The weather in Texas is starting to get colder, that means, perfect time to camp. At least camp comfortably, and not be sweaty.

The downside camping in Texas, it’s soo big, and not many public places to camp. At first I thinking of camping at Big Bend State Park. That would be nice camping in the chilly desert, and maybe even a chance of snow! But the 12hr plus drive wasn’t looking fun even though I had 6 days off. My friends and I decided to camp at Barnwell Mountain in Gilmer, Texas. A four hour drive, with nice technical trails of different levels.

I was the 1st to arrive Thursday night. From the camp entrance its not scary, and even seeing a few campers along the trails. But when I found my camp, its was different story. The forest at night, with no one nearby gave me creepy vibes. Frankly, I was just too scared to unpack. So, I waited an 1hr for my friends to arrive.

I love to camp, but only if I’m with have someone else. I did bring my doggies. Ariel was sleeping (oblivious to my feeling of being scared), but Maui felt the same creepy vibes hahaha. That didn’t help, he looked worried. But finally I was able to unpack and relax with friends.

Campfires are a must for camping. Snowpeak is the fire pit I use. Highly recommend for the quality of build.

Once the wood turned into coals, I grilled steaks. Something about steak cooked over a fire just hits differently. You get this smokey, fire flavor you don’t get with a cast iron skillet. Simple, yet elevated.

The weather forecast showed lows in the 30s for the next 4 days. It going to be a cold night. For my set up, I have a 50F sleeping bag and a space heater to keep me warm. I have a 0F sleeping bag, but its too bulky for one person. The Mr. Buddy heat is powered by propane and its safe for indoor use. This combo, I think, works the best. I’m able to pack less, and stay warm.

Had the doggies sleep in the tent and we stayed comfy for the next 4 days! Mr Buddy heater is a game changer in cold camping. If you cant afford a diesel heater this is the next option.

The next 3 days it was time to hit some trails! I didn’t take much pictures, just enjoying the moment. Test the flex in the trials, barely rubbing in the rears.

5″ lift and 35″ tires. Before I was on 3″ lift and 33″ tires. The current set up is better then old one.

My recent mods 5.29 gears with front and rear lockers, and slee sliders. The 5.29 gears allowed the Land Cruiser to crawl up the terrain with less stress on the motor and transmission. While on the descent, the speed was more controlled, and slower. This allowed me not to ride the brakes too much, it didn’t feel like I was trying to stop a run away train especially in the very steep vertical drops. The lockers was about to get me up steep ledges or slippery situations. Worse case was using my winch, and I did have to use that once.

Im soo impressed with the Land Cruiser, its my overlander, tow rig, and bad weather vehicle.

Hot pot, on a cold night is a nice combo. Hot soup, to keep you warm.

Peach cobbler for dessert. I brought ice cream, but didn’t take the picture hahaha.

4 days just hanging out with friends. Nice to reset from work and just enjoy the moments. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!