My mailbox lately has been full of messages from people looking for good places to pitch a tent or park a camper this summer. Most seemed to be new to the area or new to camping, and most hoped I could recommend a place no more than a two-hour drive from Las Vegas.

There are plenty of excellent campgrounds in our area, but in summer, your choices are limited. The extreme heat over the next month or so means you'll have to head for higher ground. This time of year, the closest place to camp comfortably is the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, up in the area locals call Mount Charleston.