I was 46 when I set out on my first solo camping trip back in 2023. I chose the Eastern Sierra in California, a place close to my heart that always reminds me of my childhood road trips to Patagonia. The vast, rugged landscapes and serene mountain views brought back memories of those early adventures and made it the perfect spot to begin my solo journey. You can view a detailed account of that life-changing trip in this video: Solo Camping in the Eastern Sierra.
At the time, I wasn’t sure if I was being brave or crazy—or maybe a bit of both. I had spent years loving road trips and the outdoors, but the idea of camping alone felt a bit intimidating.
But I had seen so many women on YouTube doing it—setting up their camps, cooking simple meals, sharing amazing sunrises from their tents—that, even though I knew most only show the glamorous side of camping, I still had the urge to try it myself. I couldn’t stop thinking about it! “If they can do it, why can’t I?”
What I discovered was something I wish I’d known sooner: a way of reconnecting with myself, with nature, and with a deep sense of freedom I didn’t even know I was missing.
If you’ve been wondering whether it’s “too late” to take up camping in your 40s, 50s, 60s, or beyond, let me assure you: it’s the perfect time to start. And here’s why:
You Know Exactly What You Like—and What You Don’t
In my 20s, I may have tried camping mostly to fit in or tag along with others. Now, in midlife, I camp exactly how I want to.
For me, that means parking my SUV at a remote spot on BLM land, or a small campground. Others, it means rolling into an established campground with hot showers and amenities. But most of the times, it means choosing a night under the stars over a fancy hotel.
One of the gifts of this stage of life is that you know yourself. You don’t have to impress anyone or prove anything. You get to design your outdoor experiences around what truly brings you joy.
You Crave Quality Time—Not Just More Screen Time
I’ll be honest: I started solo camping mostly because I desperately needed space from screens, stress, and the endless pull of online life. I work full-time in the software sector, which means I spend 8+ hours a day staring at a screen—minimum—not to mention the constant pressure of a fast-paced, high-responsibility role. Most days I feel burnt out, overstimulated, and craving silence.
Camping— or being in nature in general, became my way of stepping off the treadmill, even if it was just for a weekend. It gave me the mental reset I didn’t realize I’d been needing for years.
Camping forces me (in the best way) to be present. There’s no cell signal where I usually camp, and that’s exactly how I like it. After the first few hours, I find that I not only no longer miss it, but in fact, embrace it. I start living in the now. I hear the birds instead of background noise. I was joking with a fellow GenXer the other day that our younger selves would probably laugh and call us crazy if they knew that 20 years later, we’d be out here birdwatching and loving every minute of it. But that’s the beauty of midlife, it gives you permission to find joy in the simple things you might have once overlooked.
This stage in life can feel packed with obligations, work, family, caregiving, worrying about the future. Stepping away into nature is one of the most powerful ways I’ve found to reset and recharge.
You Appreciate the Health Benefits—Mind and Body
After recovering from a long health challenge myself, I’ve come to appreciate just how healing nature can be.
Camping is gentle exercise, walking trails, setting up camp, carrying gear. It’s fresh air and vitamin D. It’s also mental space: research shows that time outdoors lowers cortisol, improves mood, and boosts overall well-being.
As we move through midlife, investing in both mental and physical health becomes even more important. Camping supports that in ways that feel joyful, not like a chore. You will never, ever see me inside a gym—but give me a trail or a camp to set up, and I’m all in.
You’re Ready to Challenge Yourself—in a Good Way
I’ll never forget the moment I climbed into the back of my SUV on that first solo trip and cozied up under my blanket. I felt somewhat nervous—but also proud. I was doing something new. I was learning.
Sleeping in my SUV gave me a sense of security for that first outing, and it was the perfect way to ease into solo camping. Every trip since has built on that feeling. I’ve learned how to set up camp quickly. I’ve figured out how to handle unexpected situations. I’ve faced doubt and unexpected situations—and each time, I come home a little stronger.
There’s something deeply empowering about challenging yourself in midlife. You realize that growth doesn’t have an age limit.
You Have Resources to Camp Comfortably
In my 20s, I would have always preferred going out dancing in a crowded, loud nightclub rather than being in the middle of nowhere.
Now? I’m all about comfort. A good sleeping pad, quality camp meals, a cozy camp chair, these things make a big difference.
Midlife often comes with a bit more financial freedom as well, and we can invest in gear that makes camping truly enjoyable. If you like your creature comforts, embrace them. There’s no rule that says you must “rough it” to be a camper.
It’s Never Too Late to Start
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Maybe I could do that,”—Yes, you can!
I started solo camping at 46. Many women start even later in life. The outdoors welcomes all of us, no matter when we begin.
Start small: a night at a local campground, a car-camping weekend with a friend, a solo trip close to home. Each experience builds confidence and joy.
Camping at this stage of life isn’t just about sleeping outside, it’s about creating space for yourself, connecting with nature, and remembering that adventure has no expiration date.
Ready to Give It a Try?
If you’re curious, go for it! Pack your gear, trust your instincts, and embrace the experience. You might just find, as I did, that camping in midlife is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. For helpful advice to get started, you can also check out my Tips and Tricks page.
Your experience that midlife is the perfect time
How old were you when you discovered the benefits of being in nature and decided enjoy time away from your screens and the day to day of city life? Do you know someone who has started adventuring in the outdoors later in life? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Alejandra Iorgulescu
Alejandra, known as “Alex” to most in the U.S., was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her love of travel was sparked during childhood road trips from Buenos Aires to Patagonia, but it truly took root after a solo trip through Europe in 2001. In 2002, she moved to California, drawn by its climate and stunning natural diversity—from beaches to mountains and deserts—all within a few hours’ reach.
Her YouTube channel and website, Miles and Hikes, were born during a solo cross-country road trip and reflects her passion for road travel, camping and hiking. Alex built the channel from scratch while juggling a demanding tech career. Through her content, she shares outdoor adventures, travel tips, and the joy of finding creative freedom in the great outdoors.
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