Winter Camping


Winter camping is the camping I enjoy most these days. Summer can be too hot for me, with too many flies about. I much prefer the crisp air, quieter surroundings and the satisfaction of getting comfortable when it’s cold outside.

My setup centres around the OneTigris Rock Fortress, a groundsheet, a wood-burning tent stove and a comfortable bed.

A solid shelter for cold weather

The Rock Fortress has a roomy tipi shape and feels reassuringly stable when properly pitched, pegged down and secured with its guy ropes. I take my time getting that right before bringing everything inside.

Its snow skirts help reduce cold draughts around the bottom of the tent. Combined with my groundsheet, they make the living area more comfortable and help keep my equipment away from wet ground. The groundsheet isn’t a substitute for insulation underneath the bed, though.

Snow makes a lovely setting for a camping trip, but I still keep an eye on the tent and clear any snow building up on the fabric. A good winter setup needs looking after.

Getting the tent toasty warm

Once the shelter is ready, I set up the log burner and chimney according to their instructions, with plenty of clearance from the tent walls, groundsheet and bedding.

With the stove running properly, the tent can become wonderfully warm. That’s one of the pleasures of winter camping for me: being comfortable inside while the weather outside feels very different.

Stove safety matters: keep ventilation open, use a suitable carbon monoxide alarm, and never leave a burning stove unattended or go to sleep with it burning. Keep combustible flooring away from the stove and use suitable heat-resistant protection beneath it.

Putting the bed together

Next comes the cot bed. Once that is assembled, I add my air mat and get the sleeping bag ready.

For winter use, the mat needs to provide proper insulation as well as cushioning. A cot lifts me off the ground, but cold air can still circulate underneath, so I don’t rely on the cot alone to keep me warm.

I give the sleeping bag a good shake and fluff it up after unpacking it. Letting the filling regain its loft helps it do its job. I also keep my sleeping clothes and bedding dry.

My bedding needs to be warm enough for the expected overnight temperature once the stove is out.

Taking time now makes the evening easier

Before settling down, I check the pegs and guy ropes, stove clearances, ventilation and sleeping area. I keep a torch within reach and make sure the way to the door is clear.

With everything properly arranged, there’s less to fuss over later. I can sit back, enjoy the warmth while I’m awake, and appreciate the peace of a winter camping trip.

For me, that’s what it’s all about: a well-pitched tent, a comfortable bed and a little home outdoors—even when there’s snow on the ground.