Our all-new TC Terrain camper is the culmination of our experience and expertise, combined with feedback from our customers. The Terrain offers a comfortable living space with a table and bench seating for four; convert that to a couch and table for two, or unfold the mattress completely into a queen size bed. The indoor galley and optional porta-potty allow you to stay dry inside if the weather takes a turn!
December arrived with a reminder that the Midwest doesn’t ease into winter so much as leap headfirst this year’s early snowstorm rolled across the region like a cold open to the season ahead In this issue, we take that energy and run with it. Inside you’ll find our holiday gift guide to help you make the most of the Cyber Monday deals still lingering around, along with stories and tips for winter wheeling, cold-weather camp setups, and campsite etiquette Settle in, warm up, and let’s welcome winter the way overlanders know best: with a spirit of preparation, adventure, and just a touch of stubborn joy
We hope you enjoy this edition, and as always, here is your reminder to help us continue the discussion of magazine topics or anything adventure-related in the Northology Adventures facebook group Feel free to share your thoughts on articles or to just give us some feedback or suggestions so we can continue to craft this publication in a meaningful way And let us know if you have a story to tell- we want to hear about adventures, activities, gear and adventure, outdoors & overland-related events you have attended
Email us at info northologyadventures@gmail com
See you on the trail!
-Cindy Pope
Creators- Drop us a line at or submit content on our website We love stories and photos of trips, events, gear reviews, destinations and outdoor activities.
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Winter car camping and overlanding kind of magic wrapped in a special kin quiet, the lakes freeze into glassy p vanish, leaving behind a world that fe honest. But as serene as a frosted pin winters command respect Storms rol brutally, and that same peaceful stillne if you’re not prepared
Safety starts long before the first snow winter-ready vehicle is your lifeline: g won’t snap in the cold, dry layers p them, and a backup heat plan that idling all night. Your sleeping setup sh and below, because the ground will sip Always keep a shovel, traction boards water And let someone know your rou northern woods likes to take the win frostbite, hypothermia, and getting stu are not theoretical risks they’re seaso who underestimate the cold
But winter overlanding isn’t just survival; it can be deeply rewarding once the essentials are dialed in. There’s a quiet joy in brewing coffee while breath clouds drift into the morning light, or in pulling up to a trailhead and finding the entire forest yours for the day
5 Water Management:
Insulate your water bottles to prevent freezing
Consider using a thermos for hot drinks
6 Emergency Supplies:
Pack a winter emergency kit, including a first aid kit, extra blankets, hand warmers, and a shovel
Carry a portable jump starter for your vehicle battery (cold can affect battery performance )
7 Know Your Route:
Plan your route in advance and inform someone about your travel plans.
Be aware of alternative routes and emergency services in
8.Practice Leave No Trace:
Follow Leave No Trace principles
Dispose of waste properly.
Avoid disturbing wildlife
9 Practice Setting Up Camp:
Familiarize yourself and practice setting up your campsite in winter conditions before your trip
10 Stay Informed:
Monitor local regulations and restrictions, especially in national parks and public lands
Keep an eye on weather updates during your trip
11 Travel with a Buddy:
Whenever possible, travel with a companion Share responsibilities and tasks, especially in setting up camp and dealing with emergencies
Safety is the top priority, so use your judgment and be prepared for unexpected challenges that winter camping may bring. Maybe the best tip is to have a backup plan and a safe place to bail out to if your winter camping experience goes sideways
This is your chance to showcase your unique setup and be part of an inspir-ing community of enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate hobbyist, we want to see what makes your rig stand out Fill out the form and share your story, your modifications, and the creativity that drives you By participating, you'll not only gain exposure but also connect with others who share your interests and passions. We can't wait to see the amazing rigs you have in store for us, so be sure to fill out the form and let your setup shine!
Reader’s Rig Profile Form
>HOMETOWN:
>OCCUPATION
>SOCIAL MEDIA
>DRIVETRAIN
>SUSPENSION
>OTHER MODS/ UPGRADES
OVERLAND OUTFITTING
Grand Haven, MI
Controls Engineer
@Mi yotaoverland, @wing it overland
Factory 5 7 engine and transmission sending power to 5.29 gears and with Eaton E-lockers front and rear.
Bilstein 8112 DSA+ up front and 8100 bypass in the rear accompanied by custom Alcan leaf springs All tucked behind 37x12 5R17 Falken WildPeak A/T4W on Method 703 wheels.
CBI front and rear bumpers, full RCI skid plates,
Ikamper skycamp 3 rtt mounted on a leightner bed rack that holds a homemade solar generator. Engine bay mounted switch pros RCR-Force 12 for electrical control of baja designs lights, lockers, midland radio, Garmin Tread XL Overland GPS, and ARB dual compressor
>WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS VEHICLE?
>WHAT IS THE NEXT THING ON THE BUILD LIST?
>WHAT OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES OR HOBBIES DO YOU ENJOY?
>WHAT DOES OVERLANDING OR REMOTE TRAVEL MEAN TO YOU?
>WHERE ARE YOU OFF TO NEXT?
Space to take a family of four and a large dog down unknow trails and reliabilty to make it back
Possibly swapping the rtt setup with an alu-cab modcap family or a atlas teton x
Camping, hunting, fishing
Getting off the busy paved roads and exploring areas untouched by the modernization of the world today
Friends trips to both Kentucky and Canada in 2026 Ultimate destination yet to be determined
Volunteers go the extra mile to remove trash from the National Forest during the government shutdown
BY CINDY POPE
Here, you can place a caption for the photo. It can be a short description or it can credit the production team.
Northology and Wisconsin Overland returned to the Nicolet National Forest in 2025 for another successful community cleanup and campout this time under challenging circumstances With the government shutdown preventing the Forest Service from joining in person, volunteers still had the agency’s full support, gratitude, and encouragement to complete the stewardship work They also had the support of Tread Lightly! and a grant from the BFGoodrich Outstanding Trails program to provide gloves, trash bags, and other supplies
Because federal staff could not participate, the community stepped up even further by coordinating the dumpster delivery and retrieval, targeting the site that needed attention and gathering the volunteers for the meetup Members pooled funds to rent the dumpster and sponsored the trail lunch, with Slap Bang Bagel once again providing a delicious lunch to keep everyone fueled Northology handled overall coordination and ensured volunteers had a basecamp at Bear Lake for the weekend
The morning started out with coffee, a drivers meeting, goody bags and door prizes (Edmund Fitzgerald trivia edition) before heading out to tackle the trash Eighteen volunteers showed up ready to work, contributing a combined 108 hours of hands-on cleanup effort (18 volunteers x 6 hours each) Unlike last year, the group stayed together as one unit, focusing all available energy on clearing a remote dump site they were unable to reach during the previous cleanup The extra coordination paid off, and the team was able to remove and fill a 25 yard dumpster’s worth of trash from deep within the forest near the headwaters of the Wolf River
Despite the barriers created by the shutdown, the 2025 cleanup went forward with determination, cooperation, and good spirits By the end of the day, the volunteers had successfully cleared the longneglected site, filled the rented dumpster, and left the forest measurably better than they found it “We’re out here because we love this place,” August Rich said while tossing another armload of debris into the dumpster "Without community action, abandoned dump sites like this would continue to grow, harming wildlife, water, and the outdoor experience for everyone," said Cindy Pope
The group camped at Bear Lake Campground from Friday through Sunday, compliments of the Forest Service, enjoying time around the fire, swapping stories, and reflecting on why these stewardship efforts matter The sense of pride and responsibility was shared across the group, echoing the values that make these annual cleanups possible
The effort stands as a testament to what local recreators can accomplish when they work together even without formal agency presence It also reflects the ongoing commitment of Northology, Wisconsin Overland, and their supporters to care for the public lands they use and enjoy Big thanks to Tread Lightly!, BFGoodrich, Laona Ranger station, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Wisconsin Overland, Slap Bang Bagel, The MOORE Expo, OnX Offroad, Midland, Radio Chatter and the volunteers and contributors who made this work day happen. See the Tread Lightly! Impact Report for more info.
“WE’RE OUT HERE BECAUSE WE LOVE THIS PLACE,” -AUGUST RICH
G H O S T C A M P I N G
By someone who would prefer to be left alone with a campfire and a steak and also with sincere apologies to Nick Offerman.
There are many fine American traditions worth preserving. Whittling. Eating breakfast meats. Sitting quietly near a lake while contemplating one’s own insignificance. Ghost camping, however, is not among them.
For the uninitiated, ghost camping is the dubious practice of placing gear at a campsite solely to hold it, with no intention of actually occupying it. This involves abandoning a tent, a few lawn chairs, or occasionally a full yard sale of belongings to stake your claim like some kind of backcountry homesteader who doesn’t understand or care how public land works.
The problem is simple. A campsite is meant to be used, not reserved by a scattered collection of sad, sun-bleached items that haven’t seen human companionship in days. Leaving your gear to “save” a spot is like parking your truck in someone’s driveway for a week and calling it stewardship It’s selfish, it’s lazy, and it suggests you probably believe cargo shorts count as formal wear
Public land belongs to everyone, not the person who invented the world’s worst scavenger hunt. Forest rangers are busy enough dealing with actual issues. They shouldn’t have to babysit abandoned equipment because someone decided to play pioneer landlord with a fifty-dollar tent and a cooler full of hopes.
Let me be clear: if you want a campsite, occupy the campsite. With your human body. Stay there, enjoy it, then leave no trace. Pack out your trash. Douse your fire. Replace any logs you borrowed from a beaver. Be a decent person. It’s not complicated.
Ghost camping causes real problems. It blocks access for people who drove hours with their kids, their dogs, and the last of their patience. It encourages territorial behavior in places where the only thing you should be territorial about is your bacon. It can even lead rangers to treat abandoned gear as trash, which is about as dignified an end as ghost-camping gear deserves.
If the site is popular and you’re worried about getting a spot, here’s a better strategy: show up early. Plan ahead. Develop the rugged patience of someone who can wait their turn without staking a claim like a gold rush prospector with heatstroke.
In the spirit of public-land courtesy, let us retire ghost camping to the long list of bad ideas, alongside carving your name into trees and feeding potato chips to wildlife We can do better The woods deserve better And frankly, so do the rest of us
Take the site when you’re ready to stay there. Leave it when you’re done. That’s the whole recipe. Simple, honest, and just like a good camp breakfast, best enjoyed without unnecessary nonsense.
Winter transforms Tahquamenon Falls State Park into one of the Upper Peninsula’s most serene and striking landscapes. When the crowds fade and snow settles deep into the hemlocks, the park takes on a quiet, enchanted character that’s entirely different from summer. The famous Upper Falls continues its relentless rush despite the cold, sending up plumes of mist that freeze to every nearby branch and railing. Downriver, the Lower Falls often freeze more dramatically, forming blue-white ice shelves and intricate crystal formations that seem to glow at dusk. In winter, the whole place feels like a cathedral of snow and moving water, and a photographer’s dream landscape to explore.
For campers, this season brings both solitude and simplicity. The year-round campground near the Lower Falls remains open even through the coldest months. Water hookups are typically off for the season, but electricity is often available, and the sites become a peaceful, wooded refuge dusted with snow. Amenities are scaled back —no summer conveniences, fewer open buildings, and more reliance on your own gear and planning—which is part of the appeal. It’s rustic, quiet, and exactly what many winter travelers seek. Those wanting a touch more comfort can stay in one of the heated camper cabins available through winter, offering a warm interior surrounded by deep snow and hushed forests.
The park is a hub for winter exploration. Snowshoeing and hiking along the short Upper Falls trails gives close-up views of the frozen spray and towering white pines. More adventurous visitors often trek the River Trail between the Upper and Lower Falls, an eight-mile round-trip wander through dense, snowy woods. Cross-country ski loops like the Giant Pines and Wilderness trails wind through old-growth stands where the snow muffles everything but the whisper of skis. Snowmobilers pass through when conditions allow, adding another way to experience the park’s winter beauty. For photographers and wildlife watchers, the low sun, quiet paths, and frosted vistas make this one of the most rewarding times of year to visit.
Winter demands preparation. Weather in the Upper Peninsula is serious, with fast-moving systems and deep cold common from December through March. Campers should arrive with plenty of water, extra warm layers, traction devices for icy stairs and platforms, backup food, and the expectation of more primitive conditions. Firewood isn’t guaranteed, cell service can be spotty, and access roads may be plowed later in the day after storms. Reserving a campsite or cabin in advance is wise, and checking weather and park advisories before heading into the backcountry is essential.
Yet the reward for this extra effort is a rare kind of winter peace. The frozen spray of the falls, the silence of the towering evergreens, and the feeling of having this iconic Michigan landscape nearly to yourself are hard to match. For travelers who appreciate overlanding, minimalist camping, or simply the slower rhythm of winter, Tahquamenon Falls becomes a place of reflection, adventure, and unexpected stillness. It’s the kind of winter experience that stays with you long after the snow begins to melt.
Learn more about winter camping at Tahquamenon Falls on the MI DNR website
As we roll into the season of gratitude and giving, I want to send a heartfelt Thanksgiving and Christmas wish to all of you who read, support, and share in the Northology Adventures community. This time of year has a way of reminding us what really matters: good people, good trails, and the quiet moments outdoors that reset the soul
Whether you ' re spending the holidays around a campfire, gathered with family, or planning next year ’ s adventures, I hope the days ahead bring rest, warmth, and that spark of anticipation for the journeys waiting in the new year. Thank you for being part of this wild, inspiring community that keeps the spirit of exploration alive.
Wishing you a peaceful Thanksgiving, a joyful Christmas, and a season filled with meaning, beauty, and the kind of memories that last long after the snow melts and the maps unfold again
-Chad & Cindy
About this guide-
Every effort was made to ensure that the information, product details, and pricing in this guide are accurate at the time of publication, but errors can slip through and prices may change without notice Some of the links included are affiliate links, which means Northology Adventures may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase at no additional cost to you These commissions help support the magazine, the events we host, and the community we ’ re building together.
A dependable gift for the off-road enthusiast, the Redridge Industries Recovery Ring is proudly Made in America and designed to deliver smooth, efficient winching performance without the weight or bulk of traditional hardware Precision-machined from durable aluminum and finished with a low-friction coating, it’s lightweight, strong, and perfect for full-size SUVs and trucks using synthetic winch lines Give the gift of confidence this season and enjoy 10% off sitewide with NorthGifts10, 11/26–12/10
Thank you, Redridge Industries for your support of Northology Adventures events in 2025 This community and our outreach is grateful for the care you have for the adventure enthusiasts in the Midwest and beyond
What better way to kick off the new year than with a schedule packed with adventure that includes the best overlanding and offroad show in existence? A great stocking stuffer that is sure to get your loved ones thinking about campfires and backroads Grab yours before 11/30 at this super early bird price and get a free subscription to The Dyrt app!
Thank you, MOORE Expo for partnering with us on our events, and for trusting us with your campers and the MOORE Momentum Magazine. We love being part of what makes the midwest adventure community thrive and grow and cannot wait to see what is in store for 2026!
From now until December 2nd, we're offering 10% off all bed racks and accessories! All our website prices are already marked down.
"This year, make every campsite feel like home with Flat Peak’s Roof Top Tent Leveling Mounts Give the perfect holiday gift for the overlander in your life. Slash setup time and have a level roof top tent in seconds, no matter where they park. Less hassle, more hot cocoa by the fire. Give the gift that lets them go off the beaten path and stay there, too! Use code Northology25 for $100.00 off your order!"
Need a little extra clearance between your shower awning and your vehicle? Our 90° Shower Swing Out is the solution! It mounts to any 2x standard awning brackets and swings your shower away from your rig. A gas strut helps it open smoothly, and a plunger pin locks it in for travel. With a fully boxed rear beam and a full-length 3/8" stainless hinge pin, it prevents sag and delivers unmatched strength
Features
Allows you to mount an SSC1 or C1R LED pod in any 2-inch or 2 5-inch trailer hitch receiver
Adds a powerful reverse light, 4th brake light, and additional running light
Simple 5-minute installation, with no need for custom wiring or routing wires
Optional SafetyStrobe brake light strobing
Designed and assembled in USA
Diode Dynamics lighting up to 30% off, good now through 12/2/2025
Shop our huge selection with Cyb Monday discounts on wheels, tir suspension, accessories and performan products.
Thank you, TrailBuilt Off-Road for your support of the Wisconsin 4x4 Fest and of road and overland enthusiasts everywher
Radio Chatter is a deck of playing cards with adventurethemed conversation starter prompts that spark trail talk and campfire stories. Designed for off-roaders, overlanders, families, and trail groups, it turns downtime into connection and makes every trip more memorable. A giftable, glove-box friendly essential for any rig. Visit www.RadioChatterGame.com. Also available as a mobile app on iOS and Android
KEWEENAW OVERLAND ADVENTURE RETREAT CYBER MONDAY TICKET SALE
Get ready! Lower 48 Outfitters is kicking off our annual Black Friday & Holiday Sale from November 21 through December 6! Shop site-wide savings of 10–40% on gear, ornaments, apparel, and essentials, plus select patches marked down up to 75% Whether you ’ re upgrading your outdoor apparel or grabbing gifts, now ’ s the time to score our best deals of the year Don’t forget: the last day for guaranteed Christmas shipping is December 12 After that, we ’ re off until the New Year!
d GXT67 PRO GMRS handheld 5-Watt two-way radio delivers an exceptional 5 ower while bringing a heavy-duty IP67 waterproof design, up to 4 days of and repeater capability, straight to your fingertips.
On the Northstaroverlandllc.com website use Code Tembo10 on checkout for 10% off all Tembo Tusk products or Flippin15 for 15% off all Tembo Tusk Wood Products.
Versatile cross body carry all bag carries all the essentials for travel and everyday use
Tydse 2 Pack Hand Warmer- perfect for the office, classroom, camping, hunting or any outdoor winter activities.
Lay under the stars, bundle up on the boat, wear it to the beach bonfire, take a nap in the back seat, or lounge around the house - the possibilities are endless
Portable Hanging Toiletry and Bath Organizer
WATER BOTTLE
Features designs of 63 U S National Parks, paired with waterproof stickers Each time you visit a park, add a sticker to your insulated bottle for a fun and interactive bucket list experience
ROCKDOVE MENS
CAMPGROUND
PUFFER SLIPPERS
Quilted puffer uppers wrap your feet in soft down like comfort while helping resist lint and pet hair so they stay looking neat and clean on chilly mornings and relaxing evenings around the house
If surviving the great outdoors isn’t challenging enough, here comes the best cringe-worthy collection of new outdoorthemed dad jokes designed to torture the whole family on your next adventure into the backcountry or the backyard!
DON'T DIE IN THE WOODS EMERGENCY PONCHO
Wearable Mylar Space Blanket For Hiking, Camping, First Aid, Survival
CRAFTSMAN CORDLESS 10 INCH MINI CHAINSAW
Handheld tree trimmer, wood cutter V20 battery and charger included. Compact and handy for small limbs and branches.
High lumen, USB-C rechargeable super bright LED work light with magnet, clip, bottle opener Great for dog walking, car repair, emergencies, camping, EDC RECHARGEABLE KEYCHAIN FLASHLIGHT
The best portable propane campfire boasting over 280,000 BTUs of radiant heat & a sub 1 minute setup time Load up your LavaBox Portable Campfire and bug out for fire ban compliant fun with all the nostalgia of a wood-burning fire (minus the smoke)
12v throw blanket with timer and auto-off
Sleep flat, camp fast, explore more.
The First and Only Roof Top Tent Leveling Mounts. The only way to level a roof tent without needing rocks, blocks or a shovel. Level your rooftop tent in 30 seconds. Lightweight, rustproof, and built to last. Fits all standard RTTs.
THE ROAD NORTH STARTS HERE
NORTHOLOGY ADVENTURES CONNECTS YOU TO THE PEOPLE, PLACES, AND TRAILS THAT MAKE EXPLORATION UNFORGETTABLE.
Born to be in the Great Outdoors, this custom enamel mug is a camper ’ s best sidekick LOGO CAMP CUP
Northology, KOAR, OTR, RRR & Edmund Fitzgerald 50 year commemoration wear. Fun stocking stuffers for the midwest-minded STICKERS & PATCHES
Four designs sure to please the outdoorsy book lovers on your list
Here’s a little something for the fourlegged trail companions who make every adventure better. You’ll find dog treats and gifts from the businesses who supported the KOAR-9 program at the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat—brands that showed up not just for the event, but for the w of the pups who are part overlanding family. Choosing g these supporters is a meanin to say thanks, give your dog so special, and keep investing community that helps KOAR thr
Treats Healthy jerky, rawhide-free options ural, single-ingredient farms! Sourced From In The USA Certified des
Indoor & Outdoor Dog Beds
Carolina Pet Is Committed To Providing High-Quality
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Our Pet First Aid Kits are hand curated by us and our good friend Christina Goodwin of GoGoGoodwins Teacher of the KOAR9 Dog Medical Class to encompass treatment of a wide variety of Pet medical emergencies. Taking knowledge from medical practice and wilderness first aid these kits provide a well rounded Pet first aid kit in a compact kit that is easily carried wherever you may need it. You never know when an emergency may happen but at least you'll be prepared for it with this kit.
Ruff Bars are a versatile product essential for active dogs. The perfect mid hike snack and a lightweight nutrition packed dog protein bar for sustained endurance while backpacking. Go the extra hours knowing your dog is performing at its highest level. For busy days, a convenient on-the-go meal replacement bar. Have a puppy? Get their nutrition started right by using Ruff Bars as the ideal training treat Our purpose-driven mission and unique products set our dog treats apart from all others. Our flagship product is an all-natural, wild jerky treat made from 100% wild roaming elk and deer of the Rockies. It’s cooked at low heat to preserve nutrients and packaged locally. Our wild jerky contains no fillers, grains, or artificial preservatives. The wild animals used are never farmraised or caged With over 99% of their genetic makeup shared with wolves, we ’ ve brought dog food back to what dogs were originally designed to eat
Giving the gift of adventure is a meaningful way to celebrate the holidays, offering memorable experiences like event tickets, ski passes, or guided trips instead of material items. These gifts create lasting stories and moments to look forward to, helping recipients reconnect with nature and their sense of capability. They also support local communities and organizations, ensuring the continuation of outdoor experiences. Choosing adventure gifts fosters exploration and lasting memories, providing a refreshing break from the commercialized holiday season.
True North Outpost Weekend Overland 4x4 Adventure- This trip is a great introduction into off-roading. From forest road to two track, experience our area in a way no one else can, off road.
Northology Adventures- Terminal Moraine Trek- Private trips to explore the glacial terrain and trails of northern Wisconsin, including the new OHMV trails in Langlade County. Secluded primitive camping, meal options available. For dates and to book your incredible weekend adventure, email info.northologyadventures@gmail.com
Nature’s Kennel Dog Sled Adventurescustomized dog sledding and lodging packages. Package includes continental breakfast, dog sledding, and lodging.
Day Tripper of Duluth - Night Sky Snowshoeing - a 2hr snowshoeing adventure to a pristine spot to enjoy the night sky. When conditions are right we may have the chance to see the Aurora Borealis (northern lights). We have created a special tour just for such occasions!
Rocktown Adventures - Paddlesports
Lesssons- no matter your current paddling experience. Learn how to safely and efficiently operate a Kayak, Canoe or Stand-Up Paddleboard.
True North Outpost - Premium Rafting Trip-
Private shuttle, your own raft, your own photographer and THREE awesome runs through class III and class IV whitewater with our Premium Trips. Let’s send it!
Dark Waters Fly Shop- Guided Fly Fishing Adventure- Beginner or Expert, young or old, groups up to 4 anglers "walk in wade" destination style multi day trips where meals, gear and lodging are included.
River Forest Campground- Tubing the Wolf River- we ' ve got chill tubing rides perfect for family floats and whitewater romps. And the best part? No car wrangling! We'll pick you up and drop you off right from the campground!
Leave No Trace Adventures - Discover the beauty of nature with our expert guided hikes designed for adventurers of all levels. At Leave No Trace Adventures, we believe that everyone should experience the wonders of the great outdoors.
Hoof It Goat Treks- The goat trek in Galena, IL is an experience you’ll cherish and remember. The trek explores the wooded property and prairies that have been in our family for four generations. The goats follow us along the way and enjoy hand-fed treats. Open year-round
Northology is growing, and we’re looking for a handful of people who truly love the adventure lifestyle to help represent the brand in an authentic way. Our ambassadors are the ones out exploring forest roads, camping with friends, sharing their stories, and showing newcomers what responsible, communityminded overlanding looks like. If that sounds like you, we’d love to talk
As an ambassador, you’ll help spread the word about our events, magazine, and stewardship efforts by simply doing what you already do: posting your trips, tagging Northology, sharing announcements, and encouraging others to get involved. We’re not asking for anything scripted or corporate. We want your real voice, your real adventures, and your genuine connection to this community.
In return, you’ll receive perks like early access to event tickets, merch discounts, occasional free gear, opportunities to join us at campouts and cleanups, and a direct line to contribute ideas that shape future events and projects. You’ll also get a personal discount code to share and credit for anyone you bring into the Northology ecosystem.
If you love the Northwoods, public-land stewardship, slow camping mornings, trail days, and the camaraderie of this community, you’d be a great fit. Fill out this form for consideration, thanks!
-Chad & Cindy
Join our membership community to stay in the loop and get insider access on all our happenings and events.
Early ticket access // Discounts // Exclusive merch & content // Behind-the-scenes // Free ADV weekend
SURFING - CANOEING PADDLE BOARDING
BY CINDY POPE
There are few places meant to offer more peace, privacy, and breathing room than a campsite. Whether you’re tucked into a back row of a formal campground or settled into a pine-framed pocket of dispersed land, the unwritten code is the same: treat others’ camps as small, temporary homesteads, complete with invisible fences of respect.
Unfortunately, not everyone reads the manual.
Recently, a well-meaning gentleman strolled straight through our campsite, around the back of our camper, and directly up to our door to generously offer leftover firewood. Our dogs reacted the way any selfrespecting camp dogs would when a stranger materializes next to the home-on-wheels: they sounded the alarm. We were surprised, startled, and then left wondering when basic boundaries became optional.
This wasn’t malice. It was simply a misunderstanding of one of the first unwritten rules of the outdoors: you never, ever approach someone’s campsite from behind or without announcing yourself.
People need a buffer out here. women. A female friend of ours recently a polite stranger ask if he could her. He meant well, but the request made her uncomfortable, because equation is different when you’re miles from town, with no locked streetlights between you and the Even kindness can feel threatening shows up too close in the woods.
Campsites operate by the same bank of empty urinals: if there’s spread out, do so. Parking yourself from someone who already staked little patch of quiet is less “fellow and more “Hey stranger, mind your solitude?” There is no situation this analogy fails. Respect personal matters everywhere, especially privacy is scarce and the world feels big.
1 Announce yourself early- Call out distance. A simple “Hello there!” allows people, and nervous systems to prepare the idea of another human being.
2 Approach from the front, never the camper’s back side is private space. it as the bedroom and bathroom home. Going back there without permission guaranteed to unsettle someone.
3 Stop short of entering the sitecampsites have a natural perimeter. awning, chairs, truck doors—these define living room. Stay just outside that bubble explicitly invited in.
4 Read the room- If the person steps you, waves you over, or opens their language, great. If they remain guarded, your distance and keep things brief.
5 Offer gifts without expecting contacttruly just want to give leftover firewood, it near the entrance of their site with note or a wave. It’s the wilderness equivalent of leaving cookies on a neighbor’s without barging inside.
6.Give solo campers extra space- They antisocial; they are cautious, and rightfully Respect their need for safety, privacy, distance without needing an explanation.
7 Never presume that proximity is Just because you’re friendly doesn’t someone else feels safe. Out here, senses are heightened, and “too close” faster than in a grocery store parking lot.
Good outdoor etiquette is not complicated. Announce yourself. Keep your distance. personal boundaries. Leave room camps. And never assume your intention someone else’s discomfort.
We share the woods. We share the trails. do not share each other’s camps unless The beauty of outdoor living is that everyone space to breathe deeply. The can do is not crowd that air.
If we follow these simple, unwritten everyone gets to enjoy the quiet, the safety, the comfort that camping is meant to humans and dogs included.
Thanks to the advertisers that support the Midwest overland and adventure travel community.
Northology Adventures
Dead Miners
Rocktown Adventures
Flat Peak Level Tent
True North Outpost
Inspired Overland
LavaBox
MidlandUSA
Rocktown Adventures
True North Outpost
GaiaGPS OnX Offroad
Big Iron Overland Rally
Momentum Podcast
Podcast with MOORE Expo founder Chris Holloway, keeping you updated on all the 2024 expo developments & happenings
Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat
MOORE Expo
Boondock Inn
Overland the Red
Callie’s Lake & Campground
Rendezvous in the Ozarks
The Field
River Forest Campground
Trails End Campground
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Redzone Wireless
All Things Overlanding
SJ Michals Photography
Botches Offroad
Momentum Podcast
Overland Radio
Mission Overland Trailers TCTeardrops
All Dogs Offroad
Orbis Overlanding
New Holland Overland
TraiBuilt Off-Road
TRUKD
Northwoods Overland Adventures
Building a community while we we adventure & overland in our 2020 Cement Gray Toyota Tacoma TRD off-road
Overland Radio
Podcast platform with all your favorite overland personalities.
Wisconsin Overland X Mas Tree Hunt
December 13
Chicago Auto Show, February 7-16
Southeast Overland Camping Event: March 27-29, 2026, at the Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in TN
MOORE Expo April 17-18 Expo Adventure - Appalachia: May 1-3, 2026
Backcountry Adventures Expo: May 1-2, 2026, at River Ranch Resort in Noel, MO
KORC Spring Cleanup TBA
CHITOWN OFFROAD TOYOTAS
JEEP'N SHAWNEE
KOAR COMMUNITY
MICHIGAN OVERLAND
MINNESOTA OVERLANDERS
NEWBIE OVERLANDERS
NORTHOLOGY COMMUNITY
WISCONSIN OVERLAND
ALL OVER OVERLAND
ALL THINGS OVERLANDING
BOTCHES OFFROAD PODCAST
MOORE MOMENTUM PODCAST
OFFROAD GARAGE PODCAST
OVERLAND RADIO
