When it comes to the outdoors knowledge equals survival, it not only aids in acquiring skills needed to accomplish tasks, but also helps in maintaining and improving on everything we once learned and knew.  Camping is no different there are tons of different aspects and journeys one can take and by having the knowledge of the land plus the skills needed to conquer the conditions it really makes a difference in how you enjoy nature. My main teachers can be found not only on YouTube but also in the books I have read. I want to share with you the books that have taught me the skills needed to be confident and comfortable in the woods.

1. Bushcraft 101 A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival –  Dave Canterbury started a series of books with this one but of the ones I have read this is still my favorite. It goes through all the basic knowledge of not only camping but true primitive living. The pictures in this book help to imagine what needs to be done to make certain that you understand what he is talking about and how it helps in a woodland environment. I also enjoy the fact that Dave also has a YouTube Channel that you can find videos on everything he talks about in this book to better knowledge yourself and learn in different ways.
2. The Peterson Field Guides – I myself have the books about Edible Wild Plants, Medicinal Plants, and Herbs, and Eastern Trees.  These field guides are small and easy to bring with into the woods to help identify different plants and trees. Having a knowledge of what the earth can provide for you can help turn an emergency into a minor setback. The books are full of information to help identify and use each plant you come across.
3. SAS Survival Handbook For Any Climate In Any Situation – This book is FULL of information not only about camping but also survival. The information in this book can keep you alive and comfortable in most cases and I must say the amount of knowledge I have gained from this book is by far worth every penny. I feel everyone should own a copy of the SAS Survival Handbook just to be ready for whatever might come your way.
4. The Survival Handbook Essential Skills For Outdoor Adventure – When it comes to a good end table read this book fits the bill. There are a ton of big graphic pictures in this book that not only illustrate the knowledge being shared but it always goes over a wide variety of different topics to help spread your knowledge and keeps you wanting to learn more. I myself flip through the pages, find a picture that catches my eye and learn something new or something I might not have thought of before.  For everyone that is just starting in outdoor adventures, this is a good book that will keep your attention and help you learn.
5. Survive and Thrive a Pocket Guide To Wilderness Safety Skills – This is a children’s book all about camping and wildlife. This book has a lot of very basic camping knowledge and fun activities you can do while spending your days in the woods. It is a very fun book to read to kids and helps get ideas for different snacks and activities. Even though this book is aimed at a much younger reader there is still a lot of knowledge in this book and being so easy to read I find myself going through it as a refresher from time to time.

Knowledge is power, and by knowledging yourself you will be able to better perform different tasks and skill that not only make your time in the woods safer but also a ton more fun!

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