What's most important in a campsite?

[balzaccom]

Ok—quick and simple question. When it comes to backcountry destinations, do you aim for the most beautiful spot on the planet, even though there may be a few other groups camped around the edges? Or would you prefer someplace ever so slightly less scenic—but without another camper within five miles?

Or does it even matter, if the fish are biting?


(I know Bill goes for the best possible view---and no people!)

[oakroscoe]

I don't like being around people, so if my group is the only one for 5 miles I'm happy as can be.

[Nacci]

Near water (to fish, filter, swim, or whatever.)
Flat enough to set up the tent & sleep comfortably.
Can't hear or see other people (if possible.)

[dan]

Few or no mosquitos.
Shade.

[_Gabe_]

1. water source close by
2. flat surface
3. view is always nice but not a must

I don't mind neighbors but only a few.

[orion]

good company or no company

[balzaccom]

Ha! I like that answer.

Basically, for us, we look for a flat place to sleep first, and some kind of water source. After that the rest of these things all fall into place.

But we usually travel the roads somewhat less taken...

[_Gabe_]

Maybe I should start a new post but here's another question. Are you comfortable going solo on a backpacking trip?

I ask because I still haven't done a solo trip. Maybe cause there is always a buddy or two interested in going and the opportunity to hangout is always nice. Also there's the safety reason..i.e. getting lost although I stick to known trails and always plan well.

Just wondering...

[dan]

No, never solo for me. A backpack is a lot more enjoyable with the company of friends and I'm lucky enough that my wife enjoys backpacking, so I have at least one companion.

That said, I once met a group of people hiking the Rae Lakes Loop (start from Kings Canyon Roads End or Onion Valley). There were about a half dozen, all started out solo, but met up while hiking along the way. They all seemed to be enjoying themselves a lot.

I day hike a lot alone, or with my dog, who is surprisingly good company. I've also done several road trips alone when I was single, but a backpack is awfully quiet by yourself. Just my preference, I guess.

As for safety, if you stick to reasonably frequented trails you should be OK. This assumes you have good route finding skills.

[oakroscoe]

I'm fortunate that my main buddy that I go backpacking with is usually available when I want to go, however I don't mind and I do enjoy a solo trip. If you've never done it before, you ought to give going solo a try, just once. It really is a whole different experience.

[balzaccom]

I agree. But I also enjoy the fact that my wife is my backpacking buddy...the best of all possible worlds

[KC]

I try and do a solo trip every year. The catch is that I usually reserve the more popular destinations, such as Yosemite's HSCs, for these trips. It's easier to get permits when you fly solo and I don't mind the additional trail company as much as I do when I'm with friends (one of whom hates to be around other people).

[orion]

on a solo trip, you'll see about 90% more wildlife, especially if you get off the trails and into the wilderness.
also, it is sometimes a good thing to see the wilderness without the lens of human society.

most are more afraid of spending all that time with themselves than any actual danger up there,
though you do have to watch your step.

[paula53]

I have gone solo in Yosemite and in Desolation. I enjoy a swim after a day of hiking. As long as the campsite is legal, and flat. I don't mind sharing the lake with others, as long as they are quiet, and out of sight.

[rick56]

The most important thing to me is water nearby. I don't mind other folks near me as long as they are not too loud. To touch on the other question, most of my backpacking has been solo. I used to live in Tahoe and went into Desolation. I never really went by my self by choice, never could find anyone who had gear and wanted to go. So rather then sit home I went alone. Solitude gives me a chance to reflect. I'm married but my wife is not thrilled about backpacking. In fact we went to Hetch Hetchy last Summer and my son fell, skinned his knees and we turned back. Now I'm trying to find others to go with on a weekend trip. I live near Sacramento. I just checked out the REI site, ah I'm not going to pay $750 to have someone tell me how to go backpacking. I have new gear, and I'm looking for weekend trips in Yosemite to start or nearby in the Sierras. I can do a longer one but I have not backpacked in a few years and I don't like fast paced death marches. I like to take in the view and take my time. Last Summer I saw a bunch of young kids on the trail. They all tore by and seemed to be in a hurry? I guess they have some secret skinny dipping spot out there?