Rest Area Tailgate Camping 

Hey everyone! Just a simple short overnight trip this week, I was filming a more ambitious video for a few days but there were issues and I had to scrap that video. Cheers everyone!

"Why am I watching this?" I'll offer that insight for you Steve, and I'm not just blowin smoke. You're an effortlessly likeable dude. Following along on your adventures, even those that you think might be boring, is a needed respite for everyone who watches your videos. The mythical algorithm put your freeway interchange video in front of me, and in the past two weeks I think I've watched almost everything you've done in the past two years. I can tell you're a humble guy and you get these kinds of comments on every video but that won't stop me chiming in. We're here for you. Simple as that. Had to pause and put my two cents in the comments when you posited that "why am I watching" question, but I'm gonna get back to the video -- and my step 2 -- now. Cheers!

Can confirm that Steve isn't as crazy as he seems. Doing the kind of things he does is liberating. That feeling of living on the fringe of society can free you from a lot of stress and allows you to see how ridiculous it is to take life so seriously

Why are we here? Cause Steve is a great calm uplifting companion in a awful world. Thank you sir! Love your content

Not ganna lie…when I first started watching a couple years ago I was like “why the hell am I watching this” yet I didn’t stop and haven’t for years. One of the very very few who’s videos I do not miss. Thanks for the content Steve

Steve, my husband loved watching your videos every Thursday, but on 06/24/22, he was severely injured on the job. He ended up needing emergency brain surgery and yesterday was 3 weeks since his surgery. He woke up on day 16 from a coma and he recognizes me, his wife of 27 years and our oldest son, but he could not and still cannot follow commands of hold up 2 fingers, wriggle your toes. I am worried sick about him and just would love to ask everyone here to pray for him.

Glad you're feeling better Steve. Those of us that follow you are ok with whatever you do. You keep things light and laid back. We need that now. Thanks for sharing your adventures.

I think the most alluring thing about even your simplest of videos is the fact that we can escape the daily grind of regular life through you. You are doing things our ancestors did, we were all travelers once upon a time. Your videos show what is no longer deemed "normal" in today's society but it's truly what a lot of people yearn for. Similar to VanLife. You go out there, and see even the smallest parts of the world on your time and on your rules. It's true Freedom.

Sometimes the short simple trips like this is just what the body and soul needs. Many years ago I lived in Northern Minnesota and would drive 20-30 minutes to camp and it was wonderful when I couldn't plan a long trip..

Watching a Camping with Steve video is like sitting next to a cozy fire with a bowl of warm soup. Good for the soul.

We love it all! Stealthers, Bus excursions, Bike trips, Treehousers, River rafting, Car camping, Park glamping or drainage pipe you are always entertaining. Love seeing you interact with beautiful wife and crazy neighbor too! Keep doing what makes you happy (not what we say) so the channel remains fun for you, we love it all!

Well well, this is exactly what I’m doing as we speak. Heading to a remote rest area in the middle of nowhere Oregon. Spend a couple nights and move on! Can’t wait for Step 2s!!!!

This guy could sit in his home and say “I’m staying here tonight, here’s a video of me puttering around the house” and I’d still watch it. Always love to see a new video from you, Steve! Edit: Love the Clearly Canadian appearance. Remembered those from several moons ago. Was glad to find them at some local grocery spots over the last couple of years.

The world can be going to hell in a handbasket but Steve is out there making videos about camping. There’s something very comforting about Steve. It gets my mind off of the world. Thank you Steve. :-)

You're showing us all a way to find something most everyone has tried to find again in their lives -- a second childhood -- without the pain of growing up again.

I'm sure I'm not the only one that is living through your adventures! Love your videos!

I have real bad anxiety and have trouble sleeping at night. Your videos help me keep it under control and fall asleep thanks Steve 👍 your adventures are awesome even when you're at the more simple spots

When Steve uploads everyone and everything gets put on hold ❤❤

I love how simple you make these videos Steve. Nothing outrageous. Just living life. Thank you for you’re time and videos!

I'm glad you're feeling better Steve! You are so right about not "forcing" it and I'm glad you take breaks when you need to, don't ever change Steve we love you just the way you are!!!

Steve, if the street light are kinda a yellowish orange, these are sodium vapor lights. They run in cycles to keep the bulb from over heating. Lights turn off after certain time to allow it to cool off.

Hey Steve!! when you asked the question "why am I watching this" I thought why do I watch your videos??? The answer came quickly to me that the reason I watch is because you are a pleasant kind man who embodies the adventurist spirit that so many of us have but are to bound down by our life choices of family and career. Not that you don't have those things . I find it amazing that I look forward to Thursdays just to see your weekly adventure no matter how simple it might be. And the fact that you are closing in on a million subs shows me that I'm not alone in this thought. Thank you Sir!! Cheers!!!!!!!!!!

Found your channel when the algorithm popped your roundabout stealth camp and been coming back ever since. You clearly put a lot of heart into your content and it really shines through, there's something almost zen like about just sitting and taking in your world view. You're the Bob Ross of camping.

Just an FYI, i’m a nomad who travels in my van. And Just this past March it was midnight at night, I will sleeping in a rest Area in Arizona and I was restless and couldn’t fall asleep. Which is unusual when I’m in my van. So I got up and something just told me to look out your front window so I pulled back my curtains and the parking lot in Rusty area was covered and cops with these big A.R. 15 rifles in hand standing behind their open doors with guns drawn everywhere. I quietly opened my door and asked one of them to come here and he told me there was an armed guy running naked through that rust area and I asked if I could leave and he let me. As I drove back I realized my big van with shelter for over 20 cops hiding behind my van. So if there would’ve been any gunfire my van would’ve been right in the middle of it. So be careful sleeping in those rust areas

There definitely is something oddly cozy about sleeping at highway rest stops! I love the car camping videos. Keep it up, Steve!

Steve I can’t speak for everyone but I’ve been watching your channel all of these years because you think outside of the box. You have set up camps in places no one would ever think. Not only that, you make actual meals you cook & eat while out there. Using various gadgets that some of us may have never heard of or thought about using remotely…like the rice cooker & a power pack.. You show ppl that with a few simple thing you can get out & do exactly what you did. It’s not expensive or impossible. Just takes a little time & appropriate planning. ♥️

Most of us realize you have a life when not on RU-vid. When you post and how often you post is fine. I understand just the need to get away and see something different. My husband and I live in the Twin Cities and he works downtown so to get away and see nothing but trees is so relaxing. We don’t camp but take day trips when possible but sadly ends up only being 1-2 times a year. But it is refreshing when we do. I really do enjoy watching your videos and am glad you are staying safe. Take care and see you next time.

Steve don't worry too much about creative video ideas... I just like to see you out camping doing what makes you happy. I watch for your personality. Looking forward to that next video

A good random but entertaining video. When busy working this type o trip is the perfect break from the humdrum of working life

I know that feeling, I sometimes use my car, a little smaller than yours, a 1998 Suzuki Baleno Hatchback, to travel and be my home in the road, and in 2019, I went from North of Portugal to Nantes, France with him, with a problem in the head engine, I was always checking the water, and I made the trips succeccfully...But now he's better than ever, and ready for more trips. Have nice trips!

Road trip! Heading down the highway...looking for adventure...whatever comes my way...Born to be wild!!! That's Steve!

I love the videos Steve Wallis. I watch because you remind me of my Dad. Your humor, resourcefulness, kind nature, and love of a good meal (and fresh bread!) is like my Dad was. He didn't have much but he always had fun doing things he liked. Your videos encourage me to keep doing the things him and I liked to do together before he passed. Thank you. 😊

I'm glad you're feeling better, Steve. I got hit with COVID in early July, and it laid me out for two weeks. In that time, one of the small comforts I had was rewatching a lot of your videos. It gave me the sense of going outside while I was laying in bed. Your sense of humor and enthusiasm for the outdoors makes your videos so fun to watch.

My friend you don’t have to sit and wonder why we are all here watching… You are a good man who puts smiles on peoples faces… keep up the excellent work 🤙🤙

You are one of the most wholesome people ever. Thanks for being you . I watch your videos and it just amazing.

Thank you so much for all of your videos Steve! I'm an American who used to live about an hour drive from the Canadian border in the Pacific Northwest of the U.S. I'm currently in medical school in Las Vegas, Nevada, and I miss the trees, mountains and lakes so much. I still have a few years stuck down in the desert, and I watch your videos to live vicariously through you to reimagine my years camping back in B.C., Idaho, Washington, and Montana. Your videos are always a lot of fun, and I cherish each one. Cheers!

It is always a pleasure, Steve, to watch any of your videos. You are such a decent, likeable guy.You have become a friend who lives on the other side of the world. Thank you.

Just glad to be along for the ride. It's been an absolute delight watching you over the last year, or so, on your wonderful adventures.

Hi Steve, followed you for some time. Stealth camping is something I've done for over 40 years via motorcycle. I put over 9000 miles last season. Rest areas are generally good, although I mostly lay my sleeping matt down and crash, depending on elevation. Some troopers sometimes bug me, but I've never had a problem and moved on.... Mississippi cops tore apart my stuff only once searching for things I don't have. The call of the open road is strong in my bones.

Doing what he loves... Hunker down, Steve... and enjoy yourself wherever you camp.

Fun to watch as always. Maybe stealth camp on top of a tall building over 20 stories high. Years ago me and some college buddies drove an old 1950s Willys Wagoneer up into Canada. We'd pull into pay campground after dark, spray bug killer spray under the the picnic table, throw military surplus mosquito netting over picnic tables, and then sleep bug free until daylight. Then we'd haul ass before anyone was the wiser. The mosquito netting was the type we'd use overseas in the Marine barracks on our bunkbeds. That was grifter stealth camping.

I can always say.. Steve , you never cease to amaze me. I'm actually camping myself right now here in sunny UK and it's all down to you and your amazing channel 😀 ❤️

I needed this today. I know I'm in for some good laughs when I see a new video of Steve doing weird camping adventures. I love this channel. Stay safe Steve.

❤️❤️ what a beautiful truck stop view, and it definitely makes sense to actually enjoy making the videos without fighting aches/ailments

The video tribute to your Beautiful Wife's passing came up in my feed so I started to watch your videos. I am so sorry for you and your family's great loss; what an absolute tragedy. My heart aches for you. As a fellow Albertan, I REALLY enjoy your channel content; so interesting, so genuine, and oddly relaxing. Once again, I am so sorry for your loss. I can't imagine what you are going through. Just heartbreaking.

After a hard day's work I always look forward to seeing your videos, keep doing what you do.

Steve, I watch your vids for the pure entertainment value. No apologies or excuses are needed. I don't get to camping as much as I like so your channel helps me out.

That mountain view is beautiful

Why I'm watching: I know a million people have made the comparison, but you really are the Bob Ross of camping. I'm not a painter, but he makes it seem attainable. He explains exactly what he's doing and why in simple terms, all while being incredibly likeable and entertaining. You're the same way. I've been camping maybe three times when I was a kid, but you make me want to get out there and try it again. I'm looking at camping gear right now and planning a trip to the Grand Canyon (just a couple hours from me, figured I'd start somewhere relatively close) to camp in the back of my station wagon because of your videos. I've always seen camping as unnecessary and stressful (because why would I want to sleep on the ground when I have a perfectly good bed at home), but you make it seem like an escape, a chance to get away and take a breather without spending your life savings on an expensive vacation, and honestly that's exactly what I think I need in my life.

Never change Steve. You are literally one of my top 4 favourite celebrities ever. More than Tom Cruise even. You're just so awesome. We love you and your channel From Wales

Steve, I for one appreciate the "simple" car camping alternative. Gonna use this concept on my annual Moose Hunt with my pick up this fall, so THANKS A LOT!

Howdy, Steve. Am glad to see you are feeling better. 🙌🏼 Twas a lovely little adventure, You are the best, so creative, determined and brave. 🥳🤗 👏🏻 Thank you for inviting us to accompany you. 🙂 Peace and safety surround you. 🌻

The highlight of my Thursday is a notification that Steve uploaded a video 😀

Why am I watching this? It's because you're doing what a lot of us would love to do you're likeable lovable guy simple not trying to be bushcrafty or Macho you're doing the stuff that we do or would love to do thank you.

Man I can wait until the fall and winter much more cozy and relaxing

I did something like this on the spur of the moment 6-7 years back in my pick up when I went on a fishing trip. I was invited by my brother in law and we were fishing along a canal that ran beside Lake Champlain in Vermont. Well, there was no camping allowed and all we had was a public turn off and parking area. I only had a few things with me, but a couple things I always kept behind the seat of my truck, an inflatable cheap air mattress, rope, a tarp and a wool blanket. In my first aid kit is always at least one emergency blanket. We weren't allowed to have a fire in that area and it got quite cold so after I pumped up the air mattress which went into the back of the truck, the tarp went over the bed and down the sides. So with me on the mattress, the emergency blanket on me and then the wool blanket over that I actually slept comfortably. I always have a tarp, an emergency blanket and at least another blanket in any of my vehicles. In my SUV I can forgo the air mattress but the rest is all there. I've spent more than a couple nights in one before.

All I care about is that Steve is still having fun doing this channel.

I'm glad you're feeling better! I adore that you found such a beautiful place to hunker down for the night, it makes me feel like we can find small adventures any where.

Missed you for a few months. Thanks for being you. Whatever you share with us. Blessings to you.

I also want to say that not only do I genuinely love your videos, I learn from them ! Like how did I never think to use my rice cooker to steam buns?! My most used (next to the air fryer) kitchen appliances just got a whole lot better ;)

Your unscripted shows are so real and relaxing. I like watching your content it's not fake and contrived. Love you Steve!

Hey Steve! Just a trick for the cargo light in case it doesn't turn off on its own for some reason, on subarus I just stick a carabiner in the latch on the top of the hatch. Makes the car think that the trunk is closed and turns off the lights 👍 just make sure you pull it out before closing the trunk, otherwise you're in for a fun repair.

Hey Steve, next time you set up a tailgate tent, try laying the tarp out n the ground and reverse onto it so your rear wheels hold the tarp down. Just wait until the tail pipes cool down before lifting it and make sure you don’t start the vehicle.

Good luck with whatever's next! I've only been watching for about a month, and I'm addicted already. The content is excellent and seems perfect for me since I'm a boy scout. A bit strange to hear after the controversies but my troop is clear. Anyways love what you are doing, and I'm thinking about dabbling in some stealth camping since I already know a decent amount about how to take care of myself, but I live in a small town that's mainly flat and open so that will be quite the challenge! Keep making content and hunker down until you hit the glorious 1 million subs milestone! Sincerely Zack.

Ever since I started watching your videos. My kids and I take lots more trips. Thanks.

When I watch videos like this and Mav I never wonder why I'm watching them. It's something new and interesting to see. What I wonder is how this Stealth camping and everything first entered the mind.

Just found your channel and love the content. Keep on having fun and taking us with you. I've been taking my beautiful wife boondocking for a while now but unfortunately the fuel prices have made our annual trip to the Upper Peninsula in Michigan out of the question for this year. So we're going to live vicariously through you. Cheers and thanks again for your videos

Glad you are feeling better Steve, so glad to see you back

Being sick sucks. I’m proud of you for finding a balance between pushing yourself and accepting limits. That’s such a hard thing to find sometimes. Love this video-as beautiful as they always are.

Cool! Me and my Dad went through the Yellowhead there in 1956 when it was just a narrow car trail! Exercise your freedom folks!

Hey Steve! I use magnets to attach my tarp to my vehicle. I bought some magnet strips for hanging tools seem to work pretty good. Found them at Princess Auto on sale. But any magnets would do. Yep! Oh I love doing this stuff too. Get in the mini-van go for a nice long drive and then pull over somewhere new for the night. Thanks for the great video. Take care from Canada eh!

As always thanks for good quality, stress free, family friendly, content Steve. I owe ya one buddy.

Thanks Steve. I feel more comfortable now if I want to sleep in a rest area. Just purchased a TAILVEIL , Which is the $200 version of your hatchback tarp set up. Hope to use it this week. Regarding the window netting, I received a set as a gift but could not use it on my Subaru because there is no frame around the window. It would be helpful to people if you test drive the mosquito net And explain that caveat. Happy trails! Bonnie in Anaconda Montana

you had me at the blowtorch , electric fence , and unconventional camping sites , I love what you do.

Thank you Steve I look forward to your weekly videos, and we all understand when you need a break. Thank you for supporting me at my worst and best. You've got a friend in me Steve Wallis.

Moving spritely Steve. A little zzzzz time in the trucker's area can be a good uninterrupted sleep - AS LONG AS - none of them decide to give you an airhorn alarm wake-up call. Been there done that in my time. Glad to see you doing good for how you're doing. Thanks for posting the video and entertainment. Always a good Thursday when "hunker down" time comes along.

Nothing like a road trip over nighter in the car..go Steve!

You are absolutely living the best life ever

Wow Steve, you are getting really close to that 1 million. Congratulations, I'm really happy for you. Love your channel - no matter the content, it's always entertaining and relaxing. I do really like the river "boat" series with crazy neighbor though. Bummed that you are not really able to do that again, hope you do find a way to rework the raft and try again, honestly the trials and tribulations with that is a lot of the fun😎

I really enjoy watching your channel and adventures. Your camping menu selections are good and you leave all the spots you camp better than you found them. You have good off the grid skills. This channel would be a real/unscripted reality show. Thank you for taking your viewers along on these adventures.

I recently got a tail veil for the tail gate. It’s awesome to keep bugs away and it gives you good ventilation. I took the cargo lights out because they wouldn’t go off. Sleeping in the SUV is super cozy for sure. You should have covered your windows though.

Glad you’re feeling better, when I was able to do some sleep outs , I just took sleeping bag , 5x8 tarp , food and drink . If was going to rain I would use trap as tent . If not just sleeping bag . And a couple of Therma cells the original ones that clip to belt . Put them on ground 30’ coverage . I’d love 4 of those wheels, could make a cart to go down tracks to fine spots to camp .

I agree with some other comments here. I think that looks like some solid simple fun. I love your sense of adventure “I don’t know where I am going but I know where I am sleeping. “ Good stuff.

Steve I watch your stealthy videos for a few years now . I'll tell you what , you sure know how to hunker down! Your the man with a stealthy plan my friend. Love ya brother!

I'm from Idaho, so I've seen my fair share of forests and mountains, but dang does Alberta look absolutely stunning. I've always thought about taking a trip up there for a vacation. Fly into Calgary and do the loop on the AB-1/AB-93 up and around to Edmonton. It appears, from what I've seen on the internet, that it would be a gorgeous drive.

Glad you're feeling better, missed you. Your videos, along with The Outdoor Gear Review, have me chomping at the bit to camp out in my Ford Escape. Plan on doing it as soon as I can, but work and taking care of a loved one has me too tied down now. You and Luke really ease the stress of my situation, thank you.

Steve…feel better, my wife is a van-lifer and though I was late to it, because of her and you, I now have outfitted my Jeep with a bed and a Jackery and take trips to the beach to chill, swim, and take in the beauty of this amazing place we call Earth and home. Your videos have been an inspiration. Continue the great content and be safe.

I love how simple these videos are and how much fun Steve has doing them. Side note. I actually watch his videos as I go to bed and just cannot wait to start doing it this, this year myself. I have always wanted to camp and start my own adventures

Steve Wallis. A modest man , with much to be modest about. Another great video. 👍

Well this is an unexpected surprise! Time to Hunker Down and enjoy 👍

I have a suggestion something to consider. I love when Crazy neighbor makes an appearance or accompanies you in your adventures. Although he is speechless his animated character is still a great addition. Perhaps introduce other animated characters or friends into some of your adventures. Perhaps a convenient store you frequently visit when purchasing supplies. Or a stranger crossing your path "asking questions" adding a little unpredictability.

"Why am I watching this?" I watch because you have found your own way to bond to our planet. I would want to do this too, but health is so bad. Keep hunkering down, Steve!

First video I ever watched a long time ago was the overnight camping in a U-haul when it was freezing out. I'd like to say you've come a long way but I'm glad you're still doing the same crazy adventures.

Glad you're feeling better and out and about. Hope everything is going well at the acreage? We still love watching your videos and seeing the places you find. Can't wait for the next Bus adventure.

I spent several years living on the road, learned to sleep with earplugs in and a blindfold. Makes nights like this one much more restful, but you're not *so* oblivious as to put you in danger. Thanks for the video, always enjoy watching!

Excellent Steve! Prop the hatch, cinch tarp to either rim, it'll keep er taught

Love you, Steve! You’re getting close to 1 mil subscribers…amazing! Happy for you bro!!

Always looking forward to your uploads, Steve! It's entertaining, informative, and relaxing. Boondocking is on my bucket list, but I need to get over the fear of driving an actual car first. xD Anyway, I hope you and the beautiful wife are well and can't wait to see any video you come up with! Cheers!

Steve, I just bought a Tail Veil from Amazon. It's great. Check it out. It is a 2-wall hatch tent. One with bug mesh and another as a rainfly. The floor is made of tarp material. It is awesome to keep the bugs down. It is also easier to close the hatch.

As always you’ve made my Thursday. No matter what’s going on I can sit and just watch your videos. Thanks Steve!!!!