Hello Campers!

There’s something special about people who feel truly at home in the wilderness. They remind us why we love places like Evergreen—why we keep fighting to protect them. And then… there’s Frank.

Frank the Camper has been here so long we’re not sure if he’s a visitor, a resident, or some kind of forest cryptid. He embodies everything people cherish about national parks: adventure, resilience, a deep connection with nature, and a questionable approach to food safety.

• Like the towering trees, Frank stands strong. Mostly because he refuses to sleep in a tent and insists logs provide better “back support.”

• Like the winding rivers, Frank goes where the trail takes him. Which is great, except when the trail was not meant to be taken.

• Like the breathtaking landscapes, Frank tells a story. Unfortunately, that story often involves getting lost, but he always makes it back (eventually).

Frank is why we love parks—because out here, you can just be. You can breathe fresh air, lose track of time, and if you’re like Frank, accidentally adopt a raccoon (he swears it followed him home).

Frank’s Camping Philosophy (and Questionable Wisdom)
To celebrate Frank’s official introduction, we’ve given him space in the newsletter to share some of his best camping advice. Here’s a sneak peek:

"Camping is about preparation. That’s why I always pack essentials: a fishing pole, a knife, a can of beans, and an emotional support rock I found in ‘92."

"You don’t need a permit if you don’t tell anyone you’re there. That’s called ‘blending in.’" (Editor’s note: You absolutely need a permit. Please do not ‘blend in.’)

Frank is a reminder that the best part of national parks isn’t just the landscapes—it’s the people who make memories in them, the ones who come back year after year, setting down roots in a place that was never meant to be tamed.

Happening This Weekend: The Park’s Most Ambitious (and Slightly Chaotic) Fundraiser Yet
This week, we shift gears to Adopt a Tree Day, where we welcome a documentary crew into Evergreen to capture our efforts to keep this park alive. It’s a big deal, and we’re pretty sure nothing will go too horribly wrong (fingers crossed).

Until then, get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and—if you run into Frank—maybe offer him a sandwich.

-Head Park Ranger Deb.