Heat-Blocking Ideal for Summer Camping

It’s the Goldilocks conundrum of tent-camping:

Too little protection and you’ll shiver on cold nights.

Too much and you’ll wake up in a pool of your own sweat on warm ones.

We know a guy who may have a solution: designer Gareth Price, the brains behind SF-based outdoor gear company Outback Logic.

His newest product is the Siesta2, a heat- and light-defying tent that can stand up to any three-season job currently on the market. A backpacker’s dream, the tent is specially engineered tot reflect light and heat while also blocking wind and dust — resulting in an interior that’s more of a safe space than a sauna.

Not convinced yet? Check these incredible stats: “On an average summer morning, the Siesta2 is over 30 degrees cooler than a typical three-season backpacking tent, and over five degrees warmer when it’s cold.”

If you’re going camping this summer, we recommend claiming yours on Kickstarter for $200, which is a C-note off the eventual retail price. And don’t worry about funding: it’s already fully backed with six days to go.

And in case you’re short on ideas for where to head this summer, the Australia-born Price gave us a few of his top picks in our neck of the woods:

“Lassen Volcanic National Park for the fascinating hydrothermal activity. The steam vents, boiling springs and mud pots are absolutely mesmerizing. If you have a little extra time in the area, it’s well worth the short trip north to see the spectacular Burney Falls.

Yosemite needs no introduction, but for something different, try stargazing or amateur astronomy. Beginners telescopes are surprisingly affordable, and the view of the night sky from Glacier Point is highly renowned among astronomers.

Pinnacles National Park is a must for the weird and wonderful rock formations, and this lesser-known area is great for those who prefer to avoid the crowds. Can be too hot in summer for some, so spring and autumn are more popular times for hiking.

Tahoe: Something for everyone! Plenty of activities for the kids, and adults can choose their own pace whether hiking or relaxing on the beach. Camping is a great way to spend time here, especially as the rental accommodation can be a little expensive.

Tubing and rafting at American River, near Sacramento: Take your own gear and go for a leisurely float downstream, or get the adrenaline pumping with an organized whitewater trip. Make sure you take plenty of drinking water and sunscreen with you on the river — you can tie a suitable bag or water bottle to your tube.”