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.
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.
30 Campsites in Wisconsin That Every Survival Prepper Should Explore
When it comes to survival prepping, few places offer the rugged beauty and challenge of Wisconsin. As a seasoned prepper living in the state, I know that the right campground isn’t just a place to pitch a tent—it’s a proving ground for your survival skills. From testing your fire-starting abilities to practicing shelter-building techniques, the right campsite can make all the difference in ensuring you’re ready for any emergency. Whether you’re training for long-term wilderness survival, looking for seclusion, or simply trying to explore the natural beauty of Wisconsin, there are plenty of campgrounds to meet your prepper needs.
Here are 30 of the best campsites in Wisconsin for survival preppers like you.
This vast wilderness is one of the top places in Wisconsin for any prepper looking to test their outdoor skills. With over 1.5 million acres of forested land, you can practice everything from foraging to shelter-building. There are numerous primitive campsites to choose from, and it’s perfect for solo survival training.
2. Roche-A-Cri State Park
Located in the central part of Wisconsin, Roche-A-Cri offers rugged terrain and scenic views. You’ll find campsites that are perfect for seclusion and honing your fire-starting techniques, all while enjoying the wild, unspoiled beauty of the area.
3. Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit
With its diverse terrain of rolling hills, deep forests, and sparkling lakes, Kettle Moraine’s Northern Unit is an excellent spot for practicing navigation and wilderness survival skills. The campsites are primitive, which means you’ll get to test your self-sufficiency under more authentic conditions.
4. Devil’s Lake State Park
Located near Baraboo, Devil’s Lake offers stunning views and diverse terrain for preppers who want to hone their skills in different environments. The park is popular, so you might not get complete solitude, but it’s perfect for practicing survival skills and prepping for more remote trips.
5. Black River State Forest
This 60,000-acre forest is ideal for those who want to experience a variety of survival training. There are ample opportunities to test your skills in a remote environment, with primitive campsites perfect for more hardcore survivalists.
6. Brule River State Forest
The Brule River State Forest is known for its pristine wilderness and offers a great opportunity to work on your water navigation skills. The campsites here range from primitive to more accessible, allowing preppers to choose their level of difficulty.
7. Copper Falls State Park
If you’re looking for seclusion combined with some beautiful terrain, Copper Falls is your spot. The park’s rugged, forested areas are great for testing your survival instincts while also enjoying the beauty of waterfalls and deep woods.
8. Door County Coastal Byway
With its abundance of wilderness and isolated camping options, Door County offers the ideal setting for long-term bug-out training. The area’s campgrounds are known for their privacy, making it perfect for solo preppers.
9. Perrot State Park
This park is known for its steep bluffs and overlooks that give it a dramatic feel, ideal for preppers looking to practice navigation and self-sufficiency in a challenging environment. The secluded campsites here are perfect for survival training.
10. High Cliff State Park
Located along Lake Winnebago, High Cliff offers great opportunities for water survival training and testing your preparedness against natural elements. The terrain varies from forested areas to steep cliffs, providing a variety of survival challenges.
11. Governor Dodge State Park
With more than 1,500 acres of forest and two lakes, Governor Dodge is an excellent site for survivalists looking to test their wilderness navigation and fire-starting techniques. The park has both primitive and modern campsites, allowing for a range of prepper activities.
12. Pattison State Park
Pattison is home to Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall, but it’s not just the natural beauty that draws preppers to this site—it’s the challenging terrain and remote campsites. This park is great for both water-based survival practice and wilderness training.
13. Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge
The 6,000 acres of wetlands in this refuge make it an excellent choice for survivalists who want to test their ability to navigate swampy, wetland areas. It’s a perfect location for practicing water navigation and stealth survival tactics.
14. Big Falls County Park
Big Falls offers a blend of rugged wilderness and serene beauty, making it ideal for both testing your skills and enjoying the peace of nature. The campsites are secluded, offering privacy while you practice your survival skills.
15. Nelson Dewey State Park
Located on the Mississippi River, this park provides unique survival challenges, such as river navigation, shelter-building, and foraging in a diverse environment. The campsites are primitive, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your training.
16. Interstate State Park
Located on the St. Croix River, this park offers great opportunities for water-based survival exercises as well as traditional wilderness survival activities. The terrain includes cliffs, rock outcroppings, and deep forests for testing your overall survival skills.
17. Lake Kegonsa State Park
This beautiful park is perfect for preppers who want to practice their fishing, water navigation, and overall wilderness survival. The peaceful environment allows for both mental and physical preparedness exercises.
18. Willow River State Park
Willow River is known for its picturesque waterfalls, but it also offers challenging hiking trails and various opportunities for survival training. The park has both primitive and developed campsites, making it ideal for testing a variety of prepper skills.
19. Lake Wissota State Park
Situated on the shores of Lake Wissota, this park provides plenty of opportunities for water survival training and fishing. The campsites are secluded and allow preppers to focus on honing their survival techniques.
20. Wildcat Mountain State Park
The rugged terrain of Wildcat Mountain makes it a favorite for experienced preppers. It offers challenging hikes, beautiful views, and isolated campsites that are perfect for survivalists looking for a real test.
21. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
The Apostle Islands offer a unique challenge with its remote islands and dense forests. Perfect for water-based survival training, the campsites are isolated, which makes it ideal for serious preppers looking to test their skills.
22. Menominee County Forest
This lesser-known gem is perfect for preppers who want to test their skills in a more secluded and rugged environment. The forest has a number of primitive campsites where you can practice long-term survival techniques.
23. Lac Vieux Desert Campground
This remote spot offers both water and woodland survival challenges. The campsites are primitive, providing a true prepper experience where you can hone your shelter-building, fire-starting, and navigation skills.
24. Wisconsin Dells
Although better known for its tourist attractions, Wisconsin Dells also offers some great campsites for preppers looking to stay near both water and wilderness. It’s an excellent place to practice your survival skills while still being near the conveniences of civilization.
25. Flambeau River State Forest
The Flambeau River is a perfect place for water-based survivalists to practice their skills. The state forest provides seclusion and plenty of opportunities for navigating through the dense woods and building shelters.
26. The Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest
This vast forest is home to hundreds of lakes and miles of hiking trails. It’s a prepper’s paradise, with numerous campsites that range from primitive to more accessible, allowing for all levels of survival training.
27. Mole Lake Campground
Located near the Mole Lake, this area offers a mix of woodlands and wetlands that are perfect for testing your survival skills. The quiet, isolated campsites make it ideal for preppers seeking solitude.
28. Pine Point Campground
Pine Point’s remote location on the shores of the Mississippi River makes it a fantastic place for testing your navigation and wilderness skills, particularly in the winter months when conditions get more challenging.
29. Buckhorn State Park
This state park, located along the Wisconsin River, offers plenty of opportunities for water survival and wilderness training. It’s perfect for those who want to test their preparedness in a variety of environments.
30. Hartman Creek State Park
With its stunning scenery and numerous trails, Hartman Creek is an excellent place to hone your outdoor survival skills, whether you’re practicing navigation, shelter-building, or foraging.
Whether you’re a seasoned prepper or just starting out, these 30 Wisconsin campsites offer the perfect mix of rugged terrain, seclusion, and natural beauty to test your skills and get ready for anything. Don’t wait for the world to change—get out there, prepare, and thrive in Wisconsin’s wild outdoors!
When you’re a prepper living in the rugged terrain of New Hampshire, you’re no stranger to the wild and untamed nature of the land. Whether you’re preparing for the worst-case scenario or just want to spend some time honing your survival skills, the Granite State offers some of the best campsites for survivalists. From dense forests to remote mountain ranges, New Hampshire is a goldmine for those who want to be off the grid and ready for anything. Below, we explore the 30 best camping sites for preppers in New Hampshire. These campsites are perfect for those who want to test their wilderness survival skills or just get away from it all while still being close enough to resources in case you need them.
Located in the White Mountains, Crawford Notch State Park is ideal for survivalists. The park’s rugged terrain offers ample opportunities for bushcraft, hunting, and fishing. If you’re looking for a spot to practice your fire-starting skills or to set up a temporary shelter, this is the place to do it. Nearby, you’ll find the Saco River, which is perfect for water purification experiments.
2. Franconia Notch State Park
Franconia Notch is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in New Hampshire. The park is surrounded by steep cliffs, dense woods, and plenty of wildlife. This site is perfect for advanced survivalists who want to experience challenging terrain. You’ll find abundant hiking trails, and the infamous “Old Man of the Mountain” memorial makes for an iconic backdrop.
3. White Mountain National Forest
As the largest national forest in New Hampshire, the White Mountain National Forest offers a massive area for preppers to explore and practice survival skills. There are countless trails, campsites, and remote areas where you can set up camp. The terrain includes everything from thick forests to high-altitude peaks. It’s the ideal location for prepping and practicing your navigation and shelter-building skills.
4. Moose Brook State Park
This park, located near Berlin, offers great access to the northern White Mountains. If you need a secluded area to hone your skills, Moose Brook offers quiet campgrounds, perfect for survivalists who want to practice stealth camping. There are ample fishing opportunities, and the nearby terrain provides plenty of challenges for testing your resourcefulness.
5. Mount Monadnock State Park
Known as one of the most climbed mountains in the world, Mount Monadnock is an excellent location for preppers looking to test their endurance. The summit provides an incredible vantage point over the surrounding forest, perfect for learning topographic map navigation. The park offers primitive campsites for those who want to stay off the beaten path.
Tucked away in the heart of the White Mountains, Ellis River Campground offers a secluded environment for those interested in primitive camping. With the Ellis River nearby, it’s a great location for testing water purification methods or practicing fishing for your food. The forest offers excellent opportunities for shelter building and wildlife tracking.
7. Lake Francis State Park
Lake Francis, in the northern part of the state, is known for its wild, unspoiled beauty. This park is remote enough that you’ll have to rely on your survival skills if you plan to go off-grid. The lake is ideal for water-based survival practice, and the surrounding woodlands are great for setting up an emergency camp.
8. Pawtuckaway State Park
Pawtuckaway State Park offers a variety of campsites that range from more developed to primitive. This diversity makes it perfect for preppers, as you can start with easy access and move to more challenging locations. With wooded trails, marshes, and a large pond, it’s an excellent location for wildlife identification and survival practices like fire-building and trapping.
9. Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves
For those who want to practice survival skills in a unique location, Lost River Gorge offers a fascinating environment. The caves and gorge offer natural shelter opportunities, while the boulders can be used for rock climbing and testing your ability to navigate rough terrain. This is one of the best campsites for preppers who like to think outside the box.
10. Tuckerman Ravine
If you’re an experienced prepper looking to push your limits, Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington should be on your list. The area is challenging, and the weather can be brutal, but it’s a perfect place for advanced survivalists. The rugged terrain and rapidly changing weather conditions will test your resilience and ability to adapt in a real wilderness survival scenario.
11. Gorham Mountain Trail Camp
For preppers looking for high-altitude training, the Gorham Mountain Trail Camp is the place to go. Located in Acadia National Park, it’s the ideal spot for refining your wilderness navigation skills. The view from the summit provides a unique perspective of the land, while the area around the campsite offers multiple natural resources to practice with.
12. Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway is more than just a scenic drive – it’s a prime location for camping. The area is rich in wildlife, and the surrounding forests make it perfect for bushcraft exercises. Preppers can test their ability to survive in diverse environments, from river crossings to dense woods, all while staying relatively close to the highway for easy extraction if necessary.
13. The Androscoggin River Campsites
For those interested in water-based survival skills, camping along the Androscoggin River offers plenty of opportunities. This river is not only a beautiful site but also a perfect location for practicing water purification and fishing techniques. You’ll also find dense woods where you can perfect your shelter-building skills.
14. Jenness State Beach Campground
For preppers looking to practice survival skills in a coastal environment, Jenness State Beach Campground offers a unique experience. With access to both saltwater and fresh water, this site is ideal for practicing coastal survival techniques, including fishing, foraging, and fire-starting.
15. Baker River Campground
Located near Rumney, the Baker River Campground is nestled along the river, providing an ideal environment for testing your bushcraft and survival skills. This location offers a mix of flat grounds, river access, and forested areas to practice building shelters and water purification. It’s remote enough to be a challenge but close enough to civilization if things go awry.
16. Wildcat Mountain
For more experienced preppers, Wildcat Mountain offers a rugged challenge. The terrain here is tough, with steep inclines and unpredictable weather, making it perfect for testing endurance and resourcefulness. There are plenty of wooded areas for setting up camp and practicing stealth tactics.
17. Sawyer Pond Campsite
Sawyer Pond, located in the central part of the state, offers a serene location to practice traditional survival skills. The pond provides an excellent water source for testing purification techniques, while the surrounding forest is ideal for tracking and wildlife observation.
18. Camp Northwood
A more secluded and primitive campsite located near Lake Winnipesaukee, Camp Northwood is perfect for prepping in a relatively isolated area. The terrain around the lake provides a combination of wetland and forested environments, great for testing a variety of survival skills.
19. Pine River Campground
A tranquil location near the White Mountains, the Pine River Campground offers preppers a perfect mix of isolation and access to resources. There’s abundant wildlife to track, and the nearby river provides both water purification and fishing practice.
20. Mount Chocorua Campground
Mount Chocorua is one of the most iconic peaks in New Hampshire, and its campground offers an excellent base for survivalists. It’s secluded, with rugged terrain perfect for wilderness skills practice. Set up camp and test your ability to navigate through varied landscapes.
21-30: Other Notable Campsites in New Hampshire for Survival Preppers:
Hancock Campground
Jockey Hollow
Carter Notch Hut
Grafton Notch State Park
Cranmore Mountain Resort
Mount Cardigan
Nansen Wayside Campground
Shelburne Campground
Baker Valley Campground
Echo Lake State Park
Conclusion
For survival preppers in New Hampshire, the abundance of rugged terrain and remote locations provides a multitude of opportunities to hone your skills and test your preparedness. Whether you’re learning how to build a fire, forage for food, or navigate the wilderness, New Hampshire’s campsites offer an unparalleled setting for training, practice, and testing your resilience. Remember, the key to being ready for any emergency is to have the skills and the mindset to survive, no matter what. These campsites will give you the space you need to get in touch with nature and sharpen your survival instincts.
Discover New York’s Most Challenging Survival Campsites
If you’re a prepper living in New York, you’re probably already aware that your survival plan needs to include reliable access to nature. In a state as diverse as New York, with its dense forests, rugged mountains, and sprawling lakes, it’s the perfect place to prepare for all kinds of situations. Whether you’re looking for an off-the-grid weekend retreat, a basecamp for your bug-out plan, or just a place to practice wilderness survival skills, New York is home to some of the best campsites that cater to every prepper’s needs.
As survivalists, we know that camping is more than just recreation—it’s preparation. It’s the opportunity to hone your skills, test your gear, and get comfortable with self-sufficiency in the wild. In this guide, we’ll go over 30 of the best campsites in New York for survival preppers. These campsites offer everything from backcountry, primitive camping to more established sites where you can stock up and get away from it all. Whether you’re testing out a new shelter or practicing bushcraft, there’s a spot here that fits the bill.
1. Adirondack Park: A Prepper’s Paradise
Adirondack Park is one of the largest protected areas in the U.S., covering over six million acres. The size of this wilderness alone makes it a perfect location for a prepper’s retreat. The park offers an expansive network of trails and primitive campsites where you can practice your skills in survival, navigation, and self-reliance. Remote lakes and rivers offer ideal spots for fishing and water purification practices.
Campgrounds: The state has more than 100 campsites scattered throughout the park, but for a true prepper experience, you’ll want to check out the backcountry sites.
Skills to Practice: Wilderness navigation, fire-starting, shelter-building, water filtration.
2. Letchworth State Park: The Grand Canyon of the East
Known for its dramatic gorge and the Genesee River cutting through, Letchworth State Park is a wonderful place for both beginner and advanced preppers. With over 14,000 acres of rugged terrain, this park offers a variety of experiences, from easy-to-access campsites to more remote, primitive ones for those who want to test their survival mettle.
Campgrounds: You’ll find several campgrounds with amenities, but the more remote sites on the western side of the park offer a challenge for those wanting a deeper survival experience.
Skills to Practice: Topographic map reading, first-aid, fire-starting in damp conditions.
3. Catskill Mountains: Steeped in Wilderness and History
The Catskills are a rugged mountain range that stretches over 700,000 acres in southeastern New York. A favorite for backpackers and survivalists, the Catskills are packed with hiking trails and primitive camping options. The terrain here will challenge your skills and force you to adapt to ever-changing conditions.
Campgrounds: The high-elevation sites along the Long Path and the Pine Hill-West Kill trail will provide solitude and allow you to practice backcountry survival.
Skills to Practice: Map and compass use, knot-tying, building improvised shelters.
4. Shawangunk Ridge: Rugged and Remote
If you’re looking for rugged, isolated terrain where you can disconnect and get serious about prepping, the Shawangunk Ridge is the place to be. This area offers everything from high cliffs to deep forests, making it a great location for testing your wilderness survival skills.
Campgrounds: The Sam’s Point area has several primitive campsites, but for the truly adventurous, the backcountry campsites off the main trails are the most secluded.
Skills to Practice: Shelter-building, hunting, foraging, signaling for help.
5. Taconic State Park: Remote and Quiet
Located in the southeastern corner of the state, Taconic State Park offers a peaceful retreat for preppers looking to escape to more remote locations. With its mix of dense woods and open fields, Taconic is a great spot to practice bushcraft and hone your fire-making techniques in a variety of environments.
Campgrounds: Several primitive campsites near Rudd Pond provide a more isolated experience. The Taconic Trail offers ample opportunities for backcountry exploration.
Skills to Practice: Water purification, creating traps, building effective shelters.
6. Finger Lakes National Forest: Lakeside Survival
The Finger Lakes region is known for its clear, deep lakes, and the national forest here is no exception. The forest offers several campsites located near water, which is ideal for learning fishing, water treatment, and utilizing natural resources. For a prepper, having access to a water source is a key factor in determining camp location.
Campgrounds: The Backbone Campground is situated in a secluded area, providing the perfect base for testing your outdoor skills.
Skills to Practice: Fishing, water purification, crafting tools from stone and wood.
7. Harriman State Park: Just a Stone’s Throw from the City
If you’re based in New York City, Harriman State Park offers a quick getaway without venturing too far. Despite its proximity to the city, Harriman is a large park with plenty of backcountry campsites, making it a prime spot for testing your survival skills in a relatively controlled setting.
Campgrounds: The park has both developed and primitive campsites, with remote sites along the Long Path and the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail.
Skills to Practice: Navigation, long-term food storage, night survival techniques.
8. Mohonk Preserve: A Nature Lover’s Sanctuary
This stunning preserve in the Shawangunk Mountains offers a variety of outdoor experiences, including backcountry camping for those who want to test their preparedness in a pristine, protected environment. It’s not just about camping here—it’s about integrating survivalism into the natural ecosystem.
Campgrounds: The preserve’s camping areas offer access to diverse habitats for testing different types of shelters and survival strategies.
Skills to Practice: Foraging for edible plants, emergency shelter-building, wilderness first-aid.
9. North-South Lake: Escape to the Catskills
Located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, North-South Lake offers a prime location for preppers to practice their survival skills with access to both water and wilderness. The campsites here are well-established but also provide access to remote and less-visited backcountry areas.
Campgrounds: The North-South Lake Campground is ideal for beginner preppers, while the surrounding wilderness areas are perfect for more advanced survivalists.
Skills to Practice: Fishing, water filtration, natural navigation.
10. Lake Placid: Adventure and Survival Combined
Lake Placid is known for its winter sports, but it’s also an excellent spot for preppers. Located in the Adirondacks, this area offers both rugged terrain and access to water, making it a prime location for honing skills in a variety of environments.
Campgrounds: The area has several backcountry campsites that are ideal for testing both your survival gear and your ability to live off the land.
Skills to Practice: Winter camping, ice fishing, shelter-building in harsh conditions.
11. Green Lakes State Park: Beautiful and Practical
Located near Syracuse, Green Lakes State Park is a picturesque site with two glacial lakes. For preppers, this area offers the opportunity to practice survival in a relatively controlled environment while having easy access to clean water and fish. It’s a great location for testing emergency supplies and gear.
Campgrounds: The campgrounds offer access to lakeside camping with easy access to hiking trails and survival testing spots.
Skills to Practice: Fishing, emergency preparedness, first-aid skills.
12. Boreas Ponds: Remote and Rugged
For those who want to take their prepping to the next level, Boreas Ponds is a secluded, hard-to-reach location within the Adirondacks. The ponds and surrounding wilderness provide a truly isolated experience, perfect for testing your limits.
Campgrounds: Primitive campsites scattered around the ponds and accessible only by trail offer solitude and immersion in nature.
Skills to Practice: Water sourcing, navigating in isolation, long-term food storage.
13. Saranac Lake: A Prepper’s Oasis in the Wild
Saranac Lake offers a unique combination of wilderness, beauty, and remote camping. The region is home to multiple campgrounds and backcountry sites that are ideal for preppers looking to test their survival skills without too much interference from modern civilization.
Campgrounds: The surrounding forest and lake make it a great location for testing shelter-building, hunting, and trapping.
Skills to Practice: Fishing, fire-making, water filtration.
14. Ticonderoga: Fort and Wilderness
Ticonderoga is known for its historic fort, but the surrounding wilderness offers much more for a prepper. With its location near Lake Champlain, it’s a great area for practicing aquatic survival skills, navigation, and wilderness shelter building.
Campgrounds: Primitive campsites along the Lake Champlain shore provide a mix of history and survival experience.
Skills to Practice: Shelter-building, historical knowledge, water sourcing.
15. Allegany State Park: Large and Diverse
This massive state park offers a mix of forest, open land, and mountainous terrain. It’s perfect for preppers looking to test out a variety of survival techniques in one area.
Campgrounds: The park has several established campgrounds with primitive sites for serious survivalists.
Skills to Practice: Tracking, shelter-building, foraging.
16. Balsam Lake Mountain: A Peak Experience
For a real challenge, head to Balsam Lake Mountain. With a summit offering panoramic views and a remote setting, it’s a great place to work on your prepper skills in a more challenging environment.
Campgrounds: Several backcountry campsites along the mountain trails allow for extensive wilderness testing.
Skills to Practice: Hiking, navigation, fire-making in high altitudes.
17. Wilson State Park: Secluded Wilderness
This state park in the southern part of the Adirondacks is known for its wild, remote setting. It’s perfect for testing your backcountry survival skills without distractions from other campers.
Campgrounds: With its rugged terrain, the campgrounds are isolated, offering an excellent testing ground for preppers.
Skills to Practice: Navigation, bushcraft, water sourcing.
18. Hither Hills State Park: Coastal Survival Skills
Located on Long Island, Hither Hills State Park offers a different type of wilderness compared to the dense forests of the Adirondacks or Catskills. The coastal environment here is perfect for practicing coastal survival skills, such as fishing, foraging, and beach shelter-building.
Campgrounds: The park’s oceanside campsites provide access to both forests and beaches, offering an ideal setting for water-based survival practices.
Skills to Practice: Coastal foraging, fishing, shelter-building on sandy terrain.
19. Montauk Point State Park: Coastal Retreat
At the farthest tip of Long Island, Montauk Point offers some of the most remote, rugged coastal terrain. Ideal for preppers looking to master survival skills along the coast, Montauk combines the harshness of the sea with wilderness challenges.
Campgrounds: With limited campsites near the lighthouse and surrounding terrain, it’s a great spot for testing survival tactics and gear for coastal environments.
Skills to Practice: Saltwater fishing, sea survival, emergency signaling.
20. Rondout Reservoir: Off the Beaten Path
Located in the Catskills, the Rondout Reservoir is a hidden gem for preppers looking for a remote site. The reservoir and surrounding forest offer a pristine location to test your skills, especially for water sourcing and aquatic survival techniques.
Campgrounds: There are few established campgrounds here, and most camping requires a trek into more isolated areas.
Skills to Practice: Fishing, water filtration, long-distance hiking.
21. Seward Mountain: Rugged Adirondack Challenge
For preppers looking for a serious challenge, Seward Mountain provides the rugged terrain and remote setting you need to put your survival skills to the test. This area is perfect for training in altitude, exposure, and long-term survival practices.
Campgrounds: The lack of established campsites makes it an ideal spot for backcountry camping.
Skills to Practice: Altitude survival, trail navigation, advanced fire-building.
22. Palisades Interstate Park: Urban Escape
Located just across the river from New York City, Palisades Interstate Park offers a surprising escape into nature with cliffs, woodlands, and riverside spots. It’s ideal for prepping if you’re located in or near the city but need to retreat into nature.
Campgrounds: With easy access to the city but a wild atmosphere, this park is perfect for weekend getaways with a focus on survival training.
Skills to Practice: Urban escape planning, water purification, minimal camping.
23. High Peaks Wilderness: Ultimate Prepper Challenge
High Peaks is home to New York’s highest mountains, offering terrain that will test even the most seasoned prepper. This area offers an abundance of backcountry campsites in a rugged, remote wilderness environment, perfect for serious long-term survival practice.
Campgrounds: Remote campsites only accessible by foot, making it ideal for experienced preppers.
Skills to Practice: Wilderness navigation, shelter-building, winter survival.
24. Otter Creek: Off the Grid
If you’re looking for a true off-the-grid experience, Otter Creek offers remote backcountry camping perfect for preppers wanting to disconnect entirely. Located near the Adirondacks, it offers both water access and forested terrain for testing your survival skills.
Campgrounds: Primitive camping sites scattered throughout the area provide a true wilderness experience.
Skills to Practice: Fire-starting without matches, fishing, stealth camping.
25. Lake George Wild Forest: Nature’s Bounty
The Lake George Wild Forest offers abundant resources for preppers, including clean water, wild food sources, and shelter-building materials. The extensive trail network and forested terrain make it a perfect location for a comprehensive survival practice.
Campgrounds: A mix of primitive and established campsites throughout the area provides varying levels of challenge for preppers.
Skills to Practice: Wild edibles, trap-setting, crafting survival tools.
26. Zaleski State Forest: Wilderness Exploration
While technically just over the border in Ohio, Zaleski State Forest has become a popular choice for preppers looking to challenge themselves in the wild. Its isolation and rugged terrain make it a great spot for practicing long-term survival techniques.
Campgrounds: Zaleski offers few established campsites, so you’re likely to be in complete isolation.
Skills to Practice: Navigation, stealth camping, fire-starting in wet conditions.
27. Cherry Ridge Wilderness Area: Seclusion and Silence
Cherry Ridge is one of the most remote camping locations in New York State, offering a deep wilderness experience. This location is perfect for practicing survival skills in an isolated environment, far from civilization.
Campgrounds: With minimal infrastructure, this area is ideal for those wanting to test their true survival skills.
Skills to Practice: Long-term shelter-building, wilderness foraging, tracking.
Additional Tips for Preppers Camping in New York:
Be Prepared for the Weather: New York’s climate varies greatly depending on the region, so make sure to check weather reports before heading out. The Adirondacks can be cold, even in summer, while the Catskills can have sudden weather shifts.
Carry Essential Survival Gear: Always have a survival kit with essentials such as a knife, fire starter, first-aid kit, flashlight, water purifier, and food rations.
Know Your Water Sources: Many of these campsites offer access to lakes and rivers, but always purify your water. Knowing how to filter water and make it potable is a crucial prepper skill.
Practice Leave No Trace: Be respectful of nature. Take everything you bring and leave no trace of your stay.
Consider Emergency Communication: It’s a good idea to carry a satellite phone or radio in case of emergency, especially in more remote areas.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re looking for an off-the-grid retreat, a basecamp for your bug-out plan, or just a place to test your survival skills, New York State has something to offer every prepper. From the dense forests of the Adirondacks to the rugged peaks of the Catskills, each of these campsites provides a unique environment for prepping, learning, and honing your skills. So, gather your gear, pick a spot, and get out there—your next survival training adventure awaits!
The Best Campsites for Ohio Survival Preppers: Nature, Resources, and Strategic Retreats
When you’re living in Ohio and preparing for any number of potential disasters, you need to make sure you’re ready. Having the right camping spots in your back pocket is vital—these locations are not just great for a weekend getaway but are crucial to your preparedness strategy. Whether it’s because of a natural disaster, civil unrest, or an economic collapse, knowing where to go and what to bring is half the battle.
But let’s be real: camping in Ohio isn’t just about pitching a tent in the woods. As a prepper, you’re looking for more. You need access to freshwater, shelter from the elements, strategic positioning in case of an emergency, and an understanding of the local wildlife and plants. Fortunately, Ohio has plenty of off-the-grid campgrounds and outdoor retreats that can help you hone your survival skills while also giving you peace of mind. Below, I’m going to share 30 of the best campsites across Ohio that will not only allow you to connect with nature but also give you the opportunity to practice critical survival skills in a relatively safe and controlled environment.
So grab your bug-out bag, check your gear, and let’s dive into these Ohio survival prepper-approved camping locations.
Wayne National Forest, covering over 240,000 acres, is a survival prepper’s dream. This expansive forest offers rugged terrain, ample water sources, and plenty of natural resources to forage. The diverse landscapes—from dense woods to open grasslands—make it the perfect place to test your skills. With campsites like Lake Vesuvius and Clear Creek Campground, Wayne National Forest has plenty of options for those looking to get deep into Ohio’s wilderness.
Survival Prepper Bonus: The forest is home to several unique species of wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, and black bears, making it a prime location to practice hunting and tracking.
2. Hocking Hills State Park – Southeastern Ohio
Hocking Hills is probably one of the most popular camping areas in Ohio, and for good reason. With its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and rich ecosystems, this park is not only beautiful but also strategic. The Old Man’s Cave area offers excellent shelter in the form of rock shelters and caves that can be utilized in an emergency scenario.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Learn how to utilize rock formations for protection against the elements and practice water purification techniques using the local streams.
3. Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Northeastern Ohio
Just outside Cleveland, this 32,000-acre national park offers everything from dense forests to open fields, making it a great prepper location. Brandywine Falls and the Towpath Trail provide water access and good paths for tracking. The park’s diverse habitats give you the chance to practice different survival skills in varied terrain.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Practice building shelters near water sources and take note of edible plants like wild mushrooms and berries.
4. Salt Fork State Park – Eastern Ohio
Salt Fork State Park is Ohio’s largest state park, with over 17,000 acres of wilderness. It has plenty of campsites spread throughout, allowing you to pick a more remote location if you’re trying to truly get away from civilization. The Salt Fork Lake can be used for water filtration experiments or fishing, and the woods provide plenty of resources for shelter and fire-building.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Plenty of game animals roam these forests, so it’s an ideal place for practicing hunting, trapping, and tracking.
5. Tar Hollow State Park – Southeastern Ohio
This park is a hidden gem for prepper types looking for a quiet, less-traveled location to hone their skills. With over 5,000 acres of forest, it’s a great place to learn how to live off the land in Ohio. The terrain is rugged and challenging, which is perfect for survival training.
Survival Prepper Bonus: If you can handle the rugged conditions here, you’ll be able to survive anywhere. It’s also a great place for practicing water purification and shelter-building techniques.
6. Mohican State Park – Central Ohio
Known for its dense forest and wild beauty, Mohican State Park is another excellent location for prepping. The Clear Fork Gorge provides a natural barrier to entry, and there’s no shortage of resources. Whether you’re hunting, fishing, or practicing foraging, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy.
Survival Prepper Bonus: The Mohican River can be used to practice fishing and water purification, and the area is rich in medicinal plants.
7. John Bryan State Park – Southwestern Ohio
Nestled along the Little Miami River, John Bryan State Park offers a mix of wooded areas and rolling hills. It’s a fantastic location for hiking, water access, and testing your ability to navigate Ohio’s river systems. This park is perfect for learning to build temporary shelters, especially near riverbanks.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Excellent for practicing watercraft navigation (kayaking or canoeing), fishing, and shelter-building.
8. Lake Erie Islands – Northern Ohio
The islands in Lake Erie, such as Kelleys Island, South Bass Island, and Put-in-Bay, offer a unique challenge for prepper-minded campers. With access to the lake for freshwater and fishing, combined with an abundance of plant life, you can practice survival skills while being a bit more isolated.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Islands provide an added level of natural protection. Learn to live off fish and foraged items, and practice navigation using the lake.
9. Scioto Trail State Park – Southern Ohio
Known for its rugged hills and beautiful vistas, Scioto Trail is perfect for those who want to practice long-term survival techniques. Its extensive trail systems allow you to traverse different terrains, including deep woods and wide meadows. You’ll also find some primitive campsites for a more secluded experience.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Ideal for testing your ability to stay off the grid for long periods, with plenty of wildlife for hunting and trapping practice.
10. Blue Rock State Park – Southeastern Ohio
This park offers some of Ohio’s most remote and wild areas. With dense forests, river access, and plenty of off-trail options, it’s a great place to practice map reading, tracking, and other essential prepper skills. It’s also a great location for fishing and primitive camping.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Blue Rock Lake offers an opportunity for water purification practice and fishing, while the surrounding forest is full of edible plants.
11. Punderson State Park – Northeastern Ohio
Located near Cleveland, Punderson State Park offers a combination of forest, meadow, and lake environments. It’s a great spot for honing your fishing and shelter-building skills. Punderson Lake can be used for water collection and purification experiments.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Try setting up your camp near the lake and practicing your skills with a nearby water source.
12. Giant Eagle Trail and the Appalachian Backcountry
Ohio’s portion of the Appalachian Trail offers prime opportunities for survivalists looking for a longer, more challenging environment. The Giant Eagle Trail section winds through hilly, wooded terrain, making it a solid location to practice route planning and resource gathering.
Survival Prepper Bonus: This is a great spot to practice long-distance navigation and pack-bearing, simulating a real bug-out scenario.
13. Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park – Northeast Ohio
This park is known for its unique rock formations and ravines, making it ideal for natural shelter-building and learning the ways of the land. The trails are not overcrowded, so you’ll have a chance to practice your survival techniques with minimal interruptions.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Excellent for creating improvised shelters and using natural materials to make tools.
A government-owned experimental forest, Vinton Furnace offers a unique mix of rugged terrain and learning opportunities. It’s a prime location to practice off-the-grid living, as the forest is managed for research purposes, so it provides pristine and diverse ecosystems to explore.
Survival Prepper Bonus: This forest is an excellent place to practice mapping and off-trail navigation, as well as foraging and fishing.
15. Kelleys Island State Park – Northern Ohio
As part of the Lake Erie Islands, Kelleys Island offers a secluded environment ideal for prepping. Access to water, fishing opportunities, and natural shelter-building materials make it a perfect place to practice your bug-out survival skills.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Islands can be harder to reach in emergencies, making them perfect practice grounds for isolating yourself while managing limited resources.
16. Cedar Falls – Hocking Hills
An iconic site in the Hocking Hills area, Cedar Falls is perfect for survival preppers who want to practice living off the land with limited supplies. The location is a natural gathering point, with lots of resources for hunting and shelter-building.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Cedar Falls offers both fresh water and dense woods, making it perfect for a long.
17. Old Man’s Cave Campground – Hocking Hills
An ideal spot for those seeking both natural beauty and tactical advantages. The area provides large rock shelters that can be utilized in emergencies, and the surrounding forest is rich with wildlife and foraging opportunities.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Perfect for practicing natural shelter construction and water filtration from nearby streams.
18. Hueston Woods State Park – Southwestern Ohio
This park offers a mix of forest and lake environments, making it perfect for practicing various survival skills. The Acton Lake provides opportunities for water-based techniques, including purification and fishing.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Utilize the surrounding wilderness for small game hunting, fishing, and shelter-building practices.
19. Lake Hope State Park – Southeastern Ohio
Lake Hope State Park offers seclusion and a variety of landscapes to explore. From dense forests to marshland, it’s a perfect spot for honing survival strategies like navigation, water purification, and shelter-building.
Survival Prepper Bonus: The park’s varied terrain and access to fresh water make it perfect for an extended survival trip.
20. The Burr Oak State Park – Southeastern Ohio
The natural beauty and isolation of Burr Oak make it a great location for practicing off-grid living and long-term survival. This park provides plenty of wooded areas and is a great spot for both primitive camping and survival training.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Excellent for testing your foraging and water collection skills.
21. Wolf Creek Campground – Southeastern Ohio
Known for its dense forests and the nearby Wolf Creek, this campground is ideal for preppers looking to practice resource management and water purification.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Practice filtering water from Wolf Creek and constructing natural shelters using local materials.
22. Pine Lake Campground – Northeastern Ohio
A peaceful setting for preppers who want a more serene environment while practicing their skills. Located near Pine Lake, this campground offers plenty of opportunities to forage, fish, and practice fire-starting techniques.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Excellent for building a wilderness camp and learning to live off the land.
23. The Best Campsites for Ohio Survival Preppers
With over 30 amazing survival camping spots, Ohio offers everything from dense forests to secluded islands. Each of these locations provides opportunities to hone your survival skills, ranging from hunting and foraging to fire-building and shelter construction. Remember, the best way to prepare for any crisis is by getting out there and practicing—these sites will help you master your skills, and maybe even discover some new techniques along the way.
24. The Ultimate Prepper’s Guide to Ohio Camping
As preppers, we’re not just looking for the perfect camping trip; we’re searching for locations that will help us refine essential survival skills in real-world environments. Whether it’s the ability to forage for wild edibles, find clean water, or build a shelter that can withstand Ohio’s weather conditions, the camping sites in this list are perfect training grounds for survival. Ohio offers the variety of landscapes needed to mimic nearly every survival situation you may encounter, whether it’s a rural disaster, a bug-out scenario, or a simple test of your skills.
25. Wildlife and Flora: A Prepper’s Advantage
Ohio’s diverse ecosystems provide an incredible advantage for preppers. Beyond just providing a peaceful escape, these natural environments can be rich with resources that can make or break your survival plans. From edible mushrooms to wild berries, from the abundance of deer to the common presence of wild turkey, these ecosystems are an excellent way to practice your hunting, trapping, and foraging skills.
Understanding what’s edible and what’s not can be the difference between survival and failure. These campsites—whether in dense forests like Wayne National Forest or alongside lakes like Lake Erie Islands—offer the perfect training grounds to learn about local flora and fauna.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Knowing the wild edibles and medicinal plants of Ohio will increase your chances of surviving when traditional food sources are unavailable. Take time to familiarize yourself with local plant life, and you’ll add a valuable skill to your survival repertoire.
26. Water Resources in Ohio: A Survivalist’s Key to Success
Water is one of the most critical aspects of survival, and Ohio’s plentiful lakes, rivers, and streams make it a prime location for testing your water purification techniques. Whether you’re using a portable water filter, boiling water over an open flame, or experimenting with DIY methods, these Ohio camping locations give you real-world practice in accessing and purifying water.
Some of the top camping sites for water access include Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where you can practice filtering water from the Cuyahoga River, and Salt Fork State Park, where Salt Fork Lake offers abundant opportunities to test your water purification skills.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Practice filtering water from both clear and murky sources. Some areas may offer highly contaminated water, perfect for testing your advanced purification methods.
27. Shelter Building in Ohio’s Weather Conditions
Surviving the elements is a major concern for any prepper, and Ohio’s ever-changing weather—from freezing winters to hot and humid summers—gives you the perfect environment to hone your shelter-building skills. Understanding how to create shelters that will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer is vital for your survival training.
Sites like Hocking Hills and Wayne National Forest are known for their rock formations and natural shelters, such as caves and overhangs, which you can utilize for practice. Also, consider using Mohican State Park‘s deep woods to experiment with creating shelters out of locally available materials.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Try building multiple types of shelters—whether it’s a tarp shelter, a debris hut, or a lean-to—before the weather forces you to use them for real.
28. Advanced Fire Starting Techniques: Testing Your Skills
Building a fire is one of the most fundamental skills a prepper can have, and Ohio’s wilderness provides plenty of opportunities to practice this skill. Whether you’re using traditional matches or testing primitive methods such as friction fire or flint and steel, Ohio’s campsites give you access to a variety of fire-starting materials.
Tar Hollow State Park, with its dry underbrush and fallen trees, is an excellent location to test your fire-starting skills. You’ll also find dry, dead wood in places like Blue Rock State Park and Punderson State Park, which can be perfect for creating fires in even the harshest of conditions.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Practice using fire-starting methods in all weather conditions—rain, wind, and snow. Ohio’s weather will push you to improve your techniques to ensure your fire stays lit in any circumstance.
29. Ohio: A Preppers’ Paradise for Long-Term Bug-Out Scenarios
In the event of a long-term disaster scenario, it’s not just about having a quick place to run to—it’s about having a spot where you can survive for an extended period. Ohio’s vast wilderness areas offer numerous opportunities for just that. Salt Fork State Park, with its expansive size and secluded campsites, is an excellent location for long-term survival.
Wayne National Forest and Scioto Trail State Park also offer vast remote areas where you can practice skills like setting up a permanent camp, hunting, and living off the land for a prolonged period.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Test your ability to live off the land for a week or more, practicing everything from water purification to hunting, fishing, and shelter construction.
30. Bug-Out Bags: Essential Gear for Ohio Campers
No prepper is ever fully prepared without a well-stocked bug-out bag, and these Ohio campgrounds provide the perfect places to test out your gear. From Wayne National Forest to Hocking Hills, you’ll need a solid bug-out bag that includes everything from fire-starting tools to first-aid supplies.
When you camp in Ohio’s wild areas, it’s essential to understand which gear is most effective. If you’re hiking through rugged areas like Mohican State Park or Cedar Falls, you’ll want lightweight but durable gear. Alternatively, when camping near water sources like Lake Erie Islands, consider waterproof gear and fishing supplies.
Survival Prepper Bonus: Take your bug-out bag to the next level by testing new gear, evaluating its weight, and learning which tools and supplies are most useful in a true survival situation.
Conclusion: Ohio as a Survival Preppers’ Playground
Ohio isn’t just home to cornfields and small-town charm—it’s a survivalist’s paradise that provides varied terrains, abundant natural resources, and the opportunity to practice every essential survival skill imaginable. Whether you’re trying to master shelter-building, water purification, fire-starting, or hunting, the state’s diverse parks, forests, and lakes give you the opportunity to get real-world practice.
From remote, off-the-grid locations like Blue Rock State Park to more accessible, yet still strategic, sites like Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio offers endless opportunities to refine your skills and build confidence in your ability to survive in any situation. As preppers, the more you practice these techniques in real-world settings, the more prepared you will be for anything that comes your way. And let’s face it—Ohio’s natural beauty doesn’t hurt either.
The ultimate goal is to never be caught unprepared. So, pack your gear, gather your supplies, and hit the trails at these top 30 camping sites. After all, you can never know enough about your surroundings, and the best time to practice is now—before you need to rely on your skills in a true survival scenario.
When you’re living in New Jersey, it’s easy to take the state’s bustling cities and suburban comforts for granted. But as a survival prepper, you know that those comforts can quickly disappear in the face of an emergency, and it’s essential to know where to go when you need to disappear into the wilderness. The Garden State may be best known for its beaches and boardwalks, but it also has a wealth of hidden gems perfect for prepping, camping, and honing your survival skills. Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat to test your self-sufficiency or a remote location to weather a long-term crisis, New Jersey has something to offer.
Here’s a list of the 30 best campsites in New Jersey every prepper should know about, along with a breakdown of their features to help you get the most out of your time in the wild. These campgrounds offer both convenience and seclusion, and each one presents unique opportunities for testing and refining your survival strategies.
Located in the Pine Barrens, Wharton State Forest is perfect for survival training. It’s one of New Jersey’s largest state forests and features hundreds of miles of trails, dense woods, and secluded areas ideal for practicing bushcraft, shelter-building, and navigation. The area’s remoteness makes it a top choice for any prepper looking for a place to disappear.
2. High Point State Park
On the border of New Jersey and New York, High Point offers sweeping views and a rugged landscape that’s great for survival scenarios. It’s home to the state’s highest point, and while the park is popular for hiking and scenic views, it’s easy to find quiet, remote areas to practice your survival skills.
3. Stokes State Forest
Situated in the Kittatinny Mountains, Stokes State Forest has diverse landscapes, from forests to marshes, ideal for foraging, hunting, and survival training. Its secluded campsites and quiet surroundings make it a perfect location to sharpen your survivalist instincts.
4. Round Valley Reservoir
Round Valley offers a range of recreational activities, but its isolated campsites provide an opportunity for long-term camping in a lakefront environment. It’s an excellent spot for prepping with access to water, fishing, and shelter-building practice.
5. Spruce Run Recreation Area
Located near Clinton, this park offers a more family-friendly environment, but with its dense woods and varied topography, it provides the perfect backdrop for wilderness survival. You can practice fire-starting, foraging, and fishing in the nearby reservoir.
6. Belleplain State Forest
With its expansive pine forest, Belleplain is a great place to practice navigation skills and living off the land. The area offers plenty of opportunities for hunting and fishing, as well as survivalist training in the wild.
7. Lea Brook Reservoir
A quiet, off-the-beaten-path location, Lea Brook is a great spot for those seeking solitude. Its rugged terrain and proximity to water make it a top choice for prepping scenarios that involve building shelters or honing water purification techniques.
8. Maurice River Campground
This is an excellent spot for prepping, with ample opportunities for fishing, water survival, and shelter building. The surrounding terrain is varied and offers plenty of room for testing out your skills without interference.
9. Allaire State Park
Known for its historic village, Allaire also has rugged woodland areas perfect for survivalists. You’ll find plenty of campsites, along with forested areas for practicing navigation and building shelters.
10. Bass River State Forest
This hidden gem offers dense forests and access to pristine water sources. Bass River is great for practicing water purification, fishing, and navigation, with plenty of isolated campsites for privacy.
11. Rancocas State Park
A lesser-known park with thick forests and small streams, Rancocas offers a peaceful environment for survivalists looking to practice their skills without being disturbed. It’s a great spot for building survival shelters and honing your stealth skills.
12. Whipple Hill Preserve
A quiet, off-grid location, Whipple Hill is the perfect spot to practice long-term survival skills. The preserve’s rugged landscape and quiet atmosphere make it ideal for testing your endurance and skillset.
13. Pine Barrens Campground
Nestled deep in the Pine Barrens, this site offers easy access to the dense woodlands for survival training. The campground itself is a no-frills, primitive site, ideal for a true prepper experience.
14. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
While it’s a more well-known location, Barnegat offers a coastal environment perfect for prepping with a maritime focus. Learn watercraft survival, fish for food, and practice setting up shelter in a coastal environment.
15. Dunnfield Creek Campground
This small, remote campground is located within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The area offers dense forests and rugged terrain ideal for practicing skills like fire-starting, navigation, and finding shelter.
16. Cheesequake State Park
With its diversity of ecosystems, Cheesequake offers a variety of terrain, from marshes to forested areas. This park is perfect for preppers seeking to practice their skills in multiple environments.
17. Lake Lenape Park
Offering tranquil lakeside views, Lake Lenape is great for learning about water-based survival strategies, including fishing, boating, and water purification. It also has plenty of secluded campsites for testing your long-term survival skills.
18. Turkey Swamp Park
Ideal for preppers looking for isolation, Turkey Swamp is located in central New Jersey, providing ample opportunities for survival skills practice in a secluded, low-traffic area. You’ll find dense woods and access to water for prepping activities.
19. Hickory Run State Park
Located just across the border in Pennsylvania, Hickory Run offers everything a survivalist could want: dense forests, rugged terrain, and access to freshwater streams. This park is great for long-term survival practice.
20. Ringwood State Park
Nestled in the northern part of the state, Ringwood offers easy access to forested areas and rolling hills perfect for honing your skills in navigation, shelter building, and foraging.
21. Kittatinny Valley State Park
Great for those looking to practice wilderness survival in a variety of terrains, Kittatinny Valley offers hiking trails, remote campsites, and dense forests ideal for prepping scenarios.
22. Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area
Located in northern New Jersey, Wildcat Ridge is remote and rugged, offering opportunities for hunting, fishing, and camping. The wildlife in the area is abundant, making it a great spot for honing your survival skills.
23. Silver Lake Park
A peaceful lakeside spot, Silver Lake is great for learning water purification methods and fishing. The park is less crowded than others, offering a quiet and isolated environment to practice your prepping skills.
24. Sourland Mountain Preserve
Offering over 2,000 acres of woodland, the Sourland Mountain Preserve is a perfect training ground for survivalists. Its varied terrain and isolation make it a prime spot for prepping activities.
25. Whitesbog Village
A historic location, Whitesbog offers easy access to the Pine Barrens and its many resources. It’s perfect for preppers who want to combine historical knowledge with practical survival skills.
26. Van Saun County Park
Although it’s a family-friendly park, Van Saun offers woods and secluded areas ideal for survival training. It’s close to major urban centers, allowing you to practice prepping scenarios in a more controlled setting.
27. Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Perfect for preppers looking for an off-grid wilderness experience, Great Swamp is home to diverse wildlife and wetland areas, making it ideal for practicing hunting and foraging skills.
28. Washington Crossing State Park
Located along the Delaware River, this park offers historical significance and a natural environment for prepping. You’ll find plenty of wooded areas for shelter-building and fishing in the river.
29. Fortescue State Marina
For a water-based prepping experience, Fortescue is a top pick. Situated along the Delaware Bay, it’s great for practicing water survival and testing your skills in a coastal environment.
30. Cape May Point State Park
At the southern tip of New Jersey, this park offers a mix of beach and woodland survival training opportunities. It’s perfect for testing your skills in both coastal and forested environments.
Whether you’re prepping for a worst-case scenario or just want to experience New Jersey’s natural beauty while honing your survival skills, these 30 campsites provide the perfect environments to test your abilities and connect with the wild. From dense forests and rugged mountains to remote lakes and coastal areas, New Jersey has a wealth of terrain that offers the perfect opportunity for survivalists to prepare for whatever comes next.
Living off the land in Alaska is a dream for many survival preppers. With its vast wilderness, rugged terrain, and unpredictable weather, it’s both a paradise and a battleground for anyone serious about self-sufficiency. As a prepper, the key is knowing where to camp, how to survive, and what to expect when the world’s most remote state becomes your home base for survival.
Alaska is a place where people go to test their limits. The wild here is not for the faint-hearted. If you want to thrive in Alaska’s wilderness, you need to be prepared for anything—harsh weather, grizzly bears, freezing temperatures, and treacherous terrain. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a long-term bug-out location, choosing the right campsite is crucial to your survival. These 30 campsites represent the best places for preppers, offering a combination of accessibility, ruggedness, and isolation. You’ll need your skills, gear, and, most importantly, your knowledge to make it out safely.
Located at the heart of Alaska, Denali National Park is the ultimate survival prepper’s challenge. It’s home to Mount Denali, the tallest peak in North America, and stretches over six million acres of wilderness. Denali offers isolation and a chance to test your survival skills in one of the most extreme environments on earth. With its backcountry campsites, you can hone your navigation and wilderness skills while keeping an eye out for moose, caribou, and bears. It’s a great spot to practice everything from building shelters to starting fires in high winds.
2. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
With over 13 million acres of wilderness, Wrangell-St. Elias is the largest national park in the United States. If you want to disappear into the wild and truly live off the land, this is your place. The park is home to glaciers, rugged mountains, and wild rivers. It offers remote camping opportunities, and if you’re lucky, you might even come across the historic sites of early explorers. Be prepared for extreme weather and an absence of modern amenities.
3. Kenai Peninsula
Located just south of Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula is a popular area for prepping, with both coastal and mountainous regions. You can fish in the many rivers, hunt game, and camp in areas where wildlife like black bears, wolves, and moose roam freely. There are remote camping areas that require hiking and navigating through the wilderness, and the backdrop of glacial rivers and towering mountains adds a sense of beauty to the isolation.
4. Chugach State Park
With over 495,000 acres of wilderness, Chugach State Park is ideal for a prepper looking for accessible campsites near Anchorage. The park offers a variety of terrain from rugged mountains to coastal areas, which makes it great for survival training. Whether you’re looking to practice shelter building near a river or learn how to fish for your meals, Chugach provides a diverse environment to put your skills to the test.
5. Glen Alps
Glen Alps is part of the Chugach Mountains, with trails leading to backcountry campsites that are perfect for preppers seeking solitude and rugged terrain. You’ll encounter alpine tundra, meadows, and a variety of wildlife. Although this spot is relatively close to Anchorage, it offers a sense of remoteness and is a great place to practice wilderness survival skills while maintaining access to the city’s resources.
6. Lake Clark National Park
One of Alaska’s most remote parks, Lake Clark offers wild landscapes and the opportunity for an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. Situated on the west side of the state, it’s one of the top places to fish, hunt, and hike. The park is home to both the iconic Alaskan brown bear and smaller creatures like beavers, which can be good for learning how to trap and hunt. Camp in complete solitude and truly experience what it means to survive in Alaska.
7. Katmai National Park
Known for the famous Brooks Falls, where brown bears fish for salmon, Katmai National Park is one of Alaska’s most pristine wilderness areas. The remote location makes it ideal for preppers looking to test their survival instincts far from civilization. You’ll need a bush plane to get there, but once you do, you’ll find yourself surrounded by wild landscapes perfect for hunting, fishing, and foraging.
8. Alaska Range
The Alaska Range offers some of the most challenging and remote camping opportunities in the state. Known for its mountain peaks and glaciers, this area is perfect for those looking to test their survival skills in extreme conditions. The weather can change rapidly, so understanding how to deal with heavy snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and high winds is essential.
9. Spenard Builders Supply (SBS) Trails
For preppers who need to quickly access supplies and prefer a trail system that offers easy access to Anchorage, Spenard Builders Supply (SBS) Trails is a good option. While not as rugged as other areas on the list, it still offers solitude, local wildlife, and access to a wealth of resources like water and firewood.
10. Talkeetna Mountains
For those looking for a more extended experience in the wild, the Talkeetna Mountains are perfect. It offers opportunities for survivalists to build shelters and test their skills in a wide range of Alaskan terrain. The Talkeetna area is known for its remote campsites and difficult-to-navigate trails. It’s a place where you’ll need to be self-sufficient, with minimal access to other people and resources.
11. Matanuska Glacier
A must-visit for any prepper looking to hone their ice survival skills, Matanuska Glacier offers a stunning environment where you can learn how to navigate and survive in icy terrain. The campsites near the glacier are remote and peaceful, surrounded by towering cliffs and glaciers, providing an excellent opportunity for long-term prepping.
12. Yukon Charley Rivers National Preserve
This remote wilderness area offers a true Alaskan experience. It’s home to numerous rivers, forests, and wildlife. Fishing for trout, navigating the wild rivers, and building shelters in the wilderness make this a great place for preppers. Expect to encounter wildlife, unpredictable weather, and difficult navigation challenges, but also a sense of satisfaction from true isolation.
Alaska is a land of beauty and danger. The best survival prepper campsites are those that are remote, challenging, and offer everything needed to test your survival skills. Whether it’s fishing, hunting, building shelters, or simply learning to navigate through treacherous terrain, these 30 campsites will push your limits and provide you with invaluable survival experience. If you’re truly serious about living off the land, these places will give you the tools to survive—and thrive—in the wild. Just remember to be prepared, stay safe, and keep your wits about you. This is a place where survival isn’t just a goal; it’s a way of life.
As a survival prepper living in Michigan, you know that preparedness is key. Whether you’re preparing for a long-term emergency, testing your gear, or just embracing the wilderness, knowing where to find the best campsites is crucial. Michigan offers a wide range of outdoor environments, from dense forests and towering pines to expansive lakeshores and rugged landscapes. If you’re planning to escape the grid or simply perfect your prepping skills, the right campsite can make all the difference.
I’ve personally spent countless nights camping across the state, and I can tell you that Michigan is a hidden gem for survivalists. With a little planning and the right mindset, these campgrounds offer excellent opportunities for honing your survival skills while enjoying the state’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned prepper or just starting out, these sites are perfect for testing your gear, learning new skills, or practicing emergency preparedness. Let’s dive into the top camping spots for survival preppers across Michigan.
1. Huron-Manistee National Forests
Located in central Michigan, Huron-Manistee National Forests offer more than 900,000 acres of diverse terrain, including dense forests, open meadows, and several lakes. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, the forest is perfect for survivalists who want to practice wilderness navigation, bushcraft, and shelter building.
The forest has plenty of campsites that are remote enough for preppers to practice real-world survival skills, but still accessible if you need to bail out quickly. There’s ample game for hunting, freshwater sources for filtering, and thick foliage for setting up camouflaged shelters. This is one of the best spots to prep for a bug-out scenario.
Why Preppers Love It: Remote and diverse, perfect for extended survival training, and great fishing opportunities.
2. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
The Porcupine Mountains, often referred to as “The Porkies,” is one of Michigan’s most rugged wilderness areas, located in the Upper Peninsula. It’s a popular destination for hikers and survivalists looking to test their wilderness skills. The park features over 60,000 acres of dense forests, steep hills, and pristine lakes, offering survivalists the chance to practice navigating through challenging terrain.
With remote campsites and few modern amenities, this park is perfect for those who want to experience true wilderness living. You can practice building shelters, finding wild edibles, and setting up long-term camps in a natural environment that will make you feel isolated and self-reliant.
Why Preppers Love It: Ideal for long-term survival practice, remote campsites, and abundant natural resources.
3. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes is famous for its towering dunes, breathtaking views, and proximity to Lake Michigan. But beyond its beauty, it’s also a perfect location for preppers looking to test their skills. The park features a mix of dunes, forests, and lakeshores, with plenty of terrain to practice building shelters and navigating diverse landscapes.
For survival preppers, the real gem is the remote, backcountry campsites, which allow for quiet, uninterrupted training. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and observing wildlife—all important for learning self-sufficiency in the wild.
Why Preppers Love It: A variety of landscapes to practice different skills, remote campsites, and proximity to water.
4. Manistee National Forest
Another large national forest in Michigan, Manistee offers over 500,000 acres of forested land, making it ideal for preppers looking for solitude and the chance to practice survival skills. You’ll find miles of hiking trails, secluded campsites, and the Big Manistee River for fishing or water purification practice.
The terrain varies from flat lands to hilly areas, giving preppers a chance to work on different survival techniques. It’s also a great location for long-term camping and off-grid living, especially if you’re looking for a place to bug out in an emergency scenario.
Why Preppers Love It: A vast, diverse landscape for practicing all kinds of survival skills.
5. Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale, located in the northwest part of Lake Superior, is a unique and remote national park that offers unparalleled opportunities for preppers. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this island is a true escape from civilization. Its remote location means that preppers can practice self-sufficiency without any nearby distractions or modern amenities.
The park is home to dense forests, rugged shorelines, and plenty of wildlife, including moose and wolves. It’s perfect for preppers looking to truly disconnect and live off the land for an extended period. With over 165 miles of hiking trails, the island offers a variety of terrains and challenges.
Why Preppers Love It: Truly isolated and remote, great for extended survival training, and abundant wildlife.
6. Cheboygan State Park
Located in the northern Lower Peninsula, Cheboygan State Park offers a great mix of forests, wetlands, and shoreline along Lake Huron. The park has several secluded campsites that offer privacy and a perfect spot for practicing wilderness survival techniques. It’s not as remote as some of the other locations on this list, but its diverse ecosystems provide a variety of opportunities for survival training.
Why Preppers Love It: Secluded campsites, good fishing, and an opportunity to practice wilderness navigation along lakes and forests.
7. North Manitou Island
Part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, North Manitou Island is one of Michigan’s most isolated camping areas. It’s only accessible by boat, making it a prime location for survival preppers. With dense forests, lakes, and minimal human presence, the island provides the perfect environment to test your survival gear and skills.
Wildlife on the island includes deer, foxes, and various bird species, which provides great opportunities for hunting and foraging. This is ideal for those looking for a truly off-grid, isolated experience.
Why Preppers Love It: Isolation, minimal human activity, and natural resources make it perfect for survival scenarios.
8. Kalkaska County State Forest
For preppers seeking a more accessible camping site, Kalkaska County State Forest offers excellent opportunities to practice bushcraft and wilderness survival. This forest is located near Traverse City and features a mix of wooded areas, wetlands, and rivers. It’s a great spot for practicing water purification, fire starting, and shelter building.
Why Preppers Love It: Remote, yet easily accessible; varied terrain with lakes and rivers for fishing and water gathering.
9. Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground
Big Bear Lake offers a quieter, more secluded experience for preppers who want to escape the crowds. Situated in the northern Lower Peninsula, it provides peaceful surroundings and a variety of terrain for practicing wilderness skills. The lake is perfect for practicing water filtration and fishing, while the surrounding woods offer ample shelter-building material and space for long-term camping.
Why Preppers Love It: Peaceful, secluded, and plenty of natural resources for testing survival techniques.
10. Lake Michigan Campground at Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park is known for its beauty, but it’s also a great spot for preppers who want to practice coastal survival skills. The park features diverse landscapes, including dense forests, dunes, and lakeshores. The Lake Michigan Campground offers a more rustic experience with opportunities for fishing, water purification, and shelter building.
Why Preppers Love It: Varied terrain with the added challenge of lakeside survival, making it perfect for testing water filtration and fishing techniques.
11. Wells State Park
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Wells State Park offers a mix of forests, dunes, and wetlands. It’s an excellent place to practice wilderness navigation and build your survival skills. The park has fewer crowds than some of Michigan’s more famous parks, giving preppers the privacy needed for effective training.
Why Preppers Love It: Diverse terrain, remote campsites, and excellent opportunities for water purification and fishing.
30 Michigan Camping Sites Every Survival Prepper Should Know
Huron-Manistee National Forests
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Manistee National Forest
Isle Royale National Park
Cheboygan State Park
North Manitou Island
Kalkaska County State Forest
Big Bear Lake State Forest Campground
Lake Michigan Campground at Ludington State Park
Wells State Park
Muskegon State Park
Holland State Park
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Straits State Park
Tippy Dam Recreation Area
Wilderness State Park
Fife Lake State Forest Campground
Bay City State Park
Aloha State Park
Yankee Springs Recreation Area
Ludington State Park
Ann Arbor Campground
Hartwick Pines State Park
Port Crescent State Park
Grand Traverse County Campground
Interlochen State Park
Woodland Park Campground
Traverse City State Park
In Conclusion
Whether you’re prepping for a long-term bug-out scenario or just want to hone your survival skills, Michigan offers a variety of camping spots that will test and improve your abilities. From the dense forests of the Upper Peninsula to the rugged lakeshores of the Lower Peninsula, these 30 campsites provide the perfect environment for honing your survival techniques.
Each location offers unique challenges, from building shelters in dense woodlands to fishing in pristine lakes and learning how to navigate remote areas. As survival preppers, it’s important to always be prepared, and what better way to practice than in Michigan’s diverse, beautiful wilderness?
Pest-Proof Your Survival Garden: Natural and Effective Protection Strategies
When you’ve invested months of hard work into your survival garden, seeing it destroyed by pests feels like a punch to the gut. One moment, your garden is flourishing with ripe fruits and vegetables, and the next, it looks like a battlefield after a squirrel-led assault. It’s enough to make you want to throw in the towel—but don’t. This is where your skills as a prepper come in. Protecting your garden from pests is just another part of survival.
In a world where self-sufficiency is becoming increasingly important, your garden isn’t just a source of food; it’s a lifeline. You depend on it for nourishment, and you’ve put everything into it, from planting seeds to tending to the soil. So, what do you do when critters come along and start making a feast out of your harvest?
The answer: you fight back with knowledge, strategy, and resourcefulness. The first step is understanding your enemies. Knowing what kind of pests are common in your area is critical to crafting an effective defense plan. Is it the neighborhood deer, rabbits, raccoons, or maybe squirrels causing all the damage? Each of these invaders requires different countermeasures.
10 Survival Prepper Tips for Protecting Your Garden:
1. Identify the Pests: Before you can defend your garden, you need to know what you’re up against. Research the common garden pests in your area and understand their behaviors. Is it herbivores like rabbits and deer or burrowing critters like squirrels and raccoons? Different pests require different strategies, so take the time to figure out what’s causing the damage.
2. Invest in Strong Fencing: Fencing is one of the most basic, yet effective, ways to protect your garden. However, not all fences are created equal. A flimsy fence won’t stop a determined raccoon or a deer from reaching your crops. Go for a sturdy, high fence made of chicken wire or hardware cloth. If you’re dealing with burrowing pests, make sure the bottom of the fence is buried several inches underground to prevent digging.
3. Use Natural Repellents: Nature can provide us with a wealth of natural deterrents. Strong-smelling plants like garlic, onions, and lavender can repel deer, while herbs like mint, marigolds, and rosemary can keep rabbits and insects at bay. Another effective method is to make your own natural spray using garlic, hot pepper, or vinegar. Just mix these ingredients with water and spray them directly onto your plants. Be sure to reapply the spray after rain or heavy watering.
4. Create a Physical Barrier: If you’re dealing with smaller pests, consider creating a physical barrier around individual plants. For example, use mesh bags or plant covers to protect delicate seedlings from being eaten by insects or rodents. Row covers can also be used to create a barrier around larger sections of your garden.
5. Try Motion-Activated Sprinklers: For more persistent or larger pests like deer, raccoons, or even cats, motion-activated sprinklers can be an excellent tool. The sudden burst of water startles the animals and sends them running, giving your plants some peace and quiet. This solution works best for larger gardens with a wide perimeter.
6. Use Reflective Objects and Noises: Animals, especially birds and small rodents, tend to be frightened by sudden movements or unfamiliar sounds. Hang up reflective materials such as aluminum foil strips or Mylar tape around your garden to confuse and scare pests. Wind chimes, old CDs, and even a whirling flag can create unsettling noise or movement that keeps critters at bay.
7. Set Traps (Legally): If you have a particularly persistent pest, a live trap might be necessary. Make sure to research the local laws regarding trapping, as they vary by region. Set up live traps around the perimeter of your garden or near problem areas. Once you trap the intruder, relocate it far away from your property to prevent it from coming back. Always check traps frequently to ensure that no animals suffer.
8. Rotate Your Crops: Pests often target specific types of plants, so rotating your crops from season to season can be an effective way to prevent them from becoming entrenched in your garden. Moving your crops around ensures that pests don’t find their preferred meals year after year.
9. Use Companion Planting: Companion planting is an old-school strategy that works wonders for keeping pests away. Certain plants naturally repel pests that would otherwise destroy your crops. For example, planting basil alongside tomatoes can deter hornworms, and marigolds planted near vegetables can repel aphids. Educate yourself on which plants work best together and take advantage of nature’s built-in defenses.
10. Regularly Inspect Your Garden: Prevention is key to keeping pests from overrunning your garden. Make it a habit to regularly inspect your plants for signs of damage or pest activity. Early detection can help you act quickly before the problem escalates. If you spot a pest, remove it immediately or apply the appropriate deterrent.
Going Beyond the Basics
When preparing for a survival situation, it’s easy to focus only on the bare essentials—water, food, shelter. But having a productive garden that can provide you with a consistent source of nutrition can be just as important. That means you must protect your crops with the same level of care and strategy you would use for any other prepper asset.
In a SHTF scenario, the last thing you need is a swarm of hungry animals ruining your garden and depleting your food supply. Every vegetable you grow is a potential meal, and every fruit or herb is a life-sustaining resource. To maintain that, you’ll need to be proactive and creative in defending your garden.
Additional Prepper Tips:
Use raised beds to keep your crops out of reach of burrowing pests.
Install a compost bin far from your garden to avoid attracting rodents and raccoons.
Keep your garden clean and free from debris to reduce hiding spots for pests.
Consider planting drought-tolerant crops that are less attractive to pests.
Build a root cellar to store surplus crops and keep them safe from wildlife.
In Conclusion
Your survival garden isn’t just a patch of earth—it’s a vital part of your survival plan. You’ve already taken the time to grow it, so don’t let pests steal the fruits of your labor. By identifying the critters in your area and using a variety of tactics, you can defend your crops and ensure that your garden continues to produce when you need it most.
Remember, survival isn’t just about the big, dramatic moments—it’s about the small, consistent steps you take every day to keep yourself fed, protected, and thriving. And that includes learning how to protect your garden from the many forces of nature that would love to feast on your hard work.
So, prep smart, protect your garden, and keep thriving!
TheDailyChristian 