Mesilla Valley Bosque - At the new Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, located in south-central New Mexico, there are three basic missions, Park Superintendent Stan Ellis told me recently, just a couple of weeks before he retired.More...

Western Bluebirds - For a creature so small — it’s smaller than an American Robin — the Bluebird, in its bejeweled brilliance, has become an outsized symbol of joy and happiness in American culture. The ex-Beetle Paul McCartney and composer Richard A. Whiting wrote songs about the Bluebird. Judy Garland sang about the Bluebird in her classic movie The Wizard of Oz. More...

Red Rock Canyon, Nevada - After a few days at the crap and blackjack tables in Las Vegas, it will be time to take a break. Hop into a vehicle and head out to Red Rock Canyon. Red Rock Canyon is less then an hour's drive west of Las Vegas and has many significant geologic features. The area is a good place to kick back and just enjoy nature's wonders. More...

Shutterbug 101: Why, oh why? Some questions answered - Today we are going to address some questions from a friend in Bakersfield. Thanks Linda! Q: Why does it take so long for my camera to fire when I push the button? A: Digital cameras have a nasty little problem with slow shutter release times. More...

Shutterbug 101: Say hey with photos of your pet - As we get close to the Holiday season, you may be tempted to photograph your pet for your annual greeting cards. Photographing one’s pet can be a challenging and sometimes exasperating event. But by following a few steps you can avoid most of the exasperation and just have fun. More...

Desert Safety - Carry Plenty of Water -
There are no dependable sources of water in the desert regions. One gallon of water per person, per day is the absolute minimum that should be carried. When planning a hike, remember that water weighs approximately 8 pounds per gallon. When the water is half gone, it is time to turn back. Don't forget extra water for your vehicle. DO NOT RATION YOUR WATER. It will only do you good if you drink it. More...

Get the latest desert temperatures - Fall is one of the best times of the year for camping in the desert. Take a look at desert conditions, and plan your trip! More...