The Cured Ham Camps

I've always loved camping, backpacking, and the outdoors in general. I typically hike every day and usually at altitude. I get a great workout in, see wonderful places, and when I get back to camp eat anything I want.

Unfortunately, I've camped less in the last two years than I have in the last 10. I don't think I slept in the dirt or under the stars in all of 2010. These comments may shock some as my usual posts on the world of food and travel are far more glamourous, Michelin Dining, 5 Star Hotels, and one too many a flight on United.

Well, there is a softer, simple side of The Cured Ham. A side that appreciates the smell of a campfire, drinking and eating out of the same insulated mug each day, and cooking the most basic of meals, which does NOT include dehydrated backpacking food. Scratch cooking each night, with the assistance of a few cans of tuna or tomatoes.

I have to walk to get water, lock my food up in a bear locker, and wash dishes (no Bosch washer here) immediately after I finish cooking and eating. Not quite all the comforts of home...but the view is unparalleled (Rock Creek Lake, CA).