The Joy of Camping

There’s a primal satisfaction in setting up camp, building a fire, and spending a night under the open sky. Camping strips away the unnecessary and reminds me what it means to be present.

Why I Camp

In our always-connected world, camping offers something rare: true disconnection. No notifications, no screens, no distractions. Just you, nature, and the people you’re with.

Back to Basics

Camping forces you to slow down. Tasks that take seconds at home—making coffee, preparing a meal, staying warm—require thought and effort in the backcountry. And that’s precisely the point. These simple challenges reconnect us with basic human skills we’ve largely forgotten.

Nights Under the Stars

There’s no ceiling quite like a star-filled sky. Away from city lights, the universe reveals itself in breathtaking detail. I’ve spent countless hours just looking up, contemplating how small we are and how vast everything else is.

Camping Styles

Over the years, I’ve tried various approaches to camping:

Car camping - Great for families and beginners, with the convenience of having your vehicle nearby
Backpacking - Carrying everything you need and venturing deep into the wilderness
Canoe camping - Combining paddling with overnight adventures along waterways
Hammock camping - A lightweight alternative that’s become one of my favorites

Each has its appeal, and I find myself switching between them depending on the trip and companions.

Essential Skills

Camping has taught me skills I use in everyday life:

Preparation - Planning ahead and anticipating needs
Adaptability - Dealing with weather, terrain, and unexpected challenges
Self-reliance - Trusting my abilities to handle situations
Appreciation - Valuing the comforts we often take for granted

The Campfire

No camping experience is complete without a fire. There’s something deeply human about gathering around flames as darkness falls. Stories shared by firelight have a different quality—more honest, more connected.

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” — John Muir

Get Out There

If camping seems intimidating, start with a single night at an established campground. Borrow or rent gear before investing. Most importantly, just try it. The worst that happens is one uncomfortable night. The best? You might discover a lifelong passion.

Happy camping.