Revisiting Being Alone- Back country Camp Out 

What a great video! I am getting ready to go camping by myself, and I'm 72. My friends aren't interested, but that's all I think about. So I'm taking the plunge. I'm nervous, but watching you gives me more confidence. I can't think of anything more beautiful and peaceful than getting away from this crazy world and enjoying time alone in nature. Thank you so much for sharing!❤

Thank You, Wendy. I'll be 79 in May and have booked my first solo camp site for two nights. First camping I'll be doing since I was a teenager and then young adult. My fondest memories are of canoe trips of several weeks on the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. Best naked "bath" with my Aunt while loons swam in to observe. (I bet they were never the same after watching two ladies splashing and laughing). I can't wait to get back out there. I lost my husband in 2020 and I think this will help a lot. I'll be thinking of you, Wendy.

Hi Wendy! I see you have a lot of retirement age folks that comment on your videos (hello, all!) but wanted to let you know you've got this young woman's attention as well! Your videos are such a comfort and I love your honesty about your feelings around solo camping. I'm 24 and love camping, but only ever been with others. You're an inspiration to get out alone sometime! If I want to be doing it at your age, I better get doing it now. Thank you!

I'll be 80 in July and I camp out all year round although I don't have a hot tent. Winters here in Wales although cold do not produce the low temperatures experienced in Canada. 10 below freezing (On the coast where I live) would be considered very cold and quite unusual, but in the Welsh Mountains much lower freezing temperatures are the norm of course. If I haven't slept out for a few weeks I find that on the first night I awake easily to the slightest sound, but nights after that it takes the Dawn Chorus to wake me up. There is no fear of wild animals here, the occasional nosey Red Fox sniffing around but nothing with a desire to eat me..Even visits to familiar wild campsites intrigue me as I like to watch how each place changes with the seasons.

I just bought a van to go camping - I cannot sleep on the ground anymore (76) because of arthritis but I sure can build a fire and sleep in my comfy bed in the van. Can't wait to try it out.

Thank you for creating this incredible space for older women, for showing what it's like to feel good, alive, in our own space, wherever we are.

I’m 64 and solo camp a couple of times a year. Alway have major anxiety the night before I leave but once I’m in camp I relax. Thank you so much Wendy, for sharing your experiences! Nice to know we gals can continue to enjoy the outdoors at any age.

I'm out on a 17 night solo trip right now and have had all those feelings- anxiety, joy, accomplishment, wonder.... Thanks for taking us along. It helps.

I appreciate your honest examination of your feelings camping alone for the first time of the season. I'm sure a lot of us can relate. Once you figure out what you're feeling and why, you can get past it. It would be a shame to let fear prevent us from doing something we love. Great trip, Wendy. Thanks for taking us along!

I know that feeling so well. Even with my husband with me last year we hiked into a spot that was very very remote in Colorado. The nearest sign of civilization was miles and miles from us. It took us two days to get comfortable with the isolation and no sounds of mankind. After the 2nd day, we felt so at peace with only the sounds of nature. I’ve been backpacking for about 55 years and the first time out each year feels just like you describe

Great video really impressed that a single older person can go out in the woods like that alone really inspires me to want to try. I’m a 70 year-old man.

Hi Wendy, I am a 54year old female from Germany and I want to say "many thanks"! You gave me the confidence to restart camping alone and with a tent only. Now I know: I can do it!

Also I love the sound of a breeze through the trees. It's about the most peaceful sound I can think of

I love reading the comments after watching your delightful videos! This is quite the group you've drawn in. I kept looking at the little pathway into the water, wanting to run right in. While I like a quick, cold dip and then a fire sit, I'm sure the temp there would have changed my mind. That spot you brought us to is a real treasure! Thanks Wendy, for all of the magic you create.❤

You never cease to be an inspiration to me. You are helping me identify my feelings. What I have interpreted as fear really might be a bit of anxiety or unease. I'm not going to give up on my goal of solo camping.💖

Thank you Wendy. I am 73 and last year I donated my treasured backpack to the thrift store. It was painful to let go of that piece of my life but my lower back won't have it anymore. Last Fall was my probably final adventure sleeping in a standalone tent. I have purchased a tiny tent camper trailer designed to be pulled by a motorcycle, although I use it with my smallish car. I've been a solo camper (for the most part) for over 50 years. To be honest, age has taken its toll. I continually modify my camping routine to make it more comfortable for my aging bones. I've been camping in the coastal Oregon mountains twice in the past month. Camping can be a lot of work and it gets harder as the years wear on. Retirement helps! I give myself a full day to prepare for camping. That includes pre-cooling my ice chest with frozen water bottles for a day prior to use. I use a camping checklist to be certain that all items that may be wanted are packed. It's no fun to be without, say, tent poles when you arrive at your destination. In June I plan on camping for about a month as I drive from the west coast to Idaho and on to Montana where my now grown children and their families reside. My advice for older campers is to take your time and be kind to yourself. Don't pretend that you are a 20 something and also I suggest not planning to sleep on a tiny backpacking bed pad. You won't. Use a good thick pad and consider taking a lightweight and easy to assemble cot. Lastly, give yourself plenty of time to set up and take down your campsite.

The shot of you sitting in your chair by the campfire with the water in the background is stellar! Should be framed!

You are amazing! I'm 66 years old doing solo car camping sleeping on a cot, but I'm not brave enough to do solo canoe camping, my knees don't bend like they used to and I don't swim. I hope I'm still solo camping another 10 years or so. Two years ago I boondocked by an Arkansas waterfall, long drive from Illinois and major accomplishment for me. Three years ago drove out to South Dakota camping. Love your videos, please keep them coming.

I have binge watched all your videos thinking I could choose a favorite but I can't 😊 This video is just wonderful just like the rest! Thank you!

I'm so envious of your strength, bravery & fortitude. I wish I had your gumption, tbh. It looks like you really enjoy being alone. There may come a day when my husband is no longer around, and at an advanced age (I'm already 76!) I'll be compelled to do outdoor stuff alone for the first time. I'll use your experiences as my inspiration. ❤ God's blessings!

Wendy, you’re amazing!

I think it's great that the love of the outdoors still lives in us even though we slow a little and that there is more to detour one self from these experiences if one let it ,but not letting that happen and just making adjustments to be safe so one can keep grasping life ! ❤️ ❤❤❤

The clarity of that lake’s water is amazing!

Lovely. Glad you are enjoying yourself. You have a very nice set up, however I will still suggest bathtub floor, keep my things in and water out. Mine is 220x140x12 cm nylon, about 200 g, bought it online for about $20. Good to see you returning outdoors. People very often ask me how I survive in the wilderness, my answer is - I don't survive, I thrive there... Be well.

I turn 59 in June,you my friend have inspired me. Keep the vids coming❤

Hello from Australia, Wendy! I stumbled across this video as a random suggestion on my YT homepage and enjoyed it, you have some beautiful scenery in your corner of the world. Just wanted to thank you for the inspiration - I've been reconnecting with nature a little more lately, and nothing beats a night in my swag under the stars. Wishing you many more fantastic adventures to come.

I loved your sit down chat about how it feels to do things outdoors alone, especially in the beginning. You said it so accurately and eloquently. Thanks for sharing! 😊

Just sat down for the evening with a glass of wine and watched this whilst dinner is cooking. Bliss..... Thank you for your wonderful videos. Today I visuted my Father in hospital and then my elderly Mother who keeps forgetting my Father is in hospital. This is just what I needed to unwind and breathe...❤ Catherine xx

I appreciate the way you made yourself get out there. With age we can learn to do what’s best for ourselves. I sometimes feel lonely in nature, especially the first day. It can depend on other emotional issues at the time. A campfire helps a lot and for me my journal, a book and some knitting. I have to remind myself that I’m not alone-I’m there.

Hi, this video popped up and I clicked. Absolutely loved it! I've been a city girl all my life and you, beautiful lady, are living my dream. New subscriber! Cannot wait to see more of your videos! Thank you!! 🙏🏻

This was so wonderful, Wendy! Thank you very much for taking us along. I did a long day hike after the winter last weekend in the Alps and there were no people around at all. Which was quite surprising as our area is not as remote as the woods and mountains in Canada. I did a bit of spotting for potential sites for camping out during the hiking season ;-). Physically I was truly tired after the hike but mentally I felt so refreshed and just totally happy. Nature gives back so much in my opinion and sensation. Lots of love from Germany to you!

Thanks for a lovely video Wendy. That place is beautiful! The water is so crystal clear. Take care and my best wishes.

Wendy you’re my hero! I just come across your channel and have watched a bunch of videos and I love your energy, how you talk about your observations and share your thoughts! There something so genuine and inspiring! I’m 26 now and I’ve planned some backpacking and car camping adventures this year as a solo gal. I’m so excited! Thanks for sharing! ☺️

Definitely worth the climb. The view was lovely! You aren't wimpy. I think you are great and an inspiration to me. When I can get some strength back in my legs I plan on hammock camping.

Solitude is a blessing. I have hiked the three major trails and always solo

First visit to your channel. MAAM. YOU ARE AMAZING! im near 72 and cant imagine...im looking forward to the day maybe i can "vanlife" but to pack in n sleep out in the wild..alone..no dog or anything. Intriguing but scary...you climbed that "mountain" to heaven!!!!

I would like to see more of you loading your car from beginning and how you do it all at the end. It was my first time watching you and I really enjoyed your personality and your way of thinking and ideals. I love seeing that at your age, which I dont know your exact age; that you were full of life and doing something you loved. Good for you. I love camping. Take care!

What a beautiful day. Thanks for sharing it.

What a lovely camp and paddle video! I understand the unease. Sensitivity is a good thing. You've "so" got this. 🙏👍😎🇨🇦

Aren’t you lovely, yes a fire is a magical thing must be our primal self. Great video, thanks from Devon, UK 🇬🇧🇬🇧

Thank you so much for this, you are an inspiration. I'm 53, not in the greatest health and going camping has been nothing more than a foolish dream for me. You have given me hope that I might be able to have a go myself this year. Thank you for sharing this with us, kind regards from London, UK.

Wonderful overnight, Wendy! Gorgeous camp site. I would love to see you catch some fish sometime! Thanks for sharing your trip with us. I do agree that it takes time to feel at ease when you’re in an isolated spot and it’s been a little while since last being out. Good reflections on top of the hill. Makes me realize how normal it is to have those feelings when we’re out alone.

I really enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing this for us! Keep going because you are great! And you got my full support!

Wendy, thank You so much for taking the extra time to film your outings for us to enjoy. Your back ground music was spot on too. It's early in the morning here and I'm sipping my hot chocolate and having a few choc wafers. My dog, Captain, and my son's 2 dogs, Pork Chop and Rousie, and the 3cats that visit me, have all had their breakfast and are all napping now. I have some sorting to do today so I better start crackin'. Love your videos.

Well done! Thank you so much for sharing!

Perfect spot!

Thank U so much 🎉from Atlanta Ga ❤ur breakfast sandwich looked beyond delicious ❤

I wish I had a mom like you. You are awesome! Happy trails❤

G’day, Wendy. It’s enjoyable to hear your thoughts and comments. Being surrounded by Nature stirs much different feelings and thoughts than if we are surrounded by a city. I have a couple of suggestions for your consideration. (1) When paddling with a kayak paddle, “stirring” with our arms feels natural when starting. After a while it starts to feel fatiguing. Then, it gets worse. The arm muscles have been doing almost all of the work. If instead, we hold the paddle out in front, parallel to our shoulders, with our arms in comfortable positions. Then, pivot our upper body left and right as the paddle pulls the water, keeping the paddle parallel to our shoulders, not stirring our arms, our back muscles are doing most of the work. Back muscles are usually stronger than arms, can do more work, and don’t tire as much. Most of the time, we are using the forward stroke. This method lets us paddle forwards with less muscle strain. (2) Th collapsible bow saw (buck saw) is a good tool. A couple of my paddling buddies used to carry them. A choice that I found is a folding pruning saw. They are lighter, cheaper, and simpler. A collapsible saw takes time to assemble and dissemble. That wasted time could be used cutting firewood - or sipping tea. We cut branches from thumb size up to wrist size. That is exactly what pruning saws are designed to do. They also cut larger stuff. A saw that I chose is a Corona saw with a 10” blade. About $30, has specially sharpened teeth, and does an easy job. Just suggestions. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying

What a wonderful outing and channel (just subscribed). Really enjoyed the dialogue and it's so nice to see older folks out enjoying the wonders of solo outdoor camping. I'm 65 and enjoy camping, bushcraft and outdoors. Well done ...

Wendy i know i look forward to your videos. I am so impressed with your inner strength and ability to communicate . Just spent time reading some comments.....it is a lovely group of commenters. I am 64 and figuring out how to work through my fears and time to return to hiking, backingpacking and camping alone. I have more fear as i have aged being alone. Thanks for all your time sharing.

Thanks for bringing us along, i needed that ❤

I love this ❤️ and you too! I'm only 56 and I love to camp, and I have to do a lot of it by myself. I have some physical problems but usually I mange just fine as long as I follow my own rules and be honest with myself about strength and energy. Thank you so much for making these videos. You give me great hope for my future and the life I hope to live! Keep em coming! Also just one more comment, I like the way you do your videos. How you observe and relax. How do you take the time to recognize your feelings about the place and experience. How you show us everything, like equipment and everywhere, like the site etc Everything is peaceful. Some people are so loud, pushy about their ways and products, they like to scare the ticks out of the trees 😂

I think you areAMAZING ! I am 75 and wished I had your get up and go . I used to love camping and canoeing ( although I am a lily dipper 🛶) , but have not been camping since I was in my 50’s . Hopefully you have inspired me to try camping again 🤔👍 Mary of Ontario, Canada 🇨🇦

There's no wildfire prevention with your campfire. Buckets of water, buckets of sand to smother embers? I've seen up close two wild fires! Makes you a Smokey the Bear fan😊 15:54

Vulnerability....being alone, especially remotely, one is quite vulnerable. Of course, that is the crux of it all for me. I am on my own, exploring myself as much as the surroundings, exposed to another "world", isolated from networks of daily comforts.

I'm 26 and I can't even carry my own canoe out the water. This was awesome to see - so relaxing!

Love this video and your comments about uneasiness. I find just acknowledging the feelings help me process what's really going on and where there coming from. A nice reminder for us all.

Wendy! Been a fan of the Outdoor Boys and Tiny Cabin Life here on RU-vid. Your video popped up on my feed and I am so HAPPY it did! I loved traveling with you! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings about your experience, I really enjoyed being in process with you. Very inspiring and completely awesome!!!!! Wondering though, how did you get your Kayak up on your car so expertly? So cool!

You look so healthy..and so happy!!! That life agrees with you. Breakfast looked delicious..fresh..hot...far better than mc Donalds. MAAM YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION!!!!! SUBSCRIBED

That's lovely, Wendy. Thank you.

I love the way you structure your videos. I too love backpacking and camping alone. Your videos make me want to do more of it and they are so peaceful and relaxing. Thank you for taking us with you. One of the pieces of gear that I occasionally take and enjoy is a very small packable cot. I think it was designed by a couple in Texas who make some amazing lightweight gear but now there are knock offs everywhere including Walmart. You have me very interested in a hot tent to extend my camping season. Thank you

Yes your enjoy

I love camping, I’m 64. It seems it’s so hard to find women your age who like to do this. I’m too nervous to go out into the wild by myself . But I do feel comfortable at campgrounds. But you are very inspiring!

73 now this spring. Waiting for a little warmer weather. Itching to be out but yes, a little edgy. Just gotta do it! Thank you!

thank you for sharing. I enjoyed the video a lot. i've got to figure a way out overnight.

What a delightful camp ! You know your skills and yes those thoughts do occur and swirl in zhis thick head also.The birds were thrilled zo have your company,so they created a morning symphony...just like in the old days...Thank you blessings,safety and much laughter always.

Thank you for the inspiration!

I really enjoy early spring and fall camping mostly because there are fewer people out and about, no mosquitoes, and comfy cozy feelings when i snuggle in for the night. There's usually more camp sites available too.

We loved your video. You are an inspiration.

Thank you for this beautiful video. So much fun...So much nature. Here in the Netherlands we don't have that much nature. But those pieces that we have, you can find silence. Camping in a quiet area is still possible. I'm 67 years old and can't wait to camp on my own again....

Glad you had such a nice time. Excellent gear, solid advice and good camera work. Best part was seeing a happy camper at the end.

A new subscriber joining from Northwestern Ontario. I'm going solo camping this month for the first time in more than 30 years! You are an inspiration. 🥰

❤❤❤❤Love this and love your character!!! I am definitely preparing to get outside. I am currently building out my van and documenting on my channel! I was already inspired by others but now seeing you makes me ignite even more😊 Many blessings to you❤

I love this video. Thank you so much for creating it ,you’re amazing.❤❤❤❤

Thank you for taking us along.

Thank you SOOOOO much!!!!! I LOVED this video and your others as well!!! You're so encouraging and relaxing! Thank you! So happy to go on your adventures with you!

Good to see you again. Lovely video. Thanks!

You are an inspiration! I would love to be able to do this on my own. One day! ❤

I love your videos. Thank you for sharing your adventures and knowledge.

First video of yours I’ve come across and it’s such a pleasure watching you be outdoors. at 39 and it’s a big inspiration seeing you and so many ladies in these comments getting outdoors and enjoying nature 🙌🏽

Love all ur videos. The scenery there is so beautiful & u r so brave to be out there by yourself in bear country esp. when it is the time that they r waking up from their long winter slumber. 😮 ❤

Love this! Inspires me to get out there...Thanks for sharing!

Love your adventures.

I just love going on adventures with you. You are inspiring. Thank you for sharing Wendy.

Thanks for another great video - a very nice way to end my workweek!

Just discovered your channel, it's very wholesome and I can't stop watching your videos. I wish you were my granny. Thanks for sharing! ❤

Thank you Wendy for such a beautiful, peaceful video. You are so encouraging!

Much respect I love that you’re getting out and staying active great little video

What a lovely campsite! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on anxiety here, too.

Fantastic! Thanks for taking us along with you!

Glad I found your channel! Think I’m going to love your videos

Thank you for sharing your experience, Wendy! You are grace.

You are so inspiring to me. Solo camping is my goal this year.

I've been wanting to do this a few years now. I get to thru your videos. I'm always caring for others, now my mom. I will not leave Mom, been caring for her 15 months. I'm feeling different than last year. My body hurts a lot more these days. Hopefully I'll be able to get my camp trip soon, or when I still can. Thank you for sharing this 😁🤟☺️

You inspire me to get out there and have fun! I enjoy your videos and look forward to viewing more. Be safe out there. Thank you for sharing your adventures.

Smile…big grin…super great!…You have inspired me…thank you!…wishing you the most wonderful day!❤

This was wonderful! I am so glad that I found your channel

I am new and just found your channel. I love it and look forward to watching more. You are an inspiration. 😊

Brilliant. This is a good motivator as I find myself yearning and needing to return to nature. I miss that peacefulness that you can see shine through this awesome lady