One thing I’ve been thinking about lately on my Wander Woman adventures: I don’t think I actually like camping alone.
There, I said it.
I don’t mind being by myself when I’m doing something. Give me a house tour, a paddle down a river, a hike, or some other adventure, and I’m perfectly happy to wander off by myself.
But once the activity is over and I’m sitting at the campsite by myself? That’s when things start to feel a little…lonely.
I like people. I like talking to people. I like laughing with people. I like having someone nearby when I see something interesting and can say, “Hey, look at that!”
I’ve also discovered that a campfire is much more enjoyable when there’s someone else sitting around it. Otherwise, I’m just sitting there by myself, watching wood burn. And as much as I enjoy a good fire, tending to it all evening by myself started to feel like another job.
Camping involves a lot of work!
Actually, that’s probably the bigger issue with camping alone. Setting up the campsite, hauling things out, getting everything organized, making dinner, tending the fire, and then doing it all in reverse a few days later. It takes time, energy and a surprising amount of effort—and when there’s only one person doing all of it, that person is me.
I used to love campfire cooking and making delicious meals over an open fire. I’d happily spend the time putting together a meal and, of course, making my gourmet s’mores. These days, I’m perfectly content with a prepared meal from the grocery store, some cold cuts, and as little cleanup as possible.
This realization really hit me on my last trip to the Ohiopyle State Park in Pennsylvania. I had been enjoying the peace and quiet of the campground when, suddenly, the tranquility was shattered.
Apparently, everyone else had arrived.
Trailers started rolling in. Engines were running. People were backing into campsites. There was a lot of shouting back and forth:
“Straighten the tires!”
“Turn it the other way!”
“Keep going!”
“STOP!”
At one point, I was pretty sure I was listening to an entire campground attempt to parallel park.
The noise, motors, trailers, and general commotion made me realize how much I miss the camaraderie of camping with others. I like the conversations, the laughs, and even having someone to share the work.
I’m not ready to give up on wandering. Not even close. I still love exploring new places, kayaking, discovering interesting towns, and seeing where the road takes me.
But maybe the next chapter of Wander Woman is about finding a community to wander with.
People who enjoy getting outside, exploring, camping, paddling, laughing, eating good food — and maybe even sitting around a campfire together.
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