This issue is dedicated to Chris Holloway. We just returned from the MOORE Expo and cannot tell you how much fun we had We are also so grateful for the opportunity to run Camp Northology at MOORE Expo and contribute to making the event a success Hats off to you, Chris, for making this adventure season kick-off festival a top notch affair. From the amazing vendors, to the after-party, swap meet and all you do to bring this community together, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts See you at Big Iron Overland Rally!
Happy May Day! It is going to be a busy month around here for us Wisconsin Overland forest cleanups, the Cleanup Campout for KORC, a rip out to Idaho for Range to Ranch Retreat basecamp prep, and the Midwest Women’s Off-road Weekend. We hope you are going to be able to get out and enjoy the outdoors, too!
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
SHARE YOUR STORY
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
Advertisers- Get in touch to learn about our current promos and how a presence here can help you tell your story to this amazing community and grow your business info.northologyadventures@gmail.com
Readers submit photos from Camp Northology and The MOORE Expo
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 portapottyallowyoutostaydryinsideiftheweathertakesaturn!
Customize your new Terrain with our online quote builder at TCTeardrops.com
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R E A D E R ’ S
This is your chance to showcase your unique setup and be part of an inspiring 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
JOE YAMBOR
2017 TOYOTA SEQUOIA
HOMETOWN:
OCCUPATION
>DRIVETRAIN
>WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS VEHICLE?
>SUSPENSION
>OTHER MODS/ UPGRADES
Laingsburg, MI
Truck Driver
Stock Toyota 5.7L
Massive family buggy with the power to tow and Toyota reliability, and I couldn’t bring myself to mini van status
Front Fox 2 5 JBA UCA , Rear Dobinsons IMS and Dobinsons 2 5” lift springs , Method 305 with 37x12 5 Kenda Klevar RT , perry parts bumpstops
Coastal off-road bumper, X Bull Winch, Talons Garage skids, 80% off-road sliders, Caliraised light bar , Aux Beam pods , alpha Rex headlights with white / amber switch back LEDs , midland 50w with the big bull bar antenna Spare tire swing out.
>OVERLAND OUTFITTING
WHAT IS THE NEXT THING ON THE BUILD LIST?
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES OR HOBBIES?
WHAT DOES OVERLANDING OR REMOTE TRAVEL MEAN TO YOU?
Creating lasting and meaningful memories without being shackled to devices. Quality time with family and friends.
insta @yota disciple
wisconsin overland forest cleanup weekends
May 8,9,10 and May 16,17,18
We all love a good trail ride The fresh air, the challenge, the campfire laughs, the rigs lined up in a row. That’s the good stuff. What we live for
But here’s the hard truth: if we only show up for the fun, eventually, there won’t be any fun left to have.
Volunteer and stewardship opportunities are just as important if not more than the big campouts and convoy weekends. These are the moments that define who we are as a community They’re how we show land managers, local officials, and partner organizations that we’re not just users of public land we’re caretakers of it.
Unfortunately, too often, these volunteer events don’t get the same turnout Enthusiasm fades when the work gloves go on. But if we don’t show up when the trails need us when there’s brush to clear, trash to haul, roads to repair we’re saying loud and clear that our access isn’t worth protecting
Here’s the challenge: Bring the same passion to cleanup days as you bring to campouts.
Show up to stewardship events like you’d show up to a trail ride. Because it’s all part of the same lifestyle and one can’t exist without the other.
We can keep the trails open We can be a powerful voice for access and preservation. But only if we do the work.
Let’s be that kind of community
Help is needed in Langlade County to clear trees from the April 4 ice storm. Join the Wisconsin Overland facebook group and RSVP to give back to our trails! th
We will be helping a Wisconsin 4x4 club clear downed trees from the April 4 ice storm on county forest roads in a popular trail riding and camping area th Come for the day or the weekend, we need the help! We need chainsaw operators and 4-5 folks per operator to clear logs and brush for this mission.
Trees need to be cut back 4-6' from trail/road edge
Hot Dogs & brats provided at 6pm on Saturday 5/10 & 5/17 at the trailhead.
Camping on public and private land is available. There will be swag & prize drawings for participants Trail ride opportunities during the weekend dependent on work accomplished.
Businesses interested in donating prizes, food, gas, bar oil, gloves, funds, etc please contact Cindy
Watch for future opportunities to pitch in and give back from these organizationsQuestions? Contact us at info northologyadventures@gmail com
TRANSPORT TIPS: CHAINSWAWS
TRAIL RIDING IS UNPREDICTABLE- BE READY TO CLEAR WINTER STORM DAMAGE WITH A SAFELY STOWED SAW
Transporting Your Chainsaw
Use a Carrying Case: Protects the saw and prevents oil leaks.
Secure the Saw: Use straps or mounts to prevent movement during transit.
Avoid Passenger Compartments: Transport fuel and chainsaws outside the vehicle's cabin to prevent fume accumulation.
Storing Your Chainsaw
Drain Fuel for Long-Term Storage: Prevents gum formation in the carburetor.
Clean the Saw: Remove debris and oil to prevent corrosion.
Store in a Dry Place: Protects against rust and deterioration.
Maintenance Tips
Regularly Sharpen the Chain: Ensures efficient cutting and reduces wear.
Check Chain Tension: A properly tensioned chain improves safety and performance
Inspect for Wear and Damage: Regularly check the bar, chain, and sprocket for signs of wear By
In the wake of the recent ice storms that have devastated northern Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, overlanders and car campers are stepping up to assist in trail and forest cleanup efforts. Here is a guide with practical tips for transporting, storing, and maintaining your equipment during overlanding adventures and traveling. We have also listed a couple of chainsaw mounts we have seen on rigs in the past. Stay safe out there!
Kolpin Off-Road Vehicle Chainsaw Mount
RUSoftware Chainsaw mount
WolfRiver Lake Superior Menominee River Northern Lights
Indulge yourself in the adventure of a lifetime You’ll find the experiences you’ve been looking forintheLostRiver,LemhiandSawtoothRanges
SWENSON BUTTE RANCH
Set against the backdrop of the Lost River Range, our basecamp at Swenson Butte Ranch has amazing 360 degree mountain views and dark sky nights Our hosts, Hyndman Peak Beef & Cattle Co, is a first generation regenerativebased ranching operation specializing in grass fedandfinishedHighlandbeef
There are few experiences that can match the joy and energy of spending a few days in the mountainswithagroupoflike-mindedpeople
Our basecamp at Swenson Butte Ranch is just minutes from the charm and convenience of the townsofMackay,KetchumandSunValley
EDITOR’S NOTE: One of the new features of the 2025 MOORE Expo was the addition of the MDR- Midwest Discovery Routefour routes from four points on the compass to encourage attendees to take the scenic, backroads drive to the MOORE Expo. Sponsored by MidlandUSA, this fun rally is an amazing addition sure to evolve over the years and become a highly anticipated tradition. Do not miss out on this next year! See you on the trail!
FROM FOUR POINTS ON THE COMPASS, A NEW WAY TO RALLY TO THE MOORE EXPO
“For years Chris has done the SMORR 2 MOORE routes and has had so many people enjoying them, but sadly was just running out of roads between the two. He brought me along to help expand the routes to allow those that are coming in to the MOORE Expo have the opportunity to enjoy the midwest scenery. We were able to create 4 different routes coming in from 4 different cities with an average of about 300 miles. Anything from water crossings, old historic bridges, beautiful waterfalls, natural springs, and even a hand full of caves along each route. Taking a minimum of 2 days to complete them with multiple camping options around the halfway point. It's been a pleasure to be a part of this, and I look forward to being able to create more routes in the years to come.”
-Rally Master Ryan McCallister
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: BRANDON SPURLIN
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: CHRIS HOLLOWAY
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: RYAN
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: KATIE ABRAHAM
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: CHRIS HOLLOWAY
PHOTO: CHRIS HOLLOWAY
PHOTO: CHRIS HOLLOWAY
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
PHOTO: RYAN MCCALLISTER
Every forager looks forward to those days in spring when the temps and moisture has been juuuuust right to coax the mushrooms out of the duff and when carpets of ramps scent the woods with an onion-y goodness. Here are some tips to make your hunt for nature’s bounty a successful one, and links to recipes you should try at camp!
MushroomForagingTips
You would think mushroom foragers are protecting national secrets Ask them to take you with or tips on a good spot to find them and they look at you like you’ve asked them to hand over their paycheck Eyes narrow, nostrils flare and they change the subject lest you press them on the issue. And no wonder. The springtime morel hunt is a tradition unlike any other
Best Time: Late April through June for morels; other varieties like chanterelles, boletes, and hen-of-the-woods show up in late summer/fall
Where to Look:
Morels: Favor south-facing slopes early in the season, near dying or dead elms, ash, and poplars. Old apple orchards and recent burn sites are also hot spots
Chanterelles (summer): Mossy forest floors, especially around oaks and birches
Hen-of-the-Woods (fall): Around the base of mature oak trees.
Pro Tips:
After a warm rain, go the next day mushrooms love moisture and warmth.
Carry a mushroom ID book specific to your region
Never eat a mushroom unless you’re 100% sure what it is many edible species have toxic lookalikes
RampForagingTips
Best Time: Late April through early May
Where to Look: Moist, shady hardwood forests, often on north-facing slopes Look for rich soil with lots of leaf litter they grow in patches
Pro Tips:
Only take one leaf per plant, or better yet, harvest the leaves only and leave the bulbs to ensure regrowth.
If you do dig bulbs, take no more than 10% of a patch
Ramps smell of garlic/onion if it doesn’t, it’s not a ramp.
FiddleheadForagingTips
Best Time: Very early spring late April through early May, before the fronds unfurl
Where to Look: Damp, shady areas near streams and rivers. Focus on ostrich ferns (the only true edible fiddlehead in the Midwest).
How to ID Ostrich Fern Fiddleheads: Smooth, deep green stem.
U-shaped groove on the inside of the stem
Covered in a papery brown husk (not fuzzy).
Grow in tight clusters
Pro Tips:
Cut no more than 3 fiddleheads per plant
Clean and cook thoroughly raw fiddleheads can cause illness.
Blanch and freeze extras for year-round use
AsparagusForagingTips
Best Time: Mid-May to early June, depending on the weather Early warm springs can push it sooner.
Where to Look: Ditch the woods wild asparagus thrives in sunny, open areas, especially:
Ditches and fence lines along country roads
Abandoned farmsteads and pastures
Edges of fields and irrigation ditches
Old railroad rights-of-way
Look near old homesteads or where there may have been gardens decades ago it often naturalized from cultivated asparagus beds.
How to spot it
In spring: You’re looking for fresh green spears poking up from the soil, similar to store-bought but often thinner or slightly crooked.
In summer/fall: Learn to spot the fern-like mature plant 3–6 feet tall, feathery, and bright green. Mark the location and come back next spring!
Harvesting Tips
Cut or snap when stalks are 6–10 inches tall for best flavor
foragingLightly
Most of us respect and abide by Tread Lightly principles when camping and overlanding When foraging for spring edibles such as asparagus, ramps, fiddlehead ferns, and morel mushrooms in the Midwest, it is important to follow the "tread lightly" principles and laws to minimize the impact on the environment and ensure sustainability. Here are some examples of these principles and laws:
Don’t pull up the plant this damages the perennial root system.
Bring a small knife or just snap cleanly with your fingers
Return every few days to the same patch new spears keep popping up
Pro Tips:
Bring a cooler or damp towel to keep your harvest crisp. Look low and scan slowly asparagus blends in easily
Use Google Maps satellite view to scout sunny ditch lines and overgrown field edges from home
If you find one, there are likely more nearby asparagus spreads gradually
2
3
Obtain permission: Before foraging on private land, it is essential to obtain permission from the landowner Some state and federal lands may also have regulations regarding foraging, so it is important to check before gathering any wild edibles.
1. Harvest sustainably: When foraging, only take what you need and leave enough for future generations and other animals that rely on these plants for food and habitat Don't take the entire plant or all the fruiting bodies, as this can harm the plant's ability to reproduce and negatively impact the ecosystem.
Know what you're harvesting: It is important to properly identify the plants and mushrooms you are harvesting to avoid accidentally collecting poisonous species or damaging endangered or threatened plants
4.
Leave no trace: When foraging, take care to not damage the environment or leave behind any litter Leave the area as you found it and avoid trampling on plants or disturbing wildlife.
Morel and Fiddlehead Pasta with Ramp Butter Easy Campfire Asparagus
Sources:
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has a helpful guide on responsible foraging in the state, which includes information on regulations, identifying plants, and sustainable harvesting.
The Missouri Department of Conservation also provides guidelines for responsible foraging, including obtaining permission, proper identification, and leaving no trace
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension has a publication on harvesting wild edibles in the state, which includes information on sustainable practices and regulations.
Campfire Mushrooms
midwest Women’s Off-road weekend
Educational clinics and demos
Group trail rides
optional adventure activities
Fireside chats and discussions
Swag, tees and door prizes
Rustic camping included, cabins available for extra fee.
A GUIDE TO MAKING SENSE OF NATIONAL, STATE AND COUNTY FOREST ROADS AND TRAILS OPENING DATES
Is melt season over already, dang it?!!!! The anticipation for forest roads and trail openings is palpable, as outdoor enthusiasts eagerly await the opportunity to explore the scenic routes and the forests in general, it is
Please utilize the National, State and County Forest websites to check trail and road status, and make sure you know the difference between the types of trails (atv, hiking, horseback, forest roads,) as these and environmental conservation. Spring runoff, winter storm damage and signage updates can delay openings and dates are up to the discretion of local officials Responsible travel means learning these rules.
NATIONALFORESTS
There are numerous user groups and trail/route designations in the National Forest Service (NFS) properties. “Trails” can refer to snowmobile trails, atv/utv trails, horse riding trails, mountain bike trails, hiking trails and even water trails These are often referred to as “recreation trails,” and have different structure than a National Forest Road
The Motor Vehicle User Map (MVUM) classifications for motorized rec-reation are atv/utv, motorcycle and street legal, licensed, insured vehicle (that's us.) Some recreation maps refer to a "trail” but that is actually a Forest Service road and as such, subject to the MVUM rules and any opening & closure dates. “A road is a motor vehicle route over 50 inches in width, unless identified and managed as a trail (36 CFR 2121) A trail is a route 50 inches or less in width or a route over 50 inches wide that is identified and managed as a trail (36 CFR 212.1)” according to the USFS MVUM. Those
roads are often called “routes” to differentiate between road routes and trails Pay attention to your MVUM and watch the USFS website for alerts and closure orders While the forest roads are not all closed, there are still seasonal closures as not all of the roads open at the same time. Picking up a map from a ranger station is a must, or download Avenza to use the maps offline and track yourself in real time
STATEFORESTS
We have been asked, “where do I get the MVUM for the state forest?” Well, we hate to break it to you, but there is really no such a thing. This is unfortunate because most nav apps like Gaia GPS and OnX Offroad will import the MVUM data and you can use that layer with your other maps With state (and county) forests, you have to dig a bit deeper and do a little more work
The first step is to go to the individual state websites and look for their state forest unit
“WITH STATE (AND COUNTY) FORESTS, YOU HAVE TO DIG A BIT DEEPER AND DO A LITTLE MORE WORK.”
maps Michigan does a really good job with this, and differentiates between routes (shared roads) and trails meant for atv/utv only Minnesota has geoPDF maps of many of their trails that you can download to Avenza for real-time location tracking You will also want to check for closure orders and press releases pertaining to routes and units you want to explore. You can also learn the rules and regulations for vehicle use and other activities like dispersed camping, fire restrictions and more
Sometimes, a call to the local state forestry office is helpful and staff there can point you to map resources alert you to closures and and offer tips on places to go.
COUNTYFORESTS
This is our little secret, okay? Just between you and me... County forests are where it’s at if you are willing to put in the work Now you probably won’t find rock crawling on the scale of an off road park, and the amenities might be few and far between, but the solitude and natural, scenic beauty can be comparable to National and State forests The info for maps, roads and camping is not that hard to find, and if you are having trouble, you are much more likely to get someone on the phone that knows what they are talking about. Bonus is you will be talking to someone with hyper-local intel
Again, the roads, routes or trails may not open at the same time and it is crucial you get that info and have confidence it has come from an official source before heading out to explore and recreate
REMINDERS
Most trails will not be signed “open” or “closed,” you have to learn where to find this information on the USFS, state and county websites for off-road travel Additionally, reaching out to local ranger stations or state and county forest service offices can provide valuable insights and updates on trail conditions and accessibility. They often have the latest information on seasonal closures or maintenance work that might affect your adventure plans
Remember, while exploration is exciting, staying informed and prepared ensures that you can enjoy the beauty of our natural landscapes responsibly and sustainably.
“STAYING INFORMED AND PREPARED ENSURES THAT YOU CAN ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF OUR NATURAL LANDSCAPES RESPONSIBLY AND SUSTAINABLY.”
Another thing to think about- early damage to trails during the spring thaw can last all summer. Although it is perfectly legal to be on an open forest road, it may not be the best decision. Always proceed with caution and if you are experiencing excessive wheel spin or very soft trails, it may be wise to wait until things dry out a bit The cabin fever won't kill you. Will it?
T I T L E S P O N S O R
One look back...
DAKOTA-ADVENTURES
We asked The Northology Community group members to post their favorite rig, their campsite or some cool gear they bought at MOORE Expo. Feeling blue that the 2025 MOORE Expo is over, we hope these help you remember the fun that was had and the new friends made there. See you next year for MOORE Expo 2026!
ROB KROUPA
DENNY SIMPSON
DENNY SIMPSON
CINDY POPE
TODD MOWRER
COREY HOFFMAN
DAKO
CHAD MATHIS
DARREN PARKER
MATTHEW FAULS
PACE
ERIC STAHL
CINDY POPE
CINDY POPE
how to find dispersed camping spots adventure resource feature
Finding dispersed campsites is easy when you follow a few steps to get the information you need to confidently choose a suitable campsite.
Identify
Identify the national forest you want to camp in and search for it on Google Maps. Switch to satellite view to see the terrain and vegetation.
Look
Look for areas of the forest that are undeveloped, away from roads and trails, and near a water source.
Investigate
Use the USFS Motor Vehicle Use Map to identify roads that are open for vehicle traffic.
Search
Look for campsites or clearings along those roads using Google Maps.
Reference
Use apps like iOverlander and Boondocking to find reviews and photos of camping spots in the area.
Obey
Check local regulations and restrictions on dispersed camping in the national forest you plan to visit, and ensure you have the appropriate permits and equipment.
out the organizations that are promoting camping, travel and recreation ethics and fighting to keep our dispersed camping options open. Please visit these websites to learn more and lend your support.
C T O R Y
Thanks to the advertisers that support the Midwest overland and adventure travel community.
ADV EXPERIENCES
Northology Adventures
Rocktown Adventures
True North Outpost
COMMS & NAVIGATION
MidlandUSA
GaiaGPS
CAMPING/ GEAR
Dead Miners
Flat Peak Level Tent
Rocktown Adventures
TC Gear Shop
True North Outpost
CAMPING/LODGING
Boondock Inn
Callie’s Lake & Campground
The Field
River Forest Campground
Trails End Campground
EVENTS
Big Iron Overland Rally
Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat
MOORE Expo
Overland the Red
A D V D I
MEDIA
All Things Overlanding
Botches Offroad
Momentum Podcast
Overland Radio
SPECIALTY
All Roads Taken
Northwoods Overland Adventures
Radio Chatter Game
Redzone Wireless
SJ Michals Photography
TRAILERS/CAMPERS
TCTeardrops
VEHICLE MODS/OUTFITTING
All Dogs Offroad
Orbis Overlanding
New Holland Overland
Rugged
TRUKD
Bound Supply Co
Momentum Podcast
Podcast with MOORE Expo founder Chris Holloway, keeping you updated on all the 2024 expo developments & happenings
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.
CALENDAR
May 30-June 1- Midwest Women's Offroad Weekend Elton, Wisconsin
June 19-22
Range to Ranch Retreat Mackay, ID
August 1-3
Patreon Free Adventure Weekend White Lake, Wisconsin
