Name: Cooking with Ken: Rice Recipes for Camping and Hiking @KennethKramm
Uploaded: 2026-09-20T08:17:00-05:00
Duration: 8 min 17 s
Description: Cooking with Ken: Rice Recipes for Camping and Hiking

Cooking with Ken: Rice Recipes for Camping and Hiking

KennethKramm 2026-09-20 | Cooking with Ken: Rice Recipes for Camping and Hiking

Stay Cool Outdoors in Extreme Heat, part 1

KennethKramm 2023-08-18 | This video provides advice on how to stay cool when hiking or camping in extreme heat. It is based on my lifetime experience growing up near the Mojave Desert in Southern California, and years later living next to a bayou in East Texas.

I have divided the video into two parts:

PART ONE: Lists all tips, and explains only the first two in detail
PART TWO: Lists all tips, and explains the remaining five in detail

1. ACCLIMATE TO EXTREME HEAT. Allow your body’s physiology several days to slowly adjust to extreme heat. The physiological changes during the adjustment period are critical for survival.
2. USE MICROCLIMATES TO STAY COOL. Weather Channels only report conditions in a standard way, 5 feet off the ground in the shade. Reality is much, much different.
3. DRINK PLENTY OF WATER BEFORE YOU ARE THIRSTY. According to the National Institute for Safety and Health, in extreme heat people should drink 8 ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes.
4. LIMIT ACTIVITY DURING THE HEAT OF THE DAY. Like wildlife, seek shelter when it is too hot. Day-active wildlife become much more active at dawn and dusk. Some day-active wildlife become entirely night active in extreme heat. Hot weather provides a perfect opportunity for night hiking and camping in the rain.
5. WEAR CLOTHING THAT PROTECTS YOUR BODY FROM HEAT. Light-colored, loose clothing, with air spaces between you and the cloth, allows sweat evaporation and cooling. Dark clothing also have advantages...
6. PROTECT FROM SUNBURN AND BUG BITES. Chemicals in sunscreen and bug repellents interact. Use sunscreens only on exposed skin and bug repellents only on clothing. I will also demonstrate tips from the 1800s.
7. And finally, I will demonstrate several YOGA BREATHING TECHNIQUES that will help you RELAX, LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE, AND COOL your body.

References:
From Lab to Real World: Heat Acclimation considerations for Elite Athletes, Julia R Cassadio, Et.al Sports Med. 2017 Aug, 47(8):1467-1476. link.springer.com

Heat Stress Acclimatization. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2017-124, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

Heat Acclimation to Improve Athletic Performance in Warm-hot Environments, Michael N. et.al, Jan 2016, Gatorade Sports Science Institute. SSE #153 gssiweb.org

Death by Water Intoxication, John W. Gardner, May 2002, Military Medicine
academic.oup.com

7 Ways Animals Beat the Heat, Roger Di Dilvestro // Jul 07, 2010// The National Wildlife Federation

Temperature regulation strategies, Google Classroom AP/College Biology, Lesson 2: Energy flow through ecosystems, Khanacademy.org

What Hiking in One of the World’s Harshest Deserts Taught Me About Surviving Heat, Mark Jenkins, September 6, 2022. backpacker.com

How birds handle hot weather, Bob Lewis, September 2, 2017, goldengateaudubon.org

Temperature was measured with an ETEKCITY Infrared Thermometer Lasergrip 774

Videography by Ken Kramm, August 18, 2023

When Life Hands You Dung, Just Roll with It

KennethKramm 2023-08-16 | I made this video 9 years ago and misplaced it. Puts a smile on my face and thought you would enjoy too.

Stay tuned. I will soon release new video on how to stay cool when hiking and camping in extreme heat. It's crazy hot on the trail behind my home. 142 F / 62 C yesterday!!! My phone/camera overheats (and turns off) every few minutes.

Solar Ovens: Cooking with Ken

KennethKramm 2023-07-26 | I demonstrate four DYI solar ovens during an overnight camping trip:
* Easy to make and use
* Simple and tasty recipes
* Ovens require sun, temp above 32F (0C)
* Simple method to design DYI parabolic reflectors
(NO MATH REQUIRED)

RECIPES:

Scone Doughnuts:
Use a sconce mixture that only requires only addition of water (such as "Sticky Fingers Scones." They come in many different flavors, my favorite is cranberry. Directions say 2/3 cup water for an entire package (2.5 cups). Since I make small amounts at a time, I add only enough what to make a very sticky, almost dry mixture. (similar to mixing concrete, with lots of rocks)

Cookies and Cakes:
At home I combine one box of Angel Food Cake Mix (only requires addition of water) with one box of ANY OTHER Cake Mix (such as yellow, chocolate, carrot, etc). Ignore the directions that other cake mix needs to add other ingredients, such as butter or eggs. Thoroughly mix the two boxes at home. When you want to make either cookies or cakes on a camping trip, take a cup or two of the dry mix and add only enough water to make a very thick slurry, similar to a sand mix for topping concrete. Spoon this mixture to the cooking pan for cookies or into a deeper container for cakes. I have made excellent bundt cakes in the Umbrella Oven and beautiful cookies and cakes in the box ovens, with this recipe. I use a few drops olive oil on the pan and parchment to prevent sticking. Bake in preheated oven until the edges are brown. It is very easy to over-cook cookies.

Glaze for Cookies, Cakes & Doughnuts:
Add 1-3 tablespoons water, milk or lemon juice to a cup of powdered sugar to make a glaze. Drip glaze on desserts.

Stuffed Bell Peppers:
Cut peppers and remove seeds. Chop insides and add to the stuffing mixture. 1 cup StoveTope Stuffing, 1/2 cup water, chopped 3 green onions; chopped 2 slices yellow onion; chopped 1 celery stick; chopped 4 slices beef stick sausage. Add additional water if mixture is “dry” after sitting for 5 minutes. Bake in preheated oven 45-60 minutes. Recipe serves 2

Chicken Noodle Soup:
Mix one tablespoon “Better than Bouillon - Chicken base” into 2.5 cups water; chopped 1 green onion, chopped 2 slices yellow onion; pre-cooked chicken and dried Extra Wide Egg Noodles. Bake in preheated oven until the Noodles are soft. About 20 minutes (do not overcook to prevent the noodles from tasting mushy.) Recipe serves 2.

Corn on the Cob:
Clean corn and leave a few leaves. Drizzle olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper. Bake in preheated oven about 15 25 minutes

Baked Apple:
Peel and chop two Granny Smith Apples. Add 2-4 tablespoon cinnamon sugar and 4-8 Red Hot candies.
Bake in preheated over about 40 - 60 minutes (or until the apples are soft, but not mushy). Recipe serves 2 to 4.

Mock English Muffins:
Mix two parts self rising flour with one part Greek Yogurt. Form into balls and flatten to shape of English Muffin. Bake on floured surface of hot black pan. Turn muffins over so they do not burn. Bake in preheated oven.

VIDEOGRAPHY
Ken Kramm, filmed at Oak Flat Campground, Angeles National Forest, CA, USA, July 5-6, 2023;
iPhone 12 Pro Max, GoPro 8 Black, Canon Vixia HF G30; iPhone Apps: Stars Full, Nocturne by Unistellar; Final Cut Pro X

MUSIC
Fifties 50's music (free to use), YouTube by Dar Golan, License Creative Commons Attribution; When My Spirit Calls by Ephemeral Rift, ccMixter Creative Commons 3.0; Beneath the Moonlight, Aaron Kenny, YouTube Audio Library

Peaceful Streams in Southern California, USA

KennethKramm 2023-06-16 | This video is about peaceful streams that are usually hidden from highways in Southern California. Tranquility waits those who explore them, up close and personal. Walk with me to explore the Santa Clara River and several tributaries (including secret creeks).

My bushcraft brother, Bob808Knight, joins the adventure via internet. Wow, we had a blast! See his Youtube video "A Call From a Friend" @Bob808Knight

Videography and poetry by Ken Kramm, June 9, 2023, Lazy River Rag by Dan Lebowitz, YouTube Audio Library

The River, a Peaceful Sanctuary (Poem)

KennethKramm 2023-06-05 | This poem is about the Santa Clara River as it flows through the city of Santa Clarita in Los Angeles County, California. The river is not visible from the nearby freeway as it enters the city. Most folks only see a bare and arid landscape. It takes much closer inspection, on foot, to discover the oasis. The river is the longest, relatively undisturbed river system in Southern California.

The video includes clips of the San Francisquito Creek, a tributary to the river. Paved walking and biking paths as well as dirt trails connect with the Santa Clara River Trail System. Please follow all posted regulations.

The River, a Peaceful Sanctuary

In Santa Clarita, a hidden strength
A sanctuary runs the city’s length
Many folks are unaware of its embrace
A peaceful haven in a bustling place

Water runs clear and cool, a soothing sound
A refuge for the flora and fauna around
Majestic trees and wildflowers abound
A natural beauty that astounds

The concrete jungle fades away
As nature’s touch comes into play
A trail for walkers, joggers, and bikers to stray
A perfect place to spend a sunny day

The river bed, a sanctuary in the midst
Of the city’s chaos, a peaceful twist
A reminder of the beauty that exists
When we let nature freely persist

So let us cherish this hidden gem
And protect it for future generations to stem
For in this sanctuary, we transcend
A place of peace, where the soul can mend.

Video and poetry by Ken Kramm, June 3, 2023.

COMING SOON: follow-up videos on this river system by Bob808Knight and KennethKramm.

Ladybugs, up close and personal

KennethKramm 2023-05-17 | This is a relaxing short film about ladybugs (Coccinelllidae insect family) that live in a Cobweb Thistle (Crsium occidental) bush near our home in Valencia, California, USA. The bush provides a perfect habitat for watching and filming ladybugs up close and personal.

A ladybug narrates the film saying that they are very small and move quickly (flying up to 37 miles per hour). The insect told Ken to film in slow motion (10 percent of normal). Amazing results. Ladybugs can quickly change direction in flight, often when flying upside down. Watch their daily routine in ways you have never seen before.

Videography by Ken Kramm, May 17, 2023; iPhone 12 Pro Max, Final Cut Pro. Ladybug Voice Actor Ken Kramm.

Music: Far Behind, Silent Partner,YouTube Audio Library; Theme_for_a One_Handed_Piano,Concerto, Butterflies_in_Love, Bittersweet_Waltz, Sir Cubworth, YouTube Audio Library

Creative Commons Photographs: Ladybug laying eggs, Ladybird Eggs, Ladybird Larva, and Ladybird Pupa; Wikimedia

Day Hikes Near Our Home in Santa Clarita, CA, USA

KennethKramm 2023-05-02 | Nearly every day, I hike the trails near our home in Santa Clarita, CA, USA. This video highlights amazing spring flowers, following record-setting rainfall in January and February 2023. These hikes are not strenuous and are helping me recover from several health issues.

1) San Francisquito Canyon, Valencia community, Santa Clarita. Our backyard faces a paved hiking and biking trail that follows the (mostly dry) river bed. The river and surrounding hills are a magnet for native vegetation and wildlife. This video highlights the scenery along paved and unpaved trails …. starting at our home and walking upstream to the “open space” trails maintained by the city.

2) Golden State Highway, Castaic. This location is a 20 minute drive from our home. Take the I-5 exit North of Castaic, at Templin Hwy, turn onto Golden State Hwy, head the only direction it goes from the exit. North. This an old paved road in poor condition. Drive slowly and stop wherever you want if you see something of interest. The scenery is amazing. After approximately 4 miles, there is a gate, where you may park (with a Forest Service Adventure Pass). Explore the next few miles on foot or bike. I never get tired of this area.

3) Skyline Ranch Road, Canyon Country community, Santa Clarity, CA. This location is a 15 minute drive from our home. I leave my car at Plum Canyon Park and either hike north on the unpaved Plum Canyon Fire Road to experience the beauty untouched hills, valleys and creeks. Or, I hike along the paved path on the south side of Skyline Ranch Road — to see the Santa Clarita Valley.

Videography by Ken Kramm, May 2, 2023; iPhone 12Pro Max, Final Cut Pro. After You’ve Gone, Ain’t Misbehavin’ by James Curran, Creative Commons, WWW.archive.org Sea of Memory, Twinkle in the Night by Aakashi Gandhi, YouTube Audio Library. Wakantanka, Scared Space Album, flute by David Lakota, Drums by Dennis Lind; Public Domain, WWW.archive.org.

Water In The Creek: Whitney Canyon Falls Trail

KennethKramm 2023-04-04 | Yesterday I hiked the Whitney Canyon Falls Trail (3 miles out and back) near Newhall, California ... only a few minutes from our home. The day was beautiful with a blue sky and gentle breezes. I was hoping for water in the creek and spectacular waterfalls. Awesome!

The trail was filled with happy folks. Enjoy the video.

Videography by Ken Kramm, April 2, 2023

Experimental Art: Macro Photography Inside Rocks

KennethKramm 2023-03-28 | Enjoy the artistry of nature by looking inside of rocks that I cut into slabs and photographed with a flatbed scanner. Amazing beauty. Let your mind go wild when watching this experimental art video.

ROCKHOUNDS
Rocks shown in this video were collected and cut into slabs for tumbling or cabochons by the Kramm family during the 1950's to 1970s. When viewed with a magnifying glass they were spectacular. But only one person could see the beauty at a time.

The Kramm twins (Russel and Kenneth) solved this limitation in 1960 by putting translucent stones into a slide projector. Now, for the first time a room full of people could enjoy the beauty of nature, hidden in rocks.

FAST FIRWARD 60 TEARS
Flat screen scanners, designed for digitizing old photographs / slides/negatives can take highly detailed pictures of rocks in color and black&white.. Different aspects of a rock's internal structure can be emphasized when filters are used (much the same way scientists use microscopes).

It is also possible to make rocks "come to life" by moving and changing shape.. Fantasy and imagination have no limit.

Videography and by Ken Kramm, March 28, 2023. Rocks were photographed with a professional grade flat screen scanner. Proshow Gold Slideshow and Final Cute Pro X were used to manipulate the images.

Music: Borderless, Dancing Star, and Dreamland by Aakasha Gandhi, YouTube Audio Library.

Channel Update: Whats up with Ken

KennethKramm 2023-03-24 | It's been 6 months since my last video, so I wanted you know what's up with Ken. My heart procedure was a success: no dizziness, no longer out of breath and no more AFIB. I will be wearing a heart monitor for 6 days in April to confirm that everything is OK.

Yes, I still have health issues, but they are manageable. My vision and hearing have deteriorated. It is no longer safe for me to drive with double vision and extreme sensitivity to bright light. I will have cataract surgery for both eyes in April. Also, it is difficult to understand conversations, especially in noisy environments, so I am being fitted for custom hearing aids.

I fell off a ladder in November -- only soft tissue damage. Physical therapy, was unfortunately too aggressive, causing much more damage and a trip to the hospital emergency room. During three months recovery, often flat on my back in bed, I thought about future camping adventures and uncompleted outdoor projects that I started as a kid.

On good days,I worked on these projects. The plan is to use them this summer when camping and hiking:
1) SOLAR OVENS
2) CRYSTAL SET RADIOs and TRANSMITTERS
3) BEAUTY OF NATURE, HIDDEN IN ROCKS.

I am as madly in love with my wife, Deb, as when we first met 55 years ago. We celebrated our 53 anniversary in December with a trip to Santa Barbara, California.

Astrophotography with Smartphones & Action Cameras

KennethKramm 2022-09-19 | For best viewing experience watch video in 1080p 60fps.

You do not need an expensive camera for night-sky photography. With today’s smartphones and action cameras, it is easy to capture excellent pictures and time-lapse videos of stars, planets, satellites, meteors and airplanes. Hardware and software are rapidly improving --with artificial intelligence, RAW images, HDR and 5K videos available for many devices.

I used iPhones and GoPro HERO action cameras in this video. My favorite iPhone Apps are Nocturne by Unistellar and Stars Camera.

Several different smartphones and action cameras are good for astrophotography.
Smartphones:
1. Samsung Galaxy, S21 Ultra, Samsung Galxy S20; Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
2. Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max. Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max, Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max
3. Google Pixel 6 Pro, Google Pixel 5, Google Pixel 4 XL
4. Huawei P40 Pro
Action Cameras:
1. GoPro HERO 11 Black, Gopro HERO 10 Black, GoPro HERO 9 Black, GoPro HERO 8, Black
2. SJCam M20 Action Camera
3. DJI Osmo Action
4. Insta360 One R, Insta360 1-inch 360 camera

Astrophotography requires a perfectly still camera. Use a sturdy tripod, that won’t move in the wind. I weight the tripod with an external camera battery and sometimes rocks. The camera may need to run all night long to take star-trail photographs or time-lapse videos from dusk to dawn.

Like all photography, scene selection and lighting are of utmost importance Follow the photographic rule of thirds. Consider the impact of lighting sources, such as the moon, sun, artificial lights and reflections from clouds, haze or water. They will create interest and can impact the visibility of stars, planets and airplanes.

I prefer doing astrophotography when the night sky has a partial moon, so that the foreground is illuminated, with changing shadows.

Videography by Ken Kramm, September 19, 2022. Magistar, Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0 When My Spirit Calls, Native American Flute in D minor, Ephemeral Rift, ccMixter, Creative Commons 3.0

I prefer doing astrophotography when the night sky has a partial moon, so that the foreground is illuminated, with changing shadows.

Videography by Ken Kramm, September 20, 2022. Magistar, Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0 When My Spirit Calls, Native American Flute in D minor, Ephemeral Rift, ccMixter, Creative Commons 3.0

Channel Update: Its Been a Long Time

KennethKramm 2022-09-18 | Health problems during the past two years....

Backpacking Piru Creek Wild & Scenic River

KennethKramm 2022-04-18 | In the hills north of Los Angeles, California, USA, is a wild and scenic river perfect for backpacking. Park at Frenchman’s Flats Day Use Area on the Golden State Hwy Old Rd. It’s only 20 minutes from my home in Valencia. An Adventure Pass is required. From the parking lot, the area looks desolate, devoid of trees and water. You would never guess that a continuously flowing creek is nearby. Rock formations and faults along the creek are unique, providing habitat for endangered and threatened species. The creek is one of two streams in the Angeles National Forest managed for catch and release of wild trout.

I enjoy hiking from the Frenchman's Flats to Lake Lake Piru, a 19.3 mile point-to point trail using the All Trails app on my phone (https://www.alltrails.com). I could walk in the creek, but it is much easier to follow the trail. I often stop along the trail to enjoy the scenery and take pictures. For me, hiking is about the journey not the destination.

Equip Nylon Mosquito Hammock ($39.96 Walmart)

Videography by Ken Kramm, April 18, 2022; iPhone 12 Pro Max; Final Cut 10.6.

Water in the Creek, Josh Woodward, Creative Commons

Blue Creek Trail, Dan Lebowitz, YouTube Audio Library

When My Sprit Calls, Ephemeral Rift, http://ccmixter.org/files , EphemeralRift/34006, Creative Commons, Attribution Non-Commercial 3.0

Off-roading and Rock Climbing, Angeles N Forest

KennethKramm 2022-03-08 | Off Roading and Rock Climbing in the Angeles National Forest, California, USA
- Rowher Flat OHV Recreation Area
- Texas Canyon Climbing Area
- Dispersed Camping
- Trails, Creeks, Rock Climbing, Mines, Wildlife, Wildflowers
- Dark Sky Photography

An adventure pass is required to be displayed in vehicles using the National Forest.

Videography by Ken Kramm, 2/15/21-3/5/21; iPhone 12 Pro Max, Full Stars Full app, Nocturne app unistellar; GoPro HERO Black, Nightlapse mode; Final Cut Pro

When My Spirit Calls, Ephemeral Rift, Creative Commons 3.0:/ccmixter.org/EphemeralRift34006

Videography by Ken Kramm, 2/15/21-3/5/21; iPhone 12 Pro Max, Stars Full app, Nocturne app Unistellar; GoPro HERO 8 Black, Nightlapse mode; Final Cut Pro.

Cardboard Platform Bed for Jeep Wrangler

KennethKramm 2022-02-17 | This platform bed is easy to make and use. The bed is comfortable and long enough to fit my 6'2" height. It is nothing more than cardboard on top of four plastic storage boxes.

Storage items are easily obtained by sliding out any one of the boxes. The other three boxes hold the bed. I demonstrate how to remove a box, one handed -- with my other hand holding the camera.

Videography by Ken Kramm, Feb 10, 2022. Filmed at Rowher Flat Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area, Angeles National Forest, Californa, USA

Guided Relaxation and Sleep Meditation

KennethKramm 2021-12-12 | Welcome to this guided meditation that will help you fall asleep fast. I will lead you through a deep relaxation exercise before your drifting mind takes a journey to a wild and scenic river with waterfalls, wildlife, swimming holes and gentle breezes. A sense of peace and calm will fill your heart as a golden sunset transitions to a star filled night.

Videography by Ken Kramm, 11/29/2021 to 12/6/2021; Piru Creek Wild & Scenic River, Angeles National Forest, Trail starts at Frenchman's Flat. Backpacking allowed.

Please be respectful in your comments.

Nature Up Close & Personal, Backyard is San Francisquito Creek

KennethKramm 2021-10-28 | The backyard of our new home in Valencia, California is San Francisquito Creek — making it easy to enjoy nature up close and personal. This video shows my daily adventures along this creek and up the canyon to the town of Green Valley, a Trailhead for the Pacific Crest Trail, which goes from Canada to Mexico.

OUR BACKYARD. San Francisquito Creek. Hike the dry riverbed and hills near our home. Many interesting plants, animals and rocks

DAY TRIP 1. Explore an abandoned section of San Francisquito Canyon Road 34.5362550, -118.5271610 12 minute drive from our home.

DAY TRIP 2. Explore Forest Rte 6N24, San Francisquito Canyon Road 34.5910256, -118.4591603 18 minute drive from our home.

DAY TRIP 3. Explore Pacific Crest Trailhead, San Francisquito Canyon Road, Green Valley, 34.6344270, -118.3901514 27 minute drive from our home.

Plants and animals were identified on my smart phone with the help of the free Seek App by iNaturalist (a joint initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society). I highly recommend this app.

Sour Tennessee Red (sting) by John Dewey and the 41 players, Youtube Audio Library. Videography by Ken Kramm October 28, 2021.

Please be respectful in your comments. This channel is about bushcraft, hiking camping, and exploring the wonder and awe of nature. This is not a forum to discuss politics.

Red Rock Canyon State Park

KennethKramm 2021-10-05 | Deb and I are finally settled in our new home in Valencia, California -- an hour north of Los Angeles. We live in an active adult community adjacent to many hiking trails, camping areas and wildlife. This video is about my first overnight camping trip as a returning California resident, after 50+ years. Our daughter and family live near by.

Red Rock Canyon State Park is 1.5 hours from our home. It is an awesome place to relax and enjoy nature.
* Located on the western edge of the El Paso Mountain range, Native Americans used this area as a trade route for thousands of years
* In the late 1800s, hundreds of miners sifted the sands for gold.
*The area has unique geology and biology; with many interesting minerals, rocks and fossils.
* It is the location for many movies, videos and commercials.
* Many trails and roads provide opportunities for hiking, driving, and serious 4-WD adventures.
* The dark night sky is perfect for star gazing and photography.

Spectacular night sky videos and photos were taken with my GoPro HERO 8 Black, using Nightlapse settings with 30 second frame rate. My iPhone 12 Pro Max with the Stars Full App took the Star Trails Video. My iPhone 12 Pro Max in the night photo setting (30 seconds) took amazing photos of the night sky, cliffs and Joshua trees.

It is easy to hang a hammock when trees are not available. Don't even think about hanging from Joshua trees. Although they resemble trees, these plants are not trees, but a type of Yucca that may easily be damaged or killed by hammock straps. Instead, I set up my hammock between solid objects, such as picnic tables, rocks, car bumpers, etc.

In this video I used a half bridge hammock made by removing cordage from one end of a gathered hammock and replacing it with pole. This makes a very comfortable hammock. See:

CAMPING WITH DIY HALF BRIDGE HAMMOCKS AT PACE BEND PARK:
youtu.be/k9gNecV9Bho

GUADALUPE RIVER RELAXATION, HALF BRIDGE HAMMOCK
youtu.be/n3wVO8JG05M

Please be respectful in your comments. This channel is about bushcraft, hiking camping, and exploring the wonder and awe of nature. This is not a forum to discuss politics.

Videography by Ken Kramm, October 4, 2021.

Anamalie (Guitar and English Horn) Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0
When My Spirit Calls by Ephemeral Rift, Creative Commons, http://ccmixter.org/people/ephemeralrift

Channel Update: Moving to Southern California

KennethKramm 2021-07-19 | Next week my wife and I are moving to Southern California — north of Los Angeles to be closer to family and friends. We grew up in California and left 50+ years ago. I will return to making videos after we are settled — in a few months. They will blend old-school hiking and camping with the newest video technology including 360 degree cameras.

In the 1960s, my twin, Russel and I did not camp in tents or hammocks, but rather slept directly on the ground, bivouac style. We wore heavy boots and canvas leggings, to protect against cactus thorns and rattlesnakes. I look forward to camping this was again, since this style camping is well suited to warm, dry climates. Stay tuned for future videos. I’ve attached one of my videos from a few years ago, about adapting old-school bivouac camping to the 21st century. Enjoy.

Please be respectful in your comments. This channel is about hiking, camping, bushcraft and the wonder and the awe of nature. One playlist includes videos about my family and hobbies. Folks watch my videos to learn, relax, have fun and experience the outdoors. Many of my videos are used for educational purposes in nature centers, state parks and schools. Please avoid controversial, argumentative comments. This is not a good place to discuss human social problems, government and politics.

Windsor Lakes Renewal after Hurricane Ike Part 2: The Secret Garden at Windsor Lakes

KennethKramm 2021-06-29 | This video shows the Secret Garden in 2009. The garden is remains beautiful in 2021, attracting diverse wildlife and native vegetation.

Cinderella and Wolfie, a Childrens Story by Alfred Kramm

KennethKramm 2021-06-29 | This children's story was written by my dad, Alfred Kramm in 1975 and retold by Gramps, Ken Kramm in 2006. Dad's original sketches were digitized and colorized.

Next month we are moving from Texas to California to be closer to family.

Windsor Lakes Renewal After Hurricane Ike, Best of Texas Award

KennethKramm 2021-06-29 | This video was made in 2009, and never posted to YouTube until now. It shows the effects of Hurricane Ike on our active adult community and the renewal of that followed. Texas Parks and wildlife awarded our Home Owners Association a "Best in Texas" designation for this activity.

The cover picture shows how the area looks in July 2021. Nature re-arranges the wildflowers each year. Beautiful!

FBI, Fungus, Bacteria, Invertebrates

KennethKramm 2021-06-28 | ...

Cali the Cat Memorial Jan 24, 2017

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | Cali Memorial Jan 24, 2017

Stained Glass projects by Ken

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | As a hobby, I have enjoyed making stained glass projects for more than 50 years.

Base Camp and Trail Recipes - teaser

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | Stay tuned for my NEW miniseries on camp and trail cooking. Enjoy simple, tasty and healthy recipes for camping and backpacking.

Videography by Ken Kramm, February 15, 2018.

Ancient Wisdom, leaves teach natures life cycle

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | Welcome to ancient wisdom, learning from nature. In this lesson, leaves offer their perspective on nature's life cycle. Everything from the earth returns to the earth. I paraphrase the Buddhist spiritual leader, Thích Nhất Hạnh (pronounced [tʰǐk ɲə̌t hâːˀɲ] ).

I was walking in the woods one winter day, absorbed by the beauty of leaves that were changing from green to red. I asked the leaves a number of questions. They told me they were mothers to their trees. Umm ... I thought, for we usually think that trees are mothers and the leaves are just children .... but as I looked further, I began to understand what the leaves were saying. With help from the sun and air, leaves convert the water that the roots take-up into energy and send it back to the tree for nourishment. Therefore, leaves ARE mothers to their trees. Since the leaf is linked to the tree by a stem, the communication between them is easy to see.

I asked the leaves if they were frightened because it was winter and leaves were falling. The leaves told me, "No. During the spring and summer we worked hard to help nourish the trees. Now, we are mostly in the trees. We are not limited by this form. When we go back to the soil, we will continue to nourish the trees. So don't worry at all."
Later that day I saw several leaves separate from their branches and float down to the soil. They waved to the trees as they floated to the ground, saying: "We will see you again very soon." I was so happy. I bowed my head, knowing that I have a lot to learn from the leaves.

Thích Nhất Hạnh, 1991, Peace is every step, The path of mindfulness in everyday life. Bantam Books.

Music by IMovie '11 and Creative Commons Musicians (http://www.freesound.org), sandyrb (Native Drum Loop) and Kerri Lake (Flute Dance, Eagle Feather and Rainbow)

Nature sounds by Texas wildlife.

Videography by Ken Kramm, Canon Vixia HF S20 camcorder.

Walk in the Woods with My Jacklore & Bushbox (improved)

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | improved sound version

Golden Sunrise by Josh Woodward

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | In celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Wilderness Act, I hiked and camped the Sam Houston National Forest with 18 high school students (GreenSchools! Youth Leadership in Nature Challenge program). We had a blast with a day hike of the Little Lake Creek Wilderness and a night hike in the Stubblefield Recreation Area. The sunrise each morning was awesome.

Videography by Ken Kramm, March, 2014; Canon Vixia HF G10. Golden Sunrise by Josh Woodward (unreleased alternate version). Creative Commons 3.0 http://www.joshwoodward.com/sharing

Josh Woodward's thought-provoking lyrics continue to resonate in my head.

We're sheltered from the sunlight
In the shade beneath the tree
We hide behind the shadow
Like an orphaned refugee

The apple tree of knowledge
Shed its fruit along the way
The injury is fading
But the hunger's here to stay

Until the day
When there's no, memory
Of what we used to be

Golden sunrise
Burned your eyes
Filled your dark skies
Made you blind

The heads all turn to darkness
When the sun engulfs the sky
The brightness overwhelming
To the unadjusted eyes

We're taught to follow blindly
Like there's nothing here to see
A slave to some philosophy
Will somehow make you free

And you will be
So gladly handcuffed
Enlightened from above

[Chorus]

With ignorance a virtue
A question is a sin,
Is there no remedy for
the state that we are in?

With knowledge on a leash
It's like a terminal disease
And we won't be awake to see that we are fading out

[Chorus]

Another day in darkness for the ones who've seen the light
Broken eyes are shining in the stillness of the night
They never see the beauty of the world as it is
Made you blind

So Happy That I Cant Stop Singing: A Camping We Will Go

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | Bob and I are excited about camping this weekend at Sulphur Springs in Bend, Texas. This is privately owned property with several miles frontage along the Colorado River.

Facebook Exclusive Teaser

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | Jonathan and I went camping last weekend to test new equipment and enjoy the wilderness. But something else happened. Stay tuned for the rest of the story....

Grandfather Kramm and The Golden Rule

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | This video is intended to preserve fond memories of my parents and especially Grandfather Kramm. His love of God, nature and the outdoors provided values by which I was raised. The Golden Rule was the guiding philosophy in everything we did.

Backyard Night Sky

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | My first GoPro HERO 4 night lapse video. "Supernatural" Kevin MacLeod, Creative Commons License

A Living Waterfall, No Music

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | Enjoy this educational art film about Gorman Falls at Colorado Bend State Park, Bend, Texas, USA (NO MUSIC VERSION). Unlike many waterfalls, Gorman Falls gradually grows larger over time instead of becoming smaller. Thousands of years ago this waterfall was nothing more than a spring-fed stream meandering through a flat valley. Dissolved minerals in the water (calcium carbonate) settled to the bottom, depositing on tiny water plants and other surfaces. Over time, these deposits built up, forming a sedimentary rock called travertine. At Gorman Falls this travertine is approximately 650 feet (183 meters) wide and 60 feet (18 meters) thick. This tipe of depositing is known as a constructed waterfall. Layers of travertine preserve many centuries of evidence about the environment, climate and human habitation. Gorman Falls took centuries to form, but it can be destroyed in minutes by walking on the soft rock. It is very likely that remains of ancient plants and animals lie entombed within the rock, as well as traces of the prehistoric peoples who occupied this area 10,000 years ago.

Videography by Ken Kramm, 9 July 2015; Canon Vixia HF G10, Canon Powershot SX40HS, iPhone 6+, Final Cut Pro X.

Bake Food with a Camping Coffee Pot (with music)

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | It is easy to transform a camping coffee pot into an oven. In this video I demonstrate how to make bush muffins and apple pie. Future episodes will show how to bake cake, bread, tamale pie, poached salmon and steamed vegetables.

Videography by Ken Kramm 4 September 2015; Canon Vixia HF G10, iPhone 6+; Final Cut Pro X; YouTube Audio Library.

Teaser Video: Ultralight Hammock Camping on the Beach

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | A storm is coming. Will Ken be safe? Stay tuned for adventure...

Turn Seawater into Fresh Water with Trash

KennethKramm 2021-06-25 | ...

Explore Piru Creek Wild & Scenic River

KennethKramm 2021-05-30 | Explore Piru Creek wild and scenic river in Los Angeles County, California. The adventure starts at Frenchmans Flat Campground.

This video is dedicated to my son Jonathan, who unexpectedly died New Year's Eve 2019. His last words to me were, "Dad, I really enjoy camping with you, let's do it again when I feel better." Jonathan lived in California for several years and particularly loved area north of Los Angeles, where this video was filmed. May his spirit be smiling.

Please be respectful when making comments. I stopped making public videos last year due to many inappropriate comments, some political. My channel is about hiking, camping, bushcraft and the love of nature.

Stealth Camping With a Furca or Bindle Stick

KennethKramm 2020-11-18 | When stealth camping last week, I carried my gear on a pole, similar to the fucra, used by ancient Roman soldiers or the bindle stick, used by American Hobos. I set-up basecamp at a regular campground and told the camp host that I would be taking nature videos and would be away from the campground most of the time. This provided cover for stealth nature photography. If I accidentally ventured into areas where camping was not permitted, I would explain that I was taking videos and did not want to leave my cameras. I never entered area posted with "keep on the trail" signs"or "keep out/no trespassing" signs.

I went stealth camping to photograph hundreds of vutures and turkeys in their wild habitat. Vultures are important in cleaning disease (including viruses) out of the environment. This video includes amazing animal behavior I've never seen before. Simply amazing. youtu.be/uI-sOL2TkeM
The video was controversial because I wore a mask as required by park regulations. The park was 100% full; People were everywhere. I purposely did not photograph them and went to remote areas to avoid crowds. I only took the mask off at my campsite and in off-trail stealth locations.

The video is unlisted with no comments permitted because hundreds of negative comments from strangers and so called friends who used foul language to call me weak, stupid and an idiot. My videos are intended to share the peace, harmony, and love of nature; NOT HATE AND FEAR. I will not allow them to be used as a lightning rod for evil.
Peace be with you, Ken

Video links:
Camping with Half Bridge Hammock at Pace Bend by Ken Kramm
youtu.be/k9gNecV9Bho
Guadalupe River Relaxation, Half Bridge Hammock by Ken Kramm
youtu.be/n3wVO8JG05M

Winter Backpacking with Homemade Hammock Sock by Ken Kramm
youtu.be/Qlb9d4r31yw

Stealth Camping:
Secrets of Stealth Camping by Ken Kramm youtu.be/KCdX8Z5R_w8
Lay Me Low Stealth Camping by Ken Kramm youtu.be/LYV5WQsRETg

Furca and Bindle stick:
Backpacking, Old School Minimalist by Ken Kramm
youtu.be/Ko8WRhI4TSg
Hobo Hiking with a Bindle by Ken Kramm youtu.be/4TEjy4rgz00

Vultures:
Turkey Vultures, Scary Scavangers by Ken Kramm
youtu.be/W3mHIm0nNj4
Backpacking on Vulture Island, Wild Camping Tips and Vulture Information by Ken Kramm youtu.be/fDa7-RlSo4s
Vultures, Halloween and the Gates of Hell by Ken Kramm youtu.be/HzoAghEiyag

Videography by Ken Kramm, November 8-10, 2020; Texas Hill Country, USA; iPhone 10XsMax, GoPro HERO8 Black, Final Cut ProX. Fun in the Sun by Chris Haugen , YouTube Audio Library

Pandemic Postcard

KennethKramm 2020-10-23 | Lose yourself in nature and find peace. Piney woods of East Texas

Videography by Ken Kramm. October 23, 2020; Meyer Park, Spring, Texas and Angelina National Forest, Texas; iPhone 10Xs, Final Cut ProX.

Guadalupe River Relaxation, Half Bridge Hammock

KennethKramm 2020-10-11 | This video highlights 4-days camping at Guadalupe River State Park, Texas, USA. I tubed the river, sometimes stopping to hammock in the water and at other times stopping to hike/hammock on dry land. I rolled my hammock over a pole and carried my gear, similar the the way American Hobos used bindle sticks or Ancient Roman Soldiers used furcas. Rolling the hammock on the a pole, provided padding, making it softer on my shoulder when carrying gear.

- DYI Hammock Sock with Frost Blanket
- DYI Half Bridge Hammock
- Gear set-up for both floating and hiking
- Camping Recipes
- River Meditation
- Night Sky Meditation

Camping Mug Cake Recipe
Materials: Container with equal parts Angel Food Cake mix and Yellow or Chocolate cake mix, water, olive oil, small coffee filter, mug, double boiler pans
Directions: Coat mug with thin layer of olive oil. Place small coffee filter in mug (to keep cake from sticking). Put 4 tablespoons of cake mixture in mug and 2 tablespoons of water. Mix and heat in covered double boiler pans for several minutes until cake is done.

Videography by Ken Kramm 29/9/20 - 10/10/20; iPhone10Xs max, GoPro HERO8 black, Canon Vixia HFG30, Bushnell Game Camera, FinalCut Pro X. Beneath_the_Moonlight by Arron Kenny YoutubeAudio Library. The Sky of our Ancestors, Hammock Fight Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0

Guadalupe River Relaxation, Texas Style

KennethKramm 2020-09-18 | Enjoy 4-days hammock camping on the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country. Highs in the 80s F/30 C and lows in the 70s F/21C; no biting insects, clean, cool water:
- Beautiful Beaches,
- Serenity Sit Spots,
- Wildflower Trails,
- Tranquility,
- Untroubled Paths,
- Soaring Cliffs,
- Braided Roots,
-Abundant Wildlife,
- Spectacular Night Sky

Videography by Ken Kramm, September 13-16, 2020, Guadalupe River State Park, Spring Branch, Texas, USA. iPhone Xs Max, GoPro HERO 8, Canon Vixia HF G30; Final Cut ProX.

Firefly, Fun_in_the_Sun by Chris Haugen, YouTube Audo Library.

American Beautyberry Jelly, Pudding and Pie

KennethKramm 2020-08-25 | American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) is a shrub native to the woodlands in southern United States. This beautiful plant has amazing superpowers. It’s crushed leaves repel biting mosquitoes and ticks. It’s berries are beautiful and edible. The plant is not poisonous to people or pets. When camp I always try to find a spot next to Beautyberry plants. To repel biting bugs, I simple rub crushed leaves on me. And if I am hungry, I nibble on a few berries. Wildlife love the berries too. Raw berries are somewhat sweet and have a mealy texture. But if you make jelly from the berry juice, the flavor is transformed into the best jelly ever. Amazing! It is similar to cranberry jelly, but milder, with a greater depth and complexity. If you want to drink the juice instead of making jelly, add sugar and a few drops of lemon or lime juice. The acidity of lemon or lime will greatly enance the flavor. The Sure-Jelly Pectin, in the recipe below, adds a slight lime flavor to the jelly.

Jelly Recipe
5 cups berries
3 cups water
3 cups sugar (adjust to taste)
1envelope Sure-Jelly pectin
12 small canning jar / lids
Collect 5 cups of ripe berries (I put a plate below each branch and carefully rub the berries loose)
Wash the berries, removing branches or twigs. Put clean berries in a large pot with 4 cups water.
Boil for 20 minutes, smashing the brown skin with a spoon.
Strain the liquid thru a sieve with 2 layers of cheese cloth (paper towel also works). Add 3 cups sugar and 1 envelope of Sure-Jelly pectin to 3 cups berry juice. Boil and continue stirring until dissolved. Put liquid into sterilized canning jars.

Pudding / Pie Recipe
2 cups of liquid from the jelly recipe above (use only 1 cup sugar)
3 Tbs cornstarch
1 can condensed milk (14 ounce)
3 egg yolks, beaten
1 tsp vanilla
Stir cornstarch into small amount cold water. Then stir in condensed milk and egg yolks. And finally pour into warm liquid from jelly recipe. Heat and stir until mixture thickens. Turn off heat and add vanilla. Pour pudding into serving cups or baked pie shell.

Meringue
serving containers
pudding from above recipe
3 egg whites
1/4 tsp cream of tarter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Whisk egg whites in bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually wisk in cream of tarter and powdered sugar until egg whites form sharp peaks that hold shape. Spread meringue over pudding or pie. Bake in preheated 350 F oven until meringue topping is golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.

Videography by Ken Kramm August 25, 2020.

Immigrant Success Story: Living the Golden Rule in America

KennethKramm 2020-08-07 | Grandpa Alfred M. Kramm immigrated from Germany in the early 1900s. He was a young watchmaker who wanted to start adult life in the land of the free and home of the brave. It got off to a rough start:
- San Francisco earthquake April 18, 1906,
- World War 1,
- Spanish Flu Pandemic,
- Great Depression, and
- World War 2.

Grandpa applied for citizenship several times, but his requests were denied until 1940. His wife Frieda, who was born in the USA, had her citizenship revoked because Grandpa was classified as an "alien enemy." In spite of these challenges, he continually operated a successful business and with Grandmother, raised a beautiful, loving family. Grandpa was a model immigrant who helped build this country. At last, in 1940 they both became citizens. The foundation for success, I believe, was their value-centered life, based on teachings from the Bible.

The values that Grandpa and Grandmother demonstrated are as valuable today as they were in the early 1900s. I can only admire their strength of character.

The video is based on Grandpa's diary, photographs, letters and notes.

Additional Information:
The making of Norman Rockwell’s “Golden Rule” youtu.be/YY_8qAeKMrM

American Pioneers and The Code of the West, Ken Kramm youtu.be/PNAvA0ti69w

The Evolution of Reciprocal Altruism https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/Trivers-EvolutionReciprocalAltruism.pdf

Dads growing-up years, early 1900s

KennethKramm 2020-08-02 | Alfred H. Kramm. The Early Years. Dad's growing-up years, based on photographs, letters, diary and memories shared with his children. The story starts in 1910 and continues until 1934 when he met Margret Harshaw. They were married in 1937.

Dad had strong opinions, values and moral compass that were reflected in the diary that he kept from 1925 to 1932. When he was 15, he concluded each day with a sentence in the diary that started, "Kramm thinks..." These were the values by which he lived, and passed on to his children. Many nights, at dinner, the family would receive a lecture on what "Kramm thinks..."

Mothers growing-up years, early 1900s

KennethKramm 2020-07-31 | Margret Harshaw, The Early Years. Mother's growing-up years, as re-told by my daughter Dee and her children. This historical video is based on two DVDs, a photo album, and memories shared with her children. The story starts in early 1900s Kansas City. It describes mother's life until 1937, when she married Alfred H.Kramm.

Alfred M. Kramms Sketchbook

KennethKramm 2020-07-31 | Grandfather Kramm enjoyed drawing throughout his life. This video shows one of his sketchbooks. Grandfather and his eldest son, my dad, would often go hiking and draw pictures together. I passed this tradition to my son, Jonathan, as shown the YouTube Video, "Passing the torch: Dad and Son Bike Camping." Sweet memories. I think about Jonathan every day. Rest in peace... youtu.be/dbGLmH7c3LQ

Alfred M. Kramm, Jeweler and Gold Buyer in the 1900s

KennethKramm 2020-07-31 | Grandfather Alfred M. Kramm immigrated from Germany to settle in Grass Valley, California, USA as a watchmaker and jeweler in 1910. This video describes how his business changed over the years. During the depression of the 1930s he became a successful gold buyer. The business that he started exists today as Stucki Jewelers and Engravers, 148 Mill St. Grass Valley, CA. At the store, you can see many historical items from grandfather's business. downtowngrassvalley.com/stucki-jewelers-engravers

San Francisco Earthquake April 18, 1906

KennethKramm 2020-07-31 | Photos and diary by grandfather Alfred M. Kramm during the San Francisco Earthquake April 18, 1906.

Backpacking in Ancient Rome: Old School, Minimalist

KennethKramm 2020-07-28 | I adapted techniques from the ancient Roman army to modern ultralight backpacking. This video shows what I learned. The techniques used by the Roman army were simpler and better than the bindles that hobos used to carry their possessions during the Depression era of 1930s. Roman soldiers lashed several bags and tools together onto T-shaped poles, known as furcas. This stabilized the load, making it easy to carry.

Link to my video: "Hobo Hiking with a Bindle: Old School, Minimalist" youtu.be/4TEjy4rgz00

Videography by Ken Kramm, July 30,2020; Filmed at W.G. Jones State Forest, Conroe, Texas. Medieval Combat, YAP Audio Production, Freesound.org Wexford, Kevin MacLeod, Free Public Domain; "The wild and reckless hobo" Cowen Powers Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution-NonCommercial 2.5 Generic http://cylinders.library.ucsb.edu/sea... Issue Number/Label: 5131: Edison Blue Amberol Issue Number/Label: 10624: Edison Record Year of Release: [1926]