[starbase]

Pretty much every gorgeous destination has campgrounds within the park or nearby. At this time of year everything is half empty; there's no need for reservations.

So, if you want to see Chaco Canyon, just drive there! Buy a bag of groceries in some little town along the way. That night, as you gaze into the milky way while eating peanut butter from the jar because you forgot to buy bread to make PB&J, you'll swear it's the best damn peanut butter you've ever had.

After a couple days you'll be ready for a shower, so you head to Santa Fe. Spend a night in that 400-year-old hotel, La Fonda, and get cleaned up. Hot shower and a soft bed. A breakfast spot selling huevos covered in green chile. Buildings made of sticks and mud. Then drive to the next wilderness area and repeat.

Whatever you do, don't overpack or overplan. You'll be fine.