Song of the Paddle: An Illustrated Guide to Wilderness Camping

by Bill Mason

The return of a classic paddling guide. More than a how-to camping and paddling guide, Song of the Paddle is a philosophical guide to outdoor living. Written by the acclaimed paddler and outdoorsman, Bill Mason, the book leads readers on a journey of exploration and discovery. Mason writes from an intensely subjective viewpoint and the advice is practical and sound. He emphasizes the difference in perception between camping (rough) and outdoor living (comfort). Each page is packed with hard-won tips and tricks for enjoying the great outdoors. No detail is ignored -- from keeping campfire smoke out of your eyes to ensuring children are safely occupied around the campsite. Chapters Mason's personal accounts and details of memorable expeditions are certain to kindle the reader's sense of adventure. Abundantly illustrated by photographs and sketches, novice campers and seasoned paddlers alike will get more out of their outdoor experience thanks to Song of the Paddle .

Genres: Outdoors, Reference, Nonfiction

186 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[Rick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sure wish I could've met Bill Mason. I have had opportunity to paddle with his son. Wonderful book.

[Caolan McMahon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bill's writing is informal, relaxed, enthusiastic, and engaging. Perhaps it helps that I watched his (excellent) film Waterwalker beforehand as I could hear his narration throughout. Some of his advice, and certainly his equipment, might be dated now since it was written 34 years ago, but I still thoroughly enjoyed his expedition logs and descriptions of 'living outdoors'. To be honest, I quite enjoyed the 80's camping gear too.

[Ron Crouch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative and well worth reading.

[Matthew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is old-school and provides testaments of an outdoor-living family with a philosophy of harmony and adventure. It's a great resource for many things canoeing and camping.

[Eric Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of the information, especially on gear is dated, but the writing and the stories are timeless.