Brave, Not Reckless: Smart Camping Safety Tips for Women Adventuring Solo

Silver Vixen's Off-Road
Jun 27
5 min read

There’s something deeply empowering about heading out into the wild alone — no one to answer to, no compromises, just you and the great outdoors. Whether you're craving solitude under the stars or just need to reset your soul by a quiet stream, solo camping as a woman can be magical.

But let’s be real — magical doesn’t mean reckless and the world can be crazy at times. Human trafficking is real, and we owe it to ourselves to be aware of the world around us while still being able to enjoy it.

As a woman who camps solo, you’re not being paranoid by thinking about safety. You’re being smart. Preparation is power. So here are some practical (and a few sassy) safety tips to keep your solo camping trip peaceful, protected, and pure badassery.

1. Location is Everything

Do your homework. Choose well-established campgrounds or public lands known for safety. Read reviews from other solo female campers if possible. Avoid remote spots with no cell service — romantic in theory, risky in reality.

📝 Pro tip: Call ahead and talk to a ranger if you're unsure about a site or the safety of a particular location. Trust me, they’ve seen it all. They are there to help you and they will absolutely understand why you are asking.

2. Tell Someone Everything

You don’t need to post your location on Instagram in real-time, but do tell a trusted friend or family member:

Where you’re going
When you’ll check in
When you plan to be back

It is always a good idea to prepare an expected itinerary with as much detail as possible. Map out your expected route of travel. Include important information such as who manages the camping area whether it is operated by the state, the National Park Service or a private operator. Provide a contact number for the operating agency at that location. Emergency contact numbers can typically be found on the websites. If you change plans along the way and end up somewhere else just let someone know.

If you go off-grid, invest in a GPS communicator (like a Garmin inReach) that lets you send messages via satellite. Garmin products also have an SOS feature. Should you have an emergency you can hit that button and the Garmin Response Team is notified with your GPS coordinates so they can then notify the appropriate local emergency first responders. Garmin Response is staffed 24/7 with trained emergency personnel who can get help to you when you need it most. Because Garmin devices work via satellite, you do not have to rely on cell service which may be non-existent in remote areas. These devices come in various price ranges and capabilities, but the peace of mind in knowing you can get help when you need it is priceless. We utilize multiple Garmin devices from dive computers for scuba, GPS units for off-road and handheld devices when hiking or participating in other backcountry activities and have not been disappointed. You can check out their products here (Garmin Official Site )

3. Trust Your Gut Like It’s Gospel

How many times have you said, "I should have listened to my gut"? We can all say we have ignored red flags of some sort along our journey through life. If a campsite or a person gives you bad vibes, leave. Immediately. You don’t need a “logical reason.” You don’t owe politeness. Your intuition is your first line of defense — honor it. Do not be afraid to contact local authorities or park rangers. They may not know of suspicious conditions. Making them aware can not only keep you safe, but others as well.

4. Stay Low-Key

Avoid drawing too much attention to the fact that you’re alone. Here’s how:

Don’t broadcast solo status to strangers
Consider hanging a second camp chair or pair of boots outside
Keep your car keys on you at all times
Lock up valuables (yes, even in the woods)
Be cautious with over-consumption of alcohol or other substance. It slows your response time and ability to quickly process potential safety issues

5. Pack Like a Pro, Not a Panic-Prepper

Bring what keeps you safe and secure:

First-aid kit
Headlamp & backup batteries
Self-defense item (pepper spray, personal alarm, or legal weapon if trained)
Fire-starting tools
Extra water and non-perishable food
Multi-tool or knife
External phone battery or solar charger

Bonus: Bring your furry companion with you if you have one! Dogs have a great sense about them when it comes to people. If you don't have a dog companion, a barking dog sound app can be surprisingly effective if you get nervous.

6. Stay Connected (When You Can)

Download offline maps and weather updates before you lose service. We always say if you don't like the weather in Texas just wait a minute and it will change. Flash floods can creep in without warning. Having a means to keep an eye on changing weather can mean the difference between knowing when to pack up and move to higher ground or potentially being swept away without warning. Let someone know if plans change. And keep that phone charged — even if you’re just using it for stargazing apps or campfire playlists.

7. Protect Your Peace and Privacy

If a stranger asks, “Are you out here alone?” you don’t owe an honest answer. Say you’re meeting friends later or that your partner is hiking nearby. Safety first, honesty later.

8. Learn Basic Self-Defense

You don’t need to be a ninja but knowing how to defend yourself physically and mentally can build serious confidence. Take a class. Watch tutorials. Practice boundary-setting — loud and proud.

Not everyone is comfortable with firearms and that is ok. If you are, find a range that will let you try out different handguns BEFORE you purchase. Handguns are like a great pair of shoes. They all fit differently, some are easier to handle, and some are able to accommodate accessories like laser sites and lights. When you find the one that works best for you, take training classes so that you are intimately familiar with not only firing the handgun, but cleaning, storing, and carrying it as well. Practice and practice often. Know the laws in your state or where you will be traveling in regard to open or concealed carry, any required permits. if you hold a permit to carry in your state make sure that there is reciprocity in other states you may be traveling through or to. Above all, you have to be prepared to use a handgun or weapon if you need to. Otherwise, it can be used against you.

9. Embrace the Stillness, But Stay Sharp

Yes, go off the grid to unplug. But always stay alert to your surroundings. Use your senses — listen for odd noises, watch for unexpected movement, and stay sober enough to respond smartly to situations. We should all be practicing situational awareness everywhere, even in the grocery store parking lot. Put down the distractions.

Final Thoughts:

Solo camping doesn’t have to be scary. With a little planning and a lot of confidence, it can be one of the most liberating experiences you’ll ever have. Being alone doesn’t make you vulnerable — being unprepared does.

So pack the gear, prep the playlist, trust your instincts, and go claim your campsite under the stars.

You’ve got this — wild woman, warrior, wanderer.