5 things I've learned from solo camping

Camping is one of my favorite outdoor activities. The thrill of being outside in a total submersion of nature actually brings me a sense of calm. It is a stark reminder for me to slow down and enjoy my surroundings in the moment.

There are so many amazing options for camping - whether you’re into private campgrounds, County and State Park camping or dispersed campsites, you can find the perfect fit for where and how you want to enjoy nature.

It seems the older I get, the more adventurous my camping excursions become, and becoming more self-sufficient in the woods for longer periods of time has been amazing for me to learn how to trust myself and build my own confidence. And, it keeps me pushing myself further!

My Camping Setup

Let me first start off that my camping setup is really never complete. I’m always looking at ways to change up what’s going to work for me and my needs.

During the summer of 2022, I camped solo all across northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in my 2018 Jeep Wrangler, outfitted with a Rhino Rack pioneer platform and an Ironman 4x4 Swift 1400 Rooftop tent for my sleeping area.

Camping at Wisconsin’s Kohler-Andrae State Park

I modified the trunk area to serve as my in-vehicle kitchen and lounge area. On the rear sports bars, I mounted the XG Cargo Side Storage Bags to serve as my pantry, dishes storage, and cook fuel storage. I also added the Front Runner Drop Down Tailgate Table, which is one of my favorite upgrades.

For cooking, I like to use either my JetBoil or my Coleman Butane Stove. I also used my portable refrigerator with my Jackery Solar Generator 300 and solar panel to keep food and beverages nice and chill all summer long.

Coffee while camping is always a must! The GSI pour over is my go-to for a single cup of coffee.

These are just what’s worked for me so far. I’m always looking at ways to make my camp setup work smarter for me, which means better organization of less stuff!

Where should I camp?

Now, for the fun bits. Here are my 5 tips for those who want to adventure alone into the woods camping:

First, Do your research (within reason)

This maybe a little controversial for some, but I do not spend hours upon hours booking accommodations in advanced. Sure, there are a lot of campgrounds that require advanced booking, and yes there are some locations that I absolutely want to go and it requires some advance planning. However, the majority of my travels have been finding accommodations on the fly.

I love to road trip with a general direction in mind. I like the freedom of being able to go as far (or as short) of a distance in a day as comfortable in the moment. That’s all part of the adventure of a road trip for me. Not being tied to an end destination, I find is less stressful than trying to push to get somewhere just because of a reservation.

So, how do I do research? Here are some of my favorite apps:

• Google Maps is my go-to app for researching a new area. I like to make sure I know where I can get basic items - groceries, gas (!!!), coffee, fire wood. I’ve marked thousands of destinations in my Google profile, tracking where I’ve been, and ideas for where to go in the future. Google also allows you to download maps and routes so if you bounce out of cell coverage, you’re still okay. I personally have not had an issue where I’ve needed to download my map, as usually GPS signal pick ups your location even if cellular data isn’t available temporarily and I’m usually using Google Maps to navigate paved roads.

• iOverlander is great for finding both dispersed and paid campsites. It is a crowdsourced model, so I like to check out the comments and then plug the GPS coordinates into Google and Gaia or OnX to get some more information about the area.

• OnX Offroad is an app I just started using, and I am loving how easy it is to use. The user interface is very intuitive, allowing you to easily find ORV trails, private vs public land, and route plan with others. I love that you can download maps in advance, so regardless of cell service you’re covered.

• Gaia GPS is an extremely powerful resource, I feel there is quite a learning curve to getting started. The layers in Gaia are all so helpful, but my experience has shown that some of the integrations (like the MVUM) are not always accurate and therefore would check other sources, like the actual WI DNR maps, for this detail. I haven’t had the same issue in OnX, but I’m still testing this out!

Second, Trust your gut

As women, I feel our society conditions us to be afraid and I’m just not buying it. People who are out exploring deep into the woods (like me!) are doing so for their own sense of adventure and exploration. 99.9% of the time, other people are harmless. You actually may meet a new friend camping, so do not be afraid to talk to your neighbor.

Have I had some “scary” moments in the woods? Yes. Were they instigated by what turned out to be a chipmunk rummaging around in the leaves behind my tent. Also yes.

Fear is dumb. Get out of your damn head and just go. Once you do, you’ll never regret it.

Now, is it important to stay aware of your surroundings and listen to your own instincts. Several times I’ve moved camp simply based on a vibe. You have to do what’s right for you in any situation, and being able to trust yourself to be comfortable. Do you!

Third, Know your Rig, Your Gear, & YOUR limits

A very good friend once told me if you’re not willing to walk out of a location, then maybe you should think twice about driving there. I’ve taken that advice to heart when navigating two track trails solo. I do carry some recovery gear in my Jeep, such as a tow strap, a set of Maxtrax recovery boards, and a shovel and thankfully I’ve rarely had to use it. Getting unstuck when you’re alone is a whole different ballgame, so knowing how to get out of a tricky situation is critical.

The overlanding community is so amazing. I’ve learned a ton from heading out on adventure trips with companies like Northology, New Holland Overland and Discover 4x4 Adventures, and I highly suggest going with a group if you’re brand new to offroad adventures. Knowing your rig and what you can and cannot do will give you all the confidence for where to go when you’re alone.

Fourth, Less is More

On my first ever airplane trip, my grandfather told me to pack half the stuff and take twice the cash you think you’ll need, and you will always have a fantastic time. I’ve taken that advice to heart over the years. I truly believe you do not need as much “stuff” as you think you may need for adventure.

Your vehicle's weight impacts gas mileage, component wear and drivability, so less is more! After a few trips, you’ll notice what you use regularly and what doesn’t. I’ve re-packed my setup numerous times based on what I’m actually using. For me, less stuff also means less stress and I’m all about that!

And, FINALLY, JUST Have fun!!!

I hope this article helps give you some inspiration to get out on a solo camping trip and enjoy this amazing planet.

Winter camping at Trails End Campground in Copper Harbor, Michigan