I couldn't possibly be in Oregon, let alone Roseburg and NOT take Highway 138 from Roseburg to Diamond Lake and then on to Crater Lake. In my opinion the most beautiful drive in the nation. What I had forgotten, however, was the wildfire that devastated the area a few years back, in 2021. It was heartbreaking to see the once-majestic firs and pines reduced to matchsticks, and realize the view may never be the same in my lifetime. About an hour into the drive I finally reached a part of the highway that started looking like I remember, where the fire had not reached. And it did not stop me from enjoying a couple of waterfalls on the way up to Mt. Mazama (Crater Lake).

Also, what is it like getting gas in the middle of NOWHERE? The pumps were so old they still had the analog ticker numbers that flop over as the gears turn. The gas itself was up to date though, so I got my fill up and was on my way.

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Camping Must-Haves of the Day

Leak-Proof Water Bottle

I was drawn to this BPA free water bottle for its shape (it's 32 oz. AND fits in a cupholder!), and it's claim to take boiling water. I never used it for that last one, but I loved how it fit in my day pack, and how reliable it was on that leak-proof claim. I mean, solid under all conditions.

Camping Mess Kit

This is the one-person version. They also have two-person and four-person sets (color-coded even). There are so many options for kits like this, but I was quite happy with this one.

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