BACKCOUNTRY SKILLS
Wilderness Living, Campcraft & Field Know-How
Backcountry Skills — Knowledge from the Wilderness
Backcountry skills are built through experience, preparation, and knowing how to make the most of what you have. Whether you’re setting up camp, building a fire, finding your way through unfamiliar country, or dealing with changing weather, practical knowledge can make all the difference.
This section covers the skills and techniques that help outdoorsmen become more capable and self-reliant in the wilderness. From traditional woodcraft to modern backcountry practices, the focus is on useful knowledge you can put to work in the field.
WILDERNESS SURVIVAL
Practical survival skills for handling unexpected situations, finding shelter, and staying safe in the wilderness.
FIRECRAFT & WOODCRAFT
Practical fire-building techniques, working with wood, and traditional skills for living in the wilderness.
NAVIGATION & ORIENTEERING
Practical map reading, compass skills, and route planning for finding your way through unfamiliar country.
BACKCOUNTRY SAFETY
Practical advice on wilderness hazards, emergency preparedness, and staying safe when conditions turn difficult.
Featured Backcountry Skills Articles
Explore practical articles on wilderness survival, firecraft, navigation, and backcountry safety. Learn useful skills and techniques to help you become more capable and self-reliant in the outdoors.
Wilderness Survival Basics
Learn essential wilderness survival skills, including finding shelter, staying warm, locating water, and handling unexpected emergencies in the backcountry.
Fire Building in the Backcountry
Learn practical fire-building techniques, from selecting dry tinder and firewood to starting and maintaining a dependable campfire in the backcountry.
Map & Compass Navigation
Learn how to read topographic maps, use a compass, and navigate unfamiliar country with confidence, even when GPS isn’t available.