Gimme shelter

I like seeing shelters and camps amongst the stands, they mean at least some of the coming generation are being introduced to the joys of the natural world. Exposure to nature builds a connection, that connection builds a relationship, and that relationship develops and deepens with continued exposure. Until relatively recently everyday life was exposure to nature, it's well-being tied directly to ours. Now though being for the most part removed from the natural world, we've got to actively seek making that connection. Building shelters and camps is as good a way as any to start. It's where my love of the natural world was kindled. It's essential our species connection with the natural world isn't weakened any further. 

 

Bit of a tangent, but. Years ago we had a friend who'd moved down from London, and one time thought he'd come camping with us to Dartmoor; at the time we regularly camped on the moor. His reaction to the moor has stayed with me. Dartmoor blew his mind, and he wasn't a fan, he'd never experienced that degree of nature, prompting questions like 'why are there no street lights?' and 'where are the shops?'. He was an urban human, the natural environment was a mystery to him. That amazed me.

Woodland camp

This old camp has been in Brinken wood for some years now. When I first came across it, it had recently been created and evidence of its use was apparent by signs of a fire, or fires. Since then though, either it hasn't been used or the people using it have been concealing their actions better. Respect if it's the latter.  Every year I've spent some time repairing the stockade which encircles the camp site, adding to it, to keep it alive. I intend to camp there, though it's a damp wood so the opportunities are limited. In the meantime I take time to sit there and chill, listening to the wood around me getting on with what it gets on with. It's a nice spot.