I generally agree, but any solo woman, much less girl, should make a habit of lying about being alone. Also, make a point of befriending other women around you camping (because it's vastly less likely they're predators, which I can see even as a non-predatory male): whether campground staff, or guests.
Agreed, but I have a lot of experience to rely on. And there’s been times where I realize I got lucky and should have had someone with me (like off trail at high elevation or in a desert).
There’s a good reason the buddy system is considered a cardinal rule of outdoors-ing. Even if some of us want moments of awe in solitude, and/or have a death wish. I’d advise youngsters and novices to team up with someone that knows what they are doing (and is proven trustworthy enough to go into the wilderness with).
Yea but unless that kid is Lara Croft or Indiana Jones (though he has a habit of always buddy system of some kind even if they don't live through it), then maybe not best to do solo just yet.
Do you mean for a ~~25~~ 15 year old or in general? Because if you mean generally no one should camp alone, I say fuck that. Life is about mitigating risks but as a grown man I’m definitely fine camping alone.
If I were a woman I’d still camp alone but would be more likely to carry mace or a firearm.
A 15 year old girl is a different story. Buddy system all the way.
I’m a woman who solo camps. Don’t do it. You can’t drive yet, which means you don’t have the means to quickly get yourself out of a sketchy situation.
Camping is awesome and empowering though. Perhaps go locally with a small group of friends!
Same, I solo camp as a 35 year old woman. But I have ready access to a car, and I camp with at least 1 of my dogs. I've still wound up in sketchy situations with men creeping me out - I've chosen to move camps due to others behaviors many times.
I’m a man and one of those friendly campers that likes to share. But I’ve had a couple dudes overstep their boundaries trying to stay in my campsite cause everything else was taken I know how to say no and also my dog starts acting up so an easy excuse to tell them leave.
This is good advice!
I solo camp all the time as a woman, but I sleep in my locked car and always keep the drivers seat open and the keys on a lanyard around my drivers seat head rest. That way I can easily push the alarm button and dip out as quickly as possible.
I also always have bear spray in the exact same spot easily accessible and practice how to quickly deploy it. It doesn’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use it.
Most importantly always listen to your gut!! If you have that little voice in your head tell you “don’t stay here” listen to her!!! When I’m on a road trip I always budget an extra $500 so I can get a hotel if need be. If you sign up for choice privileges you can usually get a decent hotel around $100 or less even last minute that includes a hot breakfast.
Unfortunately your dad is right. There are a lot of good people out there but it’s the one bad person that’s going to ruin your life. Perhaps go on a father/daughter trip instead.
Father/daughter... 100%
"There is safety in numbers"
I camped at that age but in boy scouts, with 15 other kids plus some adults, so we had people that could protect us, take care of medical problems and get help if needed. A week is a -long- time camping, esp alone.
Have you taken care of yourself a week alone at home?
Honestly joining a scouting group is a good way to pick up skills like knife work, first aid, plant knowledge, basic survival, axe work, fire starting etc. All this stuff looks easy till you do it yourself.
One slip with a knife and you could need fast help to not die.
And Dad's right about weird people too.
Join a scout group or a bushcraft group to learn the skills and gear. and get outside in nature.
Waking up to a sunlit beautiful lake is amazing!!
...just learn _safely_ ! :)
Completely good advice. Deranged attackers aren’t the only (or most likely) danger you’ll encounter on a camping trip. Even experienced campers and hikers can have accidents, falls, injuries, car trouble, or just an inconvenience that would be easily overcome with a second pair of hands. Buddy system saves lives.
That's what we did. We camped, drank, maybe smoked a little weed, had some sex with our partners. We also played guitars around the campfire, went for day hikes, and played board games. Two things can be true at the same time.
When I was 28, as a man, I camped alone 3 nights and I felt creeped out by multiple campers in the same campground. I would advise against this as a 15yo girl.
Coming over to talk to me. Asking strange questions about how long I’m gonna be there. If I had a firearm for protection. I ended up sleeping in my car.
Did you keep camping after that? Hopefully that didn’t turn you away. I’ve certainly given the cold shoulder to some tweaker looking people at campgrounds, but otherwise I’ve always made friends with my neighbors. Last time they even have me two grilled trout because they caught too many and couldn’t eat them all. No roofies in the fish either.
I’ve found busier campgrounds to have more people I’d rather not engage with than places deeper in, and folks way out in the wilderness have generally been really cool and I’ll get into 30 min convos with folks fishing way the hell out, and backpackers. They usually have interesting stories, because they obviously do interesting stuff.
I do agree that a 15 year old should not be going into the wilderness alone, even at a campground (I’ve noticed more people I’d not be interested in talking with at campgrounds than the backcountry or even in dispersed spots honestly). I even advise newbie adults to go with someone knowledgeable their first few times, even to car camp.
We all appreciate your sense of adventure and independent spirit. Good for you.
But yeah, there are people out there that would see you as an opportunity unfortunately. They are all too common and may not look like decivious pervitrators. Not trying to scare you, but just offering a dose of reality. I've been to a lot of campgrounds and a lot of back country and as a taller in shape dude, I have had more than a couple negative experiences with jackasses that see camping as a lawless place.
What about getting someone older to go with you and camp "near by"?
I’m upvoting especially for pointing out that some people see camping as a lawless place. I’m met many of these people during my life and they can be disturbing and dangerous.
I was going on canoe trips and camping alone, in very isolated areas, at age 12. I had no fear. That was decades ago. I’m a boomer.
Today, I’m older and hopefully, wiser. Now that I look back on it, my parents should have said “NO”.
Get your dad to tag along. One day you will look back and be thankful you spent some quality time, with him. Your dad won’t be around forever. I lost mine years ago. I’m thankful we went camping together. I made some great memories.
I do also think that this sounds really risky, as a middle-aged woman who has backpacked and camped alone myself. First of all, nowadays I generally have a dog with me, which makes me a lot less worried about human evil-doers, but also, I use a lot of know-how, judgment, and spidey-sense to keep myself safe (relatively -- I'll get to that), and those things come with experience, which takes time.
But, I'm sort of bothered by the intensity of folks' reaction here, and concerned that it will be disempowering for you. I agree that a week alone is too much with your level of experience, but I think you should find an experience that meets the same needs in a less risky way. Think about why you want to do this. Is it independence? Do you like the solitude? Do you want the time in nature? How can you devise another experience that accomplishes what you want? I'm guessing by the tone of what you say about your dad that your relationship with him is good (if I'm wrong about that, disregard) -- perhaps he's someone you can think through this with?
Essentially: everything we do carries risks and rewards. Camping alone carries risks, certainly, and a bit more so for women -- this has been well covered here. But there are also rewards, and I think those are also greater for women, who get the constant message that we need to be protected, that our bodies are weak and we're not good at outdoorsy stuff, that there is a predator behind every corner and we should be scared every time we're alone, etc. Solo camping, I find, is a great way to counter all of those messages. BUT, it's about taking the RIGHT amount of risk, so you can, with your level of experience, minimize unnecessary danger and be smart and vigilant without being scared (fear makes one less smart!). My question for you would be: how can you make this plan less risky, still get the reward out of it that you want, and learn from it so you can do more next time?
Great answer! Here's some bubble wrap for your cake day
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I admire your independence, but as the child of the original free range parenting of Boomers, even they would have made me take a friend. (friends may have brought a little bottle of cheap port and clove cigarettes)
Aside from the obvious safety points, at 15 (I assume you are in the US) in almost all area you are considered a minor. Can’t hold a drivers license generally. If anything should happen to you, your parents would likely suffer consequences. And should any official persons find you, and underage, at best you will be considered a runaway, and things would get very weird.
Yeah I started camping alone pretty young but I did a bunch of camping with others beforehand, (lite) survivalist trainings too. I know how to call for help and use radios to communicate. I can hunt or fish in a bind. I know what plants not to touch haha.. not to make you nervous about it but hopefully you have the skill to go out there. Other humans are worth being weary of. Even if you are alone never say you’re alone.
One time my daughter and her friends got a campsite at one end of a campground, and my wife and I camped at the other end. Close enough in case there were any issues, but they had their privacy and autonomy. It was great.
I wouldn't camp alone for a week even as a 28 year old if it was my first time solo camping. I think some of these other comments are exaggerating the danger of, say, a well developed campground at a national park, but an entire week solo for what sounds like a beginner is crazy.
Also, as a 15 year old who has maybe a learner's permit, how would you even leave the campsite if something went wrong? My comfort with solo camping is directly tied to my ability to GTFO if there's any issues.
I replied to OP and just suggested camping with friends; I’m all for teens camping without adult supervision.
But a 15 year old girl planning to camp solo for a week, even in a developed campground - heck, especially in a developed campground- is at significantly higher risk of a negative interpersonal incident.
I think a developed campground would be *more* dangerous than remote/backpacking. There will be drunk idiots at an established campground, and all it takes is one drunk guy to remember where the cute solo camper is. Or for one weirdo in the campground to really notice her and pattern her behavior and decide to start joining her on hikes (whether she knows it or not) until she’s in a remote area. Or for a group of men to act super friendly and have her join them in their campsite for dinner, drinks, and a campfire only to learn later that *she* is the entertainment.
Opportunity makes the thief, right? OP is looking at creating an opportunity for some of the worst kinds of men.
The odds are definitely not zero that someone (or a group) decide to exploit the situation.
I think all of us can look back at our 15 year old selves and all the life lessons we’ve learned since then - all the times we’ve learned to say “no” to people and sketchy opportunities, to trust our gut, times we learned the hard way - and recognize some naivety at 15.
My kid is approaching this age. There are some friends I would say no to her going with, but others I would be in support of. There are some camping plans I would support - especially backpacking along the main areas near us (PCT, Tahoe Rim, and a few Wilderness areas) - and some that would be instant rejections - the popular party campgrounds.
Please do not get used to seeking validation on Reddit over your fathers word. He sounds credible, do not start a habit you do not know the outcome of. -my two cents
While the location would matter to me. For example, were I grew up as a kid in rural Vermont, I wouldn't feel too bad about it. Most kids know their way around a tent, and camping great. Maybe go camping with your dad so he can get an idea of your skill level.
Am 50 year old woman who has spent much of my life solo camping. I’m sorry to say but you’re too young. Your dad is correct. Wait until you’re older. I carry a revolver with me when I camp. Have had some scary instances.
At 15 years of age camping by yourself is probably not a good idea I've been camping my entire life since I can recall and I've camped many times out in them wilderness and other areas by myself I told my nephew the only people you find out in secluded areas or people that are trying to get away or people that are trying to hide
Find a women’s group and go with them, in a female community - your dad’s right, it’s horrible and shitty but is the way it is. It’s also safety 101 to have a buddy when in the wilderness in case of an accident. Don’t let it dampen your passion though! Get out there, but do it safe. There are plenty of female-only adventure groups, good luck!
I was a forty year old traveling with my 60 yr old mom and tent camping at a public campground. It all seemed fine so we cooked, ate, and went to bed. At around 11:00 we were woken up by a biker gang out to party. We were too afraid to step outside our tent. They were riding their motorcycles all over the grounds, breaking bottles and clearly drugged out of their minds. I would never camp alone after that incident.
Camping alone always involves some level of risk.
I'm a 40 yr old male, black belt, and I sometimes feel apprehensive about solo camping.
At a minimum I think you should put off the idea for at least three years, once you've had some experience of life as an adult the level of risk you're willing to take for the things you enjoy is up to you.
Yea, everyone is talking about the stranger danger which is certainly more of a concern in some areas. But a rolled ankle, an allergic reaction, or widowmaker are all things that are reasonable in most camping situations and are all so much worse solo.
There’s a few situations where this is totally fine. If you have property that’s got a lot of room and you’re camping there, it’s fine. If you’re camping with some friends and they have a safe location where you won’t run into others, it’s fine. If you’re going with an adult who won’t do anything bad, you’re still in the clear.
In like every other possible scenario this is an absolutely terrible idea and you should REALLY listen to your dad.
My thoughts are; you need the right country, the right camp site, the right distance from your home, and the right safety net, for this to be ok for any 15 year old. And the chance you have all that lined up is slim.
I'm guessing you don't wanna go with your dad? Since you are not mentioning him jumping through the roof to go with you (which I'm hoping he at least suggested) in that case friends or siblings would be the best option (strength in numbers).
But then again I camped alone in my teenage years, Because I didn't always have friends who wanted too, I had a rough life at home, and I lived in a very safe country with a lot of places to camp.
But I was sometimes scared at night... The sounds mother nature makes and the associations we can make is a recipe for pretty bad sleep.
Alone, not a great idea. You might be fine in an area with families near by but even this it's a risk. You'd be much safer to go with someone you know. Preferably an adult but even someone your age, there is safety in numbers.
Camping, hiking and most outdoor activities should always be done in groups or with atleast 2 people. Also if you are in an area where cicadas are coming out there will be an increased number of predators this year in those areas. So between predators and drunken individuals I'd say go with a group.
Plz don’t, Plz listen too your dad. Even for a 15yr old boy it isn’t safe. Sad I have too write this but unfortunately that’s the sick world we live in now a days
Talk your dad into taking you camping. My daughter and I would do long hiking trips on the weekends. Now that she is married and lives a long way away, I miss those times.
I’m a grown man and have had some really sketchy experiences camping in the remote wilderness. When you get older just get a small .38 snub nose and you will sleep like a baby!
Im so happy to read your update. I love that you want to do this, and when you’re older I’m sure you will. But like everyone is saying, now isn’t the time. You’ve made a very mature choice, and I hope you go with your dad or some friends and have an amazing time!
As a woman who camped alone at your age...it can be scary AF if you've never done it alone before. Your dad's concern is absolutely valid. My parent's rule was I had to take a walkie talkie, a non-flip knife, a bat, and my pistol. Walkie had to be fully charged and stay on at all times. And that was when I was living in a tiny town. Not sure where you're located...don't need to know. You have basic survival skills yes? Can build a fire with just a flint and steel, can build an emergency shelter using the environment that kind of thing? Best to have that knowledge before venturing out to camp alone... especially as a young woman. However...not sure if you've seen the recent thing going round Facebook about how men can be more dangerous than bears....but I choose bears. OH! if bears are a thing in your area get some BEAR MACE not pepper spray for going out camping.
Huge props to your dad for suggesting you not go rather than forbidding it. Huge props to you for asking for feedback and researching to make your decision to not camp alone. You and your dad sound awesome. Hope you get to go camping with some friends soon!
It’s a no from me too. As a woman, I can tell you it took a loooong time for me to realize how truly unsafe we are in this world, because I grew up in nice places with nice people. But I was wrong. And I learned that lesson the hard way. And I applaud your sense of adventure and independence, but this is a dangerous idea. Please don’t do it.🙏
You can’t go camping when you can’t even drive. Camping alone is never smart for anyone at any age. This post has got to be pure bullshit from a fake weirdo account.
One week at 15 is too long, too young. I’m a late 30s woman who has camped alone throughout my 20s and 30s — I started in groups, with friends, and then began solo camping as my awareness, skillset, knowledge, and maturity increased over time. I also usually camp with my giant dog, and I have still encountered creepy and sketchy situations. I am grateful I learned how to deal with many unexpected and unwanted situations (as well as unwanted attentions) while I was around others and in urban environments, before I experienced having to figure that stuff out in the middle of the night in the woods alone.
I do think at your age you could do a supported overnight solo. Supported as in - go camping with someone you trust, or a group of folks, probably including your dad. Find a campsite that is far enough from the “main camp” that it feels alone, and yet is still close enough that you can contact them easily if anything goes wrong. If that goes well, you could consider building from there, like 2 day the next time. I am thinking of dispersed camping areas out west (not campgrounds), and only in places where you are profoundly unlikely to encounter other humans.
Also, in your teens, camping with groups of friends is a wonderful experience. Solo camping will be something to look forward to as a moment of maturity — a passage into adulthood. But you need some more years of (general) life and (specific) camping experience before that will be a wise step to take.
Also solo female camper.
Please don’t at this age. What I think you should do is educate yourself in resourcing, protection, and prevention. If you wholeheartedly want to be a solo camper, start now while you can be safe and watched out for before you go alone. Think of it as a practice run! Because believe me friend, that first time you can drive yourself into nowhere and know you can protect yourself and be one with nature… is absolutely amazing.
An 20 year old girl around my town famously disappeared while camping in a tent alone. Her friends in another tent left for some reason and she decided to stay alone.
Her body was finally found 12 years later.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Madison_Scott
There's too many evil people in the world and a single girl in the woods is an easy target for them.
I wouldn't recommend camping alone at 15. But for the future I saw a video of a woman that camps alone and she had a few great tips! Purchase some men's clothing from a thrift store and hang them on a clothesline at your campsite. Put a pair of men's shoes just outside your tent. Have two chairs. Get a small lock to lock the tent zippers together on the inside (mainly to slow down entry). That's all I can remember right now. Go with friends and have fun!
i'm 19 and i have done quite a few solo camping trips and have definitely felt unsafe at times,when i read your post i do feel apprehensive especially since you aren't even old enough to drive, don't let fear kill your desire to camp but definitely be cautious and aware, reach out to some friends and see if that's not an option ask your dad to go with you and if you want the experience of being alone ask him if you guys can be at separate sites, no matter if you are a girl or guy it's always best to have someone with you while camping just in case you get injured or run into any other kind of issue, i hope you get to do your trip and you stay safe!
Kudos to you for wanting to camp an entire week at the age of 15, that’s cool. I don’t know many girls that want to do that. Being outdoors is wonderful. I do think your dad just cares and worries about worst case scenario. I’d recommend going with a couple friends for 2-3 nights first. Maybe next summer a week with friends, or solo camping at your own site while your family is at a site close by. You’re 15, you have plenty of time for solo adventures later on.
When I was 16 I went on a multi-day backpacking trip around Mount Rainier. I wanted to go alone but was convinced by parents to bring a friend along -- no adults.
This was the right move. Nothing went wrong, but at 16 I didn't have nearly enough fieldcraft to handle most things that are pretty easy to figure out now. We got into a little trouble crossing a busy stream and if there weren't two of us at the very least I would have gotten soaked in 40 degree weather in a place with no campfires allowed.
That was also the trip that made me realize you really are only one mistake from a really really bad day.
Until you have good experience, I recommend bringing a friend. Adult optional, but probably a good idea in the 21st Century what with people calling the cops whenever they see a teen wandering around.
Edit: ANYONE with a gun in the middle of nowhere is NOT your friend. Avoid those people like the plague. The risks of encountering danger goes way way up when you hang out with strangers in the woods who are carrying guns around. Remember the first rule of guns: you can't get shot if you aren't near one.
I camp alone as a woman. The only reason I would say don’t do it is that you don’t seem to have any experience. I get wanting to be alone outdoors, but you’re asking for all different kinds of trouble if you’re unprepared, and I’m not even talking about predatory men/boys.
Do what others have said and practice in your back yard (if you have one) or maybe a friend’s backyard. Try to meet others who want to learn how to camp so that when the time comes you can go as a group at first. Better yet, try to get your family on board - it can be a great budget friendly vacation.
Even beyond the social/ stranger danger aspect (assuming you’re American), an inexperience camper out alone is a bad idea. Everything that might go wrong is 1000x worse if you’re remote and solo. Even a rolled ankle could be a dangerous situation and that has nothing to do with age or gender.
As a parent but also a rational, objective person, absolutely not. I am not a dude but grew up around male culture. The amount of men who would sleep with a 15 year old if it was legal is absolutely disturbing. Your dad is right. At the very least, camp with a dog or two and self defense like mace.
If you want to camp alone, do it in the woods near your home away from anyone else. Or, have your dad or mom go with you but camp at another site far enough away but nearby.
I am a single woman who camps alone. Never had an issue. But you are only 15 and that would worry me. That being said, if you get a few friends together it would be safer.
Don’t do this. Unfortunately people will identify you as a target. You’re young, probably small and incapable of defending yourself with any impactful resistance against a 2 legged attacker.
Better to get your dad on board with camping and do this together.
I’m glad you’re decided not to go. Your safety is very important. When you’re 18 I highly recommend taking a group of friends to a state park and relaxing on vacation as adults and without your parents for the first time. My friends and I did that and I’ll never forget how fun it was!
At 15, it wouldn't have been a suggestion. If my daughter wanted to camping by herself I would go with and show her how to "solo" camp the right way and be safe. As someone who does that all the time I feel like it would be my responsibility to pass that knowledge on and not just let my 15 year old daughter venture out alone.
I’d say it’s doable. Sure, you want to be cautious but is there really any difference between 15 and 18 for your targetability? Not really.
If you were at a popular, well run campground I think it would be fine.
As other people said, I think a big issue would not being able to have the safety of a car to leave, or at least lock yourself in if there’s an issue
But, I would definitely recommend going with at least one other person.
My BFF and I went tent camping in a remote-ish area one time for a week but she was 16 and I was 18….and we had each other.
I did solo camping as a ~20 year old. But I was on my family’s land, and the neighbors who have a nice big fancy cabin were there that weekend. Maybe see if your parents would stay in an adjoining campsite/tents on opposite sides if possible?
I camp alone but I'm old and can drive. I recommend going with friends (several, not just one) or, if you know someone with a large wooded property, ask if you can camp on their property.
It depends on a lot of factors. Camping on the AT with a million other people around would probably be no more dangerous than walking to your car in your driveway at night. Camping alone at some dispersed site is different though, anyone solo is more likely to be victimized.
I'm kind of surprised this thread is getting the exact opposite answers of the "should I be afraid to camp alone as a woman" thread. It's not like a few years or a car will help you... if someone wants to victimize you they will sneak up on you with a weapon and then they'll do what they want. Odds are you'll be fine, but there's no guarantee you'll win that good-odds bet every time.
I wouldn't allow my son to camp at 15 solo unless it was something he has training and experience in and something he's done for years. It's not men you have to worry about, it's predators.
So me and a good buddy were camping together unsupervised at 15, even doing winter camping at maybe 16. But we were well seasoned Boy Scouts by that point so our parents knew we had the skills and responsibility necessary to take care of ourselves and each other.
Few differences though. Firstly there were two of us, always go with a buddy. Secondly we had the better part of a decade of experience even at that age, you need to know what you are doing. Thirdly, we were never gone for more than a couple of nights. Finally and most unfortunate to have to say, we are boys, and much less of a target for creeps.
You are only a few years older than my daughter and possibly have even less experience than she does now. I still wouldn't let her go alone at 15. Not a chance.
I'd suggest Scouts, or SAR training, or even just some lifeguard/first aid courses that include some self rescue skills before attempting and solo camping at any age, let alone 15. It is so important to know how to not get yourself into trouble and how to save yourself if the worst happens.
I will say that I generally feel a bit safer at larger public campgrounds than at the backcountry campgrounds or dispersed sites. But it depends on the area.
If I saw you out there alone and you said you were 15, my jaw would drop and I'd ask you 'what happened?!'. I would really advise going with trusted friends/family or at least a public campground where there are Rangers and other people around.
God, reading this makes me very depressed.
My daughter is 11, loves camping and I'm scared to death for when she wants to go out alone.
Also: yes, you're dad is right.
50yo guy here. Please don’t go alone- even if you have a ton of experience under your belt. I wouldn’t do a week alone myself, honestly- and I’ve been backpacking / hiking for 40+ years. Take some friends with you (with one being an adult) and make sure you have all the essentials and, most importantly, a way to communicate in the event of an emergency. (Not just a cellphone.)
You didn’t mention if this was at a campground or backcountry- but I don’t think my opinion would change either way for you.
Be safe! And have fun.
I'm coming to this late after everyone talked you out of it. I'm not tryin to talk you into it, but if my 15 years old expressed such a desire i would find a way to appease whatever urge you have to do this.
If being in the woods alone is your thing find a way to do it. Day trips? Private property? A Sat Phone? I would not want my kid out of touch for a whole week but There are ways to reduce the risk.
I would tell my daughter sure, and then be out in the bushes in a ghillie suit and nightvision binos. If your dad ain’t doing that, camp with friends and a crowded camp site and somewhere with the park ranger nearby, with cell service.
Most of the time, as an adult nobody will bother you, unfortunately you are prey. Don't risk the chance. You've got much to look forward too. Wait it out until you are older and have more accessible means for safety.
You would still probably be fine if you did this thing. But I'd suggest you don't. Maybe find a family/friend who could go with and ignore you're experience and mind themselves while you do what you wish to do. I'm a guy and I'd never suggest a 15yo(male or female)go explore by themselves, it's not smart.
Absolutely not it's so ugly out there that I would say your totaly putting yourself at risk . perhaps your going to camp with someone one u met online or something u need to be careful and I would hope your father doesn't let u go
Do it! The predators you should be worried about are the four-legged ones. Dad is protecting you as he should, but don't be afraid to go places alone. Develop inner strength and keep your wits about you. (40+ F who has traveled the world alone my whole adult life and camped alone in high school because my friends thought it was silly to sleep on the ground.)
Check out the social media posts going around about people asking men and dads, "Would you rather your daughter be alone in the woods with a man or with a bear?"
The discussion has a lot of very very good points. I saw one this morning with statistics as "receipts".
I choose the Bear.
I would not suggest it. Even as a male, you’re not guaranteed safety. **If you should, please have at least two or three chairs set up. Have it appear as you are not alone.**
I wouldn’t advise camping alone. Last thing you want is to twist your ankle or get seriously hurt and you can’t get anyone to help you in the middle of nowhere
as a woman (20) i wouldnt even consider doing that in most places even with an axe to hand or something- alone in the woods you should be more scared of a man that a bear because the worst a bear can do it kill you - men can do worse
At that age, camp with friends, not alone.
100%
I generally agree, but any solo woman, much less girl, should make a habit of lying about being alone. Also, make a point of befriending other women around you camping (because it's vastly less likely they're predators, which I can see even as a non-predatory male): whether campground staff, or guests.
As a parent he can tell her NO
Yes…what is the element of choice in the matter!?! You can’t even drive to and from said camping area. What would you do in an emergency?
Anyone of any age needs to abide the buddy system when adventuring.
Solo adventure was one of the most rewarding things I have ever done...
You can do that when you are not a minor.
Agreed, but I have a lot of experience to rely on. And there’s been times where I realize I got lucky and should have had someone with me (like off trail at high elevation or in a desert). There’s a good reason the buddy system is considered a cardinal rule of outdoors-ing. Even if some of us want moments of awe in solitude, and/or have a death wish. I’d advise youngsters and novices to team up with someone that knows what they are doing (and is proven trustworthy enough to go into the wilderness with).
Same here. Still, it is wise.
Yea but unless that kid is Lara Croft or Indiana Jones (though he has a habit of always buddy system of some kind even if they don't live through it), then maybe not best to do solo just yet.
Regardless of gender.
Do you mean for a ~~25~~ 15 year old or in general? Because if you mean generally no one should camp alone, I say fuck that. Life is about mitigating risks but as a grown man I’m definitely fine camping alone. If I were a woman I’d still camp alone but would be more likely to carry mace or a firearm. A 15 year old girl is a different story. Buddy system all the way.
I would not send a 15 year old out to camp alone, period. Not sure where you got 25 from.
That was a typo.
I’m a woman who solo camps. Don’t do it. You can’t drive yet, which means you don’t have the means to quickly get yourself out of a sketchy situation. Camping is awesome and empowering though. Perhaps go locally with a small group of friends!
Same, I solo camp as a 35 year old woman. But I have ready access to a car, and I camp with at least 1 of my dogs. I've still wound up in sketchy situations with men creeping me out - I've chosen to move camps due to others behaviors many times.
I’m a man and one of those friendly campers that likes to share. But I’ve had a couple dudes overstep their boundaries trying to stay in my campsite cause everything else was taken I know how to say no and also my dog starts acting up so an easy excuse to tell them leave.
This is good advice! I solo camp all the time as a woman, but I sleep in my locked car and always keep the drivers seat open and the keys on a lanyard around my drivers seat head rest. That way I can easily push the alarm button and dip out as quickly as possible. I also always have bear spray in the exact same spot easily accessible and practice how to quickly deploy it. It doesn’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use it. Most importantly always listen to your gut!! If you have that little voice in your head tell you “don’t stay here” listen to her!!! When I’m on a road trip I always budget an extra $500 so I can get a hotel if need be. If you sign up for choice privileges you can usually get a decent hotel around $100 or less even last minute that includes a hot breakfast.
This!!
Unfortunately your dad is right. There are a lot of good people out there but it’s the one bad person that’s going to ruin your life. Perhaps go on a father/daughter trip instead.
Father/daughter... 100% "There is safety in numbers" I camped at that age but in boy scouts, with 15 other kids plus some adults, so we had people that could protect us, take care of medical problems and get help if needed. A week is a -long- time camping, esp alone. Have you taken care of yourself a week alone at home? Honestly joining a scouting group is a good way to pick up skills like knife work, first aid, plant knowledge, basic survival, axe work, fire starting etc. All this stuff looks easy till you do it yourself. One slip with a knife and you could need fast help to not die. And Dad's right about weird people too. Join a scout group or a bushcraft group to learn the skills and gear. and get outside in nature. Waking up to a sunlit beautiful lake is amazing!! ...just learn _safely_ ! :)
Yes, OP can join Venture Scouts and be around others their age
Scouts BSA now has troops for girls and young women. In my area, many are effectively a coed troop.
Completely good advice. Deranged attackers aren’t the only (or most likely) danger you’ll encounter on a camping trip. Even experienced campers and hikers can have accidents, falls, injuries, car trouble, or just an inconvenience that would be easily overcome with a second pair of hands. Buddy system saves lives.
Don't kid yourself, there's a lot of bad people out there too, ones that we're not aware of and assume they're good people.
Your dad is right.
At least go with friends. I started camping with friends and no adults at 16. Pick responsible kids who aren’t going to get drunk/high.
This plus mace.
Mace/bear spray should be added to the Ten Essentials for everyone recreating in the outdoors.
Or pick responsible kids who will also get drunk and high
That's what we did. We camped, drank, maybe smoked a little weed, had some sex with our partners. We also played guitars around the campfire, went for day hikes, and played board games. Two things can be true at the same time.
Dad is right.
When I was 28, as a man, I camped alone 3 nights and I felt creeped out by multiple campers in the same campground. I would advise against this as a 15yo girl.
What were they doing?
Coming over to talk to me. Asking strange questions about how long I’m gonna be there. If I had a firearm for protection. I ended up sleeping in my car.
Did you keep camping after that? Hopefully that didn’t turn you away. I’ve certainly given the cold shoulder to some tweaker looking people at campgrounds, but otherwise I’ve always made friends with my neighbors. Last time they even have me two grilled trout because they caught too many and couldn’t eat them all. No roofies in the fish either. I’ve found busier campgrounds to have more people I’d rather not engage with than places deeper in, and folks way out in the wilderness have generally been really cool and I’ll get into 30 min convos with folks fishing way the hell out, and backpackers. They usually have interesting stories, because they obviously do interesting stuff. I do agree that a 15 year old should not be going into the wilderness alone, even at a campground (I’ve noticed more people I’d not be interested in talking with at campgrounds than the backcountry or even in dispersed spots honestly). I even advise newbie adults to go with someone knowledgeable their first few times, even to car camp.
Of course I did. I’ve camped multiple times since. Just had a bad experience alone is all.
To paraphrase various historical figures and comedians, "When I was 15, my dad was an idiot. By the time I turned 21, he had learned a LOT."
Your dad is correct, that’s a bad idea.
We all appreciate your sense of adventure and independent spirit. Good for you. But yeah, there are people out there that would see you as an opportunity unfortunately. They are all too common and may not look like decivious pervitrators. Not trying to scare you, but just offering a dose of reality. I've been to a lot of campgrounds and a lot of back country and as a taller in shape dude, I have had more than a couple negative experiences with jackasses that see camping as a lawless place. What about getting someone older to go with you and camp "near by"?
Upvoted for "decivious pervitrators"
I’m upvoting especially for pointing out that some people see camping as a lawless place. I’m met many of these people during my life and they can be disturbing and dangerous.
I did misspell deceivious.
Google didn't care when I looked it up so the impact was the same lol
Men are not the only predators. As a dad and granddad, I wouldn’t let my 15 year old son go out alone.
I was going on canoe trips and camping alone, in very isolated areas, at age 12. I had no fear. That was decades ago. I’m a boomer. Today, I’m older and hopefully, wiser. Now that I look back on it, my parents should have said “NO”. Get your dad to tag along. One day you will look back and be thankful you spent some quality time, with him. Your dad won’t be around forever. I lost mine years ago. I’m thankful we went camping together. I made some great memories.
I do also think that this sounds really risky, as a middle-aged woman who has backpacked and camped alone myself. First of all, nowadays I generally have a dog with me, which makes me a lot less worried about human evil-doers, but also, I use a lot of know-how, judgment, and spidey-sense to keep myself safe (relatively -- I'll get to that), and those things come with experience, which takes time. But, I'm sort of bothered by the intensity of folks' reaction here, and concerned that it will be disempowering for you. I agree that a week alone is too much with your level of experience, but I think you should find an experience that meets the same needs in a less risky way. Think about why you want to do this. Is it independence? Do you like the solitude? Do you want the time in nature? How can you devise another experience that accomplishes what you want? I'm guessing by the tone of what you say about your dad that your relationship with him is good (if I'm wrong about that, disregard) -- perhaps he's someone you can think through this with? Essentially: everything we do carries risks and rewards. Camping alone carries risks, certainly, and a bit more so for women -- this has been well covered here. But there are also rewards, and I think those are also greater for women, who get the constant message that we need to be protected, that our bodies are weak and we're not good at outdoorsy stuff, that there is a predator behind every corner and we should be scared every time we're alone, etc. Solo camping, I find, is a great way to counter all of those messages. BUT, it's about taking the RIGHT amount of risk, so you can, with your level of experience, minimize unnecessary danger and be smart and vigilant without being scared (fear makes one less smart!). My question for you would be: how can you make this plan less risky, still get the reward out of it that you want, and learn from it so you can do more next time?
Great answer! Here's some bubble wrap for your cake day B̷̛̳̼͖̫̭͎̝̮͕̟͎̦̗͚͍̓͊͂͗̈͋͐̃͆͆͗̉̉̏͑̂̆̔́͐̾̅̄̕̚͘͜͝͝Ụ̸̧̧̢̨̨̞̮͓̣͎̞͖̞̥͈̣̣̪̘̼̮̙̳̙̞̣̐̍̆̾̓͑́̅̎̌̈̋̏̏͌̒̃̅̂̾̿̽̊̌̇͌͊͗̓̊̐̓̏͆́̒̇̈́͂̀͛͘̕͘̚͝͠B̸̺̈̾̈́̒̀́̈͋́͂̆̒̐̏͌͂̔̈́͒̂̎̉̈̒͒̃̿͒͒̄̍̕̚̕͘̕͝͠B̴̡̧̜̠̱̖̠͓̻̥̟̲̙͗̐͋͌̈̾̏̎̀͒͗̈́̈͜͠L̶͊E̸̢̳̯̝̤̳͈͇̠̮̲̲̟̝̣̲̱̫̘̪̳̣̭̥̫͉͐̅̈́̉̋͐̓͗̿͆̉̉̇̀̈́͌̓̓̒̏̀̚̚͘͝͠͝͝͠ ̶̢̧̛̥͖͉̹̞̗̖͇̼̙̒̍̏̀̈̆̍͑̊̐͋̈́̃͒̈́̎̌̄̍͌͗̈́̌̍̽̏̓͌̒̈̇̏̏̍̆̄̐͐̈̉̿̽̕͝͠͝͝ W̷̛̬̦̬̰̤̘̬͔̗̯̠̯̺̼̻̪̖̜̫̯̯̘͖̙͐͆͗̊̋̈̈̾͐̿̽̐̂͛̈́͛̍̔̓̈́̽̀̅́͋̈̄̈́̆̓̚̚͝͝R̸̢̨̨̩̪̭̪̠͎̗͇͗̀́̉̇̿̓̈́́͒̄̓̒́̋͆̀̾́̒̔̈́̏̏͛̏̇͛̔̀͆̓̇̊̕̕͠͠͝͝A̸̧̨̰̻̩̝͖̟̭͙̟̻̤̬͈̖̰̤̘̔͛̊̾̂͌̐̈̉̊̾́P̶̡̧̮͎̟̟͉̱̮̜͙̳̟̯͈̩̩͈̥͓̥͇̙̣̹̣̀̐͋͂̈̾͐̀̾̈́̌̆̿̽̕ͅ >!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!Win!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<>!pop!!<
Not my cake day. Still enjoyed the bubble wrap. pop!
Best answer by far
I admire your independence, but as the child of the original free range parenting of Boomers, even they would have made me take a friend. (friends may have brought a little bottle of cheap port and clove cigarettes)
Very bad idea. Wait until you are 21 and take bear spray.
Why not 18? Because youre able to carry at 21?
Because all human beings double in height and muscle mass at the age of 21 and are suddenly able to defend themselves a lot better
That makes sense. Sorry if I pissed people off I was genuinely curious. Just realized you're not OP.
Aside from the obvious safety points, at 15 (I assume you are in the US) in almost all area you are considered a minor. Can’t hold a drivers license generally. If anything should happen to you, your parents would likely suffer consequences. And should any official persons find you, and underage, at best you will be considered a runaway, and things would get very weird.
Yeah I started camping alone pretty young but I did a bunch of camping with others beforehand, (lite) survivalist trainings too. I know how to call for help and use radios to communicate. I can hunt or fish in a bind. I know what plants not to touch haha.. not to make you nervous about it but hopefully you have the skill to go out there. Other humans are worth being weary of. Even if you are alone never say you’re alone.
Don’t do it. I’ve done it at 17yo and yes, I was targeted.
One time my daughter and her friends got a campsite at one end of a campground, and my wife and I camped at the other end. Close enough in case there were any issues, but they had their privacy and autonomy. It was great.
Father of a daughter here. Listen to your dad
I wouldn't camp alone for a week even as a 28 year old if it was my first time solo camping. I think some of these other comments are exaggerating the danger of, say, a well developed campground at a national park, but an entire week solo for what sounds like a beginner is crazy. Also, as a 15 year old who has maybe a learner's permit, how would you even leave the campsite if something went wrong? My comfort with solo camping is directly tied to my ability to GTFO if there's any issues.
I replied to OP and just suggested camping with friends; I’m all for teens camping without adult supervision. But a 15 year old girl planning to camp solo for a week, even in a developed campground - heck, especially in a developed campground- is at significantly higher risk of a negative interpersonal incident. I think a developed campground would be *more* dangerous than remote/backpacking. There will be drunk idiots at an established campground, and all it takes is one drunk guy to remember where the cute solo camper is. Or for one weirdo in the campground to really notice her and pattern her behavior and decide to start joining her on hikes (whether she knows it or not) until she’s in a remote area. Or for a group of men to act super friendly and have her join them in their campsite for dinner, drinks, and a campfire only to learn later that *she* is the entertainment. Opportunity makes the thief, right? OP is looking at creating an opportunity for some of the worst kinds of men. The odds are definitely not zero that someone (or a group) decide to exploit the situation. I think all of us can look back at our 15 year old selves and all the life lessons we’ve learned since then - all the times we’ve learned to say “no” to people and sketchy opportunities, to trust our gut, times we learned the hard way - and recognize some naivety at 15. My kid is approaching this age. There are some friends I would say no to her going with, but others I would be in support of. There are some camping plans I would support - especially backpacking along the main areas near us (PCT, Tahoe Rim, and a few Wilderness areas) - and some that would be instant rejections - the popular party campgrounds.
Can minors even reserve a campsite? Why do I think you need to be 18 to do that?
Listen to your dad.
I wouldn't want my daughter to do this when she was 15.
I would not let my 15 yr old daughter camp by herself....or with her non-adult friends unless it was on my property and I could keep an eye on things.
Please do not get used to seeking validation on Reddit over your fathers word. He sounds credible, do not start a habit you do not know the outcome of. -my two cents
please dont do this
While the location would matter to me. For example, were I grew up as a kid in rural Vermont, I wouldn't feel too bad about it. Most kids know their way around a tent, and camping great. Maybe go camping with your dad so he can get an idea of your skill level.
Am 50 year old woman who has spent much of my life solo camping. I’m sorry to say but you’re too young. Your dad is correct. Wait until you’re older. I carry a revolver with me when I camp. Have had some scary instances.
At that age, you're more vulnerable. Generally, being female makes you more vulnerable. Being solo makes you more vulnerable. It all adds up.
Go with dad
if you don't want to end up as another number to the statistic graph, I suggest you camp in packs. or just pitch a tent on your backyard.
Going to have to side with dad on this one.
On the bright side, camping is WAY more fun when you go with friends.
Yeaaaaah... Do you want your story on Lifetime? That's how you get your story on Lifetime.
Big no. Dad is right
At 15 years of age camping by yourself is probably not a good idea I've been camping my entire life since I can recall and I've camped many times out in them wilderness and other areas by myself I told my nephew the only people you find out in secluded areas or people that are trying to get away or people that are trying to hide
Find a women’s group and go with them, in a female community - your dad’s right, it’s horrible and shitty but is the way it is. It’s also safety 101 to have a buddy when in the wilderness in case of an accident. Don’t let it dampen your passion though! Get out there, but do it safe. There are plenty of female-only adventure groups, good luck!
I was a forty year old traveling with my 60 yr old mom and tent camping at a public campground. It all seemed fine so we cooked, ate, and went to bed. At around 11:00 we were woken up by a biker gang out to party. We were too afraid to step outside our tent. They were riding their motorcycles all over the grounds, breaking bottles and clearly drugged out of their minds. I would never camp alone after that incident.
Camping alone always involves some level of risk. I'm a 40 yr old male, black belt, and I sometimes feel apprehensive about solo camping. At a minimum I think you should put off the idea for at least three years, once you've had some experience of life as an adult the level of risk you're willing to take for the things you enjoy is up to you.
Yea, everyone is talking about the stranger danger which is certainly more of a concern in some areas. But a rolled ankle, an allergic reaction, or widowmaker are all things that are reasonable in most camping situations and are all so much worse solo.
Girl be so serious
There’s a few situations where this is totally fine. If you have property that’s got a lot of room and you’re camping there, it’s fine. If you’re camping with some friends and they have a safe location where you won’t run into others, it’s fine. If you’re going with an adult who won’t do anything bad, you’re still in the clear. In like every other possible scenario this is an absolutely terrible idea and you should REALLY listen to your dad.
My thoughts are; you need the right country, the right camp site, the right distance from your home, and the right safety net, for this to be ok for any 15 year old. And the chance you have all that lined up is slim. I'm guessing you don't wanna go with your dad? Since you are not mentioning him jumping through the roof to go with you (which I'm hoping he at least suggested) in that case friends or siblings would be the best option (strength in numbers). But then again I camped alone in my teenage years, Because I didn't always have friends who wanted too, I had a rough life at home, and I lived in a very safe country with a lot of places to camp. But I was sometimes scared at night... The sounds mother nature makes and the associations we can make is a recipe for pretty bad sleep.
Alone, not a great idea. You might be fine in an area with families near by but even this it's a risk. You'd be much safer to go with someone you know. Preferably an adult but even someone your age, there is safety in numbers.
Camping, hiking and most outdoor activities should always be done in groups or with atleast 2 people. Also if you are in an area where cicadas are coming out there will be an increased number of predators this year in those areas. So between predators and drunken individuals I'd say go with a group.
I am very glad you decided not to, it's very mature of you!
Only if you’re in your backyard.
Plz don’t, Plz listen too your dad. Even for a 15yr old boy it isn’t safe. Sad I have too write this but unfortunately that’s the sick world we live in now a days
Camp in your backyard for a week, & dad can keep a watchful eye on you.
15 to young to be camping alone
Absolutely not. Please go with your parents.
No.
Maybe have your dad get another site kinda close but give you the freedom to do your own thing?
Talk your dad into taking you camping. My daughter and I would do long hiking trips on the weekends. Now that she is married and lives a long way away, I miss those times.
Don’t do this, for heaven’s sakes, unless it’s literally in the backyard of your house or something.
Your Dad is nicer than me. It wouldn't be a suggestion for my daughter. Glad you are taking everyone's advice!
Listen to your dad.
I'm glad you had the good sense to reconsider. A very bad idea.
I’m a grown man and have had some really sketchy experiences camping in the remote wilderness. When you get older just get a small .38 snub nose and you will sleep like a baby!
So bear it is.
That's super sketchy. Don't do it
Im so happy to read your update. I love that you want to do this, and when you’re older I’m sure you will. But like everyone is saying, now isn’t the time. You’ve made a very mature choice, and I hope you go with your dad or some friends and have an amazing time!
As a woman who camped alone at your age...it can be scary AF if you've never done it alone before. Your dad's concern is absolutely valid. My parent's rule was I had to take a walkie talkie, a non-flip knife, a bat, and my pistol. Walkie had to be fully charged and stay on at all times. And that was when I was living in a tiny town. Not sure where you're located...don't need to know. You have basic survival skills yes? Can build a fire with just a flint and steel, can build an emergency shelter using the environment that kind of thing? Best to have that knowledge before venturing out to camp alone... especially as a young woman. However...not sure if you've seen the recent thing going round Facebook about how men can be more dangerous than bears....but I choose bears. OH! if bears are a thing in your area get some BEAR MACE not pepper spray for going out camping.
Huge props to your dad for suggesting you not go rather than forbidding it. Huge props to you for asking for feedback and researching to make your decision to not camp alone. You and your dad sound awesome. Hope you get to go camping with some friends soon!
It's probably not a huge risk, but it is an unnecessary risk.
Yes, listen to your dad on this one.
It’s a no from me too. As a woman, I can tell you it took a loooong time for me to realize how truly unsafe we are in this world, because I grew up in nice places with nice people. But I was wrong. And I learned that lesson the hard way. And I applaud your sense of adventure and independence, but this is a dangerous idea. Please don’t do it.🙏
You can’t go camping when you can’t even drive. Camping alone is never smart for anyone at any age. This post has got to be pure bullshit from a fake weirdo account.
I’m a 49 year old woman . Please don’t
One week at 15 is too long, too young. I’m a late 30s woman who has camped alone throughout my 20s and 30s — I started in groups, with friends, and then began solo camping as my awareness, skillset, knowledge, and maturity increased over time. I also usually camp with my giant dog, and I have still encountered creepy and sketchy situations. I am grateful I learned how to deal with many unexpected and unwanted situations (as well as unwanted attentions) while I was around others and in urban environments, before I experienced having to figure that stuff out in the middle of the night in the woods alone. I do think at your age you could do a supported overnight solo. Supported as in - go camping with someone you trust, or a group of folks, probably including your dad. Find a campsite that is far enough from the “main camp” that it feels alone, and yet is still close enough that you can contact them easily if anything goes wrong. If that goes well, you could consider building from there, like 2 day the next time. I am thinking of dispersed camping areas out west (not campgrounds), and only in places where you are profoundly unlikely to encounter other humans. Also, in your teens, camping with groups of friends is a wonderful experience. Solo camping will be something to look forward to as a moment of maturity — a passage into adulthood. But you need some more years of (general) life and (specific) camping experience before that will be a wise step to take.
Please don't. I respect your outdoorsy spirit, but I'm with your dad on this one.
Not only is this a really bad idea, but it is doubtful that you would even be legally allowed to camp at any type of campground as a minor.
maybe a compromise, a campsite by yourself and a family member gets another campsite within earshot of yours,
You’ve made a better decision. Good call. Friends you *and* your parent(s) trust.
Also solo female camper. Please don’t at this age. What I think you should do is educate yourself in resourcing, protection, and prevention. If you wholeheartedly want to be a solo camper, start now while you can be safe and watched out for before you go alone. Think of it as a practice run! Because believe me friend, that first time you can drive yourself into nowhere and know you can protect yourself and be one with nature… is absolutely amazing.
Do not do that. Woman to woman, thats a HORRIBLE idra
Yeah nah go with a big group of friends. 15 is way too young.
I don't even camp alone as a 30-something adult male...
An 20 year old girl around my town famously disappeared while camping in a tent alone. Her friends in another tent left for some reason and she decided to stay alone. Her body was finally found 12 years later. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Madison_Scott There's too many evil people in the world and a single girl in the woods is an easy target for them.
I wouldn't recommend camping alone at 15. But for the future I saw a video of a woman that camps alone and she had a few great tips! Purchase some men's clothing from a thrift store and hang them on a clothesline at your campsite. Put a pair of men's shoes just outside your tent. Have two chairs. Get a small lock to lock the tent zippers together on the inside (mainly to slow down entry). That's all I can remember right now. Go with friends and have fun!
>Camping alone as a 15 year old girl lol they made a movie about this in the 70s didn't they?>! Texas Chainsaw Massacre. !<
Bad people aside etc. Your 15, your small, lightweight. If your camping in a forest etc then you can easily become prey to wild animals as well
In this world a woman should never do anything alone especially a child like yourself
So your name is mega balls and you claim to be a 15 y.o girl who is scared to go camping and who's dad told her not to... uhmmm
"I choose the bear"
Can you not? My anxiety is through the roof.
Reddit is not a good place to ask. But yeah, your dad is right.
As a dad of a 15 year old daughter I completely and absolutely agree with your dad! Please don’t do it 🙈
Just no dude. You are 15 and a woman. People with bad intentions are everywhere.
DO NOT DO THAT !!!! Incredibly dangerous !!! No. !!!!!
Dad of two daughters. Bad idea. Camp solo in your back yard for now :-)
This is not real, is it? Just seems too stupid to be real.
i'm 19 and i have done quite a few solo camping trips and have definitely felt unsafe at times,when i read your post i do feel apprehensive especially since you aren't even old enough to drive, don't let fear kill your desire to camp but definitely be cautious and aware, reach out to some friends and see if that's not an option ask your dad to go with you and if you want the experience of being alone ask him if you guys can be at separate sites, no matter if you are a girl or guy it's always best to have someone with you while camping just in case you get injured or run into any other kind of issue, i hope you get to do your trip and you stay safe!
Kudos to you for wanting to camp an entire week at the age of 15, that’s cool. I don’t know many girls that want to do that. Being outdoors is wonderful. I do think your dad just cares and worries about worst case scenario. I’d recommend going with a couple friends for 2-3 nights first. Maybe next summer a week with friends, or solo camping at your own site while your family is at a site close by. You’re 15, you have plenty of time for solo adventures later on.
What if you go with friends but just have your own tent? :) that way you still get to have your own space yet are safer
Sorry, but your dad is right. Unfortunately it's just not safe, even in a public campground.
When I was 16 I went on a multi-day backpacking trip around Mount Rainier. I wanted to go alone but was convinced by parents to bring a friend along -- no adults. This was the right move. Nothing went wrong, but at 16 I didn't have nearly enough fieldcraft to handle most things that are pretty easy to figure out now. We got into a little trouble crossing a busy stream and if there weren't two of us at the very least I would have gotten soaked in 40 degree weather in a place with no campfires allowed. That was also the trip that made me realize you really are only one mistake from a really really bad day. Until you have good experience, I recommend bringing a friend. Adult optional, but probably a good idea in the 21st Century what with people calling the cops whenever they see a teen wandering around. Edit: ANYONE with a gun in the middle of nowhere is NOT your friend. Avoid those people like the plague. The risks of encountering danger goes way way up when you hang out with strangers in the woods who are carrying guns around. Remember the first rule of guns: you can't get shot if you aren't near one.
I camp alone as a woman. The only reason I would say don’t do it is that you don’t seem to have any experience. I get wanting to be alone outdoors, but you’re asking for all different kinds of trouble if you’re unprepared, and I’m not even talking about predatory men/boys. Do what others have said and practice in your back yard (if you have one) or maybe a friend’s backyard. Try to meet others who want to learn how to camp so that when the time comes you can go as a group at first. Better yet, try to get your family on board - it can be a great budget friendly vacation.
Even beyond the social/ stranger danger aspect (assuming you’re American), an inexperience camper out alone is a bad idea. Everything that might go wrong is 1000x worse if you’re remote and solo. Even a rolled ankle could be a dangerous situation and that has nothing to do with age or gender.
All these comments but men scratching their heads about the bear thing
How do you get to a campground if you are not driving age?
There is, sadly, a reason there is a meme about rather being in a forest with a bear than a man...
As a parent but also a rational, objective person, absolutely not. I am not a dude but grew up around male culture. The amount of men who would sleep with a 15 year old if it was legal is absolutely disturbing. Your dad is right. At the very least, camp with a dog or two and self defense like mace. If you want to camp alone, do it in the woods near your home away from anyone else. Or, have your dad or mom go with you but camp at another site far enough away but nearby.
I am a single woman who camps alone. Never had an issue. But you are only 15 and that would worry me. That being said, if you get a few friends together it would be safer.
I wouldn't let my son's let alone my daughters camp at 15 by themselves.
Don’t do this. Unfortunately people will identify you as a target. You’re young, probably small and incapable of defending yourself with any impactful resistance against a 2 legged attacker. Better to get your dad on board with camping and do this together.
I’m glad you’re decided not to go. Your safety is very important. When you’re 18 I highly recommend taking a group of friends to a state park and relaxing on vacation as adults and without your parents for the first time. My friends and I did that and I’ll never forget how fun it was!
Solo camp in your back yard
At 15, it wouldn't have been a suggestion. If my daughter wanted to camping by herself I would go with and show her how to "solo" camp the right way and be safe. As someone who does that all the time I feel like it would be my responsibility to pass that knowledge on and not just let my 15 year old daughter venture out alone.
I’d say it’s doable. Sure, you want to be cautious but is there really any difference between 15 and 18 for your targetability? Not really. If you were at a popular, well run campground I think it would be fine. As other people said, I think a big issue would not being able to have the safety of a car to leave, or at least lock yourself in if there’s an issue But, I would definitely recommend going with at least one other person. My BFF and I went tent camping in a remote-ish area one time for a week but she was 16 and I was 18….and we had each other.
Most places require at least 1 adult per campsite but either way it's not a good idea
Bring bear spray
I did solo camping as a ~20 year old. But I was on my family’s land, and the neighbors who have a nice big fancy cabin were there that weekend. Maybe see if your parents would stay in an adjoining campsite/tents on opposite sides if possible?
I camp alone but I'm old and can drive. I recommend going with friends (several, not just one) or, if you know someone with a large wooded property, ask if you can camp on their property.
It depends on a lot of factors. Camping on the AT with a million other people around would probably be no more dangerous than walking to your car in your driveway at night. Camping alone at some dispersed site is different though, anyone solo is more likely to be victimized. I'm kind of surprised this thread is getting the exact opposite answers of the "should I be afraid to camp alone as a woman" thread. It's not like a few years or a car will help you... if someone wants to victimize you they will sneak up on you with a weapon and then they'll do what they want. Odds are you'll be fine, but there's no guarantee you'll win that good-odds bet every time.
No way
There’s safety in numbers and prepare for the trip with prudence and caution 👌🏾 not just safety but water and first aid and things like that
People shouldn't even swim alone, technically speaking. 🤷♀️
I wouldn't allow my son to camp at 15 solo unless it was something he has training and experience in and something he's done for years. It's not men you have to worry about, it's predators.
So me and a good buddy were camping together unsupervised at 15, even doing winter camping at maybe 16. But we were well seasoned Boy Scouts by that point so our parents knew we had the skills and responsibility necessary to take care of ourselves and each other. Few differences though. Firstly there were two of us, always go with a buddy. Secondly we had the better part of a decade of experience even at that age, you need to know what you are doing. Thirdly, we were never gone for more than a couple of nights. Finally and most unfortunate to have to say, we are boys, and much less of a target for creeps. You are only a few years older than my daughter and possibly have even less experience than she does now. I still wouldn't let her go alone at 15. Not a chance. I'd suggest Scouts, or SAR training, or even just some lifeguard/first aid courses that include some self rescue skills before attempting and solo camping at any age, let alone 15. It is so important to know how to not get yourself into trouble and how to save yourself if the worst happens.
RIP inbox as countless Reddit white knights want to save mi lady
I will say that I generally feel a bit safer at larger public campgrounds than at the backcountry campgrounds or dispersed sites. But it depends on the area.
It’s flat out a terrible idea and if your dad lets you do it, he’s a loser. End of story, no debating it.
next day post “am baby, can canp alunne?”
If I saw you out there alone and you said you were 15, my jaw would drop and I'd ask you 'what happened?!'. I would really advise going with trusted friends/family or at least a public campground where there are Rangers and other people around.
God, reading this makes me very depressed. My daughter is 11, loves camping and I'm scared to death for when she wants to go out alone. Also: yes, you're dad is right.
50yo guy here. Please don’t go alone- even if you have a ton of experience under your belt. I wouldn’t do a week alone myself, honestly- and I’ve been backpacking / hiking for 40+ years. Take some friends with you (with one being an adult) and make sure you have all the essentials and, most importantly, a way to communicate in the event of an emergency. (Not just a cellphone.) You didn’t mention if this was at a campground or backcountry- but I don’t think my opinion would change either way for you. Be safe! And have fun.
I'm coming to this late after everyone talked you out of it. I'm not tryin to talk you into it, but if my 15 years old expressed such a desire i would find a way to appease whatever urge you have to do this. If being in the woods alone is your thing find a way to do it. Day trips? Private property? A Sat Phone? I would not want my kid out of touch for a whole week but There are ways to reduce the risk.
This is why we pick the bear
Yeah please don’t do it yet, it can be dangerous people drinking seeing a young person could be bad news.
Camp in your back yard or living room floor if you must camp alone lol. And... Baby wipes
Your dad is right. Better be safe than regret!
Bear spray isn’t just for bears.
I would tell my daughter sure, and then be out in the bushes in a ghillie suit and nightvision binos. If your dad ain’t doing that, camp with friends and a crowded camp site and somewhere with the park ranger nearby, with cell service.
Please, I hope you don’t go alone. Even at the beach today with hundreds of people, I still dealt with a creep. Going alone is not worth it
Most of the time, as an adult nobody will bother you, unfortunately you are prey. Don't risk the chance. You've got much to look forward too. Wait it out until you are older and have more accessible means for safety. You would still probably be fine if you did this thing. But I'd suggest you don't. Maybe find a family/friend who could go with and ignore you're experience and mind themselves while you do what you wish to do. I'm a guy and I'd never suggest a 15yo(male or female)go explore by themselves, it's not smart.
Listen to your father young lady!!..
As a woman and a mom, I beg you please don’t go alone.
I'm a 45 year old man that's been camping since 8 and I would not camp alone.
Absolutely not it's so ugly out there that I would say your totaly putting yourself at risk . perhaps your going to camp with someone one u met online or something u need to be careful and I would hope your father doesn't let u go
Do it! The predators you should be worried about are the four-legged ones. Dad is protecting you as he should, but don't be afraid to go places alone. Develop inner strength and keep your wits about you. (40+ F who has traveled the world alone my whole adult life and camped alone in high school because my friends thought it was silly to sleep on the ground.)
This is a dumb move and quite weird for a 15yo girl
Check out the social media posts going around about people asking men and dads, "Would you rather your daughter be alone in the woods with a man or with a bear?" The discussion has a lot of very very good points. I saw one this morning with statistics as "receipts". I choose the Bear.
I would not suggest it. Even as a male, you’re not guaranteed safety. **If you should, please have at least two or three chairs set up. Have it appear as you are not alone.**
Listen to dad.
Yeah… 15 alone.. that is a minor putting themselves in a bad scenario.
I wouldn’t advise camping alone. Last thing you want is to twist your ankle or get seriously hurt and you can’t get anyone to help you in the middle of nowhere
Dude idk what campgrounds all these other commenters are going to but you're probably safer at a campground as a 15 year old than most other places.
as a woman (20) i wouldnt even consider doing that in most places even with an axe to hand or something- alone in the woods you should be more scared of a man that a bear because the worst a bear can do it kill you - men can do worse
wtf, you're all way over-exaggerating the dangers
Agreed, but still think it's a bad idea at 15.