Your Ultimate Fall Bushcraft Guide
As the leaves begin to change and a chill enters the air, fall becomes the perfect time for bushcrafting adventures. Whether you're trekking through the Pacific Northwest or foraging in the vibrant forests of the Northeast, each region presents its own unique challenges and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. In this guide, we'll walk you through key tips and gear recommendations to help you thrive this season, from finding dry tinder in the rain-soaked woods to harvesting acorns for a warm campfire meal.
Please note: The experts and products mentioned in this guide are not part of any affiliate program. We share them because we know and trust their expertise and craftsmanship. We love their products and stand by their knowledge as true experts in the field. Additionally, we do recommend some of our own Outdoor Element gear, which we believe will enhance your bushcrafting experience and help you explore with confidence.
Bushcraft in the Pacific Northwest: Conquering the Wet Season
For outdoor adventurers in the Pacific Northwest, moisture is a constant companion. With fall rains sweeping through the region, finding dry tinder can be a tricky task. Fortunately, Heather and Todd from PNW Bushcraft have shared their expertise with a helpful post on how to locate and prepare dry tinder, even in the wettest environments. Click the image below to view it & read their post on Instagram.
Once you've collected your tinder, the next step is to keep it dry. A great option is PNW Bushcraft's Waxed Canvas Foraging Bag, which ensures your tinder and other collected resources stay protected from the elements. Pairing this with one of our versatile Feather series blades, like the Flicker Feather Survival EDC Chisel Blade or Scout Feather Adventure Survival EDC Drop Point Knife, makes for an unbeatable combo for any bushcrafter. Beyond just gear, fall bushcrafting in this region is about being prepared for long periods outdoors in damp conditions. If you're setting up camp or taking a break, you'll need a dry place to sit. PNW Bushcraft’s Waxed Canvas Tripod Seat is a reliable solution, and you can even take it a step further by crafting your own tripod legs—a fun project you can find in Craig Caudill’s "Traditional Bushcraft" book.
However, as you set up your shelter or prepare a fire, don't forget about ticks. Yes, whether in the cool, rainy Pacific Northwest, or the colder temps of the Northeast, ticks are a concern. Craig Caudill’s extensive tick prevention guide will help you prepare for this often-overlooked hazard. And with ticks capable of surviving the first frost, you’ll want to stay vigilant throughout the season. Did you realize they're equipped with a natural anti-freeze in their blood? I know! Crazy, right! They're amazing little buggers.
Once you've collected your tinder, you'll need a good way to spark fire no matter the weather. Ready to fuel your fall adventures with warmth and fire? Check out our Pyro’s Paradise Bundle, packed with everything you need for reliable fire-starting in any conditions.
Bushcraft in the Northeast: From Acorns to Fire
The Northeast is equally stunning in the fall, but its environment offers a different set of challenges and resources for bushcrafters. Acorns, for instance, are abundant this time of year, covering the forest floor. But did you know they're edible? Foraging for acorns can be a rewarding experience, and turning them into acorn flour is a valuable survival skill. Tim from Owl Eyes Wilderness Survival has provided a comprehensive guide on foraging and processing acorns, starting with step one: Foraging & Processing. Click the image below 👇to learn directly from the wilderness survival guru himself, Tim with Owl Eyes Wilderness Survival.
Once you've processed the acorns, why not cook up some pancakes around the campfire? Just be sure to bring along some maple syrup. So...which Northeast state makes the best syrup to go with it? Comment below and we'll do a taste test! Not to give an edge to one state over another but Fall + acorns + maple syrup = Owl Eyes Bushcraft & Survival Campout this October in Vermont. One of Tim's best selling events, grab your ticket today. In addition to foraging, fire-making is a crucial skill for any bushcrafter. Tim recommends recommends a Firebiner as part of the standard bushcraft kit, make sure you've got one or that your current one is in tip top shape with our maintenance kit. This versatile tool is perfect for both quick day trips and longer expeditions like Owl Eyes' popular Bushcraft & Survival Campout in Vermont. If you're not up for a multi-night adventure, we suggest you check out Owl Eye's half day Wilderness Survival 1 Course. They offer one per month through December in Townsend, MA.
As you gear up for your fall bushcraft adventures, remember that each region brings its own unique set of challenges. Whether you’re dealing with moisture and finding dry tinder in the Pacific Northwest or foraging for acorns in the Northeast, the right skills, tools, and preparation will help you thrive. Stay tuned for updates as we cover bushcrafting in the southern states later this season. No matter the season, we hope you're geared up and ready to Explore with Confidence! See you on the trails! Mike & the OE Team