Making Camp

A visual exploration and history of one of America's favorite pastimes.

Making Camp explores the history and evolution of camping from the late nineteenth century through present day, through the lens of its most important and familiar components: the campsite, the campfire, the picnic table, the map, the tent, the sleeping bag, water delivery, and trash collection.

Each chapter includes a broad range of visuals to help illustrate this story, including drawings, patents, diagrams, sketches, paintings, and historical photographs. Avid campers, nature lovers, and camping enthusiasts will want to read about our collective desire over generations to connect to the wild.