Theres really two elements to this. Clearly the OP should be allowed to enjoy his hobby without nearby campers thinking he is some sort of predatory criminal - the nearby family in this instance didn't handle this at all well, don't we all tell kids not to go in anyone elses tent without first coming to tell us? It was a standard instruction when I was growing up and it shouldn't matter whether the tent is owned by a single person or a family with 6 kids!
However, I hope all solo campers remember that personal safety is very important - I often camp alone (with a big dog for company!) and there have been one or two occasions where male campers (sorry boys!), whether in large groups or on their own, have made me a bit nervous.
I've probably stumbled late onto this topic, but I am posting this anyway as I have considered solo camping.
I was disgusted by the experience of the original topic poster at the hands of those ignorant parents camping near him.
Here's a thought: murderers Fred West and wife Rose escaped capture for so long presumably because of the 'respectable' front they had of being married with kids of their own, and they were (eventually) convicted of a large number of particularly sick and cruel crimes, while also being suspected of involvement in many more.
A friend of mine whose work involves investigating child protection issues explained recently that paedophiles are particularly devious criminals who often inveigle their way into the trust of children and other parents, and to do this, need an air of trustability and therefore often have families themselves. 'Married with kids' proves nothing in terms of child safety.
Child protection is crucial, but I don't believe that making the public paranoid makes society any safer. What might make it safer is if irresponsible parents didn't let their kids to do what they want with little supervision, and if they do get into trouble, stop automatically siding with their kids against the school or the police.
I'm certainly not tarring all parents with the same brush here but I think poor parenting and a lack of discipline are a far greater danger to society than solo campers!
hi blzeee. i agree with you there. everything has to start at home. learning of respect for people and property.and manners. however. once a child gets to an age of rebellion. which is a part of us all. the child will do what he or she wants. i never got into trouble. i was always good that way. as a child on a bus with my parents. i had to get off the seat for an adult or old person. this i taught my 3 sons to do. and they kept to it. but lots of kids can go wild a bit once on holiday. it is the time to let off some pent up steam. sadly it annoys people. and that i understand. as some just want to go camping for peace and quiet. children playing as well. but you will always get some kids who just dont care. and parents never bother either. ah well. we cant please everyone. no matter how hard we try.
All of what you said made sense. My parents were not over-strict but taught me good basic manners for which I'm pretty grateful (not least because it keeps me out of trouble in my adult life!!)
Natsandjasper - no-one could blame you for that, large groups of any type of people can be intimidating when on your own - just tonight I was in a pub in York and was scared witless by a huge woman (with a mouth to match!) who was legless and the self-appointed leader of a bunch of equally drunk hen-nighters. Even the bouncers hid til they left
I ma just about ready to go solo camping/backpacking, just me and the German Shepard , I have got a pocket radio and a couple of books, and some treats for the dog. I am raring to go and to be honest, more than anything else it's the total solitude that I am looking for!
------------- Steve
Look into my eyes, not around my eyes but into my eyes
Just stumbled across my own thread that has been resurrected, I certainly took note of all the advice given and continued solo camping, this is my 4th one this year, I have just returned at 17:00 hrs from a pleasant 3 day stay in the New Forest, had some good weather and sociable fellow campers, on my first attempt solo I must have encountered the “Weird Family”, because all my current trips have been fine.
Well that’s it until the middle of September, because my next camping trip in 2 weeks is with my Son-in-Law, Then every 2 weeks with either or all members of the family until the middle of September when I can return to going solo a few more times until next year.
I am so glad I ignored the “Weird Family”, I do like this being retired business, it leaves my with so much camping time!!!
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Solo Camping
