parks
Why eat junk on a camping trip? Tips and recipes for nutritious food on the trail
By Associated Press at Odessa American (oaoa.com)
· June 20, 2026
· 5 min read
By ALBERT STUMM
The Associated Press
Few things feel better than a long hike in the woods, exhausting yourself as you soak in the fresh air and tranquility. Then, back to camp, where you chip away at those health benefits with packaged hot dogs slapped into a white-bread bun with a slice of plast...
Key takeaway It doesn’t have to be that way, said Aaron Owens Mayhew, a dietitian and long-haul trekker in Orcutt, California.
Why this matters in The Odessa
For Odessa residents who enjoy hiking and camping in the nearby Permian Basin, the benefits of healthy eating on the trail are especially relevant. Given the region's Gulf hurricane and flooding risks, outdoor enthusiasts may face unpredictable weather conditions that demand optimal physical and mental health. By prioritizing nutritious food choices, campers and hikers can better withstand the challenges of exploring the great outdoors. The Ector County Independent School District's emphasis on health and wellness can also extend to outdoor activities, encouraging students and families to make informed food decisions that support their overall well-being. As locals plan their next camping trip, they can draw inspiration from the recipes and tips provided by experts like Aaron Owens Mayhew, adapting healthy habits from home to the campsite and enhancing their outdoor experiences in the process.
About this story
Original reporting by Odessa American (oaoa.com) . The Odessa surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Odessa American (oaoa.com) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: parks ·
Published: June 20, 2026 ·
Source: Odessa American (oaoa.com) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? By ALBERT STUMM
The Associated Press
Few things feel better than a long hike in the woods, exhausting yourself as you soak in the fresh air and tranquility. Then, back to camp, where you chip away at those health benefits with packaged hot dogs slapped into a white-bread bun with a slice of plast...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 20, 2026 by Odessa American (oaoa.com) and curated for The Odessa readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Associated Press at Odessa American (oaoa.com). To learn more about how The Odessa selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more parks coverage from The Odessa, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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