Life After Loss: How to Get Through Grief

When you suffer the loss of a loved one, there is no formula for getting back on your feet, no one-size-fits-all strategy for healing a broken heart. That's because grief is a completely unique experience, which presents itself differently from person to person and from culture to culture. Some people cry their way through the devastation, others reflect in silence, and still others turn to celebration as a way to get through mourning. No wonder new research suggests that the often-touted “stages of grief” may be more of a general suggestion than a well-worn path towards healing.

What We All Feel After a Loss

Despite these differences in how we grieve, researchers have pinpointed one key feeling that commonly accompanies grief:

The sense of losing control.

“Typically when you grieve, you feel as if something really bad happened and now you have no real control of your life,” says Michael Norton, PhD, a professor at Harvard Business School who has studied how people handle death and loss. But, embracing a ritual can make you feel a bit more grounded and in control during tough times, says Norton, ultimately helping you heal.

The Power of Creating a Ritual

When Norton first began looking into rituals, he found they could enhance everyday experiences: One of his early studies showed that people who had a methodical process for coffee preparation enjoyed drinking it more than those who didn't. But it was the ubiquity of grieving rituals—what a person does when someone close dies or a relationship ends—that really stood out to him.

“We sent out a survey asking if people performed rituals when someone dies,” says Norton. “Among those who responded, very few people mentioned anything about funerals or going to temple or church. Those things happened, but almost all people who had rituals mentioned something that they did by themselves that was private and idiosyncratic.”

The rituals they catalogued took on many forms. One woman regularly washed the prized car of her deceased husband, repeating one of his weekly behaviors and saying that it helped her feel more connected to his memory. A man who lost his wife kept up some of the same errands they used to do together, which helped him keep her memory alive.

According to the results of the initial survey and subsequent studies, these rituals helped people experience grief without getting stuck in feelings of sadness or loss. They were able to regain a sense of control of their lives and emotions, which allowed them to reflect on the departed loved one without feeling as upset or confused about what happened.

Find a Ritual That Works for You

Of course, the above examples are deeply personal, not suggestions that work universally. “This doesn’t mean that everyone should go and wash their car,” says Norton. “If you are experiencing grief, find an activity or an event and try to honor the person through that.”

By engaging in a unique behavior that honors the person you lost, you will conjure up memories of their positive qualities and be better able to reflect positively on shared experiences.

The idea is to create a habit that helps create a sense of connection more than reinforcing the feeling of loss.

While Norton's research suggests that around 85% of rituals are done in private and alone, there are volunteer groups dedicated to helping the grieving establish connection. For example, Family Lives On, a nonprofit based in Pennsylvania, helps teens and children who've lost a parent create what they call “opportunities for intentional remembering.” Each year volunteers help recreate a treasured family tradition, building more positive memories.

What Not to Worry About After a Loss

If you're going through a tough time, don't worry about whether or not you are grieving “right” or how much longer it's going to last. Grief often takes more or less time than you might think, says Norton, and the way you experience it may look very different from what you see on TV or in movies. Although it may hurt and be scary, do let yourself feel: “One thing that most research shows pretty consistently is that suppressing emotions or pretending you’re not having them is not an effective strategy for dealing with grief,” says Norton.

So feel what you feel, and when you're ready, use ritual to channel that emotion into something more positive.

The New-Kitten Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Read this before bringing home that little bundle of fluff.

In the grand scheme of babies, kittens are fairly user-friendly. Unlike their canine and human counterparts, young cats have fairly respectable bathroom manners, don’t require expensive schooling, and rarely keep the neighbors up all night.

That said, it’s not quite as simple as setting up a litter box and buying a couple feather toys. “It’s important to understand that although adopting a kitten can be an incredibly rewarding experience, raising a kitten properly takes time and hard work,” says Adi Hovav, senior feline behavior counselor at the ASPCA.

Getting ready to welcome a bundle of feline fluff? Read on for Hovav’s top tips for kitten success.

1. Consider Twins

The only thing better than one kitten? Two kittens, naturally. Not only do shelters have plenty of kittens in need of good homes, but your pet would likely benefit from an around-the-clock playmate.

“We often recommend adopting kittens in pairs to keep them entertained, especially if you are away from home for long hours,” says Hovav. “If you frequently leave for long periods of time, such as to go to work, you may want to consider adopting an adult cat instead of a kitten, as full-grown felines have more established personalities and more manageable energy levels.”

One thing to keep in mind: Double the kittens means double the kitten bills. Before adopting any pet, be sure to budget for supplies and veterinary care.

2. Prepare Your Home

Ready to bring home your new pet? It’s important to have some basic supplies and gear on hand: specially formulated kitten food, a food dish and water bowl, interactive toys, a brush, a safety cat collar with an ID tag, a scratching post or scratching pad, a litter box and litter, a cat bed, and a travel carrier.

You’ll also want to kitten-proof your home—like human babies, kittens have a knack for turning common household items into hazards. Secure electrical cords, chemical cleaning supplies, and drawers, and make sure window screens are sturdy. Kittens are fascinated by toilet bowls, so keep the seat down at all times to prevent drowning or poisoning from harsh cleaners. Avoid vertical blinds and any other window treatments with long cords, as these can be strangulation hazards.

To keep your furniture safe from active kittens (and their claws), Hovav recommends placing upside-down vinyl carpet runners on cushions—cats don’t like the texture, and will learn to avoid these items. Double-sided tape can also be used to discourage scratching on popular places such as table legs and chair arms, but depending on the fabric or finish, this could cause damage of its own.  

3. Take It Slow

Some kittens will make themselves right at home, sprawling across the couch and demanding belly rubs from strangers. Others will need some time to adjust to their new surroundings and decompress from shelter life. Whatever the case, be prepared to move slowly and take cues from your kitten.

“Every pet has a unique personality and will settle in at their own pace,” says Hovav. “When bringing home a new pet, it’s a good idea to postpone inviting guests over until the pet is settled in and comfortable. Keep your new pet confined to a small, quiet room at first and gradually introduce them to the rest of the home.”

If you have other pets in the home, it’s especially important not to rush things. Hovav recommends keeping all animals separated for the first few days, allowing them to roam freely during shifts to get acquainted with each other’s scent and presence in the home. After a few days, allow supervised interactions while closely monitoring your kitten for any signs of stress. If you’re concerned about a face-to-face meeting, consider introducing pets on opposite sides of a baby gate. 

4. Get Ready to Play

As a kitten companion, you have three jobs: play, play, and more play. Although cats have reputations as being independent—some may even go as far as to say standoffish—in reality, kittens need as much interaction and quality playtime as a puppy.

“Kittens are very high in energy and are almost always in the mood to play,” says Hovav. “They need lots of interactive playtime with toys so they don’t end up using their nails or teeth on people. We ensure that adopters are aware of their new kitten’s rambunctious nature because if kittens don't get enough play time, they can be destructive.”
 

5. Visit Your Vet

Your newly adopted kitten should come home happy, healthy, and up-to-date on shots. Even so, it’s a good idea to have a veterinarian in mind and check-in to make sure your new pet is off to a good start.

“The timeline varies kitten to kitten; however, in most cases you should schedule a check-in with a veterinarian shortly after adoption to ensure your kitten is all-around healthy,” says Hovav.

Happy tails to you and your new kitten!

6 Healing Crystals That’ll Make You a Believer

The wellness craze has proven itself to be way more than another passing trend—even the term craze evokes something too fleeting—it’s a movement and for more and more people, a way of life. With that, some surprising things have been thrust into the mainstream. We’re looking at you: crystals. While we can all understand the power of yoga, the healing energy of a stone, though pleasing to look at, may be harder for some of us to wrap our heads around.

But like matcha and mindfulness, crystals have proven their staying power, and we’re curious to learn more. So, we asked Heather Askinosie, the co-author of Crystal Muse, which she describes as a recipe book where crystals are the main ingredient, to help us dip our toes in these alluring waters. Askinosie has been studying with healers all over the world for over 25 years and is now a leading influencer of crystals and other holistic practices in her own right. She believes that crystals are tools from the earth that can help us grow and expand. “They are meant for anyone who is open, willing and curious to venture onto the path of bringing more balance, happiness, love and/or harmony into life,” she says.

When used in rituals or simply carried or held, crystals can supposedly help summon certain things in one’s life. Askinoise says the best way to use or “connect with a crystal” is to hold it in your hands and breath. “By holding and seeing it, you are working with your crystal,” she explains. There is no specific amount of time or way to do it, but some people like to hold one while they meditate, carry a crystal around with them in their purse, or place one under their pillow.

To get started, think about what you want to achieve, then head to the crystal shop. “Finding the right stone is like any practice of wellness,” says Askinosie. “It requires patience while you quiet the mind. She suggests holding the stone in your hand and quietly thinking of your intention. Notice if you feel sensations such as hot or cold, pulsations, or calmness and tranquility—these are signs this rock is perfect for your healing needs.

This of course doesn’t mean you’re limited to just one, and it’s quite likely that once you get bitten by the crystal bug, you’ll soon have a collection—and if you’re not healed in the process, at least they’ll look gorgeous on your mantel. Ahead, Askinosie lays out six crystals that we could all use in our lives and explains the power that lies within each.

Selenite 

If you’re feeling like you need a detox or a reset, selenite is said to have the power to cleanse and purify. “The pure, high vibrational energy of selenite is like liquid light,” says Askinoise. “As it flows through your space, it brightens the energy of everyone and everything within it.” This milky stone will help shift your own energy into a higher space. According to Askinoise, raising your vibration in such a way, will also help keep feelings of grief, fear, anger and anxiety at bay.

Amethyst 

Amethyst is like a spa in a stone—it holds the kind of relaxing energy that we could all use after a long day. “It will not only help your body give into innate desires like sound sleep and relaxation, but it will also work with your third eye to balance the mind with insightful solutions to problems.” Anything that can help soothe stress and anxiety and ease us into sleep has our vote, plus it’s pretty gorgeous.

Clear Quartz 

Clear quartz is one of the most popular crystals, and is said to intensely resonate with the body. “It’s a universal healer and has the ability to manifest intentions unlike any other crystal,” says Askinoise. Not surprisingly, the clear stone is all about clarity. If you’re looking for answers (aren’t we all?), this one may call to you. “For those whose spirit needs illumination, clear quartz will bring clarity to the shadows within the mind.”  

Pyrite 

Often referred to as “Fool’s Gold,” pyrite may not have the monetary value of its doppelgänger, but it’s still a treasure. In addition to attracting wealth, abundance and good luck, it’s believed to hold a strong protective energy and can help you check in with yourself. “It’s reflective nature is more than just physical,” says Askinoise. “It has the ability to show you which behaviors are holding you back and can elevate your consciousness to be more aware of what you need to change.”

Rose Quartz

This stone is all about love. It will open up your heart to whatever kind of love you’re in need of—whether it’s self-love, familial love, friendship or romantic love. It can also help tame the toxic emotions that can accompany some of these types of love. “Rose quartz will send a flush of compassion, happiness, forgiveness and peace through you,” says Askinoise. “With this sense of release, your spirit can be free of petty negativity.”

Fluorite 

If you’re in one of those cycles where it feels like one thing bad keeps happening after another, this rainbow stone might be just what you need. Fluorite is an absorbent crystal that is said to neutralize all of the negativity around it. “Let fluorite guide you from a state of anxiety to one of tranquility by cleansing both your mind and environment,” says Askinoise. She suggests sleeping near it or meditating with it to ensure harmony between the mind, body and spirit.

How to Grow Tasty Tomatoes

You’ll know why it’s worth growing your own tomatoes after one juicy bite. Unlike produce shipped by truck, homegrown fruits can ripen on the vine for the best flavor. And you can’t beat the convenience of having them on hand all season long. These tips will help even novice gardeners have a successful tomato crop this season.

It’s time to plant!

In the Midwest, May is the generally right time to plant tomato seedlings, when frost is no longer a risk—you can look up your first and last freeze dates on sites such as this one. 

Prepare a sunny garden bed for the plants that will receive a minimum of six hours of sunlight a day; all-day sunlight is better.

When planting a seedling, cover the stem with soil as high as the first set of leaves. This encourages root production, and more roots mean more yield.

You can grow tomatoes successfully either in a garden bed or generously-sized pots. And don’t forget to tie the plants onto a tall stake or wire cage as soon as the seedling is planted, to avoid damaging the roots later.

Choose the right number of plants

How many tomato plants should you buy? More isn’t necessarily better. It’s easy to go overboard with too many plants, which can quickly become crowded and encourage the spread of disease. The University of Missouri Extension suggests three to five plants per person in the family.

Savvy gardeners plant multiple tomato types, ensuring a harvest of varied sizes, shapes and colors. Heirloom tomatoes in particular are known for their variegated appearance that lends novelty to the harvest.

Keep your crop healthy

To decrease the likelihood of disease and insect problems, rotate the location of your tomato crop each year, and don't plant where a member of the nightshade family—peppers, tomatoes, eggplant and potatoes—was grown last year, says the University of Michigan Extension. Also avoid planting near the shade of any tree, but especially a black walnut tree, whose roots can kill tomato roots.

Compost and organic fertilizer will enrich your soil, and crushed eggshells offer a dose of calcium which encourages healthy tomato production.

If it doesn’t rain at least once a week, the Ohio State University Extension says to water with drip irrigation or a hose placed on the soil. Leaf diseases can occur from water splashing on the plant, so the water should ideally not come from a sprinkler system. If your crops do not make it despite your best efforts, don’t despair. By July and August, farmers markets will be awash in locally-grown, vine-ripened tomatoes.

Enjoy the tomato season

By early summer, your tomato garden should start producing. Now you can start using your homegrown tomatoes and sharing them with friends and neighbors. Keep up with picking the fruit as it ripens to encourage plants to continue the production of tomatoes.

Should You Use a Knife or a Spoon to Serve Pimiento Cheese?

Let the battle of the utensils commence. 

Pimiento cheese: There are infinite variations of this Southern spread, and some, admittedly, are more delicious than others. The options are endless when it comes to combining cheeses, mayo, pimientos, and add-ins, and the opinions about those combinations don’t end once the cheese has been plated. Should you serve pimiento cheese with a knife or a spoon?

Divisive, we know. Knives and spoons are two very different utensils that employ two very different spreading strategies. Choose the knife, and your guests will crave a concave surface with which to scoop. Choose the spoon, and they’ll long for a flat-edged spreading knife, the only implement that can guarantee all the cheese will spread evenly across the surface of the cracker. It’s the choice that launched a thousand heated conversations, and the two opinions can be summarized thusly:

The Case for the Knife

Those who prefer this utensil tout the knife’s flat surface and useful edges, characteristics that make it optimal for manipulating pimiento cheese onto a surface, i.e.: spreading it onto a cracker or toast. In fact, there are knives marketed for just this purpose, and they're called spreading knives, or spreaders. A serrated knife-edge allows for easier separation, which is ideal if the pimiento spread happens to be of a denser offering.

The Case for the Spoon

The tricky part of serving pimiento cheese arises when moving the spread from its plated mound and depositing it onto another vehicle. That’s where scooping comes in, and the act of scooping is, famously, a job for the spoon. Spoons can both scoop the cheese and spread the cheese, thanks to their two opposing surfaces, one concave and the other convex. Using the concave surface (and its curved edge) to slice into and scoop the cheese and then the convex one to spread the cheese is an efficient use of the utensil and ensures that the scoop doesn’t end up on the carpet instead of your appetizer plate.

The Decision

While there are arguments for and against both utensils, if you can only choose one, it should, of course, be the spoon. That’s because you can both scoop and spread with it, and we appreciate few things more than efficiency. However, if you do want to cater to all scooping preferences (and there are some strong opinions in favor of the knife), might we suggest offering both a spoon and a spreading knife alongside your appetizer spread?

No matter which way you scoop it, though, you need a good pimiento cheese recipe up your sleeve. Here are a few of our best-loved versions: Basic Pimiento Cheese, Goat Cheese and Gouda Pimiento Cheese, Chipotle Pimiento Cheese, and Prosciutto-Asiago Pimiento Cheese. And, for even more pimiento-cheese-scooping ideas (including using a stainless steel ice cream scoop) check out our article The Best Way To Scoop Pimiento Cheese Might Surprise You. Also, take your spread skills up a few notches with What's the Real Secret Behind the Best Pimiento Cheese?

How to Care for Your Cat While Traveling

Cats are a finicky bunch. For many, the mere sight of a carrier or leash can inspire fits of panic. Cars and any other motorized vehicles are also decidedly evil, causing cats to behave as if you were sending them into the fiery pits of hell. Luckily, there are steps you can take to make caring for your cat while traveling a breeze. Well, a breeze might be a bit of a stretch. But you can at least minimize your feline's fear and make your own journey a bit less troublesome.

For a successful trip with your cat, let this be your motto: preparation, preparation, preparation. You'll need a carrier or cage for the journey, and some cats might do well with a mildly sedating medication from your veterinarian. Plan to visit your vet a few weeks before your trip to do a check-up and to stock up on whatever supplies and medication you might need.

A carrier is essential for transporting your cat. Get one in which to bring your new cat home; the earlier he starts using one, the sooner he'll accept it easily. Put the carrier in an area where the cat normally sleeps, and line the bottom with bedding that carries his scent. He may investigate the carrier on his own or you may be able to lure him inside with a favorite toy or a treat. Whenever the cat enters, give him verbal praise and a food reward; then, start to do the same with the door closed.

When the time comes to actually use the carrier, your cat may still be hesitant or unaccustomed to it, or simply may not like being coerced into it. If you try to nudge the cat in headfirst, he will probably straddle the door opening with all four paws, sending the carrier off on a slide across the floor. The best approach is to pick your cat up gently and distract him by repeating his name in a soothing voice. With the carrier against a wall to keep it from moving, back toward it and slowly put the cat in tail end first. Close the door quickly so the cat doesn't dart out, and then offer a treat and a few soothing words.

Another option is to place the carrier end-up and swoop your cat in back-feet-first, before he has a chance to realize what's going on.

A panicky, struggling cat or one that turns aggressive during this exercise may need to be wrapped in a towel or put in a pillowcase for restraint until you can get him securely inside.

If you plan to fly with your cat, be sure to contact the airline about its pet policies. Some allow animals in the main cabin, while others require that pets be placed in the luggage compartment, which could be unsafe or uncomfortable. Keep in mind that for airlines that allow cats in the main cabin, they are usually required to be in a carrier placed under the seat in front of you during the flight. Your cat may not be happy about his cramped conditions, but this is the safest place for him on a plane.

Before you place your cat in his carrier, attach his collar, leash and harness. You don't want to risk losing him during a struggle to attach these items at the airport or a highway rest stop. Assuming your cat is leashed-trained, he will appreciate a quick stroll during a layover or driving break.

There is nothing worse for a pet owner than losing your animal in a strange place. Before you travel, be sure your cat has I.D. tags with information on how to reach you while you are away. If you are flying or crossing an international border, you should also put a copy of your cat's health records and your contact information inside his carrier.

Cats get very attached to their surroundings. Add the fact that most car trips result in humiliating (and sometimes painful) sessions at the vet, complete with pokes, prods and injections, and it's no wonder your cat disappears at the sound of his carrier being brought out. While many dogs like nothing better than to accompany their masters on car outings, travel with a cat can be difficult. Even if your cat is a decided homebody, there are ways you can help him cope a little better.

Cats tolerate carriers and the travel implied by them much more easily if they have been acclimatized at a young age. If you take your cat for frequent short drives to the store, to visit friends or even just for the occasional spin around the block, then he won't be as likely to associate travel with unpleasantness, such as those traumatic visits to the vet. If your cat is trained to a harness and leash, take him on car rides to check out nature a bit farther away than your backyard. When your cat becomes accustomed to these trips, you can begin to try longer ones.

Few cats appreciate changes to their routine, and food is no exception. Rather than introduce a new food while traveling, bring your cat's food from home. If space is an issue, at least bring enough for a day or two until you can introduce a new food while your cat is relatively calm (i.e., not at 30,000 feet). For your cat, traveling may be challenging enough without having to deal with a dietary disaster.

10 Outdoor Lighting Ideas

Candles, hanging lanterns, chandeliers, and string lights add magic to evenings outside.

Candlelit Glow

• Get the glow: Campania birdbath available from Potted ($89; 323/665-3801)

Float tea candles in a water-filled birdbath to create a mini firepit. On windy days, set tea lights in clear glass votive holders in a dry birdbath so they won’t wobble.

Electric Wreath

Illuminate your garden with a globe-light Christmas wreath. To give some of the bulbs a frosty look, as pictured, apply frosted-glass spray before you begin. Then tightly group a strand of lights to cover a section of a wire wreath frame, attaching the strands with zip ties on the back side. Add as many strands as you need to cover the wreath form; we used three strands of 25-count lights to cover a 12-inch frame. Plug your wreath into an extension cord. Lights: $12 strand; target.com. Ashland wire wreath frame: $3; michaels.com. Frosted-glass spray: $5; onlinefabricstore.net.

Outdoor Chandelier Made of Branches

If your gardening to-do list includes pruning deciduous shrubs and trees, recycling some of the clippings to make a twinkling natural chandelier.

Light Box

String light strands along the roof perimeter of an outdoor room to accent party space. Here, lights glow against the redwood slats of an outdoor bar in a backyard retreat.

Soothing Pendant

Under the arbor, round string lights and a vintage pendant on a dimmer illuminate the soothing dining space.

Hacienda Tile Sconce

Turn old hacienda tile into a gorgeous sconce for your entry or backyard with this easy project.

Basket Pendant Lamps

The pendant lamps are hung on tension wires, one high and one low, to achieve a random pattern above the redwood table. The lamps are outfitted with halogen bulbs outdoors that will last for years, even outside.

Starlit Globes

Create outdoor chandeliers by wrapping lights around old wine-barrel hoops, then suspending them from the branches of
a large tree. Even easier: Rest one globe each atop two large planters flanking the front door. Hoops: From $49/3-hoop orb; etsy.com/shop/PurpleThumbNotions. Battery-powered LED copper-wire lights: $10 each (use 2/globe); amazon.com.

9 of 21 Thomas J. Story

Cloth-Wrapped Lantern

The Polynesian-style bark-cloth-wrapped lantern that hangs from the ceiling inside the pavilion is a custom piece from Oceanic Arts Tropical Decor (oceanicarts.net).

Glow Drops

Each tiny teardrop terrarium decking this tree contains a cluster of battery-powered LED copper wire lights. Gently stuff a light string into the terrarium through the hole in the back, then use twine and small s-hooks to secure the mini lanterns to the branches. Conserve battery life by turning them off in the day, and turning them on as dusk falls. Terrarium, $9; amazon.com. LED copper wire lights, $10; amazon.com.

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7 Stunning Coleus Varieties

Flowers aren’t the only way to bring color to a garden. Today’s heat-loving coleus delivers instant vibrancy with (almost) zero effort.

Left to right

‘Gay's Delight’ This lover of partial sun boasts brilliant chartreuse leaves with black-purple veins. Bold and bushy, it grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

‘Rustic Orange’ (at right in pot with Gay's Delight) Sunshine intensifies the leaves’ warm hues. Training upright coleus varieties into a standard—which is a lollipop-shape tree form—heightens its dramatic effect. Pinch back stem ends regularly to promote dense branching.

‘Coleosaurus' Let this 2- to 3-foot-tall versatile variety live large, acting as a backdrop for contrasting plants in either a shaded border or a sun-soaked container.

‘Inky Fingers’ Leaves shaped like little duck feet distinguish this variety. It trails to 18 inches—a great team player in a pot.

‘Kong Rose’ The Kong series features compact plants (18 inches tall and wide) with extra-large leaves. Their high-contrast colors shine in shady spots.

‘Wizard Mosaic’ Ideal for shade at the front edge of a border or container, this showy variety forms a 12-inch mass. (Pretty companions include impatiens and begonias.)

‘Campfire’ Light up a border with fiery orange foliage. This variety glows with pink-red undertones, reaching more than 2 feet in sun or shade.

Planting Tips

Newer varieties of coleus thrive on heat and last dependably until frost. Start from cuttings, seeds or plants—most grow quickly and vigorously. Plant as annuals in well-draining, compost-enriched soil, and water to keep soil damp but not soggy, especially in sunny areas. Regularly pinch back stem ends and flower buds to promote dense, sturdy growth. Coleus are simple; the challenge comes in choosing from the ever-expanding array of varieties, with hundreds of new options introduced every few years. Choose a mix of bright hues to amp up beds, borders and containers in sun or shade, depending on the variety.

32 Best Free Camping Sites

Stay the night outdoors without spending a dime. These no-fee campgrounds and hidden spots are free and completely legal

It’s easier than ever to find a free place to camp thanks to sites like Campendium and Freecampsites.net. In addition to the unforgettable campgrounds below, you can go dispersed camping for free on public lands throughout the United States and Canada. Just remember to check that you are not on private land, inside a fee campground, and/or within 200 feet of any water source like a lake or stream before staking down your tent.

You can camp on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service land for up to 14 days in most places. Whether you go off the beaten track or stick with the free campgrounds below, it’s crucial you follow the seven Leave No Trace principles to reduce your impact, protect the environment, and keep the animals and humans in the area safe.

Alaska

Bartlett Cove Campground, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

There aren’t many other places where you can fall asleep to the sounds of whales. This walk-in campground has (much needed) bear-proof food storage containers, fire pits, free firewood, and a small warming shelter. nps.gov/glba

Galbraith Lake Campground, Arctic Region

The 30 campsites here are all that’s left of what was once a glacial lake that filled the entire Atigun Valley. The site is near the Atigun Gorge and the western edge of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. No amenities; blm.gov

Lower Skilak Lake Campground, Kenai Peninsula, Southcentral

This popular campsite inside the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is maintained by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. With 14 sites, toilets, and a boat launch, it’s one of the more developed campgrounds in the park. fws.gov

Otto Lake, Healy, Interior

Located just two miles south of Healy and within driving distance of Denali National Park & Preserve, this summertime gem is right on the shore of Otto Lake. If all the spots are full, free dispersed camping is allowed along the Denali Highway or you can snag a paid site at one of the other campgrounds in the area. No reservations; travelalaska.com

British Columbia

British Columbia is home to some of the most gorgeous free camping in the West. In addition to allowing dispersed camping on most public land, there are more than 1,200 Forest Service Recreation campsites (many are free). Most are accessed on unpaved service roads and don’t have hookups or running water, but you can’t beat the lake- and riverside spots or the views of the mountains.

Dinner Rock, Powell River

This maintained campsite has 13 spaces and a paved access road. Picnic tables overlook the Malaspina Strait. Boat launch; toilets; no potable water; sitesandtrailsbc.ca

Seton Dam Campground, Lilllooet

It’s hard to believe that this 45-site campground is free. In the late 1800s the area was full of gold miners hoping to strike rich. Now it’s home to a reservoir with hiking trails and plenty of rainbow trout to keep you busy. Drinking water; picnic tables; fire rings; no reservations; bchydro.com

Jones Lake, Chilliwack

Those who can make it in–the road is notoriously poor, even in the summer–can enjoy mountain biking without the crowds and a peaceful free camping site overlooking the reservoir. The road is an active logging route that’s best left for 4×4 vehicles with a high clearance. Check road conditions before leaving. Vault toilets; picnic tables; no reservations; bchydro.com

Squamish Riverside Campsite, Squamish

This riverside campground is a favorite spot for fishing. There are only nine sites, so be sure to head out early when the fish are biting. Vault toilets; fire rings; no garbage service; sitesandtrailsbc.ca

Washington

Liberty Recreation Site, Liberty

Camp along a bubbling creek in the Cascade Mountains. This campground is open yearround, but snow can make it difficult to access. The trails in the area are excellent for snowmobiling or warm-weather hiking. The 15 sites rarely fill up, but summer weekends can be busy. Vault toilets; no potable water; recreation.gov

Soda Springs Campground, Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Packwood

If you’re looking for a quiet place to get away, this small six-site campground might be just what you’re after. Nestled in a stand of western hemlock, Douglas fir, and silver fir, the area is well-screened and not crowded. No potable water; vault toilet; no reservations; fs.usda.gov

Mowich Lake Campground, Mount Rainier National Park

Make yourself at home along the largest and deepest lake in the park. This campground is well-worth the effort to get there. Once you make it down the mostly unpaved access road, you’ll have to walk into the campground (although it’s not that far from the parking lot). Fires are not allowed, so be sure to pack a good camp stove. Arrive early in the summer to snag one of the 10 spots. Open early July – early Oct; picnic tables; food storage; no reservations; nps.gov/mora and visitrainier.com

Gorge Lake Campground, North Cascades National Park

Lie back in your tent with views of the Gorge Lake and the cascading Stetattle Creek. The six-site campground can be popular–arrive early or be one of the first to take advantage of the reservation system. Reservations starting May 2018; no potable water; vault toilets; nps.gov/noca

Dosewallips Campground, Olympic National Park

The access road to this campground washed out, but you can still hike the 6.5 miles in for a secluded night in the woods. Heavy rains can close large swaths of the park, so always check road conditions and campground status before leaving. No water; vault toilets; nps.gov/olym 

Sparks Lake, OR

Oregon

Sparks Lake, Central Oregon

Only 25 miles west of Bend, Sparks Lake offers breathtaking views of Mount Bachelor, Broken Top, and South Sister. Roughly 22 backcountry campsites are tucked around the shore of the lake, and nearly all of them are accessible by kayak, paddle board, or canoe. Backcountry camping; no amenities; no potable water; no reservations; fs.usda.gov

Pine Mountain Observatory, Central Oregon

There’s a reason this site neighbors the University of Oregon’s observatory. While you can build a fire outside of the dry season, we recommend embracing the dark and spending more time looking up at the stars. No amenities; no reservations; rarely full; pmo-sun.uoregon.edu

Mt. Ashland Campground, Southern Oregon

Enjoy remote mountain camping along the Pacific Crest Trail. Aim for early June to catch the wildflowers, butterflies, and birds in their full glory. Open summer to early fall; no potable water; bring extra water to put out campfire; fs.usda.gov

Amboy Crater, CA

California

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

It isn’t easy to secure a free night in the Marin Headlands–between Hawk Camp and Haypress there are only eight sites. The good news is that both campgrounds take reservations (call 415/331-1540 up to two months in advance). No potable water; no fires allowed; nps.gov/goga

Amboy Crater, San Bernardino County

Sleep alongside an extinct volcano in the Mojave Desert. The area has some shade, but it’s best to camp here when the weather is mild. In the summer, temperatures easily break 100 degrees. No potable water; vault toilets; blm.gov

Box Canyon West, Mecca

Can’t find a camping spot in Joshua Tree? Head south and camp inside this sandstone canyon instead. Plan a visit in February or March to catch the desert wildflower blooms. freecampsites.net

Laguna Mountain Recreation Area, San Benito County

Believe it or not, the area is known for its scenic waterfalls. Both Laguna Mountain and Upper Sweetwater campgrounds offer free campsites with level RV pads, fire rings, and picnic benches. No potable water; vault toilets; no trash collection; blm.gov

Mud Lake Trailhead, Lassen National Forest, Shasta County

Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park without spending a dime on lodging. The dispersed camping along the Mud Lake Trailhead is only 15 miles from the park, and it also offers prime access to the Pacific Crest Trail. Vault toilets; fs.usda.gov

Soldier Meadows Hot Springs, NV

Nevada

Soldier Meadows Hot Springs, Black Rock/High Rock Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area

169 miles northeast of Reno, the desert is hiding a true oasis. Soak in the hot creek (there are multiple pools, including one right off the parking lot) before slipping into your sleeping bag. While it’s located just north of Burning Man, the area is closed during the annual event to protect it. travelnevada.com and blm.gov

Idaho

Forest Service Road 524 (the Grandjean Road), Grandjean

Dip into the Sacajawea Hot Springs or head to Sawtooth Lodge for dinner and a soak in their geothermal heated pool. From highway 21, turn onto Forest Service Road 524. You can camp at any of the undeveloped camping spots along the six-mile stretch. No amenities; no potable water; no toilets.

Montana

Red Meadow Lake Campground, Flathead County

Sleep at 5,500 feet in the Flathead National Forest and wake up early to prime fishing. No water; vault toilets; picnic tables; fire rings; fs.usda.gov

Cherry Creek Campground, West Yellowstone

Only eight miles from West Yellowstone, this 7-site campground boasts fishing and swimming along Hebgen Lake. No potable water; pack out garbage; busy in summer months; open Memorial Day to Mid-October; fs.usda.gov

Blodgett Canyon Campground, Hamilton

Located in the Bitterroot National Forest, this campground is close to epic rock climbing and bouldering in the scenic Blodgett Canyon. There’s also a nearby trout stream if you’re looking for something with less adrenaline. The five sites fill up fast. Vault toilets; drinking water; fs.usda.gov

Stony Campground, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Philipsburg

Bring along your four-legged friend for an unforgettable stay in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The campground can hold trailers up to 32 feet. Drinking water; vault toilets; Open April 1 to Oct 30; fs.usda.gov

Wyoming

Lovell City Campground, Lovell

Park your camper or RV for free and enjoy Lovell’s small-town charm. Toilets; showers; dump station; drinking water; townoflovell.com

The Cottonwood Lake Campground, Bridger-Teton National Forest

A two-hour drive outside of Grand Teton National Park, the 18 sites at Cottonwood Lake make a perfect home base for exploring the trails on an ATV or setting up along the shores to fish for brook and cutthroat trout. Drinking water; vault toilet; fs.usda.gov

Utah

Sunset View Campground, Navajo National Monument

Explore the entire park, included a guided tour of cliff dwellings, without spending a penny. Sunset View has 31 small sites for tents or RVs up to 28 feet. Drinking water; toilets; no fire allowed; nps.gov/nava

Forest Road 121, Dixie National Forest

Pull off Scenic Byway 12 for a short stopover before continuing on to Bryce Canyon National Park. Look for already formed camping areas along Forest Road 121 for a quiet, undisturbed night. No amenities; no drinking water; no toilet; fs.usda.gov

Colorado

Oh Be Joyful Campground, Crested Butte

How could you not be happy to pitch your tent with a campsite name like that? While a few of the sites require a quick (and a bit chilly) low river crossing, the scenery will keep that smile on your face regardless. Besides, your feet will be plenty warm by the time you fall asleep to the sounds of the river. Fire pits; vault toilets; travelcrestedbutte.com