TOUCHING GRASS: Campers like sleeping outside, being with nature

U.S. campers are leaning into the idea of “touching grass” during June’s National Camping Month and Great Outdoors Month, with stories highlighting time outdoors in tents and RVs. The piece traces how author and outdoorsman Horace Kephart (1862–1931) helped shape early camping culture through his 1906 book “Camping and Woodcraft,” a guide for gear, skills, and living in harmony with nature. Lillie McReynolds, from Tahlequah, said she visited No Head Hollow on the Illinois River for three days by June 23 and planned to stay another night despite forecast rain. She camped alone with her cat and described enjoying cooler temperatures and rainfall sounds. The article also notes a reminder from Josh Lucas: it is illegal to set up an unauthorized camp on state, county, or municipal property not designated for camping, citing signed bills.