Farmland Camping vs Backcountry Camping
22 Oct, 2024
In today’s fast-changing world, the landscape of rural America is rapidly transforming, with family-owned farms giving way to housing developments as land values soar. Amidst this shift, many are rediscovering the simplicity and beauty of nature through activities like farmland and backcountry camping, which offers a return to the outdoors and an escape from modern life. In this article we’ll dive into our guest David Gonzalez’s farmland camping experience post and discuss the key differences between farmland and backcountry camping in detail.
Utah Farmland Camping
by David Gonzalez
In the Kevin Costner series “Yellowstone”, there is unquenchable drama from garish characters like the alcoholically loyal daughter, Beth Dutton, and the morally flexible fixer, Rip Wheeler – make sure Rip never invites you along for a ride to The Train Station! Underlying all this drama, however, is an economics lesson in land use.
Family-owned ranches and farms struggle today to remain viable. Meat and crops share a market value based on the demand for food, which is huge, to be sure, as the United States population surges past 340 million. Yet, this market value is being dwarfed by the demand for housing. America is ruralizing—flocking to small towns to work 100% remotely, retire, or simplify their lifestyles—creating huge demand for housing outside the hustle and bustle of cities.
As the market value for these family-owned ranches and farms skyrockets, so do property taxes, making it harder and harder for owners to afford their property tax liabilities from meat and produce revenues. Selling this land to a housing developer is often just the parachute needed to avoid calamity, and it’s infinitely understandable. Survival is paramount. Consequently, these family-owned ranches and farms are disappearing and reappearing as tracks of apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes.
That’s why I took it upon myself to do a little “camping” on a 40-acre alfalfa farm in Southern Utah with my James Baroud Odyssey, to see firsthand what we’re losing. This farm is equal parts peaceful and functional, and from space exemplifies the iconic circle of green you may have noticed while flying to family or your favorite vacation destination. Dryland farming, where the crop generally receives only naturally occurring rainwater, doesn’t work in Utah because the summers can be brutally hot and mercilessly dry. Alternatively, wetland farming utilizes irrigation and predominates in this area.
Did you know?
The Odyssey rooftop tent is built for overlanders seeking a durable, sleek, and easy-to-use camping solution. Its aerodynamic hard-shell design not only looks great but is also engineered for high performance in extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds.
What makes the Odyssey rooftop tent stand out is its quick deployment—you can set it up in under 30 seconds! The tent is made from high-quality, UV-resistant materials, ensuring long-lasting protection and comfort during your adventures. Inside, you’ll find a comfortable memory foam mattress, 24h solar powered vent, and integrated storage pockets for added convenience.
The irrigation tool of choice these days is a center pivot like the Zimmatic pivot used at this farm. High voltage power plus deep confined well water are delivered to the center of the pivot underground. The pivot then uses these inputs to efficiently deliver water to the crop like the second hand of a clock, in the shape of a circle. Like an Erector Set, these center pivots are expandable and configurable. Increasing the diameter of the circle is a simple matter of adding more sections, and a complete circle need not be the final pattern. Pie shaped sections can be configured – e.g., half a circle, a quarter, or really any number of degrees of a circle.
Electricity at 480 volts powers the pump and the wheels that advance the pivot around its arc – with wheels further from the center rotating faster than those closer to the center since they travel further in the same amount of time. Evenly applied water and plenty of sunshine transform these 40 acres into deep-green, waist-high alfalfa ready to be cut and baled about every 6 weeks, with a growing season from May to September, nicely aligned with camping the season.
As a backdrop for camping, this family-owned alfalfa farm serves up an unmatched sensory feast with earthy wafts of drying alfalfa; Golden Hawks perusing gaps in the greenery from above, looking for unsuspecting varmints; a light grittiness delivered to the palate by long-reaching winds; and shadowy fence lines drawing your attention into the distance like memory.
Ranch and farm camping offers plenty of the same ingredients as other kinds of camping, like the peacefulness of unplugging from daily life and the picturesque surroundings. Yet they are different too, landing somewhere between designated camping in a campground with water and shared bathrooms, and dispersed camping in the wild with no amenities whatsoever. Fewer neighbors and apex predators necessitating bear bags is just a bonus. So, what would Beth Dutton do about disappearing ranchlands? Pretty much anything, legal or otherwise. What would I do about disappearing farmlands? Catch a glimpse of them before they are gone, from the 360-degree view perch of my James Baroud Odyssey rooftop tent, with no unquenchable drama whatsoever.
Author
David Gonzalez is a tech veteran with 30+ years of experience applying his physics, computer science, and business prowess to helping early-stage companies innovate and accelerate across numerous industries including handwriting and voice recognition, mortgages, renewable energy, storm water management and mental health.
Intermingled amongst these professional endeavors, David is also a family man. While devoted to his wife of 30+ years and his three uniquely insightful and grown children, he remains an avid athlete, favoring soccer, cycling, skiing, tennis, hiking and any opportunity to get the family into the wild.
David’s ideal evening? That’d be sitting around a campfire with his family, eating from rehydrated food pouches and regaling each other with tales of greatness from the day.
From the Brand
What is backcountry camping?
Backcountry camping refers to camping in wilderness areas, typically in locations off the beaten path and away from established campgrounds. This form of camping offers a deeper connection with nature and more solitude than traditional camping.
Key characteristics of backcountry camping:
Remote locations: Often far from urban settings, backcountry camping takes place deep within national parks, forests, or public lands.
Self-Sufficiency: Campers must bring everything they need, including food, water, and shelter, and be prepared to handle any challenges that arise.
Minimal impact: Following the principles of Leave No Trace, backcountry campers minimize their footprint and avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging the environment. For more on this check out blogpost on Tread Lightly.
No amenities: There are no restrooms, fire pits, or running water, requiring campers to rely on their own gear and provisions.
For overlanders, backcountry camping offers the perfect balance of solitude and exploration. You can park your vehicle in remote areas, set up camp, and immerse yourself in untouched wilderness, whether it’s a secluded forest, a rocky desert, or a mountain ridge with panoramic views.
Backcountry camping vs farmland camping: Unique experiences with different logistical needs
Backcountry camping and farmland camping each offer a distinct type of adventure for overlanders who seek unique outdoor experiences. While both provide an escape from urban life and a connection to nature, they differ significantly in terms of logistics, terrain, and the overall atmosphere. For overlanders using rooftop tents, it’s important to understand the nuances of each environment to optimize their camping setup and enjoy the best of both worlds.
Let’s dive deeper into the differences between backcountry and farmland camping, and how James Baroud rooftop tents seamlessly adapt to these diverse environments, making them the ideal choice for both types of adventures:
Backcountry Camping: Remote, Wild, and Adventurous
Wildlife encounters: Backcountry camping often means close proximity to wildlife, including larger animals like bears, wolves, or deer. Campers must be vigilant and take safety precautions, such as proper food storage, to avoid attracting animals.
Safety concerns: The remoteness of backcountry camping locations increases the need for safety preparation. Campers should carry first aid kits, bear-proof containers, and be knowledgeable about the local wildlife to stay safe.
Solitude and isolation: Backcountry camping offers complete solitude and immersion in nature. With no one around for miles, campers can experience a deep connection to the wilderness. However, this isolation requires full self-sufficiency and preparation for fewer conveniences.
Exploration and adventure: The thrill of backcountry camping lies in exploration. Campers often hike, off-road, or traverse remote trails, making this environment perfect for overlanders who seek adventure and are willing to embrace the unknown.
Rooftop tent adaptability: In backcountry settings, James Baroud rooftop tents provide rugged, weather-resistant shelter that handles unpredictable elements and challenging terrain. The elevated design keeps campers safe from wildlife encounters and the rough ground, ensuring comfort in remote, wild environments.
Farmland Camping: Peaceful, rural, and accessible
Private and accessible: Farmland camping typically occurs on privately owned agricultural land, which is often more accessible and located closer to rural towns. These locations offer a gentler introduction to outdoor living, with fewer logistical challenges than backcountry environments.
Basic infrastructure: Farmland camping often includes basic amenities such as water access, bathroom facilities, or fire pits, and may be part of agritourism. Campers can enjoy nature in a more controlled, convenient setting, without venturing too far into the wilderness.
Flat and managed: Farmland is typically flat and well-maintained, making it easy to find suitable ground for camping. Fields, pastures, and grassy areas offer a comfortable, predictable terrain for setting up camp.
Simplified setup: While the terrain is less challenging, farmland may have moist or soft ground due to irrigation. A James Baroud rooftop tent ensures campers stay dry and elevated, avoiding soggy conditions.
Tame wildlife: Farmland camping presents a more controlled environment with little to no risk of encountering dangerous wildlife. Campers may observe farm animals, birds, or smaller wildlife like rabbits or deer, but the chances of encountering predators are minimal.
Less risk: Farmland camping offers more safety compared to the backcountry, with help nearby if needed. The private and accessible nature of farmland reduces the risks typically associated with remote camping.
Tranquil and rural: Farmland camping provides a different type of peace, with wide-open spaces and the quiet hum of rural life. This setting is perfect for those who want to relax in a pastoral environment, without the intensity of backcountry survival.
Cultural experience: Farmland camping often offers cultural enrichment, allowing campers to learn about farming practices, engage with local farmers, or participate in farm-to-table activities. It provides a blend of nature and rural life that contrasts with the isolation of backcountry camping.
Rooftop tent adaptability: On farmlands, James Baroud rooftop tents offer an easy, no-fuss setup on stable ground. These tents allow campers to enjoy the natural beauty of agricultural settings while preserving the land below, offering panoramic views and elevated comfort that enhance the peaceful, rural experience
Rooftop tents and agricultural land: A sustainable approach
When it comes to camping on agricultural land, sustainability is key. Farmland, with its delicate balance of cultivated crops and natural ecosystems, requires careful consideration to ensure minimal disturbance to the environment. While traditional ground tents can compact the soil, disrupt crops, and leave behind lasting damage, rooftop tents provide a more sustainable alternative. These elevated shelters allow campers to enjoy the beauty and serenity of farmland without compromising the health of the land.
Minimizing environmental impact
One of the primary concerns with camping on agricultural land is the potential to harm the soil and crops. Traditional ground tents require campers to find a flat, cleared space, which often involves trampling crops or disturbing sensitive areas. Additionally, the constant foot traffic around ground tents can lead to soil compaction, which reduces the soil’s ability to absorb water and nutrients, ultimately affecting crop yields.
Rooftop tents, however, are mounted on the roof of your vehicle, keeping all camping activities elevated off the ground. This minimal footprint means you can camp directly on farmland without worrying about harming the crops or soil. By reducing ground contact, rooftop tents help maintain the health and productivity of the agricultural land.
Preserving the integrity of crops and soil
Camping on agricultural land can often involve camping near or even within active fields of crops. Ground tents can inadvertently damage plants, either through direct contact or by disturbing the root systems below. In contrast, James Baroud rooftop tents allow campers to set up camp anywhere their vehicle can access, all while keeping the land below undisturbed.
Since rooftop tents do not require any physical interaction with the ground, they preserve the integrity of both crops and soil. This makes them the perfect choice for campers who want to experience the tranquility of farmland camping while supporting sustainable land use practices. Farmers and landowners can welcome campers onto their land without the worry of long-term damage to their crops or property.
Blending farmland and backcountry camping
As the landscapes around us evolve and change, from disappearing family-owned farms to expansive wildlands, backcountry camping offers a way to reconnect with the land and appreciate what remains. Whether you’re camping on a peaceful alfalfa farm or deep in the backcountry wilderness, James Baroud rooftop tents ensure you have the comfort, durability, and mobility needed to experience nature at its best.
For overlanders seeking to elevate their backcountry camping experience, James Baroud offers the ultimate solution, combining innovation, durability, and convenience. Whether you’re navigating deserts, forests, or mountains, a James Baroud rooftop tent will ensure you have the ideal basecamp for your next backcountry adventure—no drama required.
Tell Us About Your adventures!
Whether you’ve camped on peaceful farmlands or conquered rugged backcountry trails with your James Baroud rooftop tent, your story could inspire others. Send us your stories, we want to feature you on our blog and share your experience with the overlanding community. Let’s celebrate the spirit of adventure together!