What was solo camping like? Scary? Lonely? Boring? Pretty much none of the above describes my first solo camping trip. It was far more more along the lines of riveting, fun and relaxing.
I chose to go up to Killin for a few reasons, the first being that it is right at the South-West tip of Loch Tay; in my opinion, one of Scotland’s most beautiful lochs. The second being that I know the area well enough that I felt comfortable, should anything go awry, but not so well that I would get bored. I stayed at Cruachan Campsite – a fairly large, friendly campsite that, even at the height of the season and while it was fairly busy, was cheap and cheerful, and I still wasn’t too close to other people’s tents (as much as I love meeting people, it’s every camper’s dread having to overhear loud conversations and snoring all night).
I changed my plans from leaving on Friday night from work, to leaving early-ish on Saturday morning – one of the many plus points to solo camping is getting to change your plans as and when you feel like it! I arrived at about 11am, pitched up and munched a ham roll, before driving the ten minutes into Killin to see if I could find a hill to climb. The plan originally was to climb Ben Lawers, but as it was later in the day, I decided against it. Looking for a shorter but still challenging walk, I sought advice from the Killin Outdoor Centre and Shop (with whom I hired kayaks from a couple of years ago). The sales assistant pointed me up Stron a’ Chlachain. I had never noticed this hill before on any of my visits to Killin, however it is right next to the town, accessible from the community centre car park and overlooks the loch and town with stunning views. Only a mile high, it wasn’t the day hike I had originally set out to do, however it is extremely steep! As I’m training for my Stok Kangri trip with Love Her Wild, I was delighted it was steep to get those thigh muscles working! The entire hill was all mine for the afternoon, passing not a single soul whilst I was adventuring, so I took my time, captured plenty of photographs and enjoyed the panoramic views of Loch Tay.
I retreated back to camp at around 5pm, enjoying the shower facilities before chilling out, making up my tent-side dinner using my new Vango stove! Recommended by an assistant at Go Outdoors, I’m cheesing at this purchase. It’s a small stove, compact for travels and treks, but it packs a mighty flame! It was ideal for cooking myself some chicken and tomato pasta overlooking the sunset.
Now how did I spend my evening? Doing absolutely zilch – and it was incredibly satisfying. I won’t lie, I forgot my book, which was a bit gutting. So instead I dropped my parents a couple quick calls to let them know I’m alive and well (no matter your age, parents never won’t worry!), and then chilled out with a cider and some sweeties, watching the happenings across the campsite, admiring the sunset over the mountains and generally enjoying time with my own thoughts. When I arrived home, I felt the most relaxed and rejuvenated than I think I have ever felt coming back from a camping trip. The entire weekend was highly invigorating. I’m a confident person with plenty experience, but when I first arrived at the campsite I had a sudden feeling of anxiety at being alone, not having anyone to discuss where to pitch up or what to do with the day ahead. Safe to say that feeling quickly faded . It was an incredible realisation of just how competent I really am.
This was my first solo camp and adventure and it certainly will not be my last. If you are considering going camping alone, just get out there and do it. Trust your instincts, have a bit of faith in yourself, and I bet you will be surprised at just how enjoyable it is to be alone with nature.
Have you done a solo camp or are you planning to? Let me know in the comments!
*Please note, I was not provided with the Vango stove by Go Outdoors nor Vango in return for a review – this is purely my own joy and delight at this stove that I wanted to share!*
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Strangely enough Iona I have just set up tent in the back garden planning my first solo camp somewhere soon. At least thats the trial run done and I can actually put up the tent …xx