of miles while we lived in Breckenridge, Colorado, and now I continue my passion in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Our weekends are full of dirt trails, campfires, and maybe even a send or two at our local crag.
Ashley’s role in Know Nothing Nomads is to bring the content to life through easy-to-follow how-to’s, knowledgeable guides, honest product reviews, and anything else that helps you get outdoors. All this is based on her real-life experience and what she’s learned her entire life. When she’s not at the computer writing, you can find her exploring and adventuring with Derek.
Ashley’s Writings
-
How to Dry a Tent Fast: The Quick Dry Guide
Discover effective techniques for how to dry your tent fast after camping adventures. Follow these tips and ensure a dry and ready-to-store tent.
-
How to Clean a Tent After Camping
Discover the best techniques for effectively cleaning a tent and keeping it in pristine condition. Follow our guide on how to clean a tent today!
-
How to Clean a Hammock: A Guide for All Types of Hammocks
Discover effective techniques for how to clean a hammock and keep it fresh and inviting. Follow our guide for optimal hygiene and longevity.
-
How to Tie a Hammock Knot: Not Just Any Knot
Discover the art of tying a hammock knot with our step-by-step guide. Learn the essential techniques to secure your hammock for maximum comfort and safety.
-
How to Hang a Camping Hammock: Secure, Sway, Sleep
Learn how to hang a hammock with ease and create a perfect spot for relaxation and leisure. Follow these simple steps and enjoy ultimate comfort.
-
How to Sleep in a Hammock: Techniques for a Dreamy Rest
Learn how to sleep comfortably in a hammock with our expert tips and techniques in this comprehensive guide on how to sleep in a hammock.
-
How to Start a Fire Without a Lighter: 9 Ingenious Methods
Explore 10 ingenious ways on how to start a fire without a lighter. Learn survival skills using friction, solar power, electricity, and more.
-
How to Put Out a Campfire: Be a Responsible Camper
Learn how to put out a campfire safely and effectively. Our step-by-step guide will equip you with vital skills for responsible camping.
-
How Hot is a Campfire? Turning Up the Heat
A campfire, depending on its stage and other factors such as fuel type and air supply, can range from around 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius) during the ignition stage, to over 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit (1,100 degrees Celsius) when fully developed. However, most campfires used for cooking or warmth tend to be within a more…
-
Best Waterproof Socks For Hiking
Discover the top picks in our guide to the best waterproof socks for hiking. Stay dry, warm, and comfortable on any trail. Your adventure awaits!
-
Best Neoprene Socks for Hiking
If you’re looking for a pair of neoprene socks to take on your hiking adventures, the Boundary Socks by NRS are simply the best of the best. They are dry neoprene, meaning they keep water out as long as it’s lower than the knee high cuff. They’re a thick material designed to keep you warm,…
-
7 Best Compression Socks for Hiking: Hike More, Hurt Less
Explore top picks for the best compression socks for hiking. Enhance comfort, boost endurance, and prevent swelling on your next adventure!
-
8 Best Summer Hiking Socks: Sunny Trails, Happy Feet
Uncover the secret to selecting the best summer hiking socks with our comprehensive guide. Explore our top picks and all their features.
-
Carry Light, Dig Right: The TentLab’s Deuce #2 Review
The Deuce #2 is the best piece of equipment you could have for your camp bathroom because it’s affordable, lightweight, and extremely durable. You can dig cat holes in all kinds of terrain without worrying about it breaking or bending – and if it does, there’s a lifetime warranty. Shop now or read on to…
-
Hiking Alone: The Ultimate Guide to Solo Adventures
I’ve hiked countless miles alone as a female, and it can be a rewarding yet intimidating endeavor. It’s VERY possible to enjoy yourself and stay safe, so continue reading to learn more about making the best of your solo adventure! Welcome to the vast, invigorating world of solo hiking, where the journey is led by…
-
How Much Water to Bring on a Hike
Unsure about how much water to bring on a hike? Our guide simplifies the factors influencing your hydration needs for safe and enjoyable hiking.
-
Day Hiking Essentials Checklist: What To Bring on a Hike
Dive into our complete guide on day hiking essentials, helping you understand what to bring hiking for a safe and unforgettable adventure.
-
How Long Does it Take to Hike: Hiking Time Calculator
Here are some insights and tips on how long does it take to hike – be prepared for your next adventure by using our hiking time calculator.
-
11 Reasons Why You Should Join an All Women Hiking Group
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to join an all-female hiking group, know that it’s one of the best things you could do for yourself as a woman! There’s so many benefits and you’ll meet amazing people. Continue reading to learn more! In an era where connections, self-empowerment, and health consciousness have never been…
-
Why You Should Learn the History of the Trail
I challenge you to find a hiking trail with historical significance and research the history of it before hiking. It will make the hike even more fun!
-
How to Poop in the Woods: Answering the Call of Nature
Embrace nature responsibly with our practical guide on how to poop in the woods. Learn leave-no-trace ethics for an eco-friendly adventure.
-
How to Use Trekking Poles: Learn How to Walk the Walk
Master the art of hiking with our comprehensive guide on how to use trekking poles. Enhance stability, reduce joint strain, and hike smarter today.
-
How to Use Bear Spray: A Guide for Hikers and Campers
Knowing how to use bear spray is a requirement in bear country – we hope you will never encounter a bear but you should still know how to use it!
-
How to Find a Hiking Buddy: A Search for the Perfect Partner
Discover how to find a hiking buddy that matches your pace and preferences. Enhance your outdoor adventures with the perfect partner today.
-
How Safe is Camping in a Tent? Comprehensive Camping Safety Tips
Dive into our guide to answer ‘how safe is camping in a tent?’ Learn about wildlife, weather, and how to ensure a secure night under the stars.
-
Tent Security: 10 Steps For Keeping Your Tent Safe & Secure
Discover how to enhance your camping experience with our guide on tent security. Stay safe, protect your gear, and enjoy the great outdoors.
-
How to Lock a Tent To Keep You and Your Valuables Safe
Learn how to lock a tent securely with our full guide! Protect your belongings outdoors and ensure peace of mind. How to lock a tent made easy!
-
5 Tips for a Successful Group Hike
Hiking alone has its benefits, but so does hiking with others! Here are some things to consider when sharing the experience with other people.
-
Best Camping Fan for Cooler Summer Camping
Use our list of these camping fans to narrow it down to the best camping fan for you and your camping needs. Our Editor’s Choice is #1 for a reason!
-
Best Tent with AC Port for Air Conditioned Camping (2023)
Summer tent camping have you hot and sweaty? Check out our list of the best tent with AC port so you can use an air conditioning unit!
-
How to Air Condition a Tent on Summer Camping Trips
Learn the steps for how to air condition a tent in the most effective and easiest way – from picking the right tent to deciding which type of AC unit.
-
How to Keep a Tent Cool: A Guide for Summer Camping
Follow these steps for how to keep a tent cool and you’ll have countless comfortable nights while summer camping this season!
/