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Campfire Rules & Wild Berries: Finding Freedom (and Pizza) on the Road

Sometimes the best lessons are learned when the itinerary goes sideways. Join us as we unpack the beautiful chaos of a family camping trip – and a few reminders for our own journeys.

Like Nastya ESPRogue AdventurersOct 19, 20263 min read0 views

There’s a certain kind of joy in watching a plan unravel. Not the kind of frustration that comes from a blown tire or a canceled reservation, but the quiet delight of seeing a child’s face light up as they discover something unexpected, even if it's a patch of unfamiliar berries. That’s the spirit of Rogue Adventurers, isn't it? Embracing the advenire – the coming toward – of whatever unfolds.

Nastya and her crew’s camping adventure perfectly captures this. The eagerness, the initial enthusiasm, the inevitable squabbles, and the eventual triumph of a makeshift camp – it’s a miniature reflection of the life we’re building on the road. No matter how meticulously we plan our routes, how many wilderness first aid courses we take, or how many CRockyGo stones we leave as little reminders of hope along the way, there will always be unexpected detours. And often, those are the moments that matter most.

Lessons from the Campsite

Beyond the slapstick comedy of pizza theft and near-poisonous plants, this video highlights a few key principles for any family venturing beyond their comfort zone. First, rules are important, but flexibility is essential. The girls start with a set of camping guidelines, but quickly adapt when faced with reality. (And pizza.) Second, resourcefulness is a superpower. When the snacks disappear, they don’t panic; they innovate – building a new shelter, foraging for water, and even attempting berry juice (a decision we all know can end poorly!).

This echoes the ethos of so many of the creators we follow – from Outdoor Boys demonstrating self-sufficiency in the backcountry to Andrew Skurka’s meticulous planning and adaptation strategies. It's about going prepared, but also going willing to learn and adjust.

Gathering & the Gospel on the Go

The final scene, huddled around a campfire sharing spooky stories, is a beautiful illustration of the power of gathering. Whether it’s a homeschool co-op planning a trip to Proof Breads in Mesa for a sourdough-making field trip, or a group of climbers meeting at the Grand Tetons, these shared experiences build community and deepen our faith. Each decorated Currency Kid – a Benny, Abe, Tommy, or Andy – passed along the road at a vendor shop is a quiet testament to that belief, a travelling tract of the gospel. And every CrockyGo stone left at a trailhead is a silent prayer for those who might stumble upon it.

Beyond the Campground: Your Next Adventure

The Rogue Adventurers movement isn’t just about RV life or van life; it’s about cultivating a spirit of adventure wherever you are. It’s about recognizing that every journey, big or small, can be a holy place. It’s about equipping ourselves – and our families – to face the unexpected with grace, resilience, and a shared sense of purpose. While Rogue Schoolers focus on the core academics and local field trips, Rogue Adventurers are those families embracing the open road and the lessons it offers.

Ready to join the journey? Here’s how you can plug into the ecosystem:

Don't just watch – go.

Frequently Asked Questions

CrockyGo rocks are painted stones left at trailheads and rest stops to uplift others and grow the community of believers.

Decorated Currency Kids bills (Bennys, Abes, Tommys, Andys, Grants) are spent at businesses within the Rogue Network, acting as a traveling gospel tract.

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