Redominatelife

Not Quite Camping, But Close Enough

I’ve never officially gone camping—like pitching-a-tent-in-the-woods, sleeping–under-the-stars, chasing-fireflies type of camping. But I have had my own version of the outdoor life. A few years ago, I found myself sleeping outside… well, technically in my van, but still very much in nature’s presence.

Back then, I parked near parks for a few days at a time. It wasn’t planned like a camping trip would be, but something about it felt just right. Waking up with the breeze sneaking through the cracked window, birds doing their morning roll call, and that stillness you can’t find in city noise—it was peaceful.

I’d grill meat on a small setup I had. Something about grilling outside hits different. The smell drifting through the air, the sizzle of heat meeting marinated meat, the simplicity of it all—it felt raw and real. I wasn’t rushing anywhere, just soaking in the little moments: watching squirrels hustle, trees sway, and sometimes even catching a deer watching me from the woods like I was the wild one.

No tent. No sleeping bag. No fancy gear. Just me, my van, a grill, and nature.

It may not count as “official” camping, but for those few days, it sure felt like I was part of something older and quieter than the daily grind. And to be honest, I kind of liked my version better.

Until next time….