Camping: the age-old tradition of packing up the bare necessities, pitching a tent and exploring the great outdoors.
Junior Jane Higgins grew up camping. “My family has always camped,” she said. “I’ve been [camping] since I was a very, very small child.”

Camping was always a tradition that took off in popularity after society was forced into lockdown in 2020. Many returned to their camping roots, with the number of people camping in Minnesota jumping nearly 20%.

Senior Evan Holmes said, “I started camping during COVID so I could get away from the mundane and sad state of things for a little while. I went backpacking up North, and it was an absolute disaster. It down-poured for most of the time and the mosquitoes were insane, I was completely red and bumpy at the end. I absolutely loved it though and I couldn’t wait to get out again.”

For some, like junior Sam Murphy, it’s a long-standing tradition. “I grew up with camping, and I’ve been very lucky to get to go to the places I’ve been,” he said.

According to the National Park Service, “Some like to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Some families go camping to revitalize their relationships, away from all the distractions at home. Many youth organizations teach young people how to build a fire, pitch a tent, or read a compass. Camping means different things to different people.”

“I feel like the best bonding and connections happen on the trail, as a physical wreck and needing support. Nature is a wonderful place to be yourself because it doesn’t care who you are or what your life is like, it’s just there to be beautiful and miserable all at the same time,” said Holmes.

“I think disconnecting from our phones is really peaceful, and calm. It’s really nice to be in nature,” Higgins said.
Camping offers a detox from a life of screens, and close, stuffy quarters; it’s an opportunity to get back out into the fresh air and strengthen bonds.

Whether it’s the accomplishment that comes with setting up a campsite, building a fire, or the inspiration that comes from seeing the stars in an area without light pollution, camping presents an opportunity to relax. “My favorite part is relaxing at night after a long day of hard work,” Murphy said.

To start camping, consider lodging options. With a tent, finding level ground, bringing a tarp for water protection, and ensuring proper size is essential. If not ready to dive into tent camping, cabins and RVs are always an option. After considering lodging, figure out a destination, taking into account weather and accessibility.

Nothing beats getting out into nature and spending time with loved ones. Nowadays, everywhere has somewhere to get away from the world and connect with nature. Consider getting out to a campsite and spending some time away from the bustle of the city to spend the night under the stars.

Gallery • 3 Photos

Submitted by Jane Higgins

HAPPY CAMPER. "I love camping in the boundary waters," Higgins said.