Author and researcher Lyle Blackburn joins the program again and we give a detailed behind the scenes look at the new documentary Wild Men: The Search for Feral Humans & Lost Tribes that details reports of primitve people in East Texas in areas of the Trinity Triangle. This is our second show on this topic but now with fresh reports and new insight.

Watch the new documentary and subscribe to Chester Moore's YouTube channel here.

It’s our annual Halloween Monster Special! Lyle Blackburn returns to Dark Outdoors to dive into the legends of Momo, the Lizard Man, and the Lake Worth Monster in this chilling cryptid deep dive.

In this special Halloween edition of the Dark Outdoors podcast, we welcome back Lyle Blackburn—renowned cryptozoologist, author, and monster hunter—for our Annual Monster Episode. This time, we're plunging deep into the chilling backwoods lore of Momo the Missouri Monster, the swamp-dwelling Lizard Man of Scape Ore Swamp, and Texas’s own Lake Worth Monster.

These aren’t your average urban legends. These regional cryptids have sparked mass hysteria, eyewitness encounters, and intense investigations. Lyle unpacks the folklore, historical sightings, and what makes each of these monsters so unique in the world of American cryptozoology.

Whether you're a lifelong believer or a curious skeptic, this episode will make you think twice before heading out into the woods after dark...

🔍 Topics Covered:

• Origins and sightings of Momo in 1970s Missouri

• The strange case of the Lizard Man of South Carolina

• How the Lake Worth Monster terrorized North Texas

• Cultural impact and media coverage of these cryptids

• What these legends say about human fear, folklore, and the wilderness

💀 Perfect for fans of: Cryptids, Bigfoot, Halloween podcasts, folklore, Lyle Blackburn, The Legend of Boggy Creek, paranormal investigation, backwoods horror, and creepy creature encounters.

📌 Don’t miss this spine-tingling journey into the darker corners of the outdoors… because in the wild, you’re never really alone.

From Murder Mountain to grow ops, Chester Moore reveals chilling encounters in the wild—traffickers, killers, attack dogs, and survival stories that prove the outdoors can turn deadly without warning.

Encountering an illegal grow or trafficking operation is one of the most dangerous threats in the great outdoors—and in this shocking episode of Dark Outdoors, we share terrifying real-life accounts.

You’ll hear stories of:

• A savage trained killer dog unleashed on a hiker who stumbled onto a grow site

• The infamous “Murder Mountain” and its deadly legacy, made famous by the Netflix series

• A serial killer who turned himself in carrying a human breast in a bag

• A hunter held at gunpoint on a deer lease after crossing the wrong path

• A special defense and safety segment with Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County, Florida

These chilling accounts expose the hidden dangers lurking where crime and wilderness collide—and why every outdoor enthusiast should take precautions.

Chester Moore unravels a bizarre case that begins with a man posing as a woman to poach deer in a city park—and spirals into a shadowy world of wildlife trafficking, exotic animal cloning, and black-market “Frankensheep.”

In this unusual episode of Dark Outdoors, we uncover one of the strangest wildlife crime stories ever told. It begins with a man posing as a woman to gain illegal access to a city park—and its vulnerable deer population.

But what starts as a bizarre poaching scheme quickly spirals into something far darker:

• A hidden web of wildlife trafficking and exotic animal cloning

• Shocking connections to the black-market trade of Marco Polo sheep

• The creation of “Frankensheep hybrids” for high-stakes deals in the underground animal trade

Join us as we follow the trail from urban deer blinds to the global black market, exposing a story where greed, cloning, and poaching collide in the darkest corners of the outdoors.

In a never-before-heard interview, the late Jerrie Dean shares chilling insights into unsolved disappearances, cold cases, and rural murders hidden in the Texas wilderness.

n this special lost episode of Dark Outdoors, we reveal a rare interview with Jerrie Dean, founder of the Missing Texas 40 Project, recorded before her passing.

Jerrie shares haunting perspectives on:

• Unsolved disappearances and suspicious deaths across Texas

• The disturbing case of a body found in a barrel

• A brutal murder deep in the Pineywoods of East Texas

• The broader mystery of rural crime and missing persons in America’s wilderness

This gripping conversation not only shines a light on forgotten victims but also honors the tireless work of a woman dedicated to uncovering the truth.

Dark Outdoors® is proud to continue Jerrie’s mission, with support from Texas Fish & Game, bringing awareness to missing people in every episode.

From vehicle ambushes to campsite assaults, Chester Moore and special guest Jeff Stewart reveal real-world survival strategies for anyone who ventures deep into the backcountry.

In this intense episode of Dark Outdoors, host Chester Moore dives into life-or-death survival tactics for those who may find themselves attacked in vehicles, campsites, or other remote locations. Whether you’re off-roading miles from cell service or camping in the deep backcountry, knowing how to respond could be the difference between survival and tragedy.

Joining Chester is Jeff Stewart—renowned author, gunsmith, and seasoned outdoorsman—who shares decades of tactical knowledge and backwoods expertise. Together, they cover:

• How to survive vehicle ambush scenarios

• Proven defensive tactics and practical gear recommendations

• How to mentally prepare for the unthinkable in remote areas

This episode is a must-listen for overlanders, hunters, campers, and rural residents who spend serious time off-grid.

And don’t miss our “Missing in the Wild” segment at the end of the show—brought to you by Texas Fish & Game—spotlighting unresolved wilderness disappearances that demand attention.

Four people were killed and one injured in a wave of shark attacks along the New Jersey coast in 1916. While history blamed a great white, modern experts suggest a far more adaptable—and dangerous—suspect: the bull shark.

In July 1916, a series of shark attacks along the New Jersey shore left four dead and one injured, sparking nationwide panic and later inspiring the iconic film Jaws. While a great white shark was captured and blamed, modern science points to another predator: the bull shark.

Renowned for its ability to thrive in both saltwater and freshwater—and its aggressive behavior—the bull shark may have been the true culprit behind the 1916 Jersey Shore shark attacks.

In this episode of Dark Outdoors, we:

• Revisit the chilling events of 1916 and their cultural impact

• Examine evidence that challenges the “great white” narrative

• Explore the bull shark’s unique adaptability and hunting behavior

• Speak with a Texas shark expert about population trends

• Reveal a promising, simple shark deterrent that could protect both people and sharks in the future

Whether you’re fascinated by true crime, marine biology, or ocean predators, this episode dives deep into one of the most infamous—and misunderstood—shark attack stories in history.

From hooded figures around midnight fires to chilling satanic ceremonies, Chester Moore exposes real encounters with the occult in the wilderness—and the terrifying dangers they pose.

In this unsettling episode of Dark Outdoors, we confront the occult in the great outdoors through first-hand accounts of bizarre and terrifying rituals.

You’ll hear:

• A border patrol agent who stumbled upon hooded figures gathered around a ritual fire in an area infamous for satanic activity

• A security guard who witnessed a dark outdoor ceremony firsthand

• Three boys who came face-to-face with a disturbing ritual deep in the woods

These stories uncover the hidden world of satanic groups, sacrificial sites, and secret occult practices that can turn a night in the wild into a nightmare.

Special thanks to Chris James of the Strange Things with Chris James podcast for contributing one of these chilling accounts.

Please subscribe to Dark Outdoors® to keep up with true crime stories and terrifying encounters in the wild.

Dark Outdoors partners with Texas Fish & Game to bring you our Missing in the Wild reports. Learn more at fishgame.com.

👉 This way, the

Feral Apes in the American SouthcFrom an orangutan-like creature on a swamp porch to baboon sightings in the woods, Dark Outdoors uncovers chilling reports of wild primates lurking across Texas, Florida, and beyond.

In this eerie episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore investigates decades of strange, unnerving encounters in the American South—not with native wildlife, but with creatures resembling feral apes and wild primates.

Firsthand accounts include:

• A woman who saw an orangutan-looking creature on her porch in a swampy homestead

• A hunter who encountered a troop of baboons deep in the wilderness

• A hairy hand reaching into a deer blind under cover of night

Some researchers suggest these sightings may stem from escaped or released primates dating back to the mid-20th century, when exotic pet ownership and roadside zoos were more common. Over time, populations may have adapted, creating secretive breeding groups in remote, unmonitored regions.

Wildlife journalists and field investigators have documented anomalous hair samples, chilling vocalizations, and ambush-like behaviors that align more with great apes than with any known North American species.

Join us as we explore the legends, theories, and eyewitness encounters that suggest something wild—and very real—may still be lurking just beyond the campfire’s glow.

From missing hunters to eerie swamp dolls, Chester Moore and author Lyle Blackburn explore chilling tales of disappearances, dark rituals, and even serial killers hidden in America’s swamps.

In this intense episode of Dark Outdoors, host Chester Moore is joined by renowned author and storyteller Lyle Blackburn, discussing his book Sinister Swamps and the unsettling mysteries that haunt these wild, watery landscapes.

Highlights include:

• Campers and hunters who vanished without a trace in the Everglades and Great Dismal Swamp

• The terrifying case of mysterious dolls discovered in an Alabama swamp

• Accounts of serial killer activity lurking in America’s wetlands

• Other eerie tales where wilderness and true crime collide

With Blackburn’s vivid storytelling and Moore’s investigative edge, this episode sheds light on the dark secrets hidden in swamps across the South.

Surviving a Grizzly Attack in Wyoming. In this special uncut episode, Ben Verheul recounts his terrifying, hour-long survival story of being mauled by a grizzly deep in the Wyoming wilderness.

In this unforgettable episode of Dark Outdoors®, Ben Verheul shares the full, uncut story of his harrowing grizzly bear attack in the remote Wyoming backcountry.

You’ll hear:

• How he endured and survived a brutal grizzly mauling

• Why he was certain the bear that attacked him was the same grizzly he had previously encountered

• Firsthand insights into the split-second decisions that meant the difference between life and death

If bear encounters and survival stories intrigue you, this one will blow your mind. It’s a chilling, raw account of man versus nature at its most primal.

From crocodile massacres to tiger attacks, Chester Moore and author R.C. Bramhall uncover terrifying true stories of soldiers facing deadly wildlife in battlefields around the world.

In this chilling episode of Dark Outdoors®, Chester Moore sits down with R.C. Bramhall, author of Haunted War Tales: True Military Encounters with the Bizarre, Paranormal and Unexplained, to discuss the deadly wildlife threats faced by soldiers in wartime.

Topics include:

• A crocodile-caused massacre that remains one of the deadliest animal attacks in history

• Tiger attacks on soldiers in dense jungles

• The harrowing story of the U.S.S. Indianapolis and shark-infested waters

• Snakebites that proved as lethal as bullets

• Encounters with huge bunker rats in Vietnam—and much more

These stories highlight how war zones are not only dangerous from combat, but also from the wild predators and creatures that lurk in the shadows.

Mysterious lights flicker through the woods of Bragg Road and the Louisiana fields — are they swamp gas, headlights, or something not of this world? The 13 Days of Dark Outdoors begins where science and the supernatural collide.

They’ve appeared for generations — glowing orbs floating above the dirt roads and swamps of East Texas and Louisiana. Some say they’re lanterns carried by the dead. Others swear it’s nothing more than chemistry in the dark: methane gas, refracted headlights, or static electricity.

In this kickoff to 13 Days of Dark Outdoors, we travel from Bragg Road in the Big Thicket to Fields, La. chasing the mysterious “ghost lights” that have haunted both states for decades. Along the way, we talk to locals, dig into folklore, and explore the science that tries to explain the unexplainable.

Is it superstition, optical illusion… or proof that some mysteries still live out there in the dark?

Dark Outdoors® investigates shocking reports of huge drones over Sabine Lake and deep inside Louisiana, and explores new tools to track these mysterious machines.

In this exclusive episode of Dark Outdoors®, Chester Moore delivers a detailed report on massive drone sightings across the Texas–Louisiana region.

Highlights include:

• A huge drone over Sabine Lake on the Texas–Louisiana border

• A report of a large drone in the interior of Louisiana

• Additional eyewitness accounts of mysterious aerial activity in the region

Joining the discussion is Scott Tompkins, creator of DroneTracker.app, a mapping system designed to log drone sightings and uncover patterns behind what’s really happening in the skies.

This episode raises important questions about who is operating these drones, why they’re flying in remote areas, and what it means for outdoor safety and security.

From the East Coast to the Gulf Coast, mysterious drones are appearing—and in some cases, stalking people. Homeland Security claims they have no answers. Dark Outdoors® investigates.

In this special edition of Dark Outdoors®, Chester Moore dives into the unsettling wave of strange drone sightings reported across the United States.

Key details include:

• Unexplained drones spotted along the East and Gulf Coasts

• Reports of individuals being stalked by mysterious aerial machines

• Homeland Security’s surprising admission that they “don’t know what’s going on”

• The deeper questions: Who is behind these drones? Why are they targeting people? And what do they mean for outdoor safety?

This episode shines a light on one of the most mysterious and underreported outdoor threats emerging today.

Please subscribe to Dark Outdoors® for more true crime stories, wilderness investigations, and terrifying outdoor encounters you won’t hear anywhere else.

Author Lyle Blackburn joins Chester Moore to unravel the eerie true story of the Lake Worth Monster—also known as the Greer Island Goatman—in this chilling Halloween edition of Dark Outdoors®.

In our special annual Halloween cryptozoology episode, host Chester Moore sits down with acclaimed author and researcher Lyle Blackburn to discuss his latest book, The Lake Worth Monster: The True Story of the Greer Island Goatman.

This deep dive explores:

• The legend and lore of the Lake Worth Monster

• Why this case has been so misunderstood for decades

• How the story of the Goatman of Greer Island continues to haunt Texas folklore

• The broader place of cryptids and creepy creatures in Halloween storytelling

If you love cryptozoology, Texas legends, or spine-tingling mysteries tied to the outdoors, this episode will keep you on the edge of your seat.

From fatal animal attacks to chilling disappearances, Chester Moore and author Randi Minetor explore the most haunting cases from her seven-book series on death in national parks.

In this gripping episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore speaks with best-selling author Randi Minetor about the shocking and often tragic stories she’s uncovered in her seven-book series on death in America’s national parks.

Topics include:

• What kills more visitors than anything else in national parks

• The harrowing and deadly “Night of the Grizzly”

• Alligator attacks in southern parks

• Mysterious disappearances where missing people were later found dead along the very trails that had been searched

• And much more chilling detail from across the park system

This episode pulls back the curtain on the hidden dangers of national parks, blending history, wildlife encounters, and the mysteries that still haunt America’s wildest places.

From Trinity Bay to the Big Thicket, Chester Moore uncovers chilling reports of “wild men,” primitive tribes, and mysterious off-grid people living in the shadows of modern Texas.

In this wild and unsettling episode of Dark Outdoors, host Chester Moore digs into a forgotten book that chronicles bizarre encounters with alleged primitive tribes in the Trinity Bay area near Galveston and Houston during the 1960s and 1980s.

The investigation explores:

• A longtime newspaper author’s report of similar activity in the Big Thicket National Preserve

• Tales of a possible “wild man” haunting the Old and Lost River areas near Trinity Bay in recent years

• The question of whether feral humans or off-grid people are living in ancient ways, hidden from society

• Legends and firsthand accounts that blur the line between folklore, cryptid mystery, and real human survival

This strange and mysterious episode raises chilling questions about what (or who) might still be living in the remote corners of Texas wilderness.

Are the mysterious drownings in Austin the work of the so-called Rainey Street Ripper, a group of predators, or part of the global Smiley Face Killers phenomenon? Dark Outdoors® investigates.

In this chilling episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore digs into the growing mystery surrounding deaths on Ladybird Lake in Austin, where some believe a serial killer dubbed the “Rainey Street Ripper” is at work.

We examine:

• The alarming number of young men found dead in Ladybird Lake

• Competing theories—a lone serial killer, a group of predators, or a darkly shared “method of operation” circulating underground

• Disturbing parallels to the Smiley Face Killers phenomenon, a wave of suspicious water-related deaths now seen worldwide

Is Austin facing a local predator, or could this be part of a larger, global pattern of strange water deaths?

In this Dark Outdoors® mini-episode, we break down the official reports of a rare multiple-victim shark attack at South Padre Island—and what’s really going on in Gulf waters.

Join Chester Moore for a special mini-episode of Dark Outdoors® as we cover the recent shark attack at South Padre Island, which officials confirm involved multiple victims.

In this urgent episode, we cover:

• What is currently known about the attacks and victims

• Exclusive information on shark activity in the area right now

• Context on other rare multiple-victim shark attacks in Gulf waters in recent years

• A rumor killer addressing speculation about great white shark involvement

This episode delivers both breaking details and historical perspective on one of the most unsettling wildlife incidents to strike the Texas coast in years.

In this Dark Outdoors® short, Chester Moore revisits the chilling reign of serial killer Dean Corll—through the eyes of a young boy who once saw him dumping a body.

On this Dark Outdoors® short episode, host Chester Moore recounts the disturbing story of a young boy who witnessed Dean Corll—the infamous “Candyman” serial killer—dumping a body.

We also share forgotten details of Corll’s reign of terror in Texas, a dark chapter of true crime history that left families devastated and communities haunted.

This brief but chilling episode shines a light on one of the most notorious and overlooked serial killers in American history.

In this Dark Outdoors® short, Chester Moore recalls a chilling encounter with a shack in the woods—and a man in overalls wearing a paper sack on his head.

In another Dark Outdoors® Short, creator and host Chester Moore shares his own unnerving story of stumbling across a creepy shack in the woods and seeing a man in overalls with a paper sack covering his head.

Adding to the mystery, we also hear a story from another witness who, as a boy, discovered a similar shack—and came face-to-face with a figure some called a “wild man.”

Don’t miss our weekly Dark Outdoors® Shorts this summer, where we spotlight strange, frightening, and unforgettable outdoor encounters.

Dark Outdoors® is brought to you by Texas Fish & Game.

Yes, they’ve happened before—and experts warn they could happen again. In this Dark Outdoors® mini-episode, Chester Moore even uncovers the story of an 800-foot tsunami.

Did you know the Gulf of Mexico has experienced tsunamis? In this Dark Outdoors® Short, host Chester Moore explores surprising history, science, and warnings about these rare but devastating events.

This episode covers:

• Historical records of tsunamis striking the Gulf of Mexico

• Why experts are sounding the alarm about the potential for future events

• The shocking case of an 800-foot tsunami (yes, really)

• Why outdoor adventurers and Gulf Coast residents should be aware of this hidden natural threat

Between our two annual seasons of deep-dive episodes, we’ll be releasing these mini-episodes on a variety of Dark Outdoors® topics, keeping you informed (and sometimes unsettled) about the darker side of nature.

What if America’s wilderness hides a predator science won’t acknowledge? In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, author Michael Mayes—known for his work Shadow Cats—joins us to dig into the controversial and chilling reports of black panthers roaming across the U.S.

For decades, eyewitnesses from Texas to the Appalachians have sworn they’ve seen something impossible: massive black panthers prowling the woods, stalking farmlands, and vanishing into the shadows. Yet, mainstream science insists such creatures don’t exist in North America.

In this thought-provoking episode of Dark Outdoors, we sit down with author and researcher Michael Mayes to explore the mystery at the heart of his book Shadow Cats. Together, we examine chilling accounts, folklore, and the deep cultural roots of black panther sightings. Are these elusive predators a product of myth, mass misidentification, or could there be something truly hidden in America’s wild places?

Expect a conversation that pushes beyond campfire tales—diving into history, biology, and the unsettling implications of predators that may walk unseen. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this is one episode that will make you think twice the next time you walk into the woods after dark.

Are they black mountain lions - black cougars?

Are they black jaguars?

Are they jaguarundi?

Are they escaped exotics?

What about the mysterious black longtail?

Take a deep dive on black panthers with us.

Chester Moore revisits the Zodiac’s chilling Lake Berryessa attack, explores outdoor self-defense against predators, and reveals his controversial pick for the killer’s true identity.

In this intense episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore examines one of the Zodiac Killer’s most infamous crimes: the Lake Berryessa attack, where the predator stalked unsuspecting victims in the outdoors.

This episode explores:

• Why we must always be ready to defend our lives in the wilderness

• The case of a woman who used self-defense techniques to nearly stop an infamous killer

• The question of the Zodiac’s true identity—including Chester’s controversial but compelling candidate

• A chilling clip of the Zodiac’s voice shared at the end of the show

This mix of true crime, outdoor survival, and investigative insight makes for one of the most gripping Dark Outdoors® episodes yet.

Dark Outdoors® is sponsored by Texas Fish & Game.

Chester Moore reveals the shocking results of his nine-year investigation into teens poaching dolphins, eagles, and even endangered Key deer—and what can be done to stop it.

In this special investigative episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore shares the findings of his nine-year investigation into what he has dubbed the “teen poaching crisis.”

This disturbing trend includes:

• Teens who shot dolphins

• A group who kidnapped endangered Key deer

• Young poachers who slaughtered eagles

What is driving these acts of cruelty? What’s the deeper cause—and more importantly, what’s the solution? Chester Moore digs into the cultural, social, and environmental factors behind the crisis, and why it’s an issue that can no longer be ignored.

A South Texas deer hunt turns terrifying when a father and son encounter what appears to be an organized crime unit in the brush country. Dark Outdoors® investigates the hidden dangers along America’s borderlands.

Welcome to Dark Outdoors®, where we shine a light on the often-ignored perils of the wilderness. In this episode, Chester Moore explores the increasing encounters with crime, unstable wildlife, and unexpected dangers in the outdoors—especially near America’s borders.

The episode features:

• A firsthand account from a father and son deer hunt gone wrong in South Texas, where they stumbled into what seemed to be an organized crime unit operating in the brush country

• A conversation with Sheriff Ronnie Dodson of Brewster County, detailing the real challenges of enforcing law and order in vast, remote territories

• Alarming trends in property damage, theft, human trafficking, and misuse of drones and advanced optics by criminal groups in border areas

• Practical advice for outdoor enthusiasts on how to handle encounters with illegal migrants, using defensive strategies like bear spray, and the importance of readiness, prayer, and self-defense

We also highlight the poignant case of Teresa Hartley in our Missing in the Wild segment, brought to you by B.A.C. Shows—a reminder of the unsolved cases that still demand awareness and justice.

This episode underscores the hidden dangers of borderland wilderness areas, urging hunters, landowners, fishermen, hikers, and campers to stay vigilant and prepared.

Chester Moore sits down with Kylie Low, host of the chart-topping podcast Dark Downeast, to unravel baffling cases of murder and mayhem in the great outdoors.

On this special edition of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore welcomes Kylie Low, creator and host of the Apple Podcasts true crime chart-topper Dark Downeast.

Together, they explore a series of baffling and chilling cases where crime collides with wilderness—from unexplained murders to strange tales of violence in remote outdoor settings.

This crossover episode highlights how the true crime genre intersects with the hidden perils of the outdoors, offering insights from two storytellers dedicated to uncovering the darker side of human nature and the wild.

If you’re a fan of true crime podcasts and the mysteries lurking just beyond the trail, this episode is a must-listen.

When a man was found dead in Hood County, TX, officials first blamed a mountain lion—then changed the cause of death to “undetermined.” Some believe a human predator may be the real culprit.

When Christopher Whiteley was discovered dead in Hood County, Texas, authorities initially claimed a cougar (mountain lion) had attacked him. But after the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and the USDA reviewed the case, they dismissed the animal-attack theory and reclassified the cause of death as “undetermined.”

Now, some believe this tragedy may point to something far darker: a human killer.

In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore speaks with Morgan O’Hanlan of Texas Monthly, who investigated the case in-depth. Together, they explore:

• Why officials first pointed to a mountain lion attack

• The evidence that cast doubt on the animal theory

• The possibility of a human predator being responsible

• The bigger questions this case raises about wildlife, rural safety, and outdoor crime investigations

This unsettling episode asks the chilling question: What really killed Christopher Whiteley?

In this intense episode of Dark Outdoors®, Ricky Morgan recounts being mauled by a massive wild hog—while Chester Moore explores the rising threat of feral hog attacks and how to survive them.

In this gripping episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore welcomes Ricky Morgan, who survived a terrifying encounter with a giant wild boar in the South Texas brush. Ricky’s firsthand account of the attack is both chilling and instructive, underscoring the growing danger of feral hog incidents across the U.S.

This episode covers:

• Ricky’s detailed story of the hog attack and how he managed to survive

• The disturbing upsurge of hog attacks across the South, West, and Northeast

• Defensive strategies, including how something as simple as a walking stick can be a lifesaving tool

• The unsolved disappearance of Thomas Irwin from Mesa Verde National Park in our Missing in the Wild segment

• Additional dangers in the outdoors, from aggressive black bears to human trafficking risks in remote areas

• Practical self-defense tips: how to use your mind as your best weapon, observe threats, and avoid traps when attempting rescues

• Expert advice on recognizing and evading hog-related dangers beyond media hype

This episode shines a spotlight on both wildlife threats and human dangers in the outdoors—arming listeners with knowledge, preparation, and respect for the wilderness.

From bloodcurdling cries to chilling growls, Chester Moore investigates the sounds that haunt hunters and hikers—featuring special guest Ron Morehead, the man who recorded the legendary Sierra Sounds.

Hunters, hikers, and outdoor lovers across the country report hearing terrifying screams, growls, and eerie cries in the wild. In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, hostChester takes a deep dive into these unsettling sounds and what may be behind them.

We explore:

• Known wildlife calls that can sound frightening in the dark woods

• Exotic vocalizations linked to invasive species expanding their range

• The chilling unknown, with insights from Ron Morehead, best known for his groundbreaking Sierra Soun recordings—some of the most famous alleged Bigfoot audio evidence ever captured

Chester Moore talks with cryptid author Lyle Blackburn about the Fouke Monster—and with Pamula Pierce Barcelou, daughter of Legend of Boggy Creek director Charles Pierce, about the restored 4K release.

In this special Halloween edition of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore celebrates one of the most iconic cryptid legends of all time: the Fouke Monster.

This episode features:

• A conversation with Lyle Blackburn, author of The Beast of Boggy Creek, Momo: The Strange Case of the Missouri Monster, and other cryptid classics, on the Fouke Monster and other alleged aggressive cryptids

• An interview with Pamula Pierce Barcelou, daughter of filmmaker Charles Pierce, who shares behind-the-scenes stories from the making of the legendary film The Legend of Boggy Creek and details about its newly restored 4K release

This fun and spooky Halloween episode blends cryptozoology, film history, and Southern folklore,

Chester Moore investigates a surge in feral dog attacks—from a Texas fatality to a Georgia mauling—and speaks with Jerry Mills of Wolf Tejas, who shot his way out of a pack ambush.

In this chilling episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Mooreinvestigatesrising problem of feral dog attacks across the U.S.—and what it means for anyone who spends time outside.

You’ll hear:

• Jerry Mills (Wolf Tejas) recount how he shot his way out of a pack of feral dogs

• Details from a brutal attack in Georgia and a recent fatality in Texas

• Chester’s own narrow escape from a feral pit bull

• Practical outdoor safety tips for recognizing, avoiding, and surviving feral dog encounters

Dogs may be man’s best friend, but feral dogs can be a nightmare—this episode explains why and how to protect yourself.

But is brought to you by Texas Fish & Game and Texas Frightmare Weekend.

Follow Chester Moore on Instagram @thechestermoore Email: chester@chestermoore.com

ChesterPark host Delia D’Ambra to discuss the chilling reality of missing people in America’s parks and forests.

In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore talks with the creator of the acclaimed true-crime podcast Park Preda. Together, they examine the disturbing number of mysterious disappearances in national parks, forests, and other public lands.

They discuss:

• Why so many people vanish without explanation in the outdoors

• The mysterious circumstances behind these cases

• How Park Predators brings overdue attention to tragedies often ignored by mainstream media

Connect with Delia’s investigative work through her podcasts and reporting.

📲 Follow Chester Moore:

• @thechestermoore

• Facebook: Higher Calling Wildlife

• Blog: highercalling.net

A family hike turned into a fight for survival when a father, his wife, their toddler, and infant daughter came face-to-face with a mountain lion. Dark Outdoors dives deep into the wilderness dangers that most people never see coming.

On this gripping episode of Dark Outdoors, we recount the terrifying true story of a family’s dangerous encounter with a mountain lion. What began as an ordinary hike quickly spiraled into a life-or-death struggle when a father, hiking with his wife, three-year-old son, and infant daughter strapped to his chest, came face-to-face with one of nature’s most feared predators.

Listeners will hear how this quiet day on the trail turned into a desperate fight for survival. With his young children and wife at risk, every decision mattered. The father’s quick thinking, protective instincts, and raw courage kept his family alive against all odds.

This episode goes beyond the story itself, exploring the realities of mountain lion behavior, how families can prepare for dangerous wildlife encounters, and what survival experts recommend if you ever come face-to-face with a predator in the wild.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• A firsthand account of a family’s mountain lion encounter on the trail.

• How a father protected his wife, toddler, and infant from a deadly threat.

• Survival insights and safety tips for hikers and families in mountain lion country.

• The hidden dangers of hiking with young children — and how to prepare.

If you’re fascinated by true survival stories, wildlife encounters, and the resilience of the human spirit, this episode will keep you on the edge of your seat.

From serial killers to covert operatives, this Dark Outdoors® episode exposes the sinister dangers hiding in one of Texas’s most famous forests.

In this chilling episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore probes the dark mysteries of the Sam Houston National Forest.

Highlights include:

• An archival interview with the founder of the Missing TX 40 Project

• Compelling information on a serial killer with ties to the forest, currently serving time after pleading guilty in connection to a woman found murdered in a barrel on his property

• The disturbing fact that his property sits across the street from the forest—and that he began killing and savagely raping women as a teen in the late 1970s

• Additional accounts of dangerous encounters in the Sam Houston woods

• A shocking final story involving covert operatives operating in the forest

This episode sheds light on why the Sam Houston National Forest remains one of the most unsettling and dangerous outdoor locations in Texas.

From a bloody, bearded stranger in the woods to an attempted abduction and a brush with Ted Bundy’s dark trail, this Dark Outdoors® episode proves the wilderness can be just as terrifying as the movies.

The cult classic Southern Comfort terrified outdoors lovers when it debuted in 1981—but the real-life stories in this episode of Dark Outdoors® are just as chilling.

Host Chester Moore explores:

• Lou Marullo’s eerie encounter with a bloody, bearded man in the woods at night

• A terrifying breath in the outdoors

• The team’s thoughts on the best non-lethal defense tools for outdoor safety

• A shocking connection to Ted Bundy’s handiwork in the deep woods of Utah

This episode blends true crime, survival insight, and wilderness horror stories that will make you think twice the next time you’re far from help.

In this gripping episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore interviews Dr. Jack Mayer, one of the world’s leading experts on hog behavior and hog attacks. 

Topics include:

• The surprising link between dogs and hog attacks

• A chilling account of a legitimate predatory hog that targeted humans

• Practical strategies on what to do if you’re attacked by a hog

• Insights into hog behavior that explain why these encounters are rising

• And much more from decades of Dr. Mayer’s field research

This is a must-listen for hunters, hikers, and anyone spending time in hog country who needs to understand the real threat posed by feral hogs.

Chester Moore and researcher Jeff Stewart dig into the grisly wave of Texas cattle mutilations making national news—and reveal why the real story may not be what most people think.

In this wild episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore teams up with fellow author and researcher Jeff Stewart to explore the disturbing series of cattle mutilations in Texas that have recently captured national headlines.

This episode asks the hard questions:

• What is really behind these grisly livestock deaths?

• Are the usual explanations—UFOs, cults, or predators—just distractions?

• Could there be a different, overlooked cause that makes more sense than the sensational theories?

With their combined experience in field research, wildlife behavior, and investigative reporting, Moore and Stewart take a different spin on the mystery, challenging the popular narratives surrounding these bizarre cases.

Dark Outdoors® is brought to you by Texas Fish & Game and Texas Frightmare Weekend.

Season two of Dark Outdoors® kicks off with Chester Moore and investigator William Ramsey digging into the mysterious drownings at Lady Bird Lake in Austin—and whether they connect to the global Smiley Face Killer phenomenon.

In the season two premiere of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore is joined by William Ramsey of William Ramsey Investigates to examine the disturbing series of mysterious water deaths at Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas.

This episode explores:

• Whether these drownings are linked to the Smiley Face Killer phenomenon or just random tragedies

• Theories about what could really be happening along Austin’s waterfront

• Insights on the Gary Faust interview with a man who discovered a body at Lady Bird Lake—and his chilling encounter with a mysterious figure

• Other bizarre and unsettling water-related deaths that raise more questions than answers

Listeners are encouraged to explore Ramsey’s work at William Ramsey Investigates for deeper dives into unsolved mysteries.

Follow Chester on Instagram @thechestermoore and on Facebook at Higher Calling Wildlife for updates on investigations and field work.

In this bonus episode of Season One,Dark Outdoors® withChester Moore sits down with his longtime friend and fellow spooky movie fan Patrick Trumble.

Together, they dive into the weirdest, wildest, and scariest films that take place in the outdoors—where nature itself becomes the perfect stage for horror.

From cult classics to forgotten gems, this fun and creepy conversation highlights the movies that still haunt campers, hikers, and horror fans alike.

Chester Moore and researcher Jeff Stewart investigate brutal horse killings in Texas and Nevada, unveiling new details and possible motives behind these disturbing crimes.

In this shocking episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore digs into the disturbing wave of out spreading across Texas, Nevada, and beyond. He is joined by author and researcher Jeff Stewart as they share new details on this gruesome trend and explore the unsettling question: Why are horses being targeted?

This episode covers:

• Recent horse massacres in Texas that have left ranchers shaken

• The rise of serial horse killings in multiple states, include

• Possible motives behind these crimes—from cruelty to ritual to thrill killing

• What these attacks reveal about the dark intersection of crime and the outdoors

📲 Instagram: @thechestermoore

Dark Outdoors® is brought to you by:

• Texas Frightmare Weekend

• Hog Hunt USA

• Texas Fish & Game Magazine

If you think you’ve heard it all in true crime and outdoor mysteries, think again. In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore interviews William Ramsey of William Ramsey Investigates about a disturbing series of mysterious water deaths that continue to baffle police across the nation.

The discussion explores:

• The Smiley Face Killers phenomenon, a chilling theory about coordinated drownings of young men

• How these cases may connect to murders in outdoor settings across the U.S.

• The disturbing possibility of death cult involvement in unsolved killings

This episode combines true crime, deep investigation, and outdoor danger into one of the most unsettling D explorations yet.

Cottonmouth Bite Survival & Snakebite Defense Chester Moore talks with veteran Lucas Pelt about his near-fatal cottonmouth bite—and snake venom expert Dr. Spencer Greene explains what to do (and not to do) when venom strikes.

In this intense episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester Moore interviews Lucas Pela, a veteran and outdoors enthusiast who survived a serious cottonmouth bite. Lucas recounts how the bite happened and shares the painful and life-changing aftermath.

In our Dark Outdoors Defense segment, renowned snake venom expert Dr. Spencer Greenebecause

• What to do if you’re bitten by a venomous snake

• The biggest mistakes and what NOT to do

• Why quick decisions can mean the difference between life and death

The outdoors may be a place of serenity and beauty—but for someone experiencing a venomous snake bite, things can turn dark in an instant.

In episode four of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester takes a deep dive into the rising shark population in the Gulf of Mexico—and what it means for both the ecosystem and outdoor enthusiasts.

You'll be there.

• Which shark species are increasing in the Gulf, and why they’re vital to the ecosystem

• The truth about the bull shark’s attitude and behavior

• The often-overlooked species just behind the bull shark in attack statistics

• How a massive great white shark turned away from a surfer at the last moment

• How Shark Banz deterrent technology is helping change the game.

🌐 Learn more: darkoutdoors.com 📲@thechestermoore

Were U.S. soldiers in Vietnam battling only human enemies—or were they also encountering undiscovered apes in the jungle? Author RC Bramhall joins Dark Outdoors to reveal the terrifying legend of the Rock Apes.

Were U.S. soldiers in the Vietnam War facing more than just human enemies? Many veterans swore they encountered Bigfoot-like creatures, known as the “Rock Apes,” while fighting in the dense jungles of Southeast Asia. On this episode of Dark Outdoors, RC Bramhall, author of Haunted War Tales, joins Chester Moore to share chilling stories of these bipedal, ape-like beings and the battles that ensued.

Blending military history, cryptid lore, and firsthand soldier accounts, Bramhall explores whether these encounters were stress-induced hallucinations or genuine brushes with an undiscovered primate. If you’re drawn to the eerie crossroads of war stories, wilderness mysteries, and the legend of Bigfoot, this episode is one you can’t miss.

Chester Moore investigates Texarkana’s infamous Phantom Killer, with rare eyewitness revelations, family ties to a prime suspect, and insights from The Town That Dreaded Sundown.

In this epic, hour-long episode of Dark Outdoors®, host Chester MooreOfFor and the Phantom Killer, the real-life terror that inspired the 1976 cult classic The Town That Dreaded Sundown.

This episode explores:

• How the Phantom Killer operated—and what his methods reveal about similar predators still at large today

• A rare revelation from an eyewitness who saw a white-masked figure in Texarkana during the Phantom’s reign of terror

• An interview with John Tennison, cousin once removed of one of the chief suspects

• A fascinating conversation with Pamula Pierce Barcelou, daughter of director Charles B. Pierce, who shares behind-the-scenes insights into the making of The Town That Dreaded Sundown on its 50th anniversary

• Why outdoor lovers should remain cautious in urban and suburban parks, greenbelts, and forests where predators may still lurk

• Chester’s own personal brush with danger, to remind

This can’t-miss episode blends true crime, history, film, and survival awareness into one of the most intense Dark Outdoors® investigations yet.

🌐 darkoutdoors.com 📲 Instagram@thechestermoore

D is brought to you by:

• Texas Frightmare Weekend — The Southwest’s premier horror convention & film festival

• Hog Hunt USA — A forthcoming app for hog hunting

• Texas Fish

Host Chester Moore uncovers terrifying stories of rogue waves in Texas bays and ship channels—some towering up to 15 feet. Hear from fishermen who survived these monster waves and learn what’s fueling this dangerous phenomenon.

n this in-depth, rollercoaster of an episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore speaks with fishermen who’ve encountered gigantic rogue waves across Texas bays and ship channels.

You’ll hear firsthand accounts like:

• A 10-foot wave sweeping across an entire bay

• A sheer 15-foot wall of water slamming into a boat of the same size

• Eyewitness stories of survival from those who lived to tell it

Alongside these shocking experiences, we explore what’s causing these waves, why they’re becoming more common, and how they can turn a day on the water into a nightmare. Plus, insights from a boating group working to raise awareness about this growing danger.

📷 Follow Chester on Instagram: @thechestermoore

Dark Outdoors is presented by:

• Texas Frightmare Weekend – The Southwest’s premier horror convention & film festival

• Hog Hunt USA – A forthcoming app for hog hunting

Host Chester Moore uncovers how Ted Bundy used wilderness spaces as hunting grounds, with insights from a New York Times best-selling author who interviewed Bundy himself. Discover the hidden link between serial killers and the great outdoors—and practical tips to stay safe in wild places.

In the debut episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester dives deep into the chilling intersection of wilderness and true crime. With exclusive insights from a best-selling author who interviewed Bundy, this episode reveals how Bundy used the great outdoors as his hunting grounds—and why the danger is not just in the past.

You’ll discover:

• How Ted Bundy exploited forests and remote areas for his crimes

• The rarely discussed link between serial killers and wilderness spaces

• Why women in particular should take extra precautions in outdoor settings

• Practical tips to avoid being targeted by modern-day predators

📷 Follow Chester on Instagram: @thechestermoore

Dark Outdoors is presented by:

• Texas Frightmare Weekend – The Southwest’s premier horror convention & film festival

• Hog Hunt USA – A forthcoming app for hog hunting

• Texas Fish & Game Magazine – Your ultimate outdoor resource

Join us on Dark Outdoors® for an unforgettable conversation with Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Mike R. Vining—explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) pioneer and Delta Force operative—and his wife, acclaimed wildlife photographer and author Donna Ikenberry. Married atop Mauna Kea in 1999 after Mike’s decorated 30‑year military career (including Vietnam, Eagle Claw, Desert Storm, and more)

Donna has since published over a thousand images, guidebooks, and magazine articles from nearly every continent Donna Ikenberry Photography.

 In this episode we explore:

• Top strategies for staying safe in remote terrains—from avalanche zones to wildlife territory.

• How Donna approaches storytelling through photography in unpredictable environments.

• Lessons Mike has learned from decades of military and outdoor leadership: situational awareness, risk assessment, and self-reliance.

• Tips for adventure couples: teamwork, planning, resilience—and capturing moments worth preserving.

Tune in for a uniquely dynamic pairing: military precision meets nature’s art—illuminated by humor, hard-earned wisdom, and couple‑led courage in the wild.