One of my all time favorite movies is Troop Beverly Hills starring Shelly Long. In the film, she makes camping utterly glamorous with her fabulous tents and fashionable safari ware. With the right sort of decorations, you too can turn your campsite into a lush playground like Phyllis Nefler did. Obviously you will need the basics, such as tents and sleeping bags, but also pack a beautiful Read more

In my opinion, camping trips should always involve a lot of alcoholic beverages. For the gourmet-like menu that you'll be enjoying over the weekend, lots of beer, wine, soda, and water (sparkling and still) will be necessary. To chill all of these beverages you will need several coolers with lots of ice so be sure to delegate. Have everyone bring a few 12 packs of beer and several bottles of Read more

Yesterday I started planning the menu to a camping weekend in Yosemite. Instead of supplying the food for all the meals, ask guests to contribute. Have one couple bring sandwich fixings for Saturday's lunch. Have another bring Sunday's breakfast in the form of bagels, cream cheese, muffins, and fruit. For Saturday's dinner wrap salmon in foil and bake over the grill. Potatoes and onion packets Read more

When planning a camping trip, select a menu before you leave the house and get as much as you can done in advance. For a weekend getaway, you should prep Friday & Saturday dinners and Saturday & Sunday breakfasts and lunches. For Friday afternoon's arrival at the campground, have a cooler of store bought snacks ready. Creamy cheeses, chips and dips, and sliced salami will tide guests over Read more

Although I'm no camper, I promised a friend I would help her plan a camping getaway for her boyfriend and a few other couples. They are going for the weekend, Friday afternoon to Sunday night, and I am organizing all the details before they leave. She called me up at the last minute and I threw together a quick invitation. To see how I made this invite in less than 15 minutes — evite couldn't Read more

If you haven't had the chance to get away for a weekend of camping, now is your chance. Most campgrounds require that you call ahead to reserve a campsite, so make your reservations now. Ask friends where they've camped to get recommendations. I love to get sites that are right on the water, so when you wake up in the morning you can take a quick dip. Planning ahead for your trip will ensure Read more