Transitioning from group camping to DIY camping

deeeveeeant · Post by **deeeveeeant** » Mon Mar 10, 2008 10:49 am

I searched the Experiences topic, but didn't find a similar topic. My wife and I have camped with a theme camp the last two years (our first two burns) and we're considering breaking ties and going it alone. I'm wondering what sort of experiences those of you who have done something similar have had.

Although the folks in the camp we've stayed with are great, they've known each others for years and have been burners for years. They are very welcoming, but not completely inclusive. In addition their particular passion is one that we don't really have enough interest in to pursue ourselves.

We're thinking of just setting up our tent and shade structure somewhere we can get space. Getting a good spot shouldn't be a problem because we volunteer and get early entry. We tend to take care of our own needs, so we haven't really relied on the rest of the camp for anything other than hanging out with people we know to some degree.

I'd like to hear from people who went from being in theme camps to being on their own or in a very small group. I'm interested in hearing what the experience was like for you and if you have any advice for making the transition.

sputnik · Post by **sputnik** » Mon Mar 10, 2008 11:40 am

I did just this last year. No problem really, just had to have lower expectations for the camp (ie no fancy meals, no shared liquor, etc). Our camp site was compact and easy to setup. We had the majority of it setup the first day. Some of the shade got setup on the second day. We had nice neighbors, and I think that camping alone allowed us to meet people we may not have otherwise. It was very relaxing.

Captain Goddammit · Post by **Captain Goddammit** » Wed Mar 12, 2008 6:26 am

I did that last year too. Both BM lifestyles were great in different ways. Having a big theme camp was fun, and there were always things going on, people to feed my extra bacon and coffee'n'Baileys to in the mornings, friends around, and it's easier to meet up with friends when your "home address" is a recognizable landmark that everyone knows.
But there was also lots of work for setup and teardown, garbage issues, and it seems there's always the "providers" and the "takers" within a camp. You know... a few core members who truck in the majority of the stuff, cover most of the costs, do most of the work to create everything... and then there's the ones who just show up with almost nothing, claiming that they will contribute backrubs or something... (and they never seem to actually do even that).

Camping on my own last year was certainly easier. I set up next to some friends (one of whom shall remain nameless but who's initials are S.E.N.S.E.I.) so I was still among friends and that was cool, without the hassles. We all had our own logistics handled, but could share whatever we wanted.
It was quieter, almost boring a few times, without a big camp.

After doing it both ways, I'm undecided about how I'll do it this year.
Both have their strong points.

accordionMan · Post by **accordionMan** » Fri Mar 14, 2008 10:47 am

I've always camped solo... sometimes in the same area as other friends who camp solo.

I can't give you an opinion of Theme camp vs solo but I love the fact that I'm only responsible for myself... it's so easy. No drama about anything, nothing borrowed and misplaced, everything is under my control.

The only downside is that I have to bring everything... setting up is ok but the tear down at the end is tiring without help.

CdnChick · Post by **CdnChick** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 4:06 pm

I did the opposite - 1st burn solo and 2nd burn w theme camp.

I preferred the theme camp, personally, but there is something to said for being able to say you did it alone ;)

PP is right - downer to dismantle by yourself. But with a theme camp there is more to dismantle... i guess misery DOES love company.

oneeyeddick · Post by **oneeyeddick** » Sat Mar 15, 2008 10:21 pm

Even if I was to camp alone, people would still not leave me alone.
Can't a person get a little privacy here ?

Simon of the Playa · Post by **Simon of the Playa** » Sun Mar 16, 2008 6:52 am

i've spanked it myself, and have also been in a bunch of group gropes.

as long as you bust a nut....

wait, we are talking about burning man, right?

oneeyeddick · Post by **oneeyeddick** » Sun Mar 16, 2008 6:29 pm

Do they make special adapters for the "hole" in the bottom of my accordian ?

accordionMan · Post by **accordionMan** » Mon Mar 17, 2008 7:59 am

"Do they make special adapters for the "hole" in the bottom of my accordian ?"

Your question is a puzzel on many levels.

1- What adapters?
2- What "hole"?
3- Is an accordian the same as an accordion?