Survivalist’s Guide to Connecticut’s 30 Best Campsites for Preppers

The Best Campsites for Connecticut Survival Preppers

Living in Connecticut as a survival prepper means being constantly ready to face any emergency or natural disaster. Whether you’re planning for winter storms, hurricanes, or flooding, knowing how to live off the land, stay self-sufficient, and get familiar with the terrain can be lifesaving. And for that, nothing beats getting out into the wild to practice your survival skills.

Luckily, Connecticut offers a wealth of camping options that allow preppers to get hands-on with their emergency training. From dense forests to peaceful lakesides, here are the 30 best campsites in Connecticut that every prepper should know about. These locations give you the opportunity to practice skills such as fire starting, shelter building, foraging, and even testing out your bug-out gear.

1. Hammonasset Beach State Park (Madison)
A gem along the Connecticut shoreline, Hammonasset is perfect for preppers who want to practice coastal survival techniques. Whether you’re interested in saltwater fishing or testing out your ability to secure freshwater, this spot has it all.

2. Sleeping Giant State Park (Hamden)
For those who love to hike and want to test their endurance in rocky, hilly terrain, Sleeping Giant is an ideal choice. The park offers multiple trails and plenty of wilderness for learning navigation and survival techniques.

3. Peoples State Forest (Barkhamsted)
This forest offers over 1,000 acres of wooded trails, perfect for solo camping and practicing survival skills. Its seclusion also makes it a fantastic place for stealth camping drills and bug-out practice.

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4. Black Rock State Park (Watertown)
With its beautiful 437-acre grounds, Black Rock offers plenty of wooded areas for camping. The park’s elevation and rugged landscape make it an excellent location for testing shelter building and survival gear.

5. Kettletown State Park (Southbury)
Located near the Housatonic River, Kettletown is known for its hiking trails and quiet campsites. This park is great for practicing survival tactics near water, whether it’s purifying the river water or testing your fishing skills.

6. Rocky Neck State Park (East Lyme)
Another coastal park, Rocky Neck provides ample opportunities for beach camping and testing out your wilderness survival techniques along the shoreline. If you’re prepping for coastal flooding, this spot offers valuable experience.

7. Meshomasic State Forest (East Hampton)
Located deep in the woods, Meshomasic offers a true backcountry camping experience. The forest’s isolation makes it ideal for long-term survival practice, including learning to build shelter from natural materials.

8. Devils Hopyard State Park (East Haddam)
For preppers who want a more rugged experience, Devils Hopyard is ideal. The park is home to waterfalls, deep woods, and varied terrain, giving you the chance to practice orienteering and building emergency shelters.

9. Stratton Brook State Park (Simsbury)
If you’re looking for a peaceful, low-traffic campsite to hone your survival skills without the distractions of crowds, Stratton Brook is a solid choice. It’s a great spot for practicing fire-starting and small-scale wilderness cooking.

10. Bluff Point State Park (Groton)
Bluff Point offers both woodland and coastal camping, providing an opportunity to practice multiple survival strategies in one place. Whether you need to find fresh water or figure out how to navigate along a coastline, this park has it all.

11. Lake Waramaug State Park (Kent)
This peaceful, quiet park features a large freshwater lake, making it a prime spot for fishing and water purification practice. It’s also a great place to practice setting up camp and cooking over a campfire.

12. Camp Columbia State Park (Columbia)
Camp Columbia offers remote wooded areas that are perfect for more extended survival practice. The park is great for learning about shelter construction, fire building, and other off-grid skills.

13. Appalachian Trail (various locations)
The Appalachian Trail runs through Connecticut, and if you want a serious survival challenge, the section through this state offers plenty of tough, rugged terrain to practice your skills. You can camp at various trailheads, working on things like navigation, water sourcing, and foraging.

14. Bigelow Hollow State Park (Union)
Located near the quiet town of Union, Bigelow Hollow offers secluded camping experiences, making it perfect for a survival prepper’s retreat. This area is known for its dense forests, quiet atmosphere, and abundant wildlife.

15. Silver Sands State Park (Milford)
Silver Sands is perfect for preppers who want to practice both coastal and wilderness survival. You’ll find tidal flats for learning about marine survival, along with quiet woods for honing your basic outdoor skills.

16. Shenipsit State Forest (Tolland)
Shenipsit is one of the largest state forests in Connecticut, and it’s a great place for campers who want to get away from the crowds and really immerse themselves in nature. Perfect for extended wilderness survival trips.

17. Saugatuck Reservoir (Weston)
The Saugatuck Reservoir offers camping along the water, which is perfect for practicing fishing, water purification, and survival swimming techniques.

18. Connecticut Audubon Society Centers (various locations)
The Connecticut Audubon Society has several centers, such as the Greenwich Audubon Center, that provide great opportunities for preppers who are interested in learning about local ecosystems, wildlife, and foraging.

19. Fort Trumbull State Park (New London)
For a mix of historical interest and practical survival skills, Fort Trumbull is a great site. You can practice shelter building and fire-starting while also enjoying the area’s rich history.

20. Housatonic Meadows State Park (Sharon)
If you’re looking to work on river survival skills, Housatonic Meadows is an ideal campsite. Learn water purification techniques and try your hand at fishing for your meals.

21. Goodwin State Forest (East Hampton)
This park provides over 800 acres of forest, perfect for backwoods camping. It’s a place where you can test your long-term survival gear and practice fire-starting skills, navigation, and trapping.

22. State Forests in Litchfield County
Litchfield County has a number of lesser-known state forests that are perfect for preppers looking to get off the beaten path. These forests are excellent for stealth camping, scouting, and wildlife tracking.

23. Natchaug State Forest (Eastford)
Located in the northeastern part of the state, Natchaug is a vast wilderness perfect for practicing navigation and stealth camping. The park is dense with trees, making it ideal for learning how to build temporary shelters.

24. Town Forest (Lyme)
The Lyme Town Forest offers a quiet, peaceful place for preppers to test out their outdoor survival skills. This is a great spot for light camping or even just day trips to practice wilderness skills.

25. Pine Acres Campground (East Killingly)
Pine Acres provides more developed camping sites but still allows preppers to practice essential survival skills, especially if you want to test your ability to live off the grid in a slightly more controlled environment.

26. Wells State Park (Sturbridge)
Though technically just outside of Connecticut, Wells State Park is a perfect location for anyone prepping for an extended wilderness adventure. The park offers multiple camping sites and backcountry areas to test your long-term survival strategies.

27. Lake McDonough Recreation Area (New Hartford)
This park offers pristine lakeside camping perfect for preppers who want to practice water purification, fishing, and shelter-building in a semi-wilderness environment.

28. Candlewood Lake (Danbury)
Candlewood Lake offers fantastic opportunities for camping and practicing water-based survival skills, including fishing and water purification. It’s also an excellent place for learning navigation techniques.

29. Clinton Crossing State Forest (Clinton)
This small, quiet forest offers perfect seclusion for prepper camping. It’s not as well-known as other parks, so it’s ideal for solo campers looking to work on their skills in isolation.

30. Mount Tom State Park (Litchfield)
If you’re up for a challenge, the steep trails and elevation changes of Mount Tom provide an excellent test for your endurance and hiking skills. This park is perfect for practicing navigation, long-distance hiking, and building shelters in varied terrain.

Wilderness Survival in Virginia: 30 Perfect Campsites for Preppers

30 Virginia Campsites That Will Help You Hone Your Survival Skills

Living in Virginia as a survival prepper offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This state, with its diverse terrain ranging from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, provides countless opportunities for prepping, camping, and honing survival skills. Whether you’re looking to escape the chaos of everyday life or prepare for uncertain times, Virginia has a wealth of camping sites that cater to those with a survival mindset. From deep forested areas to remote mountain ridges, these sites offer the perfect blend of wilderness immersion and security.

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As a survival prepper, you’re likely already familiar with the importance of selecting campsites that not only provide a break from the modern world but also allow you to practice and refine critical survival skills. In Virginia, the options are endless. These campsites allow you to build your survival kit, test your shelter-building techniques, practice fire-starting, or simply connect with nature to hone your instincts. Each site presents a new opportunity to grow your prepping knowledge, and many of them are secluded enough to ensure that you’re practicing true wilderness survival techniques.

1. Grayson Highlands State Park

Located in the southwestern corner of Virginia, Grayson Highlands is famous for its rugged beauty and wild ponies. As a prepper, you can practice long-range navigation, fire-building, and shelter construction here. The park has several hiking trails that challenge your endurance and survival tactics, especially with the unpredictable weather and varied terrain. With over 4,500 acres of natural beauty, it’s an ideal spot for wilderness survival training.

2. Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park, located just two hours from Washington, D.C., offers over 200,000 acres of pristine wilderness. This park has numerous trails that vary in difficulty, making it a perfect place for survivalists to practice different skills. The Appalachian Trail runs through this park, allowing you to experience long-distance hiking and camping in one of the most rugged, remote parts of Virginia.

3. James River State Park

For those who love water-based survival skills, James River State Park is a great option. The park is located along the James River and provides various camping experiences, from backcountry camping to more accessible spots. It’s a fantastic site for practicing water purification techniques, fishing, and learning how to use the river for navigation.

4. Douthat State Park

Douthat State Park is located in the Allegheny Mountains and features over 4,500 acres of wilderness. The park’s terrain is a mix of thick forests and rugged hills, perfect for testing your survival techniques. Douthat is known for its peacefulness and isolation, making it a great spot for long-duration survival camping.

5. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

Another gem in southwestern Virginia, Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, offers both alpine terrain and deep forests for survivalists to test their skills. It’s known for its remoteness and challenging hiking conditions. This area offers a great chance for testing your endurance while practicing wilderness navigation and shelter building.

6. George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

These vast forests in Virginia are ideal for those who want to get deep into the wilderness. The terrain includes a variety of ecosystems and challenges that will push you to hone your survival skills, from fire-starting to navigation. With thousands of miles of trails, you can easily find a secluded campsite that fits your prepper needs.

7. Gravel Hill Campground

Located in the George Washington National Forest, Gravel Hill Campground offers a more basic, no-frills camping experience. It’s perfect for preppers who want to truly disconnect and practice survival skills without the distractions of modern amenities. The campground is remote, which makes it ideal for testing your ability to be self-sufficient.

8. New River Trail State Park

This park is an excellent spot for preppers looking to practice water-based skills such as fishing and purification. The New River offers both a relaxing environment and the opportunity to learn more about using natural water sources for survival. The trails here are relatively easy, making it a good choice for beginner preppers.

9. Pocahontas State Park

Pocahontas State Park offers a large, diverse area for camping, hiking, and survival practice. The park features both primitive campsites and more modern amenities, but its more isolated areas provide an ideal environment for prepping. The park’s forested environment makes it great for learning to live off the land.

10. Fairy Stone State Park

Fairy Stone State Park is named for the rare “fairy stones” found within its boundaries. The park offers a variety of landscapes, from the quiet shores of Stuart Lake to the rugged foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Preppers will find plenty of opportunity here for practicing wilderness survival techniques, from shelter building to foraging.

11. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is located along the Virginia Beach coastline. It offers a unique setting for preppers who want to practice survival techniques in coastal environments. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and is known for its isolation. It’s an ideal spot for practicing beach camping and water purification using saline sources.

12. Sparrow Hill Campground

Located in the Jefferson National Forest, Sparrow Hill is perfect for those who prefer a more rugged and remote camping experience. It’s isolated, ensuring you’ll be able to practice real survival scenarios like making do with minimal resources and living off the land.

13. Lake Anna State Park

For survival preppers who enjoy the mix of forest and water, Lake Anna State Park offers an excellent environment. You can practice building shelters near the water’s edge, fishing, and purifying water for drinking. The park’s secluded areas offer privacy and a great space for honing wilderness skills.

14. Luray Caverns Campground

For a unique survival challenge, consider camping at Luray Caverns Campground. The nearby caverns offer a completely different dimension to wilderness survival, with opportunities to practice navigating caves and using underground environments to your advantage.

15. Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive runs through Shenandoah National Park and offers access to some of the best wilderness areas in Virginia. It’s a prime location for survival preppers to practice long-term camping, test gear, and even engage in wild food foraging. The high-altitude areas provide additional challenges, especially during the colder months.

16. Lake Moomaw

Located in the Allegheny Highlands, Lake Moomaw is perfect for water-based prepping. With its tranquil setting, you can practice fishing, water purification, and shelter-building by the water. The area is surrounded by dense forests, which offer additional survival practice opportunities.

17. Big Survey Campground

A secluded spot within the George Washington National Forest, Big Survey Campground offers a perfect environment for wilderness survival training. With limited facilities and plenty of natural resources, this campground lets you practice being entirely self-sufficient. The surrounding forest provides ample opportunities for fire-building, shelter-making, and other key survival skills.

Additional Virginia Campsites for Preppers:

  1. Mason Neck State Park
  2. Natural Bridge State Park
  3. Claytor Lake State Park
  4. Kiptopeke State Park
  5. Belle Isle State Park
  6. Appalachian Trail Campgrounds
  7. Cedar Creek Battlefield Park
  8. Blandford Cemetery
  9. Wilderness Road State Park
  10. Chippokes Plantation State Park
  11. Piney River Campground
  12. Milboro Springs Campground
  13. Meadows of Dan
  14. Jordan’s Point Park
  15. Montpelier Estate
  16. Blue Ridge Parkway Campgrounds
  17. Hickory Hill Campground
  18. Roaring Run Natural Area
  19. Harrisonburg City Parks
  20. Cave Mountain Lake Campground

Conclusion: Virginia’s Campsites – A Preppers’ Ultimate Survival Playground

Virginia offers an impressive array of landscapes, diverse terrains, and rich wilderness areas that make it a perfect destination for survival preppers. From the wild, windswept ridges of the Appalachian Mountains to the tranquil shores of the Chesapeake Bay, the state’s vast forests, rivers, and highlands provide the ideal backdrop for honing essential survival skills. Whether you’re looking to practice shelter-building techniques, develop fire-starting proficiency, or test your ability to navigate remote trails, Virginia’s campsites deliver a variety of opportunities to strengthen your preparedness.

For a prepper, choosing the right campsite is about more than just getting away from it all – it’s about immersing yourself in nature, learning to live with less, and testing your gear and skills in real-world conditions. Many of the locations mentioned in this guide offer exactly that, allowing you to practice the vital survival skills that could one day prove indispensable in a crisis. You can learn to live off the land, purify water from natural sources, forage for food, and adapt to changing conditions – all of which are key elements of survival training.

Moreover, Virginia’s backcountry campsites offer the opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and experience true isolation, which can be crucial for preppers aiming to build resilience and self-reliance. Whether it’s navigating in dense forests, fishing in remote lakes, or surviving in the harsh elements, these campsites push you to develop the mental fortitude and practical knowledge that are the backbone of survival prepping.

The variety of campsites in Virginia – ranging from well-established parks with modern amenities to more rugged, primitive sites – ensures that you can tailor your experiences to suit your needs. Whether you’re a beginner prepper looking for safe and accessible locations or an advanced survivalist seeking remote, off-the-grid sites, Virginia has something for everyone. The parks and wilderness areas covered here offer everything from well-maintained campgrounds to completely isolated areas where you can push your skills to the limit.

Additionally, camping in Virginia allows you to test not only your physical and practical skills but also your mental preparedness. The solitude of these campsites can challenge your ability to stay calm under pressure, think critically, and adapt to unexpected situations. In a survival scenario, these qualities could be the difference between success and failure.

The natural beauty and ruggedness of Virginia’s outdoors are also a reminder of how important it is to respect nature and be prepared for anything. Prepping isn’t just about stockpiling food and gear – it’s also about understanding and respecting the environment, learning how to live sustainably, and knowing how to use nature to your advantage. Each of these campsites provides a unique opportunity to learn these crucial lessons.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that preparedness will continue to be a priority for many individuals, and Virginia’s campsites remain an invaluable resource in this journey. Whether you’re preparing for a natural disaster, a social collapse, or simply want to improve your wilderness skills, Virginia offers some of the best training grounds in the country.

The campsites mentioned in this guide are more than just places to camp – they are survival sanctuaries, each offering a chance to test and refine your skills. Take the time to explore these sites, immerse yourself in the wilderness, and challenge yourself to become a more self-sufficient prepper. In the end, the lessons learned and the skills gained in Virginia’s wilderness may very well be what helps you thrive when it matters most.

Remember, prepping isn’t about fear – it’s about preparedness, self-reliance, and being ready to face the unknown with confidence. And with the right mindset, the right skills, and the right training grounds, you’ll be ready for whatever the future holds. So, pack your gear, hit the trail, and discover the countless ways Virginia’s campgrounds can help you sharpen your survival instincts and achieve the peace of mind that comes from being truly prepared.

Escape to Nebraska: The Best Campsites for Survival Training

The Best Campsites for Nebraska Survival Preppers

If you’re a survival prepper living in Nebraska, you know how essential it is to be prepared for anything the world might throw your way. Whether you’re dealing with extreme weather, a long-term emergency, or just want to hone your skills and reconnect with the land, Nebraska offers some of the best camping sites in the country for preppers like you. From the rugged Sandhills to the Missouri River bluffs, these spots provide the ideal environment to test your gear, practice your survival skills, and truly immerse yourself in nature.

As preppers, we value our independence, self-reliance, and the ability to adapt to the ever-changing environment around us. Nebraska’s natural landscapes give us the space to do all of that, while also offering the perfect terrain for camping and survival training. So whether you’re preparing for an emergency, just looking to escape into the wild, or need to test out some of your gear, Nebraska’s diverse campsites are waiting for you.


1. Fort Robinson State Park – Crawford, NE

Fort Robinson is a prepper’s dream. Located in the northwest corner of the state, this park offers a combination of rugged terrain and expansive landscapes, ideal for testing your survival skills. The park has several campsites, including backcountry options, giving you the opportunity to test out your wilderness gear. Don’t forget to practice your shelter-building skills near the wild canyons and thick pine forests.

2. Pine Ridge Ranger District – Chadron, NE

Located near the Black Hills, Pine Ridge is known for its dense forests, rough terrain, and secluded areas perfect for prepping. Here, you can practice shelter construction, trapping, and wilderness navigation while being completely immersed in nature. The remote nature of this area offers a fantastic chance to hone your skills away from prying eyes.

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3. Chadron State Park – Chadron, NE

Chadron State Park is another solid choice for preppers. The park provides a variety of environments, from wooded areas to rolling hills, perfect for testing different survival scenarios. The park also has a combination of primitive and developed campsites, so you can choose between a more rugged, backcountry experience or something more comfortable.

4. Cedar Ridge Campground – Nebraska National Forest

This area is perfect for anyone who wants a mix of solitude and access to essential resources. The Nebraska National Forest is known for its mix of woodland, grasslands, and rugged terrain. Cedar Ridge offers primitive campsites that are ideal for testing your preparedness under more difficult conditions.

5. Mahoney State Park – Ashland, NE

Mahoney State Park is located in eastern Nebraska and offers a more accessible location for preppers looking for something closer to home. While it’s a bit more developed than other locations, it still offers secluded areas where you can practice skills such as navigation and fire-starting without being disturbed.

6. Louisville State Recreation Area – Louisville, NE

Louisville State Recreation Area offers a peaceful, wooded environment that’s perfect for stealth camping. This area has less foot traffic, allowing preppers to practice techniques like camouflage, building a shelter, and cooking over an open fire without drawing attention.

7. Sandy Point Campground – Branched Oak Lake

For those who prefer water-based survival scenarios, Sandy Point Campground offers a great spot for fishing, boating, and practicing water navigation skills. While it’s not entirely remote, it still provides a great opportunity to practice waterborne survival techniques, especially with the lake and surrounding forest.

8. Rock Creek Station State Historical Park – Fairbury, NE

The historical park is a fantastic spot for preppers who want to combine history with wilderness survival. The park features primitive campsites and is located in a historically significant area along the Oregon Trail. This gives you a unique chance to practice survival skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by pioneers.

9. Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park – North Platte, NE

Located in the heart of Nebraska, Buffalo Bill Ranch offers a combination of historical exploration and wilderness skills training. The area around the park features forests, open fields, and rolling hills, giving preppers a broad range of environments to practice their survival techniques.

10. Clear Creek Campground – Lincoln, NE

For those who need a campsite closer to the city, Clear Creek Campground offers a peaceful place to set up camp and practice skills like fire-starting and cooking over a fire. The nearby creek provides opportunities for water filtration practice and learning to navigate using water sources.


30 Top Campsites for Nebraska Survival Preppers

  1. Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford
  2. Pine Ridge Ranger District, Chadron
  3. Chadron State Park, Chadron
  4. Cedar Ridge Campground, Nebraska National Forest
  5. Mahoney State Park, Ashland
  6. Louisville State Recreation Area, Louisville
  7. Sandy Point Campground, Branched Oak Lake
  8. Rock Creek Station State Historical Park, Fairbury
  9. Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, North Platte
  10. Clear Creek Campground, Lincoln
  11. Platte River State Park, Louisville
  12. Ponca State Park, Ponca
  13. Smith Falls State Park, Valentine
  14. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, Ashland
  15. Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area, Fremont
  16. Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, Nebraska City
  17. Niobrara State Park, Niobrara
  18. Harlan County Reservoir, Republican City
  19. Calamus Reservoir Recreation Area, Burwell
  20. Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, Ogallala
  21. Branched Oak State Recreation Area, Malcolm
  22. Swanson Reservoir, Trenton
  23. Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, Valentine
  24. Bessey Ranger District, Halsey
  25. South Bend Campground, South Bend
  26. Big Horn Campground, Nebraska National Forest
  27. Cherry Creek Campground, Nebraska National Forest
  28. Red Willow Reservoir, McCook
  29. Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area, Hemingford
  30. Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area, Imperial

In-Depth Conclusion: Homesteading in Nebraska – A Prepper’s Perspective

Homesteading in Nebraska isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a mindset rooted in self-reliance, resilience, and an unshakable connection to the land. For survival preppers and off-grid enthusiasts, Nebraska offers a rare combination of practical benefits and raw natural beauty that make it an ideal place to put down sustainable roots. From the sweeping plains of the Sandhills to the fertile river valleys and forested western ridges, the state presents a diverse range of ecosystems perfect for building a life centered on preparedness, independence, and harmony with nature.

One of the greatest advantages of homesteading in Nebraska is its affordability. Compared to other states, the cost of land is relatively low, especially in rural areas where larger plots can still be acquired without breaking the bank. This means more space for farming, livestock, renewable energy systems, and even dedicated areas for wilderness training or bug-out drills. Nebraska’s climate—while varied—offers four true seasons, each presenting its own challenges and learning opportunities for the committed homesteader. From frigid winters that test your wood-stove and insulation setup to hot summers that push your irrigation and crop management skills, it’s a proving ground for self-sufficiency.

Water access is another critical factor, and Nebraska doesn’t disappoint. The Ogallala Aquifer, one of the largest underground water sources in the world, spans much of the state, giving rural landowners access to dependable well water for drinking, irrigation, and livestock. Rainwater collection is also feasible, and with careful management, you can achieve long-term water independence.

Agriculturally, Nebraska is rich in heritage and soil. Even modest plots can support fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and pasture animals. The state supports a strong culture of local markets and food co-ops, making it easier for homesteaders to sell or barter excess produce, eggs, honey, and homemade goods. Whether you’re raising chickens, goats, bees, or just tending heirloom crops, Nebraska provides the climate and community support to thrive.

Energy independence is also within reach. With its wide-open skies and steady wind corridors, Nebraska is well-suited for both solar and wind power systems. Many homesteaders choose to install hybrid energy systems that ensure uninterrupted off-grid power year-round. Combined with proper storage solutions and backup generators, you can build a homestead that remains operational even during grid failures or emergencies.

Community-wise, Nebraska’s rural regions are filled with like-minded individuals—hardworking, modest folks who understand the value of preparedness and helping a neighbor in need. Local fairs, farmer gatherings, and community events offer opportunities to learn traditional skills, exchange knowledge, and find a support system rooted in shared values.

That said, homesteading here isn’t without its challenges. Tornadoes in spring, harsh winters, and limited access to some services in the more remote areas require a high degree of personal resilience. But for preppers, these are not drawbacks—they’re opportunities to test your systems, refine your plans, and strengthen your independence.

If you’re a prepper considering the next step toward complete self-sufficiency, Nebraska stands out as a prime location to begin or expand your homesteading journey. With the right planning, effort, and mindset, you can create a secure, sustainable, and rewarding life here—one that isn’t just about surviving, but thriving, no matter what the world throws your way.

Top Indiana Campsites Every Survival Prepper Needs to Know

As a survival prepper in Indiana, I know the importance of finding the right camping spots. Not just any campsite will do when you’re preparing for an emergency, wilderness survival situation, or just getting away to practice your skills in the wild. Indiana’s diverse landscape—from rolling hills and dense forests to clear rivers and lakes—offers countless opportunities for training, prepping, and getting that much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Whether you’re prepping for a natural disaster, TEOTWAWKI (The End of The World As We Know It), or just learning new skills for your survival toolkit, finding the right places to camp is critical. The right site can provide solitude, resources, and perfect opportunities for training your skills, honing your wilderness survival techniques, and perfecting your bug-out strategy.

The following list of Indiana’s top 30 campsites isn’t just about packing up and getting some fresh air. It’s about honing your survival skills, getting accustomed to your gear, and testing your mental and physical toughness in a variety of environments that Indiana has to offer. From dense woods to riverside sites, these campsites are ideal for preppers who want to stay connected with nature and prepared for any situation.

1. Brown County State Park

Located in the heart of Indiana, Brown County is the largest state park in Indiana. With over 15,000 acres of forested hills, it’s an ideal spot for practicing bushcraft, setting up your tent, and testing your fire-starting skills. You’ll also find numerous hiking trails and potential natural resources to test your survival instincts.

2. Hoosier National Forest

Stretching across 202,000 acres, the Hoosier National Forest offers many opportunities to practice wilderness survival. There are several primitive campsites scattered throughout the forest, perfect for honing your skills in shelter building, navigation, and resource management.

3. Indiana Dunes State Park

If you’re interested in practicing survival near water, the Indiana Dunes State Park is one of the best locations. Its proximity to Lake Michigan offers unique challenges, such as managing coastal winds and understanding waterborne survival tactics. You’ll also find sand dunes and varied terrain to test your wilderness adaptability.

4. Shakamak State Park

This park is a great location for preppers who want to combine lake survival with forested terrain. Its three large lakes are excellent for testing your fishing, water purification, and boat navigation skills.

5. Morgan-Monroe State Forest

Morgan-Monroe State Forest is perfect for preppers seeking solitude. With dense woods and plenty of wildlife, it’s a prime spot to practice camouflage, trapping, and observation skills.

6. Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area

This area offers water access, which makes it ideal for practicing water purification and fishing. The surrounding forests also provide opportunities to work on shelter building and fire making.

7. Tippecanoe River State Park

Tippecanoe River is perfect for preppers who want to focus on water navigation and survival. With campsites along the river, you’ll be able to practice boat-based survival, fishing, and living off the land.

8. Cataract Falls

This is the perfect spot if you’re training in both water survival and bushcraft. The nearby falls offer a chance to practice water filtration techniques, while the woods give you a place to focus on shelter-building and finding edible plants.

9. Charles C. Deam Wilderness

This 13,000-acre wilderness area offers a true challenge to survivalists. With rugged terrain and dense forest, it’s a place where you can really push your limits when it comes to navigation, fire-making, and food sourcing.

10. Pokagon State Park

If you’re a prepper focused on winter survival, Pokagon is ideal. With its sledding hills and deep woods, you can practice fire-starting in cold weather and test your cold-weather camping gear in real-world conditions.

11. Spring Mill State Park

This state park offers a range of natural features that will test your prepper skills, from cave systems for exploring to rugged terrain and ample wildlife for hunting and trapping practice.

12. Versailles State Park

With its dense woodlands and large lake, Versailles is great for water survival and bushcraft practice. If you’re prepping for a natural disaster, this is an excellent place to practice emergency shelter-building and water purification.

13. Yellowwood State Forest

This is a secluded and serene place, perfect for honing wilderness survival techniques. With limited development, it’s a great spot to practice skills like fire building, finding shelter, and foraging.

14. Turkey Run State Park

Known for its stunning canyons and rock formations, this park offers an opportunity to practice rock climbing, navigating uneven terrain, and testing your mental toughness.

15. Clifty Falls State Park

This park provides rugged, forested terrain where you can practice shelter-building and navigate the more challenging sections of the park. The waterfalls are a good opportunity for water purification and filtering practice.

16. Lake Monroe

Located near Bloomington, Lake Monroe offers great spots for fishing and kayaking, making it a perfect spot to practice water navigation and aquatic survival. The surrounding forest provides ample space for bushcraft training.

17. O’Bannon Woods State Park

Perfect for practicing survival skills, O’Bannon Woods offers primitive campsites and miles of trails. There are also several caves in the area, great for exploring and learning about sheltering in natural formations.

18. Deer Creek Wildlife Management Area

With a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands and forests, this location is great for practicing both survival and wildlife tracking. It offers limited amenities, allowing for an authentic prepper experience.

19. Laurel Ridge

A great spot to work on both navigation and survival, Laurel Ridge offers rugged terrain and steep trails, providing a perfect challenge for any prepper looking to test their hiking endurance.

20. Patoka Lake

This lake provides a good balance of water survival skills and forest-based training. Practice fishing, boating, and shelter-building while being surrounded by rich natural resources.

21. Ferdinand State Forest

Perfect for advanced preppers, this state forest offers a variety of terrains for shelter-building and fire-starting, while also allowing for wildlife tracking and even hunting opportunities.

22. Chain O’ Lakes State Park

Chain O’ Lakes offers a unique experience for water-focused preppers, with its many interconnected lakes. It’s ideal for waterborne survival tactics and camping off the beaten path.

23. Hickory Ridge Campground

Located in Brown County, this site provides a quiet, secluded area for preppers to practice solo survival techniques and hone basic skills like fire-building, foraging, and fishing.

24. Redbird State Recreation Area

A well-known spot for off-roading, this area also provides many trails for hiking and testing your survival skills in dense woods, perfect for testing your navigation and tracking abilities.

25. Pine Hills Nature Preserve

Known for its rugged topography, Pine Hills is great for practicing extreme wilderness survival. With rocky cliffs and thick forests, this is the place to test your endurance and self-reliance.

26. Ridgeway State Forest

For preppers looking for seclusion, Ridgeway offers just that. The forest is perfect for practicing advanced survival techniques like shelter-building in harsh environments and finding food in less hospitable places.

27. Salamonie River State Forest

Another great river-based location, this area allows you to practice survival techniques related to water access, purification, and shelter building in varied terrain.

28. Twelve Mile Creek Park

Located in the western part of Indiana, this park is a great place for primitive camping and prepping. The dense woods and creek access offer great resources for prepping practice.

29. Kankakee River State Park

Kankakee River offers a chance to practice survival in wetland and water-heavy environments. The river is an ideal location for fishing, water purification, and testing the effectiveness of your survival gear in damp conditions.

30. Hickory Run State Park

For the ultimate prepper experience, Hickory Run offers dense forests and pristine lakes. It’s the ideal location for testing your wilderness survival knowledge, whether it’s winter camping or heat endurance.


Indiana’s campgrounds aren’t just for weekend getaways—they’re practical training grounds for any prepper worth their salt. Whether you’re building a bug-out bag, practicing water filtration, or learning how to identify local flora and fauna, these campsites give you the real-world practice you need to be ready for anything.

North Dakota’s Ultimate Survivalist Camping List: Where Preppers Should Go

As a survival prepper living in the harsh, windswept landscape of North Dakota, it’s vital to have the knowledge and resources to thrive when things go south. Whether you’re building your bug-out bags, fortifying your homestead, or just testing your gear, finding the best campsites is a critical part of your prep. North Dakota is home to sprawling wilderness, dense forests, and remote spots where you can practice your survival skills, all while being close enough to civilization should you need to resupply.

In the spirit of preparation, I’ve compiled a list of 30 of the best camping sites across North Dakota for survival preppers. These campsites are not only perfect for testing your gear, they’re also the ideal environment to practice the skills necessary for surviving long-term in harsh conditions.

1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (South Unit)

Located near Medora, this park offers a mix of rocky hills and grasslands. Its diverse ecosystem will give you plenty of opportunities to test your knowledge of foraging, wildlife tracking, and shelter building. The South Unit is particularly rugged, providing an authentic challenge for any prepper.

2. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Unit)

The North Unit is known for its remote location and steep canyons. Perfect for testing your long-term survival skills in an isolated environment. The campgrounds here are primitive, so you’ll need to be fully prepared for self-sufficiency.

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3. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

This state park is a good mix of history and natural beauty. While the campgrounds are more developed, there are secluded areas perfect for survivalist training. Set up your camp near the river for water access and use the surrounding forest to practice building primitive shelters.

4. Turtle Mountain State Forest

Turtle Mountain offers dense forests and rolling hills, ideal for practicing wilderness survival. The park is rich in wildlife, which gives you the opportunity to practice hunting, fishing, and trapping techniques. It’s a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path spot to test your skills.

5. Lake Sakakawea State Park

With its beautiful lakeside setting, Lake Sakakawea State Park is an ideal place for preppers to test their fishing, water purification, and boat handling skills. The remote campgrounds are perfect for getting some off-grid experience.

6. Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

This historic site offers an excellent chance to practice survivalist tactics in a remote, historically significant setting. Set up camp near the trading post ruins, where you can work on your fire-starting and shelter-building skills.

7. Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge

Des Lacs is a remote wildlife refuge perfect for quiet camping and survival practice. It’s a good spot for those who want to work on their camouflage and predator evasion tactics, thanks to its thick forests and vast open spaces.

8. Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area

This park features steep ravines, wildlife-filled forests, and rugged terrain, offering preppers ample opportunities to practice stealth camping and building shelters that blend into the environment.

9. Devils Lake State Park

Famous for its fishing opportunities, Devils Lake offers a great environment for water-based survival skills. It also features diverse terrain, including marshes and forests, making it ideal for practicing a variety of skills.

10. Custer State Park (North Dakota)

This state park has great, well-maintained campgrounds, but its remoteness also allows you to practice some wilderness survival tactics. Take advantage of its abundant wildlife to practice hunting and foraging.

11. Sheyenne National Grassland

Located in the eastern part of North Dakota, this national grassland is a great spot for those wanting to test their skills in more open terrain. With few trees and vast open skies, it’s perfect for honing your navigation and survival tactics in the wilderness.

12. Sakakawea Recreation Area

Another great spot near Lake Sakakawea, this area offers plenty of remote campgrounds for preppers looking to practice water purification, fishing, and campfire building.

13. Missouri River Bottoms

This area is perfect for practicing river survival techniques, such as fishing, trapping, and understanding river navigation. The vast floodplain offers some tough terrain to work with, helping you build your endurance.

14. Cedar River Campground

For more secluded camping, Cedar River Campground provides a great spot to hone your skills in water purification and shelter-building in a forested environment.

15. Bismarck-Mandan Area (Multiple Locations)

Although more urbanized, the Bismarck-Mandan area has several camping spots that offer easy access to wilderness trails and rivers. Use this as a base for urban survival training with easy access to resupply routes.

16. Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site

With both history and wilderness, this site offers an opportunity for preppers to practice stealth camping and historical survival techniques used by native tribes in the area.

17. Bear Den State Park

Known for its rugged terrain and remote campsites, Bear Den State Park is a great spot for testing your shelter-building and water purification skills.

18. Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge

A remote location with unique terrain, it’s perfect for practicing your hunting, fishing, and trapping skills in isolation.

19. Red River Valley

This location offers dense wetlands and forests, perfect for honing survivalist skills in a boggy environment. It’s a great place to practice your navigation skills in less forgiving conditions.

20. Grasslands National Park

For preppers who want to test their endurance in harsher climates, Grasslands National Park offers both beautiful and challenging terrain to help sharpen your survival skills.

21. Garrison Dam State Park

Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, Garrison Dam provides an excellent area for water survival tactics, including fishing and water purification.

22. Pembina Gorge

A rugged and remote area perfect for practicing your bushcraft skills, including building shelters and fire-starting, while staying off the radar.

23. J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge

If you’re looking for a truly isolated spot for your survival prep, this wildlife refuge offers quiet campsites surrounded by nature.

24. Turtle Mountains

Known for dense forests, Turtle Mountains provides a great challenge for survivalists looking to build primitive shelters and practice tracking.

25. Eagle Point Campground

Located on the edge of Lake Sakakawea, Eagle Point provides a mix of camping experiences, from remote spots to well-maintained campsites. A great place to test your water purification and fire-starting skills.

26. Alkaline Flats

This remote location provides endless opportunities to work on your navigation and wilderness survival tactics in a desolate and tough environment.

27. Enchanted Highway Camping

Famous for its roadside attractions, the Enchanted Highway also offers wilderness camping. It’s a place where preppers can practice long-distance hiking and endurance, making it an ideal survival training ground.

28. Golden Valley

Nestled between hills and rivers, Golden Valley provides a perfect mixture of open spaces and forested areas, giving survivalists a variety of terrains to practice.

29. Lake Metigoshe State Park

Situated along the Canadian border, Lake Metigoshe offers both lakeside and forested campgrounds perfect for practicing wilderness survival skills.

30. Badlands Area

This rugged and harsh environment makes it ideal for preppers looking for a challenge. With steep cliffs, deep ravines, and dry terrain, the Badlands offer one of the most demanding survivalist camping environments in the state.


These 30 campsites provide the perfect opportunity for survival preppers to hone their skills in various terrains and environments across North Dakota. From dense forests to expansive grasslands, each site offers its own unique challenges. Whether you’re practicing shelter-building, foraging, or fishing, North Dakota offers everything a survivalist needs to prepare for the worst while enjoying the beauty of the state’s wild landscapes.

Top 20 Survival Campsites in Kansas for Preppers

As a survival prepper living in the great state of Kansas, you know the importance of preparation. From tornadoes to unpredictable weather shifts, Kansas can test the mettle of even the most seasoned survivalists. That’s why it’s crucial to know where to camp, train, and test your skills in the wilderness. Whether you’re preparing for the worst or just getting out into nature to hone your survival skills, Kansas offers some of the best and most accessible campsites for preppers.

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Here’s a guide to 20 of the best camping sites in Kansas that will get you prepared for anything, all while offering a great chance to experience the heart of the Midwest in its most raw and natural form.


1. Tuttle Creek State Park

Tuttle Creek State Park, located near Manhattan, offers 1,200 acres of pristine camping grounds. If you’re looking to practice water purification techniques or just enjoy the outdoors, Tuttle Creek’s proximity to the Kansas River makes it an ideal location. The park is large enough to escape the crowds, but not so remote that you’ll find yourself totally off the grid. Whether you’re testing your shelter-building skills or practicing fire-starting, Tuttle Creek provides everything a prepper needs in a campsite.


2. Wilson State Park

For those who want a rugged, isolated environment for survival training, Wilson State Park is an excellent choice. The park’s secluded campgrounds by the scenic Wilson Lake are ideal for honing your navigation and wilderness survival skills. If you’re concerned about potential threats or simply want to simulate real-world survival conditions, this site offers all the elements you need, including nearby dense woods and open plains.


3. Perry State Park

Perry State Park is a must-visit for Kansas preppers who enjoy a combination of water and land survival. This park, located near the Perry Reservoir, offers abundant opportunities for water-based survival training, such as water filtration, fishing, and kayaking. The thick forests surrounding the park provide plenty of cover for practicing stealth and tactical movements.


4. Lake Scott State Park

If you’re preparing for survival in a semi-arid environment, Lake Scott State Park, located in western Kansas, is a prime destination. Known for its dry, rugged landscape and rocky terrain, this park simulates the challenges that can arise in extreme conditions. From shelter-building techniques to the need for water conservation, Lake Scott provides the perfect environment for learning how to thrive in tough, desert-like conditions.


5. Elk City State Park

This is one of the best spots in Kansas for preppers who are looking to build a solid foundation in wilderness survival. Elk City State Park is located in the southeastern part of the state and offers a great mix of forest and lake environments. It’s perfect for practicing shelter-building, gathering resources, and water collection. The thick woods offer great cover for stealth movements and tactical exercises.


6. Big Hill Lake

Nestled in the southeast corner of Kansas, Big Hill Lake is a hidden gem for preppers looking to escape into nature and practice survival techniques. Whether you’re perfecting your fire-starting skills or experimenting with hunting and fishing, Big Hill Lake provides a diverse landscape to work with. The wooded areas surrounding the lake offer great opportunities for practicing stealth, navigation, and resource management.


7. Kansan State Park

Kansan State Park is known for its rugged terrain and seclusion, making it a prime spot for preppers looking to train in wilderness survival. With plenty of hiking trails and an abundance of wildlife, this park offers a mix of environments that will keep you on your toes. Its isolation also offers the chance to simulate real-world survival conditions with minimal human interference.


8. Cedar Bluff State Park

Cedar Bluff State Park is one of Kansas’ hidden treasures, located in the western part of the state. The park is home to a series of bluffs, canyons, and creeks that make it a perfect place for testing your survival knowledge. It’s a great spot for practicing water filtration, purifying food, and testing various wilderness techniques. Its remote location provides the solitude you need to hone your skills and perfect your self-reliance.


9. Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge

For preppers looking for a truly wild experience, the Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge offers expansive prairie lands and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. The vast, open spaces are perfect for practicing long-range navigation, identifying natural resources, and testing your skills in camouflage and survival tactics. The absence of many man-made structures in the area also gives you a genuine “off-the-grid” experience.


10. Rock Creek Station State Park

Rock Creek Station State Park, located in the heart of the state, offers a variety of terrain perfect for prepping. It’s great for survivalists who want to practice camping in diverse conditions, from forests to grasslands. The park also has historical significance, making it an excellent choice for preppers interested in learning about early American survival tactics while testing modern skills.


11. Kanopolis State Park

Kanopolis State Park is known for its picturesque scenery and diverse wildlife. It offers rugged, hilly terrain that will challenge even the most experienced preppers. Whether you’re working on land navigation, wilderness shelter building, or honing your fishing skills, Kanopolis State Park provides the space and variety to test a variety of techniques.


12. Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area

Cheyenne Bottoms is a natural wetland area in central Kansas, making it a prime spot for learning and practicing water-based survival skills. It’s perfect for testing your knowledge of survival tactics that require access to water, including fishing, water purification, and navigation. This area is great for preppers who are focused on developing their knowledge of aquatic survival.


13. Wilson Lake Shoreline

If you’re looking for a secluded place to practice everything from shelter building to water purification, the Wilson Lake Shoreline is one of the best options in Kansas. This area is perfect for preppers who want to stay close to water while honing their outdoor survival skills. With miles of shoreline and plenty of natural cover, this spot offers a perfect balance of challenge and accessibility.


14. Sand Hills State Park

Located in central Kansas, Sand Hills State Park offers a unique opportunity to practice survival techniques in an arid, desert-like environment. The park’s sandy terrain, dry brush, and scarce water make it an excellent place for testing your skills in managing resources and adapting to tough conditions. Whether you’re practicing basic survival skills or working on long-term sustainability, this park is a challenging environment that will put your preparation to the test.


15. Smoky Hill River State Park

Situated in central Kansas, Smoky Hill River State Park is an ideal location for preppers who want to test their wilderness survival skills in a rugged, rocky environment. The terrain varies from wide open grasslands to tree-filled areas along the river, offering opportunities to work on shelter-building, water purification, and general survival tactics.


16. Troy City Park

If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate setting to practice survival, Troy City Park offers a peaceful, less crowded environment for honing your skills. Located in the northeast part of the state, this park offers hiking trails, wildlife, and water features that make it ideal for preppers to practice essential survival techniques like navigation, water collection, and fishing.


17. Hillsdale Lake

Hillsdale Lake is another great spot for survival preppers in Kansas, especially if you want to practice water-based survival skills. The lake offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, water filtration, and other aquatic survival techniques. The surrounding area is wooded, making it an excellent place for setting up camp and practicing your wilderness skills.


18. Lake Melvern

Melvern Lake, located in eastern Kansas, offers a peaceful setting for preppers looking to practice everything from fishing and water purification to shelter building and navigation. The wooded areas surrounding the lake provide plenty of natural cover, while the lake itself offers ample opportunities for testing water survival techniques.


19. Meade State Park

Meade State Park is perfect for preppers who want to get away from it all and practice essential survival techniques. Located in the southwestern part of the state, this park features rugged, isolated terrain that provides the ideal setting for building shelters, gathering resources, and learning survival skills without distractions.


20. Lakeside Hills

Lakeside Hills is a quiet, secluded campground in the northeastern part of the state, offering wooded terrain and ample opportunities for preppers to practice basic wilderness survival skills. It’s a great spot for those looking to set up camp in a remote setting and simulate survival conditions in a low-stress environment.

Conclusion: Mastering Survival in Kansas’ Best Campsites

As a survival prepper in Kansas, you understand the critical need to stay prepared for a wide range of scenarios, from severe weather events like tornadoes to grid failures or even a longer-term survival situation. The state of Kansas, with its unique mix of prairies, forests, lakes, and rugged terrain, offers a perfect training ground for honing survival skills that could make all the difference when disaster strikes. Whether you’re practicing fire-starting techniques, perfecting your shelter-building abilities, or learning how to purify water from nearby lakes and rivers, Kansas’ diverse campsites provide the ideal environment to push your survival abilities to their limits.

Each of the campsites featured in this guide represents an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and practice life-saving skills that are essential for every prepper. From the dense forests of Perry State Park to the arid, rugged beauty of Lake Scott State Park, these sites allow you to test your resourcefulness, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a variety of environments. Whether you’re looking for seclusion, water-based survival training, or a combination of both, Kansas offers diverse landscapes to meet every prepper’s needs.

Moreover, many of these parks and campsites are situated in remote or semi-remote areas, which gives you the opportunity to simulate real-world survival conditions where communication and outside help may not be readily available. Practicing in these isolated locations will help you refine critical skills like navigation, food procurement, water sourcing, and creating effective shelter — all fundamental aspects of survival that can be relied upon in an emergency.

While these campsites are perfect for honing your individual survival skills, they also offer valuable opportunities to train with family or fellow preppers. The knowledge and skills you gain in these natural environments can also be shared with others, helping you build a community of like-minded individuals who are just as focused on self-sufficiency and preparedness.

Kansas’ camping destinations also offer an added benefit that’s often overlooked in survival preparation: they allow for rest and mental clarity. A survival situation isn’t just about physical endurance — it’s about mental strength and the ability to make clear decisions under pressure. By taking the time to camp in these beautiful yet challenging locations, you can improve your focus, adaptability, and ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations. This mental toughness will be invaluable when faced with unexpected crises.

Ultimately, the key to survival lies in the ability to adapt and respond to the unexpected. As a prepper in Kansas, these campsites are your testing ground. They allow you to simulate various disaster scenarios, practice emergency protocols, and prepare yourself for whatever comes your way. From long-term camping to quick weekend getaways, these campsites provide the perfect backdrop to keep sharpening your skills, testing new gear, and continuously improving your preparedness plan.

Whether you’re just starting your prepper journey or are an experienced survivalist looking for new training grounds, Kansas offers some of the best and most versatile campsites for your needs. So grab your gear, prepare for the unexpected, and head out to one of these top campsites to start building the skills that will ensure you’re ready for whatever the future holds. Remember, survival isn’t just about having the right tools — it’s about the knowledge, skills, and experience you acquire along the way. Make the most of these Kansas camping sites, and you’ll be better prepared for anything the world may throw at you.