Okay, so I’ve been craving some serious alone time, like, really alone time. I decided to plan this “wilderness retreat,” and let me tell you, it was something else. I’m calling it “wilderness retreat rewards” because, man, did it pay off.
Getting Started
First things first, I picked a spot. Not too far, but far enough that I wouldn’t run into a bunch of weekend hikers. I pored over maps, checked weather reports (super important!), and finally settled on this little-known area in the nearby state forest.
Then came the gear. I’m no survivalist expert, but I know the basics. I grabbed my trusty tent, a decent sleeping bag, enough food for three days (mostly non-perishable stuff, think granola bars and canned beans – gourmet, I know), and a water filter. I also packed a first-aid kit, because, you know, safety first.
The Journey In
The drive was pretty uneventful. Once I hit the forest service road, things got a bit bumpy. My poor little car wasn’t exactly made for off-roading, but we managed. I parked at the trailhead, shouldered my pack (which felt heavier than I remembered), and started hiking.
The trail was overgrown in places, which made it feel even more remote. I definitely felt that “getting away from it all” vibe kicking in. It was quiet, except for the birds and the wind rustling through the trees. After a couple of hours, I found a decent spot near a small stream and decided to set up camp.
Setting up Camp
- Cleared a small area for the tent, making sure there weren’t any rocks or roots underneath.
- Pitched the tent – it went up surprisingly easily, which was a relief.
- Gathered some firewood (dead and downed branches only, of course).
- Filtered some water from the stream.
- Organized my gear inside the tent, so I could find things in the dark.
The Experience
The next two days were…amazing. I spent my time exploring the area, reading a book by the stream, and just…thinking. Seriously, it’s incredible how much mental clutter you can clear out when you’re not constantly bombarded with notifications and noise. I even tried my hand at building a small fire, which was surprisingly satisfying.
I cooked simple meals over the fire, watched the stars at night (so many stars!), and just generally soaked in the solitude. It wasn’t always easy. There were moments of boredom, and a few times I felt a little uneasy being completely alone. But overall, it was incredibly peaceful and restorative.
The Rewards
I packed up camp on the third day, feeling refreshed and re-energized. The hike back to the car was easier, both physically and mentally. I felt like I had shed a layer of stress and anxiety.
I headed back into town.
This “wilderness retreat” was exactly what I needed. It was a chance to disconnect from the digital world, reconnect with nature, and just be with my own thoughts. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was real, and the rewards were definitely worth it. I’m already planning my next one!
