Idaho Seven Devils mts, little known gem

Idaho Statesman reports on Idaho's hidden gem of the Seven Devils mountains.

Many people don't know this majestic mountain range is [just off the US-95 near Riggins], or don't take the trouble to find it because Seven Devils is farther off the beaten path than the Sawtooths.

But if you love Idaho's scenic backcountry, it's a place you should visit at least once. If you're the adventurous type, it's someplace you can explore for years and still find new surprises.

"This is an absolutely fascinating place," said fire lookout Michael Oliver, whose tower has some of the best views in Idaho.

Oliver gets visits from folks ranging from locals to European tourists, from hardcore hikers and horsepackers who delve deep into the backcountry to families taking a scenic drive.

Read the full story: Seven Devils: these rugged mountains area little slice of heaven

Photo from Idaho Statesman

Camp at gorgeous global sites

Treehugger reports on 10 beautiful camping sites around the world.

Among the sites listed are New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park (picture right), Colombia's Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona, and Croatia's Glavotok Camp.

Read the full story: 10 breathtaking waterfront campgrounds

Photo by Jennifer Hattam

Family camping on the rise

MSNBC reports that camping is becoming a popular family vacation alternative because it is cheap and gets the kids back to nature.

Without the iPods and text messages, kids will make up their own games with rocks and sticks, compose songs on the hiking trail and entertain everyone with a skit around the campfire after dinner.

Read the full story: Taking the kids - camping