Notes from the Nest

The world of hammocks and hammock accessories is a high-speed and ever changing one, and knowing just which accessories you need to enhance your swinging experience may be hard to keep up with for even the experienced hammock head (that’s what we call people who like hammocks in the business). Read on for a thorough analysis of the essential tools everyone who owns a hammock can get to make their relaxation station even better! 

This article discusses the ideal distance for hanging hammocks between two trees, depending on your hammock style and length. It also looks at the minimum distance you need to hang your hammock, as well as the maximum distance, and what the implications of that are. It also offers some tips on choosing trees and what to do if you can't find an acceptable hanging distance.

We’ve been cooped up for too long, people. 2 years too long. So what better way to get out of the house than to get out of the house and also sleep outside of the house? We here at Wise Owl have heard your cries for answers, and shall provide. We’ve got the skivvy on all of the camping essentials that have hit the top of the list for 2022 - from tents to blankets to tent footprints (what is that, you ask? We’ll get there.) to hammocks to accessories, and everything in between. So gather around the campfire, young campers, as we give you the ultimate camping list of must-haves for outdoor living in 2022!

Entertaining kids can be tough - especially when we’re competing with the majesty of the internet. But if you’re like me and are getting tired of watching your young kids watch YouTube videos of people watching other people watch things, this article may be for you. We’re going to go over all of the night activities for kids that won’t destroy your wallet - indoor and outdoor. From indoor hammocks to makeshift forts to backyard smores, we’ve got all of the cost-effective methods to keep your kids distracted from tech for a minute.

My single greatest fear is being torn apart and eaten by a pack of ravenous zombie hippopotamus. After that, my second greatest fear is being stranded in the wilderness and starving to death. And it is because of that fear that I always make sure that I am well-stocked and well-prepared when I go out into the woods to hike or camp. Learn more about how much food you need and should pack for a hike, how to store and carry food, and the top 7 foods you should bring with you. 

If you’re anything like me, you will hear the wilderness calling to you with the ferocity of an angry mom that will not say it again. You will want to strap on a backpack, take your hammock, and go on a solo hiking trip through the uninhabited and unknown environs of the world where you can bathe deeply in the novelty of exile and drink up the exhilaration of self-reliance. Learn more about what you need to bring on solo hikes, the best places to visit, and if solo hiking is safe.

Camping is one of the most popular and fun outdoor activities both kids and adults love. Cooking while camping can turn into another exciting activity. Taking the right approach can make a difference between enjoyable meals and time-consuming cooking struggles. Let's take a closer look at important camping food hacks.

Those of us who go winter camping are the real heroes. The ones who are willing to brave the unforgiving winter to see some of the most beautiful sites known to humankind.If you're planning on going winter camping this year, you’re going to get it all in this article - the correct temperature to camp in, what camping equipment and clothes you’ll need (from quilt blankets to buffs), and, most importantly, how to insulate your tent (and the camping gear you’ll need to get by). Learn more.

The first day of winter 2022 is coming, gang. For a lot of outdoorsy people, that means it’s time to put away the boots and settle in for hibernation...or is it? Learn more about all the essential winter camping gear you'll need this winter season!

When you picture relaxation, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Swinging between two palm trees in a hammock! (If you thought of anything else, just pretend you thought of that). Learn more about the top 5 reasons why you need an indoor hammock or chair and how to hang them, here!

From beginners to pros, this article is going to help you figure it all out - what to pack, what kind of camping supplies you’ll need (from camping hammocks to dry bags), basic national park rules to know, and finally, the top 5 list of national parks to visit and camp at this fall!

Nature is beautiful - but sometimes, it can get a little boring (listen, someone had to say it). And if anyone knows this, it’s children. With an attention span of about 15 minutes, most kids may love nature, but it’s a lot to ask to have a kid bask in the glory of nature all day. I say this as someone who also has an attention span of 15 minutes, so I know what I’m talking about. So, how do we remedy this? Why, with some fun camping games for kids, of course! From card games to sleeping under the stars with a big, comfy hammock, we’ve got the low down on all of the super fun (non-screen related) activities that can keep your kids entertained, and even some activities for rainy days as well!