As one of North America's top canoeing experts, Kevin Callan spends much of his life outdoors.  In this high entertaining, fully illustrated compendium of basic wilderness instruction and well-tested campsite advice, Callan demonstrates how to get the most from your camping experience, no matter where you pitch your tent, what you forgot to pack or what the weather brings.

Let a professional show you how to plan your trip properly, whether for a day or a few weeks: how to take only what you need and pack it to best effect, how to read a map and compass, select a campsite, stake a tent, beat the bugs, build a fire, cook a camp meal, ward off unwanted wildlife, paddle a canoe or kayak, camp with kids and dogs, administer first aid, photograph a landscape and much, much more. - From the back cover of "The Happy Camper; The essential Guide to Life Outdoors" by kevin Callan.