What a UKSN Social Camp is REALLY Like: Stories from the Wild

UKSN
12 minutes ago
4 min read

If you’ve ever wanted to swap the daily grind for something simpler, something real, then a UKSN Social Camp could be exactly what you're looking for. With over 3,000 members across the country, UKSN is one of the UK’s most welcoming communities for those interested in camping, bushcraft, prepping, and self-sufficiency – and the social camps are where everything comes together.

Primarily held at the spacious Rough Close Campsite (Coventry), UKSN camps offer the perfect blend of outdoor skills, family fun, and good old-fashioned campfire chat. But what’s it really like to attend one? Let’s step into the woods and find out.

What a UKSN Social Camp is REALLY Like: Stories from the Wild Feature Image

A Community Under the Trees

When you arrive at a UKSN Social Camp, the first thing you’ll feel is the atmosphere – friendly, relaxed, and refreshingly down-to-earth. The site is split between a wide open field, ideal for tents and family setups, and surrounding woodland perfect for those who prefer hammocks and a more back-to-nature feel.

At the heart of the woodland is the iconic parachute shelter, strung between the trees. Beneath it, a large tripod sits over the communal campfire – the focal point of the weekend. It’s where people cook, chat, brew up a hot drink, and share stories late into the night.

Whether you're a solo camper looking to meet like-minded people or a family seeking a safe and engaging weekend outdoors, this is a place where everyone fits in.

Traditions, Food & Fireside Comforts

One of the most beloved UKSN traditions happens on the very first evening. As the sun sets on Friday, a massive Costco pizza is shared among members, a fun, informal way to kick off the weekend.

Saturday often brings a communal BBQ or fire-cooked meal, with people contributing ingredients and helping out over the flames. There’s a sense of shared effort and reward, with hearty camp food enjoyed under the trees or stars.

Fun for All Ages

UKSN Social Camps are incredibly family-friendly, with loads to keep kids (and adults!) entertained throughout the weekend.

Out on the field, a range of games and activities is set up and free for everyone to use. Children can try their hand at archery using soft sucker arrows, perfect for safe target practice and confidence-building.

There’s also Camp Tetris, a hilarious physical challenge where players take turns stacking oversized plastic blocks on an unstable platform. Knock it over, and you're out! It’s fun, competitive, and always gets a crowd involved.

Another big highlight is the summer Loot Drop – a UKSN favourite. Raffle tickets are hidden around the site, and once found, they can be swapped for prizes ranging from bushcraft gear to fun outdoor gadgets. It’s a brilliant way to get everyone exploring and adds a playful buzz to the weekend.

Outdoor Gear, Bushcraft & Real-World Skills

If you're into kit, UKSN Social Camps are a goldmine. Walk around camp and you’ll spot EcoFlow power stations, Joolca hot water systems, Snugpak kit, Lifesaver Jerrycans, Kelly Kettles, Flextail gadgets, and all manner of bushcraft tools and prepping equipment.

"Seeing a bit of kit in action is so different from just watching a YouTube video," says Jon, a member from Wiltshire. "It helps you figure out what’s actually useful and what’s just hype."

Whether you're testing out your own gear or getting hands-on demos from fellow members, there's always something to learn. And no one’s trying to sell you anything – it’s all real-world experience, shared openly.

Bushcraft, Skills & Self-Reliance

Beyond the gear, UKSN camps are packed with opportunities to build skills and learn from others. From fire-lighting and water purification to shelter building and camp cooking, there’s always something practical going on.

“For me, it's about showing my kids how to be capable,” says Jo, a mum of three from Southampton. “They’ve learned how to safely use tools, cook over a fire, and even make a shelter, all while having fun.”

The camps often act as informal workshops, with experienced members happy to demonstrate techniques or explain how they approach specific challenges. You’re never pressured to take part, but if you want to learn something new, the chance is always there.

More Than Just a Weekend Away

What truly sets UKSN apart is the community spirit. Many campers are part of local UKSN Charters – member-run mutual aid groups that offer ongoing support, knowledge-sharing, and even help during emergencies.

Attending a Social Camp isn’t just a one-off outdoor event – it’s a chance to become part of a growing, supportive, and skilled national network.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a hardened outdoor enthusiast, a curious beginner, or a family looking to reconnect with nature, UKSN Social Camps offer a rare kind of experience. They’re safe, inclusive, skill-rich, and genuinely fun.

From the laughter around the fire to the thrill of finding a Loot Drop ticket in the undergrowth, these weekends are about more than survival skills – they’re about community, connection, and confidence in the outdoors.

Ready to join the next UKSN Social Camp? Visit https://www.uksn.org.uk/camps-events to find out more, meet the community, and take the first step towards your next outdoor adventure.