Ben Dawson, Author at CleverHiker

Ben Dawson

Gear Analyst

Ben is a full-time traveler, father, and adventure journalist/photographer based in the western United States. He has a passion for conservation and utilizes his writing to help make the outdoors a more accessible space for all types of people.

He began his career in the outdoor industry by running the day-to-day operations of a popular hunting and fishing network but slowly transitioned out of the office and into the field. Ben has over ten years of experience working in the outdoor industry. He has written for numerous outdoor publications, helped film and produce a video gear review series, and has rigorously tested all kinds of outdoor gear.

He has authored three guidebooks for Falcon Guides covering a range of topics from how to build your own van and live nomadically to hiking with kids in Glacier National Park.

Articles by Ben Dawson

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 Tent Review

The image shows a side shot of the Mineral King 3 in a grassy environment set against a burnt orange sky.

Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 Tent Review

Author

This tent is a fantastic crossover that hits all the right notes. It’s perfectly sized and has a familiar yet refreshing design.

The North Face Wawona 6 Tent Review

The image shows a wide shot of The North Face Wawona 6 tent. Both front vestibule doors are open and rolled up to allow a full view through the open vestibule. There are tree covered hills in the background. The sky is blue with mixed in clouds.

The North Face Wawona 6 Tent Review

Author

If you’re looking for a true basecamp tent with an almost impossibly large vestibule, top-quality fabric and poles, cavernous interior space akin to a New York City apartment, tons of pockets in convenient locations, and a design that will hold up to the elements despite its impressive ceiling height, look no further.

Kelty Wireless 6 Tent Review

The Kelty Wireless 6 tent pitched at a forest campsite with the rainfly fully deployed and the front vestibule closed.

Kelty Wireless 6 Tent Review

Author

Spacious, affordable, and easy to pitch, this family-friendly shelter is a strong value for casual campers who want lots of room without spending a fortune.

Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2026

Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2026

Author

Kiddos need reliable footwear out on trail as much as adults. Check out our review of the best hiking shoes for kids so your little one can cruise along with you on your next adventure.

NEMO Aurora Highrise 4 Tent Review

NEMO Aurora Highrise 4 Tent Review

Author

This tent is spacious and easy to set up. We love the big door on the front and the windows on all four sides.

REI Wonderland 4 Tent Review

A medium wide photograph of the REI Wonderland 4 camping tent. The ten is set on a mountainside and the sun is setting in the background. Wildfire smoke shrouds the sky and the sun is setting with a twinge of orange in the clouds.

REI Wonderland 4 Tent Review

Author

This tent is one of our favorite shelters for frontcountry camping because it feels spacious, luxurious, and it’s super user-friendly.

Best 4-Season Tents of 2026

The Samaya 2.0 tent pitched on snow with evergreen trees and panoramic views of rugged mountain peaks in the background.

Best 4-Season Tents of 2026

Author

The fun doesn’t stop when snow starts to fall. All of our top-rated winter tent picks are trail-tested in the mountains so you can find a trustworthy shelter for 4-season adventuring.

10 Best Glass Water Bottles of 2026

A variety of reusable water bottles arranged on a table with a scenic mountain sunset in the background, showcasing different shapes, colors, and designs.

10 Best Glass Water Bottles of 2026

Author

Many people are making the switch from plastic to glass water bottles for the health of the environment and their bodies.

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp Review

a backpacker is reading a map while bundled up seated at the door of his tent

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp Review

Author

One of our favorite headlamps for backpacking because it’s bright, afforable and has a long burn time.

REI Skyward 4 Tent Review

The image shows a medium shot of the REI Skyward 4 from the side with a child poking is head out of the ten. The ten is surrounded by pine trees.

REI Skyward 4 Tent Review

Author

This a well-rounded tent with a sweet balance of simplicity, spaciousness, and weather protection. You can stand up and move freely inside.

Best Hiking Boots for Men of 2026

Knee-down view of a hiker walking a ridge in the Cascade Mountains in the Men's Salomon Quest 4 GTX hiking boots

Best Hiking Boots for Men of 2026

Additional Author

Hiking boots deliver crucial ankle support and cushioning for tough trails, but not all boots are created equal. Here are the favorites we’ve tested and reviewed.

Best Down Jackets of 2026

Front view of a person smiling while wearing the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody with the hood fully zipped, standing in a snowy landscape with trees in the background.

Best Down Jackets of 2026

Author

Down for an adventure? It’s time to layer up! Stay warm, cozy and comfy from city sidewalks to snowy slopes with our guide to the best puffy jackets for men and women.

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