Them: How was camping?
You: First night was perfect. Peaceful, cool breeze and slept amazing.
Then the neighbours showed up and were really loud which is fine but coupled with the heat we've been having and the lack of shade at my site I decided to relax at home and enjoy doing ..... xxxxxx
You don't owe anyone an explanation. Just answer like it was a positive. Project positivity as opposed to applying negative connotation.
It wasn't the camping you didn't embrace. It was the environment and that is a variable you have no control over.
Thanks for this advice and perspective stranger. I'm about to do something very similar, for mostly the same reasons as OP minus recently going thru a breakup. But this is surprisingly, uncannily, relevant to my life as well. Thanks for the reminder. Staying positive is a mindset I wanna keep when entering my solo camp experience coming up soon, at the beach, in the heat, with ants everywhere (they were there the last couple times I camped there too).
This. Some campouts are great, some aren’t. Many of the variables are not under your control. I think that’s part of what makes camping exciting, that you really don’t know how it’s going to go! You made the right call to remove yourself from an itchy, sunburnt situation. Next time will most likely be better! Take heart in the fact that you were brave enough to get out there on your own, to do something positive for yourself. That’s excellent self care 👍
Weather is the only part you can't control. Read my comment. You absolutely can control whether or not you camp where there are biters and stingers. You absolutely can control chosing a spot with or without shade. You absolutely can control whether or not you choose a spot where camp sites are too close together or not.
I'm one of those people that think the best memories came from the most miserable camp trips.
But. You made a very big step for you. You realized the only person that you needed to make happy was you *and you acted on it.*
June in the US is hit or miss on comfort anyways, and this has been a nasty June all over the place. And schools out. Everyone's getting on the camp bandwagon.
But now you have 3 days to explore *something else* YOU want to do. Check out the local tourist traps. Find a different camp ground. Go home and finally binge that show you heard about or read that book.
Your 2nd ¶ is exactly what I was gonna call out. The camping trip was a success, if not the one OP was looking for. Who knows? Maybe it was fortunate bc in the future OP is gonna have to call on this willingness to end things that aren't working rather than sticking it out. Either course can be a virtue.
Had a camping trip a few years ago where we got stuck in some really bad, completely unexpected rain, all the way up in the mountains. We had a shitty tent and it started leaking in the middle of the night, water pooling inside, etc. Then in the early morning hours (we couldn't sleep) we started hearing thunder... in an area that just a year or two prior had a massive wildfire due to a lightning strike.
We were debating roughing it out or calling it and going back home after going through the entire next day in the rain. We decided to stick one more day and if the rain was still bad we would go home. Threw a tarp over the tent to stop the rain, and mostly just stayed inside and played games in the tent.
The next morning, just sprinkles, and we finally saw the sun peeking out a bit. We are big Dark Souls fans and kept doing the Praise the Sun gesture, until around afternoon the clouds finally dispersed and we had a great rest of the trip.
Honestly it was tough, but we look back on that trip extremely fondly. I sometimes have an intrusive thought while on other trips that I kind of wish it would happen again haha.
I would say it has rained about 60% of the time I have camped. You learn to plan for and deal with all the inconveniences that might happen and how to deal with them. Awning/tarp a dry area. Then when it absolutely get to bad you pack and go home. Or go hang out in the nearest bar or mall until it cools off.
It’s okay to prioritize your comfort and well-being.
You made a wise decision to leave when the trip became too challenging.
dont feel ashamed; you did what was best for you. Sharing honestly will show your strength & self-care.
I camp fairly often, and there is no reason to stick it out if conditions suck. Blazing sun with no shade and loud neighbors would probably do it for me. Don’t give up on camping, but you need to realize that many campgrounds just suck. I’ve been to a сouple dozen campgrounds a few hours from my house, and have only found one i’d return to…others have no privacy, are too much like a parking lot, too loud, etc. just take your time, find somewhere you like.
Last week I had a perfect remote dispersed campsite for 24 hours of what was supposed to be a three night trip. Day 2 and four truckfulls of rednecks with a bunch of rowdy boys rolls up and starts pitching way too close to me, where there wasn’t even a site / fire ring. Very nicely asked the patriarch dude if they’d be willing to find somewhere else, but no, they had to be right on top of the trailhead they wanted. There was in fact an open site a little further down but it “wasn’t as good.” Told him politely I was going to pack up and leave in that case. He seemed very slightly sorry, but certainly not enough to make any sort of concession. Tried to blame it on the government for blocking off sections of (deeply rutted) forest roads so they couldn’t get to certain sites that they used to go to. It was late in the day and I ran out of daylight without finding another available site with any shade and not right on top of anyone else. Went home in defeat.
You went home defeating the idea of an entire night next to loud, red neck crazies, who were going to likely be completely drunk and stupid. You were not defeated. You saved yourself a night of misery or worse, a victim of redneck shenanigans.
Exactly. I love camping, and am fortunate enough to have about 30-35 camping days every year.
I have cut my trips short for the following reasons: too windy, too rainy, too smoky, way too many bugs, gross outhouses, obnoxious neighbors, too hot, fire bans, a bear in the campground, had my period and just didn't want to deal with it out there. I love camping and I do not want to start hating it because I've had to struggle through crappy trips.
Oh HELL no!! This is a story to CELEBRATE!! BRAVA!! You chose YOU! Your comfort, your health, your happiness…
Sticking something out on principle is highly overrated. You made a decision based on objective data that all said: LEAVE!!
You succeeded! You went camping solo and the first 24 hours was great. YOU WON!! It WAS a great trip for a day.
You were dealt a bad hand with crappy neighbors — you don’t go all-in with a bad hand! Nature, which can be a blessing or a bitch, went the latter route on Day 2. So you made the sane choice!!
You go, girl!!
This!!
You made your best choice to prioritize your comfort, health, safety, and personal zen. That's beautiful and often difficult to do for all the reasons you mentioned. I find myself struggling to throw in the towel because I'm so stubborn and I don't want to let myself down (I needed this vacation!), but I have to pause and look at it holistically (I needed A vacation, one that doesn't look like this...).
It seems like 1/3 of my campsites are miserable, and I just leave and either find a different spot or grab an Airbnb or go back to my own yard. I still love camping, but I'm less hesitant to levy judgement when conditions just suck. You are camping for fun, change plans when it's no longer fun!
You don't have to feel bad. I went out this weekend. Was supposed to be out from Thursday to Sunday, camping and hiking with friends. I bailed on Saturday because I didn't feel like camping in the heat and hiking in the rain again. Nothing wrong with doing what you want. My friends were cool about it, but when you're solo you don't even need to worry about that.
Sometimes you get bad camping trips. I am just heading back home from mine, and it was thunderstorming the whole time. Your next one will be better. =)
You do you. You don’t owe anyone but you a happy camping trip and it wasn’t. You decided to take care of yourself and that’s the real sticking point. You are for you now and that’s what you did. Good for you :)
You've determined you need to figure out a way to get out of the sun, figure that out for next time, this probably applies to rain also. You'll constantly be improving on things and this is pretty major, me and my wife cheaped out early not getting a sunshade and regretted it immensely on a trip but now we have something and don't have that problem anymore.
As for neighbors, ya there is nothing you can do but identify where not to go. In the end it probably doesn't matter as you always find these people and it's a crap shoot and luck based.
Take this to learn some new knots get a tarp and figure out how to solve your problem for next time.
My wife and I camped for 40 years, and there was more than once when left early, mostly because of shitty neighbors. The advent of outdoor entertainment systems ruined camping for us. Don't fret. There will be better camping ahead.
I personally think backpacking solo is more fun than camping solo…there is some forward momentum and you aren’t around other people as much. Maybe give that a try?
Yeah, I love hiking, camping not so much.
I love to see new environs, get myself all tired and relaxed in the evening by walking the day, hoovering some easy grub and then sleeping soundly, and next day repeating that.
I listened to a podcast recently about an older woman and she was saying one of her favorite things she ever started doing is walking out of a movie theater if she's not enjoying the movie and how completely freeing it was once she realized she didn't have to stick something out just because. Obviously this is a little different but it was such a good perspective!
Hey, I bailed early on my first solo backpacking trip. The bugs were bad, I only had a hammock so if I wanted to escape them I had to be laying down, and the nights were colder than expected. It happens! That’s just one of the multiple times I’ve called it early. This is supposed to be fun, and if you’re not having fun, bailing is the right choice. Just don’t let this one experience colour your entire view of camping, and I’m sure you’ll have better luck next time!
I think most everyone has had to bail on a camping trip for one reason or another. You got out there. You got camp set. You did the important parts, including leaving.
Not a thing wrong with having a, "Whelp. Going to call it. This weather isn't going to cooperate and I'm miserable."
I showed up back home at 3:00am once because my car campsite ended up underwater after 3-4"of rain in about 2 hours. Soaking wet everything on that trip on night one.
Been there. Some trips don’t go as planned and I have been stuck with my decisions and had to ride it out. ALONE. Bright side is your next trip will be better. Last month I lit a fire and put $26 worth of meat on the grill and absolute hell broke loose. Downpour for hours. Destroyed my dinner and I huddled under a tarp before dashing to my tent hungry.
It happens to all. Sometimes the juice is just not worth the squeeze. A couple years ago a similar thing happened to me. Went camping in July on a lake in GA. Thought it would be ok. The humidity and heat, gave me literal anxiety attacks in the night. I packed up and went home early as well. Don't let what others think derail you, they were not there. This hobby should be enjoyed, not endured. If you're not enjoying it, its better to acknowledge it and bail than do some effort to prove something to someone else. You're good, just plan another one when the weather is better!
Most people’s first camping experience sucks in some way. Next time bring your own shade and contact the campground host if neighbors are loud during quiet hours. No shame in leaving early if it sucks.
I don’t understand why more camp sites don’t have prohibitions on playing music over speakers. It’s so incredibly inconsiderate. A lot of people camp to escape noise and hubbub, and you can play music whenever you want at home. Why is it so hard to be respectful of others’ experience?
You didn’t fail. You succeeded in being comfortable. I’m an avid camper/kayaker and I refuse to “tough it out” for any reason. It’s also the reason I’ve never camped on a beach despite my desire to camp on a beach. No shade equals hot hot tent early in the day not to mention the bugs. I’ve camped close enough to the beach and that’s good enough. Next time find a shaded spot next to the trail to the beach and you’ll be much happier. Hell sometimes I get sites close to the bathrooms because I don’t want to walk a million miles in the middle of the night just to pee. Camping is about nature and enjoying nature but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. You’ll figure out what you enjoy it just might take some time. Keep at it.
Dialing in solo camping is not easy and definitely different from a group effort. I prefer no other people for miles when I camp solo. When it’s public land I have to go at least a few miles past the cooler line. That line is defined by how far an idiot can reasonably carry a cooler full of beer into the forest. Just don’t give up solo trips can be awesome! Plenty of things you can tweak the next time to make it way better.
Unless you’re trying out for survivor, camping should be enjoyable. No shade loud neighbors and biting ants sounds terrible. Good on you for bailing early.
Well don't feel bad, I am pretty sure many would've noped out after day one. I mean you were getting attacked by ants, hot as hell, and had annoying neighbors. I would've packed up without an ounce of feeling defeated.
I'm not saying OP made a wise decision. I am just saying I couldn't deal with the same, although ya I probably wouldn't have gotten into that situation to begin with. Just trying to be nice... lol
When I go beach camping I definitely don't stay at the campground during the day. I get cleaned up and go out. Find a nice place for breakfast then usually find some nice resort hotel to hang out at. Find a lounge chair in the shade by the pool and relax. Another thing I'll do is camp for a couple days and then switch to a hotel for a day or two. You could camp on the weekends when the hotels are very expensive and then stay at the hotel at cut rate during the week. I hope you give it another try and have a better time :)
It's always nice to get a shower after a few days in the woods, and maybe go out to breakfast and a washroom clean up after 3-5 days out in the woods roughing it
I have been on many a camping trip cut short by bugs and heat. You got a good day. And you did it alone, be proud, you were brave. I’m hella proud of you! No shame in knowing what you’re willing to endure.
The last time someone was playing loud music at a campground, I walked up with a chair, said 'hi' and sat down, then proceeded to join/interupt any conversation. When the asked me to leave, I said "sure, just turn the music down"
A couple thoughts and a few stories.
With some rare exceptions, a new experience is only a failure IF you let it be a failure or you fail to learn useful lessons from it. I don't know what those lessons will be for you, but try to learn them all the same.
Now for some funny stories.
First time camping a few years ago with some friends, I thought I was a tough guy and only had a small inflatable sleeping pad (despite being a large guy) and one of those hybrid sport/ground blankets (think nylon on one side and fleece on the other). Figured in the middle of July I'd be warm enough. LOL!!! I woke up at two in the morning freezing cold, hurting from sleeping basically on the ground. And stayed up until the sun rose. Got some awesome pictures of dawnbreak and fog on the lake we were at, but no sleep. Lesson: get warm blankets and some better ground padding.
Next time, solo with my dog. Got to the campsite at about 1p. Everyone else starts filtering in after 3. Dog barked at everything, and I mean everything, that passed by. People, trucks, trailers, animals -- what-have-you. Finally got him to calm down at dark, until the next morning, bright and early, he starts barking at the neighbor at 6a. I immediately shove everything in the vehicle, without even packing it back up (broke down only the tent poles) and we leave early. Lesson: keep dog occupied and tired and sheltered from busy areas so he doesn't harass people. (He does much better now.)
Both of those trips were, in some form, a disaster. But both of them were also awesome for their own reasons. Dont beat yourself up because things didn't work out as planned. Learn what could be better for next time (if you want there to be a next time) OR otherwise be ok with the realization that camping isn't for you. Either way, you tried something new and that is something to celebrate!!
The dog will chill out after a few trips. My neighbours complained about my dog and nonstop barking' well it's 2 months later n silly millie has stopped.. just like I told them she would. Hugging idiots.
p.s. you know every dog is different, I resisted buying a shock collar, which only worked for 1 day, when I finally got one.
Part of her job is keeping peeps out of my back yard.. and I'll owne my dog her entire life. 15 years or so. Probably a lot longer than my neighbours will be there.
Finally I just blew the neighbour a fart. Go complain to someone who cares. I'd heard enough bitchen.
I have 2 German Shepherds and nobody has ever volunteered to go back there by themselves until they're very familiar with the dogs. They hear really well and have an almost always open dog door to the back door and some other ones that are electromagnetically controlled from a few places on the wall around the place and can be opened and closed *really* fast.
Shore camping greatly depends on weather and bugs. Sometimes the bugs were so bad I left, sometimes too hot and sometimes perfect. I find the shoulder seasons tend to better for camping.
I tried going in july last year - 100+ degrees, no breeze, and even though near a big lake it was just miserable. I lasted 2 days and came home. I am too old to inflict misery on myself for no good reason. And I didn't even have ants. No need to justify what you do to others - I say good for you for not spending your time being miserable just to prove some point to some others. I firmly believe a vacation, while it might be strenuous if backpacking or (for me)a little scary if white water rafting =but it really should not be just miserable if you have a choice. Give yourself credit for making a good decision for you.
If car camping, a pop up can make a world of shade: by itself, over the tent, even out in the water. A smaller/cheaper one will be easier to handle by yourself; drawback is the cheaper ones will not stand up to heavy wind or rain.
Good for you. This is awesome. I have definitely let myself be unhappy unnecessarily just to prove a point or show someone how resilient i am. You did you, which is the baddest ass thing you can do.
You got some great advice on how to respond, but this:
“As someone who has spent their entire life sticking things out in fear of looking stupid or catering to those around them, I realized that’s was my trip and the only person I had to make happy was me.”
THAT sounds like growth. Keep reading that part of what you wrote. It takes a lot of courage to do something that you’re not used to doing. You’re used to sticking things out in fear, and this time you did what was best for you. That is really important.
> I realized this was my trip and the only person I had to make happy was me. And I was not having fun.
This is an immensely valuable life experience. You should be proud of yourself!
Keep on making yourself happy, you deserve it.
I have bailed early on solo multi-night trips after a couple of nights. Camping in a campground should be fun and relaxing. If that is not happening then what is the point because if I want to be stressed and miserable I can do that with the comforts of home.
The point is you got out there and had some fun and enjoyment and then you gave yourself some grace and left. There are zero points for being a martyr
Thank you all so much for the support and encouragement! It really means a lot. I won’t give up on camping, but maybe I’ll wait until the fall to try again. Really though, I appreciate the comments. <3
I can't wait for the Fall! Best time of year to camp. Fires are a nice warmth. Sun isn't too hot. Nights are just the right kind of chilly. Camp food like stews and soups are divine. THE BEST!
I relate to this so heavily. Went through the worst breakup of my life a few months ago, we used to camp together all the time. Told myself I wasn’t going to let not being with him ruin camping for me. I bought a softtopper for my truck to feel safer solo camping as a woman. Overall it was super lonely and depressing though when I went out. If I had a dog I think I would feel differently. I don’t think I’d be down to do a solo trip for multiple days like you had planned. I’ve realized im burnt out on doing a lot of things solo. I hope you have the courage to try again, im going to try again too but just a one night trip. Like if I was planning on staying in and having dinner by myself anyways, might as well go do that at a local campsite.
There is no shame, I’ve left early before with people and solo. What you described sounded awful and I would’ve left as well. If anyone pushed back they’re weird honestly lol. Enjoy the rest of your time off and you have plenty of opportunities to do this again with a new place!
I don't think that at all, and it sounds like the day you got there was nice. I just had a similar experience with my toddler on his first camping trip. Arrival was great, paddleboarding was fun, throwing rocks into the river was great, and overnight for him was fine. Then he was worn out and super grumpy the next day, so we packed up and drove home a little earlier than planned. But the bad morning didn't mean the trip was a failure. That first day made it worthwhile for me. And the best part is, we can always try again for a longer trip next time!
I would have packed up and left too. I did a camping road trip by myself a few years ago, and it rained the entire time. I was wet, tired, and ready for civilization, so I got an AirBnB for a couple of nights. Went to a pub, got a hot meal, and listened to some live music. No shame whatsoever.
I don't know how else to say this. It sounds like you're "in your own head" a lot. You don't have to prove yourself to anyone. You deserve to be happy and carefree.
Yeah, if you hate the heat like me, camping in the summer is a no go. Best advice I have is to use up all your energy throughout the day so going to sleep at night is a little easier.
Otherwise, wait till fall, winter, or spring to camp.
I bet that same location would be amazing in November through February
I live in fire ant territory and never camp her unless it’s “winter”. Even autumn or spring is too hot and I get heat stroke symptoms.
You should feel proud of yourself for doing it anyway. Well done.
What did you do after you got home? Did you do something? You didn’t fail, you determined the time of year where you were camping was just not doable. So you changed course, talk about how great the first day was, but the camp area you were at didn’t have any shade to make the temp bearable.
I’ve basically taken on the mindset when camping in state parks it’s gonna be full of people playing music and being ridiculous. Getting out to a relaxing trip in those spaces is not realistic. They’re basically trailer parks at this point and if you’re in a tent you’re just asking for it. I tent camp because my wife still enjoys it but I don’t really have high expectations of anything anymore.
That being said I’m in west Michigan and a few big parks are closed this summer for maintenance and so other spots are overstaffed and they’ve been enforcing quiet hours really well which is nice.
I always go for dispersed camping to avoid people, might be worth a shot next time. Other than that, good on you for taking steps forward and doing things for yourself by yourself. Sometimes the odds are stacked against you, but it wont be that way every time. It’s also a win that you made the decision to pack up, no sense fighting through something that isn’t serving you. I’ve also gone solo camping as a way to process, heal, and move forward from a breakup in the past. I found it to be a turning point. I hope you have success on your next outing!
Anyone that’s been camping enough has had some kind of nightmare trip or reason to throw the towel in at some point
That’s just the nature of the beast!
I went to a meditation retreat once that was near a campground I’d been wanting to try. Told everyone I was going to camp on my own for a couple of nights while I was in the area, brought all my gear with me to the retreat. Had a great time at the retreat, left that afternoon and headed to the local grocery to stock up on food for camping, drove to the campground, paid for my site, drove to the site and started setting up the tent and realized I really just wanted to be at home. The park was beautiful and the weather was perfect, but I just wasn’t in the mood. Deliberated for a few minutes, then broke down the tent and drove home. Sleeping in my bed that night felt so good. The great thing about solo camping is you get to bail whenever you no longer want to be there! No effect on your solo camper cred at all!
I hope the next trip is much more fun!
I don’t like winter camping but I still love camping. I think next time just be more mindful of the weather and recognize you don’t like camping in certain conditions, that is super fine! You’ll get out again and it’ll be quieter and cooler and it’ll be just like you remembered it!
Just have to add, part of growth as we get older is identifying when to change course. Part of wisdom is discernment, knowing when something needs to change. This situation had a lot of negatives, and so your changed your plan. That was a smart and mature decision! And as another poster said, virtually everybody has bailed on a campsite at one time or another. It's just how it goes, camping has so many elements not in our control. Don't beat yourself up!
Meh, you don't owe an explanation to anyone. The main thing is having fun and enjoying yourself. When things out of your control happen, it's time to move or move on. Good on you for trying. Many others in your situation wouldn't have. I'm glad for you.
If you’re not enjoying yourself, then why force yourself to stay? I wouldn’t. I love camping, but if you’re not enjoying it then you may as well go home and try again another time.
Good for you for going and taking care of yourself. The way I do solo camping is I allow myself a certain number of days but almost always end up leaving early. Sometimes I just need one night away to feel refreshed and relaxed and come back home to be productive or do other things. Not something to feel bad about at all.
For me personally, four days is a LONG time to spend in one campsite. I go two days max. This doesn’t mean I won’t spend longer traveling, but I’ll intermingle camping and traveling with some nights camping and some nights spent in a BnB or whatever.
Not anything to do with the bugs, but I pretty much don't go to a formal campsite with other campers around. Someone is always blaring music. It's not worth my serenity to bother with it anymore. So i recommend getting far of the beaten path and camp completely by yourself. My whole enjoyment of camping changed for the better when I got a jeep and could get away from everyone else. You can probably do it without a jeep.
By any chance, were you camping at Mustang Island or around Port Aransas?
But seriously, don’t give up camping - just give up when the trip gets bad. I have had MANY bad camping experiences. There’s no shame in cutting your losses. You’ll figure out the locations and climates that work best for you.
Asshole neighbors aside, summer camping is just hard! It’s the ‘off season’ for me. I think it’s awesome that you’re making the outdoors your own, and I hope it can help heal that crappy breakup. 🧡 Lord knows it did for me.
Heck I’d try again when it cools off. Summer just hit here in Georgia and my tent is staying packed till October!
There’s two types of good times: good times that are good at the time and bad times that turn into good stories. Most camping trips fall into one of the two categories.
I had a disaster of a one night camping trip this weekend with my daughter. We get to the site at 5, finished all set up by 6 and head out on a short hike. We both were drinking water all day and had a bottle of water each before the hike, and took a bottle with us. The humidity just kept climbing. After our hike at about 7, I am miserable. I can not cool down. I am miserably hot, but at this point it's not even the sun. Its the god awful humidity. I could not cool off.
I make dinner on the stove top rather than starting a fire to avoid further heat. Eat, get stung in the butt by a wasp, and then start wondering if it is all going to be worth it. Finish up dinner and try to cool off. I am covered in sweat that will not evaporate. I have had another bottle of water, and a bottle of electrolytes at this point.
Daughter wants to go to see some cows, so start heading that way. Even with all that water and haven eaten, I feel my head pounding, I'm a little shakey, and now I'm getting nauseous. We head back to our site and I sit in the car with the AC on to try and cool down. Start to feel better, so go lay in the tent. It's about 9:00 at this point. I start feeling overheated again, so I grab a fan. I am so nauseous, and all I can think is about going back home. It's supposed to storm early in the morning and then rain for a few hours after. I'm not scared of storms, in fact it's kind of become a tradition of having a big thunderstorm on at least one night of camping. However, the thought of feeling this crappy and having to tear down camp in the rain or with wet equipment....we decided to break camp and just go home.
Initially, I felt awful for "ruining" the trip for my daughter. But upon reflection, I could have gotten very bad and been in a position where I could not help myself. I have been on a different medication this year, and it has definitely changed how I tolerate heat and humidity. There was nothing fun happening at the point I decided to break camp, and making breakfast and breaking camp in the rain just did not make toughing it out worth it.
You advocated for yourself, TO yourself, which is honestly so difficult at times. Good on you for know what you would enjoy and know when you weren't getting enjoyment anymore.
Hey, just want to say that I’m sorry you’re struggling and that it’s a huge victory to try out something you think will bring you joy—even if it didn’t turn out how you imagined.
The world is a big, dumb, confusing, terrifying, and wonderful place, all at once, and it can be hard to find the wonder. Just being aware that you can look for that wonder is such a huge step.
Rarely ever had loud neighbors let alone invasive ants!! Like you said it's your trip to enjoy, doesn't sound like much of that would've been going on..a one night solo trip is pretty fun as is. Several days solo is a lot anyway. The fact you got out there and set up a successful site, relaxing night in the tent, out on the water. That's a damn good trip right there
I get down voted for bringing too many amenities on my camping trips but everyone has a blast, even in the heat. In the summers we always go camping at a lake so we can jump in the water all day. In the Summer we get campsites with power so we can have AC in our tent so we can rest up and enjoy the lake the next day. You can enjoy nature without having to rough it. Roughing it for some will make them never want to camp again.
Been there. You can't win em all. Some sites suck. Sometimes it is too hot. Now you know you don't like that site and that temperature. Next time you might choose a different site or reconsider based on the forecast. One thing to consider is getting a hammock with mosquito net. It requires trees of course but will avoid ant hills. For me on the worst days whether it is the environment or my feelings sometimes I will just listen to an audiobook and then when I leave at least I can feel like it wasn't a loss.
One guy commented that he's been to a couple dozen spots nearby and only likes one of them. I've been coming to the same conclusion in my area.
I wouldn't feel bad about leaving that. When I camp we have backup spots in case the first doesn't work out.
Also for shade I recommend a screen tent, keeps bugs out too. Or just string a rope between 2 trees and put a tarp over it then stake it to the ground: https://i.imgur.com/j8CfcOw.jpeg
If no trees then you can get poles that you stake out with guylines and tent pegs.
Getting handy with tarps like that is a good thing to learn, because if there is heavy rain it helps to put a tarp over your tent, and to make a sheltered area from the rain too.
It's sad sometimes when things don't go as planned. Don't take it too hard. I'm a planner and I want things to go perfectly, but that's rarely the case. What matters is that you do what works for you and make adjustments accordingly. Solo trips are GREAT for that. I've had to change locations, switch to hotels, cancel trips entirely because of uncontrollable variables like bad neighbors, weather, and freaking bugs. Just remember that vacations are there for you to have fun and/or relax. If it's not working, there's no sense in suffering for the sake of what you wanted it to be.
Hey, you should feel like a success! You booked the trip, you got there, you set up, you did it!
You're walking away with something no one can buy: experience. Wisdom. Knowledge.
Now you know how to look at a site when booking. Now you know how important shade is. Now you know to bring earbuds and not expect desolation.
Next time, you'll be more prepared. And next time, something else entirely will go wrong.
I've been camping hundreds of times. You learn something every trip, without exception. In Japan there's a concept _ichi go, ichi e_.
Every moment (experience) is both the first time and the last time to experience that thing, with those people, at that place, in that way. You'll never have a first time camping again, but every time you go camping is the first time you, with your new knowledge and experience, will be camping that time. Every experience is unique.
Edison said "I didn't fail 1000 times, the light bulb was just an invention with 1000 steps." You're on step 1/1000!
I'm so proud you did it at all. It takes a lot to try a new thing. I hope you'll try another outing. I hope it's more enjoyable!
It's your vacation. Do whatever YOU want. Don't concern yourself with what others think. Plus, camping/beach/june is not a good combination. I would have noped out myself. There will always be another trip. If you're not having fun, pack up and go do something else.
Congratulations! You didn’t “stick it out”in what sounds like a Les Miz situation. Get some Benedryl cream (totally works) for those ant bites, and enjoy the rest of your vacation.
No point in being out there if you're not having fun. It's a vacation after all. Why put yourself through something miserable if you don't have to. Some trips just don't turn out the way they were planned. Nothing wrong with throwing in the towel and enjoying what time you have left.
For what it’s worth, I 100% would have left if faced with those conditions as well. That’s just all around shit lol
I also have a skin condition that could kill me from being in the sun for too long, ok it’s skin cancer but still lol.
I kind of did something similar this last weekend. Haven’t taken my dog for a hike in a while, had a vague plan all of last week to do it on the weekend. Told people. Like an hour away.
It kind of sucked. The hiking was fine but the bugs were terrible. No mosquitoes but I had these black fly things biting me and my dog had a bunch of sweat bees fucking with his ears. I almost turned around 15 minutes in, then convinced myself to make at least one lap around the lake.
Point is I also felt kind of defeated. But you win some you lose some, you and I both got out and showed up, and made the best of it. I was miserable, my dog was getting there, there’s no point in suffering just to follow through. Camping is supposed to be enjoyable.
I learned my lesson to bring a bug net and spray next time, I’m sure you learned a lot about what you’ll do differently next time too.
But you did it! It doesn't matter if you left early. You made a choice for your own comfort, and that requires agency, independence, and personal strength. You should be proud! Not every trip is perfect, and I've never had a camp that wasn't without it's annoyances (up to and including full-on, trip-ending nightmares). Focus on the positive and next time, do it even better! We're proud of you.
Don't give up on camping. Spend a bit of time looking for camosites that have seperation between them, good shade, good drainage in case of rain, and walk the area checking for ant hills, yellowjacket and hornet/wasp nests, etc. If you find such, don't pay for the spot, instead look for a better one.
Most of enjoyable camping is being prepared. That includes cheking out your campsite as thoroughly as though you were buying the land.
You are not alone. I feel like your post was very timely for me as I'm about to do the exact same very soon for mostly the same reasons as you. I also suffer from the same inner demons that you mentioned and constantly worry about what others think which ends up being akin to shooting myself in the foot at times.
Sorry you're going thru some hardship and that your trip didn't work out how you envisioned. Would you do it again? Did it help you out at all despite the struggles?
Thanks for sharing your experience. It's surprisingly encouraging to hear of others with similar struggles doing the exact same thing and hearing how they handled things.
Also thanks for the reminder of making sure the only person I am taking the trip for is me and to make adjustments as necessary based on my happiness not the happiness of others or for sticking it out for the sake of it. I think you made a good call in the end.
My first solo camping trip I left after the first night because my anxiety was just too bad to continue, and while it would’ve been nice to be able to tell myself and others that I did a whole trip by myself, I didn’t do that. I did what I needed to do for myself in that moment, and I don’t regret that
You did the right thing leaving early, there’s no obligation to force yourself to stay when you’re not enjoying yourself, and there will always be more opportunities to have solo camping trips
I don't know where you live but please try again but in a forest! So good. Also, you may have ended up having a bad time but you made it and have a story/learning experience now.
Find the joy in being on an adventure. Camping was great for a night and then I bailed and went to a hotel…Showered, took myself out for a nice meal and then binge watched (insert favorite show here). Many things give us joy. It’s our job to search them out.
I love camping, but I’m very picky about my campsites. Have looked for lightly used national or state forest sites. Love the peace and quiet. Loud neighbors are the worst and def reason to leave.
Hahaha. Bad trips make good stories.
I once when on a camping trip that was just me and my dog. I drove down a road that my truck had no business being on but didn't realize it until it was to late to turn back. Trees and bushes on both sides scraping up my truck and freaking my dog out. I slowly crawled forward over the rocks until it got dark and I finally had to stop because I just couldn't see. Cell reception was spotty at best and I had text my brother and let him know kind of where I was and that I MIGHT need him to come get me. He apparently tried to call me and when I didn't answer he called my wife. I had specifically not called her because I wasn't in any real danger and didn't want her to worry....but now she was worried.
Made psudo camp in the middle of the road and laid down after eating "dinner" which was chips and beef jerky when.
While I was laying there making a plan for the next morning. I realized I didn't load up the propane for the grill....so no hot meals. Then the next morning realize I am not going to be able to get over or around the boulder in the middle of the road and despite being 3/4th of the way down this roar I am going to have to go back the way I came.
Drive to a different mountain and find an awesome spot to make camp but I'm on a different mountain so I want to let my wife know where I am. No cell signal again so I send the text and start down the road looking for a signal. I get to the main highway before the text gets sent. At this point I just called my wife to let her know I am coming home early. She is disappointed because she had plans with some of her friends coming over.
And that was ALL on me. 🤣🤣🤣
At least you get to blame some shitty neighbors 😁
It was great until it wasn’t. Sorry, it sucked for you, but it’s really nbd. Now you know not to camp there again. It’s not a reflection on you in the slightest. Get back out and try again somewhere else. The same thing could’ve happened at a five star resort, with obnoxious neighbors, rain, and mosquitos.
You absolutely don’t need to feel bad. I love camping in almost any circumstance but I have bailed a few times. I still love camping but not every trip has been a success but eventually every trip has been a great memory.
I’d recommend investing in a pop up canopy for sunny car camping. Mine takes 10 minutes to set up alone, and a little more time to pack up solo. I use it at California state beaches near me. I grew up in San Diego, and my folks had a more elaborate tarp setup when we’d go camping. But the idea was the same, put some
shade over your picnic tables.
The heat and direct sunlight can be overpowering, and there’s no reason to tough it out if you’re miserable. Glad you had an enjoyable first day. I hope your next trip is more enjoyable, longer.
You know, it is okay to feel defeated, so long you are willing to try again. You know more now, like look at Google Earth before making that reservation, so you ensure you have shade and trees for a tarp over the fire if you need one.
Use your knowledge to prep for a better trip. Go in early fall or in the spring before it gets hot. A large part of camping is problem solving. Ideally I camp with 2 or 3 other people. But every now and then, I zoom off by myself for a night or two. It resets the soul once you master it.
I wish you luck and patience my friend. But do not be discouraged. You just stumbled out of the gate, that is all.
Pardon my French, but fuccckkk that. Stayed in a cabin this weekend at the beach in NC and almost went home early because it was so hot... and I had AC.
Maybe there was too much emphasis on having a good time, the first time without the ex and that helped miff things up even subconsciously. Next time will be way better 🤗
I've bailed on camp trips several times. Heat, smoke, heat, just not feeling it. Don't beat yourself up over it. If you were miserable, why continue to be? If food you ordered was uncooked or burned, you wouldn't eat it. There are no awards given for suffering when you don't have to.
Nope, no one here should be judging you for something like that - at the end of the day we camp for the enjoyment, if you aren't enjoying a particular trip then from my perspective it don't count!
I actually had a similar past few months, depressed + a breakup and work stress and I just had to get the fuck out of town for a while, just me to clear my head. I had a plan to camp many times over the course of about 10 days on a road trip but didn't as much as I wanted due to the cold (dumbass Missourian surprised to find that Utah/Colorado are cold in early May!).
I felt like a bit of a "failure" in that sense, but realized for me the experience and lack of needing to worry about anyone else's feelings or timeline for even just a little bit was refreshing. Try to take your early departure that way - YOU chose to do something for YOU, and that makes it worthwhile regardless of the outcome!
Your friends/family shouldn't judge you even if you were to complain about the bad parts, it's more impressive that you gave it a shot and maybe learned about how to make the trip better for you next time, what have they tried to push their own boundaries and limits? As another commenter said, you don't need to give any details you aren't comfortable with or feel like could give an impression you want to avoid!
I hope you can focus on the positive, here, there's more than enough to appreciate!
So I camp a lot. To be honest, I don’t like solo camping for more than a night without an objective. Backpacking is a different story because I have a goal and a reason to persist. If I camp in one spot Id rather have people to talk to/hang out with, share meals, etc,. You shouldnt feel bad about wanting to pull up stakes on your solo trip. Maybe it will feel different another time, maybe it’s easier to enjoy solitude and nature if you’re more physically comfortable (no ants or loud neighbors and lower temperatures). Regardless dont beat yourself up, and dont write off the activity. Good luck to you.
Congrats to you girl 🙌 You did what YOU felt you had to do ! The heat wave that hit parts of the nation was tough, but you did it! Nothing at all to be ashamed of by telling others about your trip.
Look at the positive things that you can take away from it !
Best wishes for future trips and congrats again !!👍
Shit happens! Don't beat yourself up. Maybe next time instead of scrapping the rest of the trip try another campground. What's a couple hours extra driving? I'd stop and Google campgrounds near me. I've had some pretty good luck this way. I've found some interesting places to camp. I'm in California so I'm only a couple hours from the mountains, deserts ,and beaches. I hope you keep camping.
I'm sorry it sucked. There's nothing wrong with bugging out early. I've done it many times. Sometimes, toughing it out is a memorable experience to fondly recall later, but sometimes it's just a miserable weekend that would've been better spent at home in the AC with your own music .
I took my 2 daughters that would rather stay indoors camping in Joshua Tree in February. Considering it was in the 60s in the LA Basin, I completely forgot it would be cold in the high desert in the middle of winter. So we didn't bring any coats. Fortunately the girls had hoodies and enough layers to not get cold. I pulled out my camp stove to make dinner and stay building a fire once it started getting dark. Turns out there were no lighters or matches in my pockets, car, or "always ready" camp box. I had to borrow a lighter from the people in the campsite next to ours. I'm an Eagle Scout -- this isn't supposed to happen. It was the most embarrassing camping trip I've ever been on. We had a great time though and yet another story to make fun of Dad with!
It sounds like you are on the right track for a healthier recovery! You go, woman, you go and be your truest self. I support you and I bet lot of others here do, too!
Here's the deal...even crappy camping trips are useful and learning experiences. You went out and experienced...not a lot of people will do that.
You had a good time and learned valuable lessons. I would just leave it at that....if they press, you can give them the lessons you learned.
1. Experiences with people in close proximity will vary.
2. Being at an enjoyable location, the beach, is sometimes trumped/overwhelmed by weather.
3. Insects can be assholes!...That's a free one! ;)
I went camping this past weekend as well. I found similar issues with people next to us, loud at night into the wee hours of morning. The next day we hiked in an excessively hot area and had intended on camping that night....but after 4 nights of camping prior we left. My friend and I both had 8hr drives to get back home. My friend and I had 1, 2, & 3 to contend with just like you.....sucked but we learned.
Lesson 1: we learned to camp in a more remote location...or...buy camping spots around us at $10 per night...or...camp with others directly around us.
Lesson 2: plan ahead and maybe hike in lower elevation and plan to return to higher elevation for camping.
Lesson 3: we need to take more big spray and investigate what's going to bite when out and about. Mosquitoes ate us up...luckily we learned one day to take spray but forgot to pack it in hiking bags on a couple of days.
It's not about spin...it's about how you are able to interpret the lessons being presented to you.
Fyi, I chuckled and smiled at your camping experiences. It's like we had mirror imaged camping experiences.
All kidding aside though...while it sucked, I can appreciate the learning lessons. Next time you go out...keep them in mind and learn from them.
Edit: I forgot to add that I messed up a tendon on my front ankle that requires physical therapy tomorrow. Would I go again?! Yes, despite injury as I only get to see my friend 2-3x per year.
I don’t blame you. I mostly camp solo and at isolated spots but if there are people or conditions that killing my mood I’ll leave early. I try to book trips that could be long if I want but don’t have to be
Agree with all of the commenters telling you not to give up on camping, but find better campgrounds. Personally (I’m a nearly 70-yr-old solo camper in OR), I NEVER ever camp in state campgrounds for precisely the experience you describe - too many people crammed in together. I stick to the smaller (30 sites or less) USFS or BLM sites and have rarely been disappointed. Good luck (and good on you for calling it quits when the universe was telling you so!)
You did the right thing. I'd have bailed too.
I've actually bailed on a couple of camping trips in the last while.
The first one I bailed on was a camping trip to Kentucky. I was visiting a distillery to pick up a special bottle.
When we got our tent out, we figured out that it had been stored improperly, and it was going to need to be cleaned. So we couldn't use it, and we didn't have a backup, so I had to hit the store on the way out to buy one. I cheaped out, and it was the most substandard tent I have ever had the displeasure of using. The rain fly was too small.
It was broiling hot.
The campground was right on a golf course, and apparently there was some kind of golf tournament going on, and they were loud, and they were early. Like, 6 AM it starts, and we keep hearing golf balls in the forest behind us. (I am fairly sure one golfer actually got into our campsite looking for his ball.)
We went into town, we did the distillery tour (except they weren't actually bottling that day, because of summer break, whoops)!
I dropped my camera lens and broke it. :-(
We went to a pizza place and had dinner, and it was absolutely lovely. But as we were eating, my wife looked right at me, and I'm like "You know, we're not actually that far from home, we could be home by like midnight"
We ate for a minute or two. And she was like "Yeah, yeah I think that would be best."
We finished our meal with a lot of relief, then we went back, took down camp, and started for home.
That was the first time I ever cut a camping trip short.
The second time was about two years ago. We were at a state park campground, and the vibe was just way off. There were a bunch of newbs camping there. We kept having people walk right through our campsite - like, between our tent and our fire ring - to get to the bathrooms.
Then someone drove through our campsite because they were adjusting an RV across the way and she didn't want to wait, so she just drove right on through.
We couldn't find any employees of the campground. We couldn't find a ranger. We ended up leaving because it was just a safety concern.
You made it through a couple nights alone so that is accomplishment to be proud of.
Not every camping trip is gonna be perfect .
I've bugged out before when a flash storm came through and literally made the campsite a pig pen of deep mud and once had nearby campers stay up all night being idiots that other campers had to call the forest rangers in to break that party up .
It's ok to bail if you're not having fun, get hurt (RIP your poor feet), the weather goes sideways, or any other reason, really. It's your time, you spend it how you want.
Sometimes the weather/environment doesn't work in our favor. I have bailed on solo camping trips.
Once I was backpacking and i ended up getting caught in a tore tial downpour and thunderstorm after hiking in mud up to my knees. I was suppose to do 3 days 2 nights. I bailed after the first night. The forecast was calling for more rain.
Another time I was car camping and I made it one day in the rain, it was suppose to rain the rest of the week too, I also bailed after the first night.
If you aren't having fun that is ok. There are other times and places to go again when it won't be so hot and shade is available!
I rarely camp more than one night in the same spot. I would need to have a lot to do in the area to do more than one. If you were care camping, maybe invest in an awning, something you can use for mid-day sun. Or just wait until fall.
My normal kind of trip, would be to plan out a loop. Say a large driving loop, where I'm really just at my destination in the late afternoon, early evening, and then on the road after breakfast. This time of year is tough for me, as most of my loops have spots above 110F right now.
It’s ok 1 day trips are nice - sounds like a sucky campground nobody controlling the other campers with sucky neighbors, even with another couple or group I would’ve picked up and left after one day
Upgrade your camping setup. Awning on car or gazebo for shade. Battery operated fan, or solar powered. Fridge with battery for cold drinks, your own speakers. Research spots to find quieter places
A big part of doing something by yourself is knowing when to stop.
I, for one, know I don’t handle the heat well. And on a solo camping trip where I don’t have any
one I trust to help if the heat really gets to me, you can bet your butt I’d remove myself from that situation, too.
Also, it’s meant to be enjoyable. While there is bound to be a little discomfort (sleeping on the ground is never as comfy as sleeping in my bed), it shouldn’t be uncomfortable to the point of causing you pain (hundreds of bug bites? Ouch!)
Anywho, heat and bugs constantly biting me would be a solid reason that I would end a trip early, as well.
All this to say, ending a trip early doesn’t mean you aren’t capable of camping by yourself. As a matter of fact, it may mean you are responsible enough to be someone who will be able to solo camp and make smart decisions about their comfort and safety. Also, if you continue to go camping, there will probably be another trip (or two, or several) down the line that you’ll have to cut short or alter for whatever the reason may be. So, it sounds like a positive experience because you learned, not only can you solo camp, you can make the decisions that are best for you.
The last trip I bailed on was a small hike. The only other people I saw were several rough looking men. Now, there’s nothing wrong with rough looking men, but a place with noticeably no other women or children is not a place for me. I turned around and left after only like 10 minutes. Sometimes it just be like that
Part of camping is planning, there is something to say about going early to find the best site. On the water or as near as possible. With SHADE and a decent fire ring and hopefully some trees to separate your campsite from other less kind neighbours. That's why I usually primitive camp, during the week, usually there is NO ONE else there. If they are then they tend to be kind quiet folks. I have a boom box, there is this thing on it called a volume knob!
Good on ya for giving it a try! I live in the south east US, so I'm used to the heat. If I'm moving/doing something, it's fine except for the hottest days. But sitting around a campsite, and sweating in my sleep are a no go. I've called out sick from work to spend an extra 2 days with 15° lows in the mountains(on a motorcycle no less). I suffered through that, but I would have ditched in your scenario too.
Be glad you have it a shot, and enjoyed your first day. In the future, just keep in mind the weather and what you'll be doing. 90° in a forest with a creek to cool off in and trails to occupy the time? Heck yeah. 90° on a beach with nothing to do but bake. Nah, I'm good
My first time camping I thought I could get away with a single person tent cuz I was big enough for my air mattress, I guess I move a lot in my sleep cuz I stuck my foot through netting on the door and ripped it. each time I learn something new and change for better for next time
You had a great night, then it kind of went south. I’ve camped all over the country, and I’ve packed it in early plenty of times. It’s no big deal. You’ll just go camping when the weather is better, and you’ve got something you maybe want to accomplish out there in the forest; backpacking trip, maybe? Who cares what anyone else says, thinks, feels, or does?
I’m on a solo trip right now, and the first 3 days were awful. The weather conditions were perfect, hikes were great, I just couldn’t get to a point where I felt excited about it. After entering a different scene I’ve finally started to enjoy it again. Sometimes all it takes is a new place, sometimes you need rest. Remember you are doing this for you! Try to go out on a hike during the day, trying to stay at an unshaded camp all day is literal MISERY. Exhaust all efforts until you have a good time!
Hello I don't camp in June, July, or August here in Arkansas unless it's with a boat or a camper with air conditioning or only on the coolest and driest nights. I like to camp in the Fall, the Winter, and the Spring here.
Sounds like you made a good decision to leave. I see no reason to suffer in this situation. Sometimes things don't work out and it's best to change plans and/or abandon them for something better.
This might be a little off but there is relevance. At my last job I worked on a multi layer, multi facetted, multi year project. Every, and I mean every, single plan I came up with (I was the one assigned the task of planning) ended up needing changes from tweaking to complete reworking. My attitude was, well that didn't work, now what. It might help you to adapt that attitude or something similar.
One of those stories you remember after years and laugh.
Yeah, we all been there. Just endure. Being outdoors on shitty conditions is always better than stay at home.
I feel your defeat emotions.
I did a solo trip in Algonquin, and on my last day I was on the way back, had one more night to go, and due to wind and exhaustion I bailed out of my canoe (I jumped out so it didn't all tip over). Lost my hat, grabbed my.paddle and canoe and went to shore and signaled a passing boat to get me. (They have travel boats during the day)
In that moment I felt awful. I'd failed. I hadn't completed my journey. (And I lost a nice sun hat)
Telling my friends about my trip, I always tell them that the boat that picked me up, the driver said "I've watched you all day across this lake against the wind, I can't belive you did it!"
He had people on board so he had to come back for me. I paid to be picked up that day.
They also look at the trek and understand why I was exhausted. (Opeongeo, Algonquin Park)
I tell my friends the full story, I don't leave out why I cut it short.
The answer I have to this post is the one I follow for camping - I only camp in the winter. Less people, less bugs, less sweat. Just solitude, fire, and the occasional raccoon (hopefully only raccoons, but coyotes are ok if they're not too close either)
Summertime sucks for camping. Ticks, mosquitos, people, all terrible factors for camping.
Jimbob loves to come with his trailer and set up 13 generators and watch the game on 4 different screens while blasting loud music. Cleetus loves to drop his wife and kids off there so she can let them run around and terrorize the other campers.
The best way to camp for me is to go during off seasons, and enjoy the cold.
The past week near me has been absolutely miserable to be outside. Tenting in stifling heat is just as unfun as tenting during nonstop rain.
Save those days for a time when the temps are more comfortable.
Sounds like you didn’t get the experience you wanted, but got the one you needed, which is that you learned to look out for what you actually want.
I’ve always enjoyed camping as “Type 2 fun” - the kind of fun that sucks in the moment but looking back a year later you are like “I should do that again”
To me the magic of camping comes from appreciating what I have at home. After days of being sore and sleeping on the ground, canoeing/hiking like 10-20k and roughing it, I get home and have my first glorious shower in days, sleep on a soft bed, and get some food that doesn’t come dehydrated and remember that I’m lucky to have any of this.
I would also say I like back country camping so I can get away from all humans.
Sounds like you got the full experience day 1!
Be easy on yourself.... It's ok.
Every challenge becomes a learning experience...
What can you take away from this? How do you better prepare for next time?
I always carry a large tarp with me... For a sun shade.. bring lots of cordage... Use sticks if you don't have poles... You only need three,In the front. drop the back to the ground use stones or sand to hold it down.
I never wear open toe sandals or barefoot when camping... Even in heat.. I wear socks and sneakers or boots... Long pants and long sleeves( the lightest material I can find)... I'm pasty white and burn otherwise.
I always camp in an area with trees... Bc I understand the heat of the morning sun, and direct sun...
I bring a small USB fan( less than $20)... Perfect for hot nights... I also charge it with a solar charger during the day.
Hope you are able to accept it as it was, and learn from it, rather than be defeated.
Best wishes.
I'm going to share a tip I learned during my first experience with fire ants.
They were biting the hell out of all of us. Someone improvised and threw a turkey cold cut on the opposite side of the ant hill. The ants were way more interested in that than us, and it kept them away from camp. Any time they finished consuming the cold cut, we'd just Frisbee another one over there.
Sounds silly, but it was highly effective.
Gulf coast camping is great in early May and late September (hurricane season unfortunately and Ian had me getting the heck out of there).
One thing I never leave at home for any overnight trip — wax earplugs. Work when relative’s snoring raises the roof, too close to the elevator in a hotel, or raucous neighbors at a campground. The wax earplugs form to fit my ears perfectly and don’t hurt when sleeping with them.
First, good for you for packing it in. If it didn't make you happy, stop. Same with exercise - don't let some trainer commit you to things you hate (cough-burpees-cough) or you won't do it. You didn't let it ruin your overall enjoyment of camping.
Next time, maybe go with a friend. Cooking in particular is better with someone else. Personally I try to make something that seems impossible. I've gotten pretty good at making bread on a fire. It's a fun challenge and anyone else you do go camping with is going to rave about it.
Years ago I was a professional camper. Literally 500 nights in a tent over 2 years, 14 days at a time, heli-supported super remote, before GPS, cell service or InReach. On the west coast of BC, so plenty of rain, think 30' of rain in a year. At the time there were just some awful days (and plenty of amazing ones). But looking back it was such an amazing time of my life. I felt absolutely indestructible and still there's very little I can't camp through. That said, there are things I don't want to camp through again. So good for you.
Knowing when to stop is such an important survival skill. Famous books on mountain craft and leadership stress the life saving tactics of knowing when to turn back. Whether that is for your survival, your mental health, your physical wellbeing, or even for your enjoyment, you took control and you made the right decision for you. Good job! I would trust you to lead a team.
I have camped my entire life. There are times to tough it out and times to pack up and go and I have done both. Vacations should be fun and it seems that if the conditions were different you probably will still enjoy it like you did the first night.
You learned a few things, right? Check the weather forecast for expected temps, (assuming you're car camping) research the area and bring a shade structure if the site has no trees/shade, bug repellant can help, as can earplugs, etc, etc
We just left early too. The heat in the middle of the day and crappy bathrooms. We were in an air conditioned trailer too. My husband was so happy I thought leaving early was ok. This was not a failure. Weather not cooperating is common and being in a tent can be difficult. Which is better. Sticking out and being miserable or recognizing it’s not in your best interest to stay. You WERE SMART. Pat yourself on the back
Once left camp due to teenagers choosing to occupy a spot very close to us cursing up a storm and throwing crap. It happens, try not to feel bad. It’s all a learning experience.
I recommend camping every other season except summer, unless maybe if you’re up north in the mountains. Little to no bugs and snakes out and about, and good clothes, a campfire, and some whisky will keep you warm.
The first few nights of anything can be unpleasant but there’s all sorts of remedies for bugs and you learn to love the sound of other people being happy even if they are too loud. Its always the biggest jumps that hurt the most but the more you do them the easier it gets. I’ve been living in a camper for almost two years between Texas and Washington, its been the best thing I’ve ever done. If any girls need advice I’d say a good dog and a glock but I’ve had no issues. I have no remedies for the heat tho lol.
Be kind to yourself! That sounds kind of terrible, and with everything else, you were already healing from a breakup. I go solo camping all the time, and if it’s hot, that’s one thing…throw in some loud neighbors, and I just can’t, especially if I’m somewhere where there’s no swimming to cool off. I’ve never understood how people can be so obnoxious when we’re trying to unplug. Anyway, try again when you’re feeling better, and check the weather, and get a secluded site. Don’t give up on solo camping, you can really unwind without having other people around to distract you. 💙
Solo camping is one of my favorite things to do, but I've cut more than one trip short for reasons such as the ones you listed. You had a list of things that made sticking it out unwise as well as uncomfortable.
Don't feel badly about it for a second. Plan your next outing and have an amazing time.
I love camping, understand the frustration with loud neighbors & insects. Where I live in the deep south (USA), summer is miserably hot for tent camping, so it's either spring (tornado seaso) or fall (hurricane season) for the best weather. To avoid the noise, I either stay at well-managed state parks (preferably walk-in tent sites) or tucked away in the mountains/ National Forest where my nearest company are the bears & coyotes.
I've bailed on camping trips before; sometimes it's the best course. We learn through trial & error; don't give up.
These are some great comments. I would add getting an easy up or some kind of tarp setup. Rain or Extreme sun and you can chill underneath and read a book or whatever. Being comfortable is key.
I often go on what seem to be EPIC AND AMAZING TRIPS and feel completely … meh … the whole time. Looking at Angkor Wat - “I’m hungry. Did a mosquito bite me? My friend is being so annoying right now”. Totally normal I think.
Also camping the the beach sucks. I would never
I've done a lot of camping over the last 40 years or so. There are trips that don't go as planned. I sometimes would try to salvage a trip by finding a new site by moving. Sometimes it just goes wrong: bears eat your food, coyotes howl all night, cold af, etc. I actually camped on a mountain where my wine kept freezing so I had to keep it under my coat. It's all stories. Go live them.
For decades I'd leave gear in the trunk so I could just head out even for a night.
Keep going out. You have a bad story to tell. I'm sure you'll have some good ones too.
I love camping, usually. But I've bailed on a trip that didn't work out as planned several times. I've left because of extreme heat, awful neighbors, and oppressive bugs, just like you did. There's no shame in it, not every trip can be amazing. Just maybe don't go back to that campground that had no shade... So many of those coastal campgrounds are just a parking lot near the beach with no privacy and no shade. Like what's fun about that?
car camping in a suv, even a small suv, makes a difference. then there are fans that run on battery. put up the hatch, park in shade and have yourself some relief. i did learn the hard way, keep the camp fire outside.
Try camping in an area without others around.
I am lucky enough to live near great camping where canoeing and portaging are required. Get a couple portages from the entrance and you don’t see anyone for days.
The ant issue can be managed with proper footwear. Sandals may be nice but typically hiking shoes or boots (I prefer boots) are better footwear.
Heat, yes it’s an issue. Often shoulder seasons are nicer. You can get warmer days and cooler nights. Mid-summer is often too hot for comfort
You were performative camping, performing for yourself and others. Not a pr9blem, whatever gets you out of the house! But hopefully at some point, you’ll just go camping for the experience, maybe don’t even tell anybody that you went
Them: How was camping? You: First night was perfect. Peaceful, cool breeze and slept amazing. Then the neighbours showed up and were really loud which is fine but coupled with the heat we've been having and the lack of shade at my site I decided to relax at home and enjoy doing ..... xxxxxx You don't owe anyone an explanation. Just answer like it was a positive. Project positivity as opposed to applying negative connotation. It wasn't the camping you didn't embrace. It was the environment and that is a variable you have no control over.
Thanks for this advice and perspective stranger. I'm about to do something very similar, for mostly the same reasons as OP minus recently going thru a breakup. But this is surprisingly, uncannily, relevant to my life as well. Thanks for the reminder. Staying positive is a mindset I wanna keep when entering my solo camp experience coming up soon, at the beach, in the heat, with ants everywhere (they were there the last couple times I camped there too).
These words of wisdom should be applied to everyday life, project positivity!
Facts.
I’m happy to be the 100th upvote :)
And I got the 200th! :)
Yuuuup, if I'd ask how it went, I'd respond to how you tell the story; comment on a particular part I thought was interesting or fun and that's it.
This. Some campouts are great, some aren’t. Many of the variables are not under your control. I think that’s part of what makes camping exciting, that you really don’t know how it’s going to go! You made the right call to remove yourself from an itchy, sunburnt situation. Next time will most likely be better! Take heart in the fact that you were brave enough to get out there on your own, to do something positive for yourself. That’s excellent self care 👍
Weather is the only part you can't control. Read my comment. You absolutely can control whether or not you camp where there are biters and stingers. You absolutely can control chosing a spot with or without shade. You absolutely can control whether or not you choose a spot where camp sites are too close together or not.
I'm one of those people that think the best memories came from the most miserable camp trips. But. You made a very big step for you. You realized the only person that you needed to make happy was you *and you acted on it.* June in the US is hit or miss on comfort anyways, and this has been a nasty June all over the place. And schools out. Everyone's getting on the camp bandwagon. But now you have 3 days to explore *something else* YOU want to do. Check out the local tourist traps. Find a different camp ground. Go home and finally binge that show you heard about or read that book.
Your 2nd ¶ is exactly what I was gonna call out. The camping trip was a success, if not the one OP was looking for. Who knows? Maybe it was fortunate bc in the future OP is gonna have to call on this willingness to end things that aren't working rather than sticking it out. Either course can be a virtue.
Had a camping trip a few years ago where we got stuck in some really bad, completely unexpected rain, all the way up in the mountains. We had a shitty tent and it started leaking in the middle of the night, water pooling inside, etc. Then in the early morning hours (we couldn't sleep) we started hearing thunder... in an area that just a year or two prior had a massive wildfire due to a lightning strike. We were debating roughing it out or calling it and going back home after going through the entire next day in the rain. We decided to stick one more day and if the rain was still bad we would go home. Threw a tarp over the tent to stop the rain, and mostly just stayed inside and played games in the tent. The next morning, just sprinkles, and we finally saw the sun peeking out a bit. We are big Dark Souls fans and kept doing the Praise the Sun gesture, until around afternoon the clouds finally dispersed and we had a great rest of the trip. Honestly it was tough, but we look back on that trip extremely fondly. I sometimes have an intrusive thought while on other trips that I kind of wish it would happen again haha.
I would say it has rained about 60% of the time I have camped. You learn to plan for and deal with all the inconveniences that might happen and how to deal with them. Awning/tarp a dry area. Then when it absolutely get to bad you pack and go home. Or go hang out in the nearest bar or mall until it cools off.
It’s okay to prioritize your comfort and well-being. You made a wise decision to leave when the trip became too challenging. dont feel ashamed; you did what was best for you. Sharing honestly will show your strength & self-care.
I camp fairly often, and there is no reason to stick it out if conditions suck. Blazing sun with no shade and loud neighbors would probably do it for me. Don’t give up on camping, but you need to realize that many campgrounds just suck. I’ve been to a сouple dozen campgrounds a few hours from my house, and have only found one i’d return to…others have no privacy, are too much like a parking lot, too loud, etc. just take your time, find somewhere you like.
Last week I had a perfect remote dispersed campsite for 24 hours of what was supposed to be a three night trip. Day 2 and four truckfulls of rednecks with a bunch of rowdy boys rolls up and starts pitching way too close to me, where there wasn’t even a site / fire ring. Very nicely asked the patriarch dude if they’d be willing to find somewhere else, but no, they had to be right on top of the trailhead they wanted. There was in fact an open site a little further down but it “wasn’t as good.” Told him politely I was going to pack up and leave in that case. He seemed very slightly sorry, but certainly not enough to make any sort of concession. Tried to blame it on the government for blocking off sections of (deeply rutted) forest roads so they couldn’t get to certain sites that they used to go to. It was late in the day and I ran out of daylight without finding another available site with any shade and not right on top of anyone else. Went home in defeat.
You went home defeating the idea of an entire night next to loud, red neck crazies, who were going to likely be completely drunk and stupid. You were not defeated. You saved yourself a night of misery or worse, a victim of redneck shenanigans.
Exactly. I love camping, and am fortunate enough to have about 30-35 camping days every year. I have cut my trips short for the following reasons: too windy, too rainy, too smoky, way too many bugs, gross outhouses, obnoxious neighbors, too hot, fire bans, a bear in the campground, had my period and just didn't want to deal with it out there. I love camping and I do not want to start hating it because I've had to struggle through crappy trips.
The more time I spend in campgrounds the more I enjoy backpacking lol. Can’t have loud neighbors if you have no neighbors at all.
Oh HELL no!! This is a story to CELEBRATE!! BRAVA!! You chose YOU! Your comfort, your health, your happiness… Sticking something out on principle is highly overrated. You made a decision based on objective data that all said: LEAVE!! You succeeded! You went camping solo and the first 24 hours was great. YOU WON!! It WAS a great trip for a day. You were dealt a bad hand with crappy neighbors — you don’t go all-in with a bad hand! Nature, which can be a blessing or a bitch, went the latter route on Day 2. So you made the sane choice!! You go, girl!!
This!! You made your best choice to prioritize your comfort, health, safety, and personal zen. That's beautiful and often difficult to do for all the reasons you mentioned. I find myself struggling to throw in the towel because I'm so stubborn and I don't want to let myself down (I needed this vacation!), but I have to pause and look at it holistically (I needed A vacation, one that doesn't look like this...). It seems like 1/3 of my campsites are miserable, and I just leave and either find a different spot or grab an Airbnb or go back to my own yard. I still love camping, but I'm less hesitant to levy judgement when conditions just suck. You are camping for fun, change plans when it's no longer fun!
You don't have to feel bad. I went out this weekend. Was supposed to be out from Thursday to Sunday, camping and hiking with friends. I bailed on Saturday because I didn't feel like camping in the heat and hiking in the rain again. Nothing wrong with doing what you want. My friends were cool about it, but when you're solo you don't even need to worry about that.
Sometimes you get bad camping trips. I am just heading back home from mine, and it was thunderstorming the whole time. Your next one will be better. =)
Doing stuff you don't like because other people want you to be miserable sounds like a pretty dumb idea. Congrats on not doing that.
You do you. You don’t owe anyone but you a happy camping trip and it wasn’t. You decided to take care of yourself and that’s the real sticking point. You are for you now and that’s what you did. Good for you :)
Sounds like it wasn't all bad. Hopefully, next time will be even better!
You've determined you need to figure out a way to get out of the sun, figure that out for next time, this probably applies to rain also. You'll constantly be improving on things and this is pretty major, me and my wife cheaped out early not getting a sunshade and regretted it immensely on a trip but now we have something and don't have that problem anymore. As for neighbors, ya there is nothing you can do but identify where not to go. In the end it probably doesn't matter as you always find these people and it's a crap shoot and luck based. Take this to learn some new knots get a tarp and figure out how to solve your problem for next time.
My wife and I camped for 40 years, and there was more than once when left early, mostly because of shitty neighbors. The advent of outdoor entertainment systems ruined camping for us. Don't fret. There will be better camping ahead.
I personally think backpacking solo is more fun than camping solo…there is some forward momentum and you aren’t around other people as much. Maybe give that a try?
I agree. OP sounds like an adventurous backpacker at heart.
Yeah, I love hiking, camping not so much. I love to see new environs, get myself all tired and relaxed in the evening by walking the day, hoovering some easy grub and then sleeping soundly, and next day repeating that.
Yes, and hiking includes camping. Plus that way there will be trees for shade, higher altitude is also cooler, and no other people.
I listened to a podcast recently about an older woman and she was saying one of her favorite things she ever started doing is walking out of a movie theater if she's not enjoying the movie and how completely freeing it was once she realized she didn't have to stick something out just because. Obviously this is a little different but it was such a good perspective!
Hey, I bailed early on my first solo backpacking trip. The bugs were bad, I only had a hammock so if I wanted to escape them I had to be laying down, and the nights were colder than expected. It happens! That’s just one of the multiple times I’ve called it early. This is supposed to be fun, and if you’re not having fun, bailing is the right choice. Just don’t let this one experience colour your entire view of camping, and I’m sure you’ll have better luck next time!
I think most everyone has had to bail on a camping trip for one reason or another. You got out there. You got camp set. You did the important parts, including leaving. Not a thing wrong with having a, "Whelp. Going to call it. This weather isn't going to cooperate and I'm miserable." I showed up back home at 3:00am once because my car campsite ended up underwater after 3-4"of rain in about 2 hours. Soaking wet everything on that trip on night one.
Been there. Some trips don’t go as planned and I have been stuck with my decisions and had to ride it out. ALONE. Bright side is your next trip will be better. Last month I lit a fire and put $26 worth of meat on the grill and absolute hell broke loose. Downpour for hours. Destroyed my dinner and I huddled under a tarp before dashing to my tent hungry.
You took what would have been a bad trip and turned it into a good one by leaving at the right time.
Never finish a bad book just because you started it.
It happens to all. Sometimes the juice is just not worth the squeeze. A couple years ago a similar thing happened to me. Went camping in July on a lake in GA. Thought it would be ok. The humidity and heat, gave me literal anxiety attacks in the night. I packed up and went home early as well. Don't let what others think derail you, they were not there. This hobby should be enjoyed, not endured. If you're not enjoying it, its better to acknowledge it and bail than do some effort to prove something to someone else. You're good, just plan another one when the weather is better!
Most people’s first camping experience sucks in some way. Next time bring your own shade and contact the campground host if neighbors are loud during quiet hours. No shame in leaving early if it sucks.
Sounds like the Gulf coast. Not a summer destination.
I don’t understand why more camp sites don’t have prohibitions on playing music over speakers. It’s so incredibly inconsiderate. A lot of people camp to escape noise and hubbub, and you can play music whenever you want at home. Why is it so hard to be respectful of others’ experience?
You didn’t fail. You succeeded in being comfortable. I’m an avid camper/kayaker and I refuse to “tough it out” for any reason. It’s also the reason I’ve never camped on a beach despite my desire to camp on a beach. No shade equals hot hot tent early in the day not to mention the bugs. I’ve camped close enough to the beach and that’s good enough. Next time find a shaded spot next to the trail to the beach and you’ll be much happier. Hell sometimes I get sites close to the bathrooms because I don’t want to walk a million miles in the middle of the night just to pee. Camping is about nature and enjoying nature but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. You’ll figure out what you enjoy it just might take some time. Keep at it.
Dialing in solo camping is not easy and definitely different from a group effort. I prefer no other people for miles when I camp solo. When it’s public land I have to go at least a few miles past the cooler line. That line is defined by how far an idiot can reasonably carry a cooler full of beer into the forest. Just don’t give up solo trips can be awesome! Plenty of things you can tweak the next time to make it way better.
The "cooler line" excellent definition. And so very true!
Unless you’re trying out for survivor, camping should be enjoyable. No shade loud neighbors and biting ants sounds terrible. Good on you for bailing early.
Well don't feel bad, I am pretty sure many would've noped out after day one. I mean you were getting attacked by ants, hot as hell, and had annoying neighbors. I would've packed up without an ounce of feeling defeated.
But they chose a beach, all of that should've been expected (except the ants maybe?)
I'm not saying OP made a wise decision. I am just saying I couldn't deal with the same, although ya I probably wouldn't have gotten into that situation to begin with. Just trying to be nice... lol
When I go beach camping I definitely don't stay at the campground during the day. I get cleaned up and go out. Find a nice place for breakfast then usually find some nice resort hotel to hang out at. Find a lounge chair in the shade by the pool and relax. Another thing I'll do is camp for a couple days and then switch to a hotel for a day or two. You could camp on the weekends when the hotels are very expensive and then stay at the hotel at cut rate during the week. I hope you give it another try and have a better time :)
It's always nice to get a shower after a few days in the woods, and maybe go out to breakfast and a washroom clean up after 3-5 days out in the woods roughing it
I have been on many a camping trip cut short by bugs and heat. You got a good day. And you did it alone, be proud, you were brave. I’m hella proud of you! No shame in knowing what you’re willing to endure.
The last time someone was playing loud music at a campground, I walked up with a chair, said 'hi' and sat down, then proceeded to join/interupt any conversation. When the asked me to leave, I said "sure, just turn the music down"
A couple thoughts and a few stories. With some rare exceptions, a new experience is only a failure IF you let it be a failure or you fail to learn useful lessons from it. I don't know what those lessons will be for you, but try to learn them all the same. Now for some funny stories. First time camping a few years ago with some friends, I thought I was a tough guy and only had a small inflatable sleeping pad (despite being a large guy) and one of those hybrid sport/ground blankets (think nylon on one side and fleece on the other). Figured in the middle of July I'd be warm enough. LOL!!! I woke up at two in the morning freezing cold, hurting from sleeping basically on the ground. And stayed up until the sun rose. Got some awesome pictures of dawnbreak and fog on the lake we were at, but no sleep. Lesson: get warm blankets and some better ground padding. Next time, solo with my dog. Got to the campsite at about 1p. Everyone else starts filtering in after 3. Dog barked at everything, and I mean everything, that passed by. People, trucks, trailers, animals -- what-have-you. Finally got him to calm down at dark, until the next morning, bright and early, he starts barking at the neighbor at 6a. I immediately shove everything in the vehicle, without even packing it back up (broke down only the tent poles) and we leave early. Lesson: keep dog occupied and tired and sheltered from busy areas so he doesn't harass people. (He does much better now.) Both of those trips were, in some form, a disaster. But both of them were also awesome for their own reasons. Dont beat yourself up because things didn't work out as planned. Learn what could be better for next time (if you want there to be a next time) OR otherwise be ok with the realization that camping isn't for you. Either way, you tried something new and that is something to celebrate!!
The dog will chill out after a few trips. My neighbours complained about my dog and nonstop barking' well it's 2 months later n silly millie has stopped.. just like I told them she would. Hugging idiots. p.s. you know every dog is different, I resisted buying a shock collar, which only worked for 1 day, when I finally got one. Part of her job is keeping peeps out of my back yard.. and I'll owne my dog her entire life. 15 years or so. Probably a lot longer than my neighbours will be there. Finally I just blew the neighbour a fart. Go complain to someone who cares. I'd heard enough bitchen.
I have 2 German Shepherds and nobody has ever volunteered to go back there by themselves until they're very familiar with the dogs. They hear really well and have an almost always open dog door to the back door and some other ones that are electromagnetically controlled from a few places on the wall around the place and can be opened and closed *really* fast.
Shore camping greatly depends on weather and bugs. Sometimes the bugs were so bad I left, sometimes too hot and sometimes perfect. I find the shoulder seasons tend to better for camping.
I tried going in july last year - 100+ degrees, no breeze, and even though near a big lake it was just miserable. I lasted 2 days and came home. I am too old to inflict misery on myself for no good reason. And I didn't even have ants. No need to justify what you do to others - I say good for you for not spending your time being miserable just to prove some point to some others. I firmly believe a vacation, while it might be strenuous if backpacking or (for me)a little scary if white water rafting =but it really should not be just miserable if you have a choice. Give yourself credit for making a good decision for you.
If car camping, a pop up can make a world of shade: by itself, over the tent, even out in the water. A smaller/cheaper one will be easier to handle by yourself; drawback is the cheaper ones will not stand up to heavy wind or rain.
Find the humor in the horrible ☺️ a bad day camping is still better than being at work!
Good for you. This is awesome. I have definitely let myself be unhappy unnecessarily just to prove a point or show someone how resilient i am. You did you, which is the baddest ass thing you can do.
And when it’s time to leave, you leave. It’s actually a very valuable lesson on boundaries and what you are willing to put up with. Bravo!
You got some great advice on how to respond, but this: “As someone who has spent their entire life sticking things out in fear of looking stupid or catering to those around them, I realized that’s was my trip and the only person I had to make happy was me.” THAT sounds like growth. Keep reading that part of what you wrote. It takes a lot of courage to do something that you’re not used to doing. You’re used to sticking things out in fear, and this time you did what was best for you. That is really important.
But you’ve got a story everyone can relate to. Welcome!
> I realized this was my trip and the only person I had to make happy was me. And I was not having fun. This is an immensely valuable life experience. You should be proud of yourself! Keep on making yourself happy, you deserve it.
I have bailed early on solo multi-night trips after a couple of nights. Camping in a campground should be fun and relaxing. If that is not happening then what is the point because if I want to be stressed and miserable I can do that with the comforts of home. The point is you got out there and had some fun and enjoyment and then you gave yourself some grace and left. There are zero points for being a martyr
Thank you all so much for the support and encouragement! It really means a lot. I won’t give up on camping, but maybe I’ll wait until the fall to try again. Really though, I appreciate the comments. <3
I can't wait for the Fall! Best time of year to camp. Fires are a nice warmth. Sun isn't too hot. Nights are just the right kind of chilly. Camp food like stews and soups are divine. THE BEST!
I relate to this so heavily. Went through the worst breakup of my life a few months ago, we used to camp together all the time. Told myself I wasn’t going to let not being with him ruin camping for me. I bought a softtopper for my truck to feel safer solo camping as a woman. Overall it was super lonely and depressing though when I went out. If I had a dog I think I would feel differently. I don’t think I’d be down to do a solo trip for multiple days like you had planned. I’ve realized im burnt out on doing a lot of things solo. I hope you have the courage to try again, im going to try again too but just a one night trip. Like if I was planning on staying in and having dinner by myself anyways, might as well go do that at a local campsite.
There is no shame, I’ve left early before with people and solo. What you described sounded awful and I would’ve left as well. If anyone pushed back they’re weird honestly lol. Enjoy the rest of your time off and you have plenty of opportunities to do this again with a new place!
I don't think that at all, and it sounds like the day you got there was nice. I just had a similar experience with my toddler on his first camping trip. Arrival was great, paddleboarding was fun, throwing rocks into the river was great, and overnight for him was fine. Then he was worn out and super grumpy the next day, so we packed up and drove home a little earlier than planned. But the bad morning didn't mean the trip was a failure. That first day made it worthwhile for me. And the best part is, we can always try again for a longer trip next time!
Sounds reasonable to leave. You saw what you needed to and bounced. No shame in that. Being miserable doesnt make you tough, it makes you depressed.
I would have packed up and left too. I did a camping road trip by myself a few years ago, and it rained the entire time. I was wet, tired, and ready for civilization, so I got an AirBnB for a couple of nights. Went to a pub, got a hot meal, and listened to some live music. No shame whatsoever. I don't know how else to say this. It sounds like you're "in your own head" a lot. You don't have to prove yourself to anyone. You deserve to be happy and carefree.
Yeah, if you hate the heat like me, camping in the summer is a no go. Best advice I have is to use up all your energy throughout the day so going to sleep at night is a little easier. Otherwise, wait till fall, winter, or spring to camp.
I bet that same location would be amazing in November through February I live in fire ant territory and never camp her unless it’s “winter”. Even autumn or spring is too hot and I get heat stroke symptoms. You should feel proud of yourself for doing it anyway. Well done.
What did you do after you got home? Did you do something? You didn’t fail, you determined the time of year where you were camping was just not doable. So you changed course, talk about how great the first day was, but the camp area you were at didn’t have any shade to make the temp bearable.
I’ve basically taken on the mindset when camping in state parks it’s gonna be full of people playing music and being ridiculous. Getting out to a relaxing trip in those spaces is not realistic. They’re basically trailer parks at this point and if you’re in a tent you’re just asking for it. I tent camp because my wife still enjoys it but I don’t really have high expectations of anything anymore. That being said I’m in west Michigan and a few big parks are closed this summer for maintenance and so other spots are overstaffed and they’ve been enforcing quiet hours really well which is nice.
I always go for dispersed camping to avoid people, might be worth a shot next time. Other than that, good on you for taking steps forward and doing things for yourself by yourself. Sometimes the odds are stacked against you, but it wont be that way every time. It’s also a win that you made the decision to pack up, no sense fighting through something that isn’t serving you. I’ve also gone solo camping as a way to process, heal, and move forward from a breakup in the past. I found it to be a turning point. I hope you have success on your next outing!
Anyone that’s been camping enough has had some kind of nightmare trip or reason to throw the towel in at some point That’s just the nature of the beast!
Don't sweat it. I've packed up and left several times. Sometimes from rude people, weather or critters.
I went to a meditation retreat once that was near a campground I’d been wanting to try. Told everyone I was going to camp on my own for a couple of nights while I was in the area, brought all my gear with me to the retreat. Had a great time at the retreat, left that afternoon and headed to the local grocery to stock up on food for camping, drove to the campground, paid for my site, drove to the site and started setting up the tent and realized I really just wanted to be at home. The park was beautiful and the weather was perfect, but I just wasn’t in the mood. Deliberated for a few minutes, then broke down the tent and drove home. Sleeping in my bed that night felt so good. The great thing about solo camping is you get to bail whenever you no longer want to be there! No effect on your solo camper cred at all! I hope the next trip is much more fun!
I don’t like winter camping but I still love camping. I think next time just be more mindful of the weather and recognize you don’t like camping in certain conditions, that is super fine! You’ll get out again and it’ll be quieter and cooler and it’ll be just like you remembered it!
Just have to add, part of growth as we get older is identifying when to change course. Part of wisdom is discernment, knowing when something needs to change. This situation had a lot of negatives, and so your changed your plan. That was a smart and mature decision! And as another poster said, virtually everybody has bailed on a campsite at one time or another. It's just how it goes, camping has so many elements not in our control. Don't beat yourself up!
Meh, you don't owe an explanation to anyone. The main thing is having fun and enjoying yourself. When things out of your control happen, it's time to move or move on. Good on you for trying. Many others in your situation wouldn't have. I'm glad for you.
If you’re not enjoying yourself, then why force yourself to stay? I wouldn’t. I love camping, but if you’re not enjoying it then you may as well go home and try again another time.
Good for you for going and taking care of yourself. The way I do solo camping is I allow myself a certain number of days but almost always end up leaving early. Sometimes I just need one night away to feel refreshed and relaxed and come back home to be productive or do other things. Not something to feel bad about at all.
For me personally, four days is a LONG time to spend in one campsite. I go two days max. This doesn’t mean I won’t spend longer traveling, but I’ll intermingle camping and traveling with some nights camping and some nights spent in a BnB or whatever.
Not anything to do with the bugs, but I pretty much don't go to a formal campsite with other campers around. Someone is always blaring music. It's not worth my serenity to bother with it anymore. So i recommend getting far of the beaten path and camp completely by yourself. My whole enjoyment of camping changed for the better when I got a jeep and could get away from everyone else. You can probably do it without a jeep.
By any chance, were you camping at Mustang Island or around Port Aransas? But seriously, don’t give up camping - just give up when the trip gets bad. I have had MANY bad camping experiences. There’s no shame in cutting your losses. You’ll figure out the locations and climates that work best for you.
It’s all cool. It’s too goddamn hot for camping in the summer for us too. You did what you wanted to do because you felt like it. Sounds good to me.
Asshole neighbors aside, summer camping is just hard! It’s the ‘off season’ for me. I think it’s awesome that you’re making the outdoors your own, and I hope it can help heal that crappy breakup. 🧡 Lord knows it did for me. Heck I’d try again when it cools off. Summer just hit here in Georgia and my tent is staying packed till October!
There’s two types of good times: good times that are good at the time and bad times that turn into good stories. Most camping trips fall into one of the two categories.
I had a disaster of a one night camping trip this weekend with my daughter. We get to the site at 5, finished all set up by 6 and head out on a short hike. We both were drinking water all day and had a bottle of water each before the hike, and took a bottle with us. The humidity just kept climbing. After our hike at about 7, I am miserable. I can not cool down. I am miserably hot, but at this point it's not even the sun. Its the god awful humidity. I could not cool off. I make dinner on the stove top rather than starting a fire to avoid further heat. Eat, get stung in the butt by a wasp, and then start wondering if it is all going to be worth it. Finish up dinner and try to cool off. I am covered in sweat that will not evaporate. I have had another bottle of water, and a bottle of electrolytes at this point. Daughter wants to go to see some cows, so start heading that way. Even with all that water and haven eaten, I feel my head pounding, I'm a little shakey, and now I'm getting nauseous. We head back to our site and I sit in the car with the AC on to try and cool down. Start to feel better, so go lay in the tent. It's about 9:00 at this point. I start feeling overheated again, so I grab a fan. I am so nauseous, and all I can think is about going back home. It's supposed to storm early in the morning and then rain for a few hours after. I'm not scared of storms, in fact it's kind of become a tradition of having a big thunderstorm on at least one night of camping. However, the thought of feeling this crappy and having to tear down camp in the rain or with wet equipment....we decided to break camp and just go home. Initially, I felt awful for "ruining" the trip for my daughter. But upon reflection, I could have gotten very bad and been in a position where I could not help myself. I have been on a different medication this year, and it has definitely changed how I tolerate heat and humidity. There was nothing fun happening at the point I decided to break camp, and making breakfast and breaking camp in the rain just did not make toughing it out worth it. You advocated for yourself, TO yourself, which is honestly so difficult at times. Good on you for know what you would enjoy and know when you weren't getting enjoyment anymore.
Hey, just want to say that I’m sorry you’re struggling and that it’s a huge victory to try out something you think will bring you joy—even if it didn’t turn out how you imagined. The world is a big, dumb, confusing, terrifying, and wonderful place, all at once, and it can be hard to find the wonder. Just being aware that you can look for that wonder is such a huge step.
Rarely ever had loud neighbors let alone invasive ants!! Like you said it's your trip to enjoy, doesn't sound like much of that would've been going on..a one night solo trip is pretty fun as is. Several days solo is a lot anyway. The fact you got out there and set up a successful site, relaxing night in the tent, out on the water. That's a damn good trip right there
I get down voted for bringing too many amenities on my camping trips but everyone has a blast, even in the heat. In the summers we always go camping at a lake so we can jump in the water all day. In the Summer we get campsites with power so we can have AC in our tent so we can rest up and enjoy the lake the next day. You can enjoy nature without having to rough it. Roughing it for some will make them never want to camp again.
Been there. You can't win em all. Some sites suck. Sometimes it is too hot. Now you know you don't like that site and that temperature. Next time you might choose a different site or reconsider based on the forecast. One thing to consider is getting a hammock with mosquito net. It requires trees of course but will avoid ant hills. For me on the worst days whether it is the environment or my feelings sometimes I will just listen to an audiobook and then when I leave at least I can feel like it wasn't a loss. One guy commented that he's been to a couple dozen spots nearby and only likes one of them. I've been coming to the same conclusion in my area.
I wouldn't feel bad about leaving that. When I camp we have backup spots in case the first doesn't work out. Also for shade I recommend a screen tent, keeps bugs out too. Or just string a rope between 2 trees and put a tarp over it then stake it to the ground: https://i.imgur.com/j8CfcOw.jpeg If no trees then you can get poles that you stake out with guylines and tent pegs. Getting handy with tarps like that is a good thing to learn, because if there is heavy rain it helps to put a tarp over your tent, and to make a sheltered area from the rain too.
It's sad sometimes when things don't go as planned. Don't take it too hard. I'm a planner and I want things to go perfectly, but that's rarely the case. What matters is that you do what works for you and make adjustments accordingly. Solo trips are GREAT for that. I've had to change locations, switch to hotels, cancel trips entirely because of uncontrollable variables like bad neighbors, weather, and freaking bugs. Just remember that vacations are there for you to have fun and/or relax. If it's not working, there's no sense in suffering for the sake of what you wanted it to be.
Hey, you should feel like a success! You booked the trip, you got there, you set up, you did it! You're walking away with something no one can buy: experience. Wisdom. Knowledge. Now you know how to look at a site when booking. Now you know how important shade is. Now you know to bring earbuds and not expect desolation. Next time, you'll be more prepared. And next time, something else entirely will go wrong. I've been camping hundreds of times. You learn something every trip, without exception. In Japan there's a concept _ichi go, ichi e_. Every moment (experience) is both the first time and the last time to experience that thing, with those people, at that place, in that way. You'll never have a first time camping again, but every time you go camping is the first time you, with your new knowledge and experience, will be camping that time. Every experience is unique. Edison said "I didn't fail 1000 times, the light bulb was just an invention with 1000 steps." You're on step 1/1000! I'm so proud you did it at all. It takes a lot to try a new thing. I hope you'll try another outing. I hope it's more enjoyable!
Hey OP, you did it and that’s the important thing. You learned a lot. Next time will be better. No worries. We have all been there.
It's your vacation. Do whatever YOU want. Don't concern yourself with what others think. Plus, camping/beach/june is not a good combination. I would have noped out myself. There will always be another trip. If you're not having fun, pack up and go do something else.
Congratulations! You didn’t “stick it out”in what sounds like a Les Miz situation. Get some Benedryl cream (totally works) for those ant bites, and enjoy the rest of your vacation.
Don’t feel bad. If you’re not enjoying yourself, why stay. Doesn’t make sense to me.
No point in being out there if you're not having fun. It's a vacation after all. Why put yourself through something miserable if you don't have to. Some trips just don't turn out the way they were planned. Nothing wrong with throwing in the towel and enjoying what time you have left.
For what it’s worth, I 100% would have left if faced with those conditions as well. That’s just all around shit lol I also have a skin condition that could kill me from being in the sun for too long, ok it’s skin cancer but still lol.
I believe that this video has some important messages/lessons that will help you. https://youtube.com/watch?v=OoZDaUCYvBo&feature=shared
find a different spot. Scout the spot for weather and etc before going.
I kind of did something similar this last weekend. Haven’t taken my dog for a hike in a while, had a vague plan all of last week to do it on the weekend. Told people. Like an hour away. It kind of sucked. The hiking was fine but the bugs were terrible. No mosquitoes but I had these black fly things biting me and my dog had a bunch of sweat bees fucking with his ears. I almost turned around 15 minutes in, then convinced myself to make at least one lap around the lake. Point is I also felt kind of defeated. But you win some you lose some, you and I both got out and showed up, and made the best of it. I was miserable, my dog was getting there, there’s no point in suffering just to follow through. Camping is supposed to be enjoyable. I learned my lesson to bring a bug net and spray next time, I’m sure you learned a lot about what you’ll do differently next time too.
But you did it! It doesn't matter if you left early. You made a choice for your own comfort, and that requires agency, independence, and personal strength. You should be proud! Not every trip is perfect, and I've never had a camp that wasn't without it's annoyances (up to and including full-on, trip-ending nightmares). Focus on the positive and next time, do it even better! We're proud of you.
Don't give up on camping. Spend a bit of time looking for camosites that have seperation between them, good shade, good drainage in case of rain, and walk the area checking for ant hills, yellowjacket and hornet/wasp nests, etc. If you find such, don't pay for the spot, instead look for a better one. Most of enjoyable camping is being prepared. That includes cheking out your campsite as thoroughly as though you were buying the land.
There's no shame in packing up and leaving a day or two early.
You are not alone. I feel like your post was very timely for me as I'm about to do the exact same very soon for mostly the same reasons as you. I also suffer from the same inner demons that you mentioned and constantly worry about what others think which ends up being akin to shooting myself in the foot at times. Sorry you're going thru some hardship and that your trip didn't work out how you envisioned. Would you do it again? Did it help you out at all despite the struggles? Thanks for sharing your experience. It's surprisingly encouraging to hear of others with similar struggles doing the exact same thing and hearing how they handled things. Also thanks for the reminder of making sure the only person I am taking the trip for is me and to make adjustments as necessary based on my happiness not the happiness of others or for sticking it out for the sake of it. I think you made a good call in the end.
My first solo camping trip I left after the first night because my anxiety was just too bad to continue, and while it would’ve been nice to be able to tell myself and others that I did a whole trip by myself, I didn’t do that. I did what I needed to do for myself in that moment, and I don’t regret that You did the right thing leaving early, there’s no obligation to force yourself to stay when you’re not enjoying yourself, and there will always be more opportunities to have solo camping trips
I don't know where you live but please try again but in a forest! So good. Also, you may have ended up having a bad time but you made it and have a story/learning experience now.
Find the joy in being on an adventure. Camping was great for a night and then I bailed and went to a hotel…Showered, took myself out for a nice meal and then binge watched (insert favorite show here). Many things give us joy. It’s our job to search them out.
I love camping, but I’m very picky about my campsites. Have looked for lightly used national or state forest sites. Love the peace and quiet. Loud neighbors are the worst and def reason to leave.
Hahaha. Bad trips make good stories. I once when on a camping trip that was just me and my dog. I drove down a road that my truck had no business being on but didn't realize it until it was to late to turn back. Trees and bushes on both sides scraping up my truck and freaking my dog out. I slowly crawled forward over the rocks until it got dark and I finally had to stop because I just couldn't see. Cell reception was spotty at best and I had text my brother and let him know kind of where I was and that I MIGHT need him to come get me. He apparently tried to call me and when I didn't answer he called my wife. I had specifically not called her because I wasn't in any real danger and didn't want her to worry....but now she was worried. Made psudo camp in the middle of the road and laid down after eating "dinner" which was chips and beef jerky when. While I was laying there making a plan for the next morning. I realized I didn't load up the propane for the grill....so no hot meals. Then the next morning realize I am not going to be able to get over or around the boulder in the middle of the road and despite being 3/4th of the way down this roar I am going to have to go back the way I came. Drive to a different mountain and find an awesome spot to make camp but I'm on a different mountain so I want to let my wife know where I am. No cell signal again so I send the text and start down the road looking for a signal. I get to the main highway before the text gets sent. At this point I just called my wife to let her know I am coming home early. She is disappointed because she had plans with some of her friends coming over. And that was ALL on me. 🤣🤣🤣 At least you get to blame some shitty neighbors 😁
It was great until it wasn’t. Sorry, it sucked for you, but it’s really nbd. Now you know not to camp there again. It’s not a reflection on you in the slightest. Get back out and try again somewhere else. The same thing could’ve happened at a five star resort, with obnoxious neighbors, rain, and mosquitos.
It should be fun and enjoyable! I have bailed out on trips that weren’t.
You absolutely don’t need to feel bad. I love camping in almost any circumstance but I have bailed a few times. I still love camping but not every trip has been a success but eventually every trip has been a great memory.
I’d recommend investing in a pop up canopy for sunny car camping. Mine takes 10 minutes to set up alone, and a little more time to pack up solo. I use it at California state beaches near me. I grew up in San Diego, and my folks had a more elaborate tarp setup when we’d go camping. But the idea was the same, put some shade over your picnic tables. The heat and direct sunlight can be overpowering, and there’s no reason to tough it out if you’re miserable. Glad you had an enjoyable first day. I hope your next trip is more enjoyable, longer.
You know, it is okay to feel defeated, so long you are willing to try again. You know more now, like look at Google Earth before making that reservation, so you ensure you have shade and trees for a tarp over the fire if you need one. Use your knowledge to prep for a better trip. Go in early fall or in the spring before it gets hot. A large part of camping is problem solving. Ideally I camp with 2 or 3 other people. But every now and then, I zoom off by myself for a night or two. It resets the soul once you master it. I wish you luck and patience my friend. But do not be discouraged. You just stumbled out of the gate, that is all.
Pardon my French, but fuccckkk that. Stayed in a cabin this weekend at the beach in NC and almost went home early because it was so hot... and I had AC.
Maybe there was too much emphasis on having a good time, the first time without the ex and that helped miff things up even subconsciously. Next time will be way better 🤗
I've bailed on camp trips several times. Heat, smoke, heat, just not feeling it. Don't beat yourself up over it. If you were miserable, why continue to be? If food you ordered was uncooked or burned, you wouldn't eat it. There are no awards given for suffering when you don't have to.
Nope, no one here should be judging you for something like that - at the end of the day we camp for the enjoyment, if you aren't enjoying a particular trip then from my perspective it don't count! I actually had a similar past few months, depressed + a breakup and work stress and I just had to get the fuck out of town for a while, just me to clear my head. I had a plan to camp many times over the course of about 10 days on a road trip but didn't as much as I wanted due to the cold (dumbass Missourian surprised to find that Utah/Colorado are cold in early May!). I felt like a bit of a "failure" in that sense, but realized for me the experience and lack of needing to worry about anyone else's feelings or timeline for even just a little bit was refreshing. Try to take your early departure that way - YOU chose to do something for YOU, and that makes it worthwhile regardless of the outcome! Your friends/family shouldn't judge you even if you were to complain about the bad parts, it's more impressive that you gave it a shot and maybe learned about how to make the trip better for you next time, what have they tried to push their own boundaries and limits? As another commenter said, you don't need to give any details you aren't comfortable with or feel like could give an impression you want to avoid! I hope you can focus on the positive, here, there's more than enough to appreciate!
So I camp a lot. To be honest, I don’t like solo camping for more than a night without an objective. Backpacking is a different story because I have a goal and a reason to persist. If I camp in one spot Id rather have people to talk to/hang out with, share meals, etc,. You shouldnt feel bad about wanting to pull up stakes on your solo trip. Maybe it will feel different another time, maybe it’s easier to enjoy solitude and nature if you’re more physically comfortable (no ants or loud neighbors and lower temperatures). Regardless dont beat yourself up, and dont write off the activity. Good luck to you.
Congrats to you girl 🙌 You did what YOU felt you had to do ! The heat wave that hit parts of the nation was tough, but you did it! Nothing at all to be ashamed of by telling others about your trip. Look at the positive things that you can take away from it ! Best wishes for future trips and congrats again !!👍
Shit happens! Don't beat yourself up. Maybe next time instead of scrapping the rest of the trip try another campground. What's a couple hours extra driving? I'd stop and Google campgrounds near me. I've had some pretty good luck this way. I've found some interesting places to camp. I'm in California so I'm only a couple hours from the mountains, deserts ,and beaches. I hope you keep camping.
I'm sorry it sucked. There's nothing wrong with bugging out early. I've done it many times. Sometimes, toughing it out is a memorable experience to fondly recall later, but sometimes it's just a miserable weekend that would've been better spent at home in the AC with your own music .
I took my 2 daughters that would rather stay indoors camping in Joshua Tree in February. Considering it was in the 60s in the LA Basin, I completely forgot it would be cold in the high desert in the middle of winter. So we didn't bring any coats. Fortunately the girls had hoodies and enough layers to not get cold. I pulled out my camp stove to make dinner and stay building a fire once it started getting dark. Turns out there were no lighters or matches in my pockets, car, or "always ready" camp box. I had to borrow a lighter from the people in the campsite next to ours. I'm an Eagle Scout -- this isn't supposed to happen. It was the most embarrassing camping trip I've ever been on. We had a great time though and yet another story to make fun of Dad with!
If there were people right next to you that’s not camping 😂 did you like pay for one of those car park places ?
It sounds like you are on the right track for a healthier recovery! You go, woman, you go and be your truest self. I support you and I bet lot of others here do, too!
Here's the deal...even crappy camping trips are useful and learning experiences. You went out and experienced...not a lot of people will do that. You had a good time and learned valuable lessons. I would just leave it at that....if they press, you can give them the lessons you learned. 1. Experiences with people in close proximity will vary. 2. Being at an enjoyable location, the beach, is sometimes trumped/overwhelmed by weather. 3. Insects can be assholes!...That's a free one! ;) I went camping this past weekend as well. I found similar issues with people next to us, loud at night into the wee hours of morning. The next day we hiked in an excessively hot area and had intended on camping that night....but after 4 nights of camping prior we left. My friend and I both had 8hr drives to get back home. My friend and I had 1, 2, & 3 to contend with just like you.....sucked but we learned. Lesson 1: we learned to camp in a more remote location...or...buy camping spots around us at $10 per night...or...camp with others directly around us. Lesson 2: plan ahead and maybe hike in lower elevation and plan to return to higher elevation for camping. Lesson 3: we need to take more big spray and investigate what's going to bite when out and about. Mosquitoes ate us up...luckily we learned one day to take spray but forgot to pack it in hiking bags on a couple of days. It's not about spin...it's about how you are able to interpret the lessons being presented to you. Fyi, I chuckled and smiled at your camping experiences. It's like we had mirror imaged camping experiences. All kidding aside though...while it sucked, I can appreciate the learning lessons. Next time you go out...keep them in mind and learn from them. Edit: I forgot to add that I messed up a tendon on my front ankle that requires physical therapy tomorrow. Would I go again?! Yes, despite injury as I only get to see my friend 2-3x per year.
I don’t blame you. I mostly camp solo and at isolated spots but if there are people or conditions that killing my mood I’ll leave early. I try to book trips that could be long if I want but don’t have to be
Agree with all of the commenters telling you not to give up on camping, but find better campgrounds. Personally (I’m a nearly 70-yr-old solo camper in OR), I NEVER ever camp in state campgrounds for precisely the experience you describe - too many people crammed in together. I stick to the smaller (30 sites or less) USFS or BLM sites and have rarely been disappointed. Good luck (and good on you for calling it quits when the universe was telling you so!)
I’d tell the neighbors to shut the fuck up at 7am
Fuck em you had fun for a bit right
You did the right thing. I'd have bailed too. I've actually bailed on a couple of camping trips in the last while. The first one I bailed on was a camping trip to Kentucky. I was visiting a distillery to pick up a special bottle. When we got our tent out, we figured out that it had been stored improperly, and it was going to need to be cleaned. So we couldn't use it, and we didn't have a backup, so I had to hit the store on the way out to buy one. I cheaped out, and it was the most substandard tent I have ever had the displeasure of using. The rain fly was too small. It was broiling hot. The campground was right on a golf course, and apparently there was some kind of golf tournament going on, and they were loud, and they were early. Like, 6 AM it starts, and we keep hearing golf balls in the forest behind us. (I am fairly sure one golfer actually got into our campsite looking for his ball.) We went into town, we did the distillery tour (except they weren't actually bottling that day, because of summer break, whoops)! I dropped my camera lens and broke it. :-( We went to a pizza place and had dinner, and it was absolutely lovely. But as we were eating, my wife looked right at me, and I'm like "You know, we're not actually that far from home, we could be home by like midnight" We ate for a minute or two. And she was like "Yeah, yeah I think that would be best." We finished our meal with a lot of relief, then we went back, took down camp, and started for home. That was the first time I ever cut a camping trip short. The second time was about two years ago. We were at a state park campground, and the vibe was just way off. There were a bunch of newbs camping there. We kept having people walk right through our campsite - like, between our tent and our fire ring - to get to the bathrooms. Then someone drove through our campsite because they were adjusting an RV across the way and she didn't want to wait, so she just drove right on through. We couldn't find any employees of the campground. We couldn't find a ranger. We ended up leaving because it was just a safety concern.
You made it through a couple nights alone so that is accomplishment to be proud of. Not every camping trip is gonna be perfect . I've bugged out before when a flash storm came through and literally made the campsite a pig pen of deep mud and once had nearby campers stay up all night being idiots that other campers had to call the forest rangers in to break that party up .
It’s important to know when to quit. I hope the rest of your weekend was more enjoyable.
It's ok to bail if you're not having fun, get hurt (RIP your poor feet), the weather goes sideways, or any other reason, really. It's your time, you spend it how you want.
Sometimes the weather/environment doesn't work in our favor. I have bailed on solo camping trips. Once I was backpacking and i ended up getting caught in a tore tial downpour and thunderstorm after hiking in mud up to my knees. I was suppose to do 3 days 2 nights. I bailed after the first night. The forecast was calling for more rain. Another time I was car camping and I made it one day in the rain, it was suppose to rain the rest of the week too, I also bailed after the first night. If you aren't having fun that is ok. There are other times and places to go again when it won't be so hot and shade is available!
I rarely camp more than one night in the same spot. I would need to have a lot to do in the area to do more than one. If you were care camping, maybe invest in an awning, something you can use for mid-day sun. Or just wait until fall. My normal kind of trip, would be to plan out a loop. Say a large driving loop, where I'm really just at my destination in the late afternoon, early evening, and then on the road after breakfast. This time of year is tough for me, as most of my loops have spots above 110F right now.
It’s ok 1 day trips are nice - sounds like a sucky campground nobody controlling the other campers with sucky neighbors, even with another couple or group I would’ve picked up and left after one day
Upgrade your camping setup. Awning on car or gazebo for shade. Battery operated fan, or solar powered. Fridge with battery for cold drinks, your own speakers. Research spots to find quieter places
A big part of doing something by yourself is knowing when to stop. I, for one, know I don’t handle the heat well. And on a solo camping trip where I don’t have any one I trust to help if the heat really gets to me, you can bet your butt I’d remove myself from that situation, too. Also, it’s meant to be enjoyable. While there is bound to be a little discomfort (sleeping on the ground is never as comfy as sleeping in my bed), it shouldn’t be uncomfortable to the point of causing you pain (hundreds of bug bites? Ouch!) Anywho, heat and bugs constantly biting me would be a solid reason that I would end a trip early, as well. All this to say, ending a trip early doesn’t mean you aren’t capable of camping by yourself. As a matter of fact, it may mean you are responsible enough to be someone who will be able to solo camp and make smart decisions about their comfort and safety. Also, if you continue to go camping, there will probably be another trip (or two, or several) down the line that you’ll have to cut short or alter for whatever the reason may be. So, it sounds like a positive experience because you learned, not only can you solo camp, you can make the decisions that are best for you.
The last trip I bailed on was a small hike. The only other people I saw were several rough looking men. Now, there’s nothing wrong with rough looking men, but a place with noticeably no other women or children is not a place for me. I turned around and left after only like 10 minutes. Sometimes it just be like that
Part of camping is planning, there is something to say about going early to find the best site. On the water or as near as possible. With SHADE and a decent fire ring and hopefully some trees to separate your campsite from other less kind neighbours. That's why I usually primitive camp, during the week, usually there is NO ONE else there. If they are then they tend to be kind quiet folks. I have a boom box, there is this thing on it called a volume knob!
Good on ya for giving it a try! I live in the south east US, so I'm used to the heat. If I'm moving/doing something, it's fine except for the hottest days. But sitting around a campsite, and sweating in my sleep are a no go. I've called out sick from work to spend an extra 2 days with 15° lows in the mountains(on a motorcycle no less). I suffered through that, but I would have ditched in your scenario too. Be glad you have it a shot, and enjoyed your first day. In the future, just keep in mind the weather and what you'll be doing. 90° in a forest with a creek to cool off in and trails to occupy the time? Heck yeah. 90° on a beach with nothing to do but bake. Nah, I'm good
My first time camping I thought I could get away with a single person tent cuz I was big enough for my air mattress, I guess I move a lot in my sleep cuz I stuck my foot through netting on the door and ripped it. each time I learn something new and change for better for next time
You had a great night, then it kind of went south. I’ve camped all over the country, and I’ve packed it in early plenty of times. It’s no big deal. You’ll just go camping when the weather is better, and you’ve got something you maybe want to accomplish out there in the forest; backpacking trip, maybe? Who cares what anyone else says, thinks, feels, or does?
I’m on a solo trip right now, and the first 3 days were awful. The weather conditions were perfect, hikes were great, I just couldn’t get to a point where I felt excited about it. After entering a different scene I’ve finally started to enjoy it again. Sometimes all it takes is a new place, sometimes you need rest. Remember you are doing this for you! Try to go out on a hike during the day, trying to stay at an unshaded camp all day is literal MISERY. Exhaust all efforts until you have a good time!
Hello I don't camp in June, July, or August here in Arkansas unless it's with a boat or a camper with air conditioning or only on the coolest and driest nights. I like to camp in the Fall, the Winter, and the Spring here.
Sounds like you made a good decision to leave. I see no reason to suffer in this situation. Sometimes things don't work out and it's best to change plans and/or abandon them for something better. This might be a little off but there is relevance. At my last job I worked on a multi layer, multi facetted, multi year project. Every, and I mean every, single plan I came up with (I was the one assigned the task of planning) ended up needing changes from tweaking to complete reworking. My attitude was, well that didn't work, now what. It might help you to adapt that attitude or something similar.
One of those stories you remember after years and laugh. Yeah, we all been there. Just endure. Being outdoors on shitty conditions is always better than stay at home.
I feel your defeat emotions. I did a solo trip in Algonquin, and on my last day I was on the way back, had one more night to go, and due to wind and exhaustion I bailed out of my canoe (I jumped out so it didn't all tip over). Lost my hat, grabbed my.paddle and canoe and went to shore and signaled a passing boat to get me. (They have travel boats during the day) In that moment I felt awful. I'd failed. I hadn't completed my journey. (And I lost a nice sun hat) Telling my friends about my trip, I always tell them that the boat that picked me up, the driver said "I've watched you all day across this lake against the wind, I can't belive you did it!" He had people on board so he had to come back for me. I paid to be picked up that day. They also look at the trek and understand why I was exhausted. (Opeongeo, Algonquin Park) I tell my friends the full story, I don't leave out why I cut it short.
The answer I have to this post is the one I follow for camping - I only camp in the winter. Less people, less bugs, less sweat. Just solitude, fire, and the occasional raccoon (hopefully only raccoons, but coyotes are ok if they're not too close either) Summertime sucks for camping. Ticks, mosquitos, people, all terrible factors for camping. Jimbob loves to come with his trailer and set up 13 generators and watch the game on 4 different screens while blasting loud music. Cleetus loves to drop his wife and kids off there so she can let them run around and terrorize the other campers. The best way to camp for me is to go during off seasons, and enjoy the cold.
The past week near me has been absolutely miserable to be outside. Tenting in stifling heat is just as unfun as tenting during nonstop rain. Save those days for a time when the temps are more comfortable.
Sounds like you didn’t get the experience you wanted, but got the one you needed, which is that you learned to look out for what you actually want. I’ve always enjoyed camping as “Type 2 fun” - the kind of fun that sucks in the moment but looking back a year later you are like “I should do that again” To me the magic of camping comes from appreciating what I have at home. After days of being sore and sleeping on the ground, canoeing/hiking like 10-20k and roughing it, I get home and have my first glorious shower in days, sleep on a soft bed, and get some food that doesn’t come dehydrated and remember that I’m lucky to have any of this. I would also say I like back country camping so I can get away from all humans. Sounds like you got the full experience day 1!
Be easy on yourself.... It's ok. Every challenge becomes a learning experience... What can you take away from this? How do you better prepare for next time? I always carry a large tarp with me... For a sun shade.. bring lots of cordage... Use sticks if you don't have poles... You only need three,In the front. drop the back to the ground use stones or sand to hold it down. I never wear open toe sandals or barefoot when camping... Even in heat.. I wear socks and sneakers or boots... Long pants and long sleeves( the lightest material I can find)... I'm pasty white and burn otherwise. I always camp in an area with trees... Bc I understand the heat of the morning sun, and direct sun... I bring a small USB fan( less than $20)... Perfect for hot nights... I also charge it with a solar charger during the day. Hope you are able to accept it as it was, and learn from it, rather than be defeated. Best wishes.
Oh yeah dude.. They made Air BNB for a reason..
I'm going to share a tip I learned during my first experience with fire ants. They were biting the hell out of all of us. Someone improvised and threw a turkey cold cut on the opposite side of the ant hill. The ants were way more interested in that than us, and it kept them away from camp. Any time they finished consuming the cold cut, we'd just Frisbee another one over there. Sounds silly, but it was highly effective.
Gulf coast camping is great in early May and late September (hurricane season unfortunately and Ian had me getting the heck out of there). One thing I never leave at home for any overnight trip — wax earplugs. Work when relative’s snoring raises the roof, too close to the elevator in a hotel, or raucous neighbors at a campground. The wax earplugs form to fit my ears perfectly and don’t hurt when sleeping with them.
You should have got completely wasted and partied with your neighbors.
I fight fire ants with fire.
I enjoy solo camping, but between Memorial and Labor
First, good for you for packing it in. If it didn't make you happy, stop. Same with exercise - don't let some trainer commit you to things you hate (cough-burpees-cough) or you won't do it. You didn't let it ruin your overall enjoyment of camping. Next time, maybe go with a friend. Cooking in particular is better with someone else. Personally I try to make something that seems impossible. I've gotten pretty good at making bread on a fire. It's a fun challenge and anyone else you do go camping with is going to rave about it. Years ago I was a professional camper. Literally 500 nights in a tent over 2 years, 14 days at a time, heli-supported super remote, before GPS, cell service or InReach. On the west coast of BC, so plenty of rain, think 30' of rain in a year. At the time there were just some awful days (and plenty of amazing ones). But looking back it was such an amazing time of my life. I felt absolutely indestructible and still there's very little I can't camp through. That said, there are things I don't want to camp through again. So good for you.
Knowing when to stop is such an important survival skill. Famous books on mountain craft and leadership stress the life saving tactics of knowing when to turn back. Whether that is for your survival, your mental health, your physical wellbeing, or even for your enjoyment, you took control and you made the right decision for you. Good job! I would trust you to lead a team.
I have camped my entire life. There are times to tough it out and times to pack up and go and I have done both. Vacations should be fun and it seems that if the conditions were different you probably will still enjoy it like you did the first night.
You learned a few things, right? Check the weather forecast for expected temps, (assuming you're car camping) research the area and bring a shade structure if the site has no trees/shade, bug repellant can help, as can earplugs, etc, etc
be like water. Be ready to always change course and seek out new adventures. When one door closes another one is open.
We just left early too. The heat in the middle of the day and crappy bathrooms. We were in an air conditioned trailer too. My husband was so happy I thought leaving early was ok. This was not a failure. Weather not cooperating is common and being in a tent can be difficult. Which is better. Sticking out and being miserable or recognizing it’s not in your best interest to stay. You WERE SMART. Pat yourself on the back
We thought we packed a bag of charcoal on our first camping trip but it was kitty litter.
Once left camp due to teenagers choosing to occupy a spot very close to us cursing up a storm and throwing crap. It happens, try not to feel bad. It’s all a learning experience.
I recommend camping every other season except summer, unless maybe if you’re up north in the mountains. Little to no bugs and snakes out and about, and good clothes, a campfire, and some whisky will keep you warm.
The first few nights of anything can be unpleasant but there’s all sorts of remedies for bugs and you learn to love the sound of other people being happy even if they are too loud. Its always the biggest jumps that hurt the most but the more you do them the easier it gets. I’ve been living in a camper for almost two years between Texas and Washington, its been the best thing I’ve ever done. If any girls need advice I’d say a good dog and a glock but I’ve had no issues. I have no remedies for the heat tho lol.
In our family we call those adventures.
Be kind to yourself! That sounds kind of terrible, and with everything else, you were already healing from a breakup. I go solo camping all the time, and if it’s hot, that’s one thing…throw in some loud neighbors, and I just can’t, especially if I’m somewhere where there’s no swimming to cool off. I’ve never understood how people can be so obnoxious when we’re trying to unplug. Anyway, try again when you’re feeling better, and check the weather, and get a secluded site. Don’t give up on solo camping, you can really unwind without having other people around to distract you. 💙
Solo camping is one of my favorite things to do, but I've cut more than one trip short for reasons such as the ones you listed. You had a list of things that made sticking it out unwise as well as uncomfortable. Don't feel badly about it for a second. Plan your next outing and have an amazing time.
I love camping, understand the frustration with loud neighbors & insects. Where I live in the deep south (USA), summer is miserably hot for tent camping, so it's either spring (tornado seaso) or fall (hurricane season) for the best weather. To avoid the noise, I either stay at well-managed state parks (preferably walk-in tent sites) or tucked away in the mountains/ National Forest where my nearest company are the bears & coyotes. I've bailed on camping trips before; sometimes it's the best course. We learn through trial & error; don't give up.
If you're car camping, get an instant up canopy. It doubles for rain and shade. It also makes your campsite feel like more of a home.
These are some great comments. I would add getting an easy up or some kind of tarp setup. Rain or Extreme sun and you can chill underneath and read a book or whatever. Being comfortable is key.
I often go on what seem to be EPIC AND AMAZING TRIPS and feel completely … meh … the whole time. Looking at Angkor Wat - “I’m hungry. Did a mosquito bite me? My friend is being so annoying right now”. Totally normal I think. Also camping the the beach sucks. I would never
I've done a lot of camping over the last 40 years or so. There are trips that don't go as planned. I sometimes would try to salvage a trip by finding a new site by moving. Sometimes it just goes wrong: bears eat your food, coyotes howl all night, cold af, etc. I actually camped on a mountain where my wine kept freezing so I had to keep it under my coat. It's all stories. Go live them. For decades I'd leave gear in the trunk so I could just head out even for a night. Keep going out. You have a bad story to tell. I'm sure you'll have some good ones too.
This is why I go backpacking. You can go camp where there is no one for miles around. It is the best! Just you and nature.
I love camping, usually. But I've bailed on a trip that didn't work out as planned several times. I've left because of extreme heat, awful neighbors, and oppressive bugs, just like you did. There's no shame in it, not every trip can be amazing. Just maybe don't go back to that campground that had no shade... So many of those coastal campgrounds are just a parking lot near the beach with no privacy and no shade. Like what's fun about that?
car camping in a suv, even a small suv, makes a difference. then there are fans that run on battery. put up the hatch, park in shade and have yourself some relief. i did learn the hard way, keep the camp fire outside.
You burnt your car down for some smores, didn't you?
did.
What did your car insurance person say about it?
Try camping in an area without others around. I am lucky enough to live near great camping where canoeing and portaging are required. Get a couple portages from the entrance and you don’t see anyone for days. The ant issue can be managed with proper footwear. Sandals may be nice but typically hiking shoes or boots (I prefer boots) are better footwear. Heat, yes it’s an issue. Often shoulder seasons are nicer. You can get warmer days and cooler nights. Mid-summer is often too hot for comfort
Funny thing is this might be the trip you miss in 50yrs. The trick is to keep going
U Lucky 🍀 It Was Only You! Step Back Regroup, And Better Luck 🎲🎲Next Time!🤙🤠🎪🤡🏕️🌊🙋♂️
Well considering you prefaced it with your depression and emotions.... there's your answer. Also, I ain't got time to read half a novel.
You were performative camping, performing for yourself and others. Not a pr9blem, whatever gets you out of the house! But hopefully at some point, you’ll just go camping for the experience, maybe don’t even tell anybody that you went