CAMO News – Outdoors

Welcome to the daily CAMO News, your roundup of the latest stories for outdoor enthusiasts!

Recreation for all: Exploring accessibility on Idaho’s public lands

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is making significant strides to ensure Idaho’s stunning public lands are accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. Efforts are focused on upgrading facilities to meet modern accessibility standards. For example, the popular Mesa Falls Scenic Byway now features a renovated visitor center and accessible pathways offering spectacular waterfall views. At the Salmon River boat ramps, new accessible bathrooms have been installed. Campers can find improved accessible sites at locations like the Nine Mile and Morgan Bar campgrounds. These enhancements, which also include accessible fishing platforms and yurts, are part of a broader commitment to removing barriers and allowing all visitors to enjoy the diverse recreational opportunities that Idaho’s public lands have to offer.

https://www.blm.gov/blog/2025-06-27/recreation-all-exploring-accessibility-idahos-public-lands“>Read the full story

NM Veterans Get Free Day Use, Camping At State Parks

In a gesture of gratitude for their service, New Mexico is now offering resident veterans, National Guard members, and Gold Star families free access to its state parks. Thanks to a new law signed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, eligible individuals can enjoy complimentary day-use entry, camping, and museum access at all 35 state parks. This new benefit provides a fantastic opportunity for veterans and their families to explore the natural beauty and recreational offerings of the Land of Enchantment without the cost of admission or camping fees. It is a meaningful way for the state to give back to those who have served the country, encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors and make lasting memories in New Mexico’s beautiful park system.

https://ladailypost.com/new-mexico-veterans-get-free-day-use-camping-at-state-parks/“>Read the full story

Stranger and friends on an Inn-to-Inn Hike through Shenandoah National Park

For those who love the idea of hiking the Appalachian Trail but not the thought of camping, an inn-to-inn hike in Shenandoah National Park offers a perfect compromise. This unique experience allows hikers to trek through the stunning scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains by day and relax in the comfort of historic park lodges by night. Companies like ‘Go Shenandoah’ offer guided trips that handle all the logistics, including lodging at spots like the Skyland Resort and Big Meadows Lodge. This approach makes a multi-day hike accessible to a wider audience, combining the adventure of a long-distance trail with amenities like hot showers and restaurant meals. It’s a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Shenandoah without sacrificing comfort.

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/inn-to-inn-hike-shenandoah-national-park“>Read the full story

Yosemite National Park Announces Reopening of Tuolumne Meadows Campground

After a three-year closure for a major rehabilitation project, the beloved Tuolumne Meadows Campground in Yosemite National Park is set to reopen. The extensive project has redesigned the campground layout, moving campsites out of sensitive wetland areas and improving the overall visitor experience with new picnic tables, food lockers, and fire rings at every site. The updated campground will now feature 140 campsites, including tent-only sites, RV sites, and new equestrian sites. Reservations are essential and will be available on a rolling basis on Recreation.gov. The reopening of this iconic high-country campground is exciting news for campers eager to once again enjoy the spectacular beauty of the Tuolumne Meadows area.

https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/news/yosemite-national-park-announces-reopening-of-tuolumne-meadows-campground-following-major-rehabilitation-project.htm“>Read the full story

Minnesota state parks, recreation areas and trails offer Fourth of July fun

For those seeking outdoor adventures over the Fourth of July holiday, Minnesota’s state parks and recreation areas offer a wealth of opportunities. While many campgrounds are booked, some reservations are still available, particularly for those with flexible plans. Beyond camping, the parks provide endless fun, from hiking scenic trails and paddling calm lakes to enjoying a simple picnic with family and friends. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages visitors to get out and explore the natural beauty the state has to offer. Whether you’re planning an overnight stay or just a day trip, state parks provide a perfect backdrop for creating holiday memories and celebrating the nation’s independence in the great outdoors. It’s a great time to disconnect and enjoy nature.

https://www.kittsonarea.com/2025/06/27/minnesota-state-parks-recreation-areas-and-trails-offer-fourth-of-july-fun-camping-reservations-still-available/“>Read the full story

This remote state park cabin is newly renovated, but still rustic. Take a 2-mile hike to solitude

For a truly secluded getaway, a newly renovated cabin in Michigan’s Craig Lake State Park offers the perfect escape. What makes this cabin unique is its remote location—it can only be reached by a two-mile hike, ensuring peace and solitude for its guests. The cabin, nestled in the Upper Peninsula’s rugged wilderness, has been updated but maintains its rustic charm. This off-the-grid experience is ideal for adventurers looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The hike in adds to the sense of adventure and rewards visitors with a tranquil setting far from the noise of everyday life. It’s a perfect option for those who want a wilderness experience with the comfort of a solid roof over their head.

https://www.mlive.com/life/2025/06/this-remote-state-park-cabin-is-newly-renovated-but-still-rustic-take-a-2-mile-hike-to-solitude.html“>Read the full story

Go RVing to These Family-Owned Campgrounds Out West

While national parks are a major draw, the campgrounds just outside their gates offer their own unique charm, especially when they are family-owned. For RVers heading west, there are numerous family-run campgrounds that provide a personal touch and a welcoming basecamp for exploring. Near Grand Canyon National Park, the Railside RV Ranch in Williams, Arizona offers a friendly atmosphere. In Colorado, campgrounds like the one in Ouray provide stunning mountain views and a tight-knit community feel. Choosing a family-owned campground not only supports local small businesses but often results in a more memorable and personal travel experience, connecting you with people who are passionate about their corner of the American West.

https://www.gorving.com/tips-inspiration/travel-guides/go-rving-these-family-owned-campgrounds-out-west“>Read the full story

Never slept in a tent? Sign up for free camping weekend at select NY State parks

New York State is making it easy for beginners to try camping with its “First-Time Camper” program. This fantastic initiative offers a free weekend of camping at select state parks in the Adirondacks and Catskills for families who have never camped before. To eliminate the barrier of buying gear, the program provides a tent, sleeping bags, chairs, a stove, and even firewood. Park staff and camping ambassadors are on hand to help with setup and offer guidance, ensuring a positive and stress-free first experience. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to discover the joys of camping and connect with nature without the initial investment and uncertainty. The program is run via a lottery system, providing a lucky few with a perfect introduction to the outdoors.

https://www.syracuse.com/outdoors/2025/06/never-slept-in-a-tent-sign-up-for-free-camping-weekend-at-select-ny-state-parks.html“>Read the full story

This Florida Everglades Lookalike Has Old-Growth Forests, A 50-Mile Paddling Trail, And More

For a unique outdoor experience that feels like a world away, look no further than Congaree National Park in South Carolina. Often compared to the Florida Everglades, this underrated park is home to one of the largest tracts of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. Congaree boasts some of the tallest trees on the East Coast, creating a breathtaking “forest cathedral.” The park is a paradise for paddlers, with a 50-mile paddling trail that winds through the serene, cypress-filled landscape. It offers a different kind of national park adventure, focused on lush forests and tranquil waterways rather than mountains or canyons. For those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in a rich, biodiverse ecosystem, Congaree is a must-visit destination.

https://www.thetravel.com/florida-everglades-lookalike-congaree-national-park/“>Read the full story