germainbarbie wrote:Okay, so my brother and I will be attending this year, but are completely confused about theme camps. Please dont give me these faces:

& be patient with me
so do we need to join a theme camp for a really good time? I ask this because we are camping veterans (and very outgoing friendly people), but do you still get the social experience of being without a camp? We dont have any idea what to expect.
What are some of your experiences with camp vs. no camp?
Thanks,
-A very excited 1st timer
To further answer your query:
1. You do not need to join a theme camp to have a good time. Some camps can BE a good time, but if you join them, your are obliged to help, donate or both to the activities of that camp.
2. The social experience is entirely your oyster. Your willingness to participate is directly proportional to the quality of your fulfillment.
3. Theme camps offer some things you cannot provide yourself. Probably the most profound would be someone watching your stuff while you explore the playa. Another might be an infrastructure which may or may not include; shade, wind break, shower, shared meals, location and opportunities to spend quality time with certain individuals.
4. Camping individually somewhat limits you to what is available when you arrive. The later you arrive, the more likely you will be toward the outermost parts of the city. It may be quieter, it may be dustier, it may be windier, it may be next to bad neighbors. The latter is kind of a crap shoot anyway you go.