Hello America had the honor of attending 4 Eddie Bauer x Hipcamp Summer Campouts. From Joshua Tree to French Gulch and Cuyama Badlands to Mare Island Preserve we induldged in California's varied terrain. We learned to fly fish, exchanged road stories with van lifer's, participated in a deeply rewarding land stewardship and survived a heatwave in the desert. It was a flawless California summer for two southerns.

These days were full. They were intoxicating. A 'come as you are spirit' was so palpable you could taste it in conversation with strangers, in the attention to detail from workshop leaders and in the care of inspired camp meals. Quickly it was clear these events were not only about capturing charming landscapes. Substantial conversations on conservation, travel, preservation, technology, the balance of a corporate life and call to the wild were all happening. Civil discourse lead to agreed upon solutions. Ideas were lubricated. Bonfires served as the medicine for disagreement and shared hikes were spent brainstorming. Young minds were deciding to solve problems in the wild and the wild served as a mighty ally.

Eddie Bauer sent us to capture the charm of these campouts. We received a souviner well beyond pretty pictures. These weekends provided opportunity for new skills, community, conversation, understanding, and wild motivation. For that, we are indebted.

Below are images of our weekends spent at these summer campouts. We hope Hipcamp continues these important events and that you find yourself outside.

JOSHUA TREE, CA