When we set out on a backpacking trip, we typically have an itinerary that includes how far we hope to hike each day and a general area where we intend to set up camp each night. As we get close to our destination, we begin to assess a number of things regarding where, exactly, we will call home for the night.

Access to water and suitable tent sites represent numbers one and two regarding actual requirements for an area to be chosen. The tents need to be pitched in a relatively flat spot, and the doors need to be easily accessible. The area shouldn’t be in a hole or obvious drainage in case of rain.

Beyond that, our crew looks for one thing: KITCHEN ROCK!

A good Kitchen Rock is a large boulder that can host all our cooking needs. It’s got a good flat spot to balance the stove and a full pot of water, preferably out of the wind and with room for culinary magic. It should also have ample space for Julie’s long legs to wrap around it… ‘cause let’s face it Julie is our head chef and we don’t do freeze dried.

Why a Kitchen Rock…

Essential for keeping a clean and organized cooking area, and by extension a clean and organized camp. – Julie

Size matters when it comes to Kitchen Rock. It must have room for all four of us to gather ‘round if needed, not because we actually eat there or use it as a dining table but because we don’t skimp on food on the trail. – Kristen

The best Kitchen Rocks we’ve experienced have doubled as a space to dry clothes after a dip in the water or to dry tents or sleeping bags in the morning if needed. It’s ideal to keep that stuff out of the dirt. – Wendy

Kitchen Rock, much like your kitchen at home, is the heart of the home and camp… where everyone gathers sharing stories of miles we just crushed and those to come.  – Jenae

Rarely do we find a rock that fits all of our desires, probably only three to four times in all of our trips. Usually Kitchen Rock is much smaller than we’d like, sits at some kind of an angle or is slightly rounded so cooking also involves a balancing act… sometimes it’s not even a rock. Almost never do we have a natural windbreak so the metal backpacking one is vital (for both cooking time and fuel conservation).

Certainly wind breaks, shade, natural chairs like stumps or rocks are all nice to have. If you are hanging your food, take that into consideration. Above all, though, Kitchen Rock makes a camp a home and a trail meal a feast.

PS- Wendy and Julie need their two cups of coffee (with two honey sticks for Julie and one for Wendy) as soon as possible.  A good Kitchen Rock helps make this happen faster! #kitchenrock

Do you totally know what we’re talking about?? Well then you totally need to rock a Kitchen Rock Tee.