Campfire Stories with Ilyssa and Dave Kyu
Ilysa Kyu, Brooks Smothers and Dave Kyu (Left to Right) of Campfire Stories at a book signing in Anacortes, Wash.
Gathering around a campfire is one of the most timeless traditions in outdoor life. The crackling flames, the glow of the embers, and the warmth beneath the open sky create the perfect atmosphere for sharing stories, laughter, and memories that last for generations. Campfire conversations are a cherished part of RV living and camping, and they hold a special place in the heart of so many adventurers. In this episode of RV Out West, we explore the power of storytelling outdoors and how a single spark can light up meaningful connection.
Ilyssa and Dave Kyu, the editors behind the celebrated Campfire Stories book series, join us on the show to share their passion for storytelling in the great outdoors. With a deep love for America’s natural spaces and the tales that shape them, they have curated collections that blend history, folklore, poetry, and lived experiences from our national parks and beyond. Their work invites readers and travelers alike to slow down, listen, and connect more meaningfully with the landscapes they explore.
Their new Campfire Stories series Beloved Regions immerses readers in the storytelling traditions woven throughout America’s most treasured natural landscapes, offering rich journeys through diverse histories, lore, and environments found in national parks and beyond.
Through the power of these collected voices, Ilyssa and Dave invite readers to experience each landscape more deeply, inspiring a sense of place, connection, and wonder. Tune in to hear how Ilyssa and Dave are keeping the tradition of campfire storytelling alive and inspiring deeper connections to the places we explore.
SHOW NOTES
Campfire Stories with Ilyssa & Dave Kyu
Episode Highlights
How It All Began
Ilyssa and Dave met at Whole Foods — she was a bagger and he was a cashier.
Their shared discovery of camping — despite limited outdoor experience — sparked a love for sitting by the fire and telling stories.
The Birth of Campfire Stories
Unable to find non‑scary nature storybooks, they decided to build their own collection.
With a deep curiosity for place, they began gathering folk tales, historical accounts, and poetic reflections from national parks to share around the campfire.
Their Pacific Northwest Connection
The couple has traveled extensively in the PNW, including Olympic National Park, with memorable moments like mountain goat encounters.
They recount researching for their “Beloved Regions” book series in the San Juan Islands, and how the local community deeply informed the stories they collect.
Writing and Collecting Stories
Their process includes research in libraries, interviews with locals, and commissioning writers for new voices.
They share how they select stories that reflect the culture, ecology, and history of each region — and also when they decide not to tell a story to honor its origins.
Their Growing Book Series
They’ve published eight books, including two national parks volumes. During COVID-19, they expanded into regional anthologies.
Current “Beloved Regions” titles include San Juan Islands, Redwood Coast, Santa Fe & Taos, and more. (See entire collection at the Campfire Stories website Campfire Stories)
Storytelling Cards Born During Lockdown
Ilyssa and Dave created two decks: one for families to share stories outdoors, the other for kids to invent wild animal tales.
These decks encourage meaningful conversation, connection, and creativity — at the fire or around the table.
Favorite Excerpts
Rena Priest’s “Flourishing in the Seasonal Rounds” — reflects on tribal heritage, orcas, and our connection to the Salish Sea.
“Home of Belonging” by Abigail Morgan Prout — a poem that weaves community, island life, and the natural world into one powerful belonging.
How to Contribute Your Story
Ilyssa and Dave welcome contributions — especially from underrepresented voices — for future volumes.
You can learn more about submissions or browse their catalog on their website: Campfire Stories Campfire Stories+1
Upcoming Events
Check out their live book talks and story events, including appearances in the San Juan Islands. Campfire Stories
Where to Find Their Books
Learn more about their series, including their popular Campfire Stories card deck Campfire Stories
Learn More about Campfire Stories
Takeaway from This Episode
Storytelling connects us more deeply to place, history, and one another.
Even if you’re new to writing or camping, you can spark meaningful conversations around a fire.
Your voice matters — Ilyssa and Dave encourage folks from all backgrounds to share stories of the land.
Thanks for listening, and if you’re inspired, grab your own Campfire Stories book or deck and start your spark.
