My first backcountry camping trip was a half dozen or so years ago with my mom. We spent a few nights at the bottom of the Grand Canyon with two guides and a few friends learning everything from packing a bag to pooping in the woods (glamorous I know). She had to talk me into going on the trip initially (primarily because it was expensive and I was living right at the edge of my means at that point in time particle because vacations days were hard to come by) - but I am glad we did. Over the years backcountry camping has decreased in interest for her and effectively consumed my life. When the opportunity to return to the desert with my mom presented it’s self I did not hesitate. We stayed a little but more comfortably this time (with beds and running water and wifi) but there is something very special about the desert that will always bring me back to my first night sleeping under the stars.