Camping at Basecamp vs Backcountry

[amedsker]

I’ve been hunting in the backcountry for a few years now and I’ve been trying to decide how I want to upgrade/change my tent setup. What are everyone’s thoughts on having a nice backcountry tent setup vs a basecamp wall tent with all the comforts and room that come with that? If I’m going no more than 6 ish miles into the backcountry, does it make more sense to be more comfortable and sleep better in a basecamp wall tent and hike everyday? Or be less comfortable and not sleep as well in the backcountry?

 

[mad_angler]

This is a common question with lots of opinions... the answer is really "it depends"...

Base camp: If you are learning an area, I strongly believe that a road-based base camp is a better option. Every morning, you can hike in a new direction. or you can drive your truck 1-10 miles and check out new areas. You will definitely cover more ground and you will have a more comfortable camp

Spike camp: If you have a large area that you know holds elk, you might want a spike camp. This is a fairly comfortable camp that you hike in, set up, and use as a base of operation. I have a few areas that I go spike in for a night or two.

Backpack camp: This is where you wear your camp on your back all day, everyday. In the evening, you stop when it gets dark and set up camp. In the morning, you tear it down and go hunting. This gives ultimate freedom. Some will say that it also gives you ultimate mobility. But i would argue that you are slightly less mobile because it is not easy to carry another 10-20 lbs on your back...


My suggestion is to start with a road-based base camp. But have the gear for a spike camp. If you find a good spot, go spike in for a few nights.