Deer camps come in all shapes and sizes, like this one from the author's college days.
My first deer camp was at a state park in Indiana. It was the early 1990's, and I was just 12 or 13. It was only my Uncle Tom, cousin Derek and I. We slept on the ground in a tent with sleeping bags. There was nothing fancy about it, but the two-night trip changed my life.
Hunting can be a solitary experience, especially deer hunting. You spend a lot of time alone, often 15 feet or so up in a tree, which affords you ample opportunity to sit and think deeply surrounded by the comfort of nature. All of which is a huge reason why hunting is so enjoyable. But for me, the greatest joy comes from the time spent sharing hunting experiences.
With Missouri firearms deer season now open, there are deer camps underway scattered in every county across the state. Some are happening at fancy cabins on managed private property while others are tent camps on public land. No matter the comfort of the camp, family and friends gathering for the annual fall tradition of deer camp creates great memories.
