The Danger of Winter Snow Camping / New Camp Gear Testing

[@BrentHall]

lol, nice dinner. In the navy, we called MREs "Meals Refusing to Exit" because they're designed to constipate you. Also, it doesn't really matter what others would have done out there. You feel unsafe, you bounce. Still a nice day/evening out in the forest.

[@katelynshin5030]

Glad you came home (best surprise ever!) and happy you trusted your instincts… there are always more days for trips. Love you!

[@TheEmporiumOutdoors]

Hi Edward, firstly you don’t need snow stakes, just clear the snow from the tent footprint and you can anchor the edges of the tent to the frozen ground. For the tie outs use small logs/branches tied to the lines, then stomp them into the snow. They will setup like concrete when frozen. What you probably heard was the trees freezing. They can sound like loud cracks if the weather gets cold enough. Personally, I would have travelled out in daylight as you are adding the additional risk of darkness, to potentially the same problem you would need to deal with. Everything is better in daylight 👍 Best wishes from Canada 🇨🇦 Fellow KZbinr, Michael

[@pleinairbarnettoutdoors]

Another alternative is any heavy item can be used to anchor down, gas can, tool box, loose log-rock, etc. Up to you to experiment. (Also from Canada 😉)

[@Fei8lo]

Some rope around a branch in the snow has worked great for me. Make sure both ends are on the surface so you can pull the rope out to leave no trace. Pour some water over it if you want some extra hold.

[@erickaesman4001]

Or stuff sacks filled with snow then buried.

[@BoCoOverland]

I once camped out in the Jemez Mountains in New Mexico and the temp dropped to -17 F. The trees were cracking all night long. Some of them were pretty loud.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Great advice! 🙌

[@christopheranderson8619]

As a hiking mentor told me years ago if you question the conditions in any way turn around. The mountains will be there tomorrow. Everyone has to make their own decisions based on their life circumstances. You went you marked the location and there will be plenty of opportunities to return under favorable conditions.

[@redhillsoverland]

Great video as always! Love your transparency and honesty not only about products but also about experiences. Even if they are a bit “embarrassing” or unnerving, you own them! We’ve had our share of “let’s get outa here” trips.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Thanks 👊, Never embarrassed to put family and safety first 👍

[@outdoors445]

Ya follow your gut. You did the right thing. Stay safe.

[@mrfin]

Edward your camera work is getting really good! I point out some of the early shots where you are driving with rays of light shining through the trees and then parked with majestic snow covered trees in the background. The composition and direction of some of these scenes is straight up cinematic. You’ve got a gift for photography and that’s what’s going to set your channel apart from the others. Keep up the good work because I think you’ve got a lot more to give.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

I appreciate it! It’s a constant learning process for me 🙏👊

[@Natezoinks]

Solo and trees falling, time to leave. Good job knowing when to say when. Looked like a fun trip though with a awesome setup. 👍🏻❤🇺🇸

[@Earlywinters09]

I'd bug out for sure. In the back country, especially in winter, I don't like to take unnecessary chances. Great video. Thanks!

[@tacoma_jon]

Great video Edward. I’m always a follow your gut guy. If you’re feeling like something is off then you should listen to that and do what you think is best.

[@jonnytacooutdoors]

Love your videos! That tent is pretty cool. 🎉 love how simple your setup was for this trip.

[@conniecornelio147]

New to your channel from Pennsylvania. I would have left long ago! A rooftop camper would look perfect on your Jeep! Congratulations on your new little Maya!!

[@AndrewTurner251]

Enjoyed the video. I really like that Jeep. I can’t wait to see how you kit it out to suit your needs. I’m looking forward to that.

[@tonynw318]

I spent a day elk hunting in some nasty winds and there were no less than 5 times we had to detour due to a tree falling into a road we had just gone through previously. 3 people recently died on highway 26 when a tree fell into the road and on their truck. If trees are coming down, I'm gone.

[@betzaidavazquez5579]

Hi Edward thanks for the video, Beautiful camp area. Safety comes first and I would have done what you did pack up and leave. The gut is always right. Can't wait for the next one 😊🌟👊

[@johnbrown2452]

You made the right decision leaving since you didn’t have a saw with you. There’s more to think about than just you, your wife and children!

[@leannbl9701]

You went with your gut feeling, always the best decision in a situation like that. 👍🏻

[@fldaniel7]

I agree with you I would of followed my intuition you have made the right choice

[@76powerwagon87]

If I would have been in the exact situation by myself, no saw and a newborn appointment yeah I’d have done the same. I wouldn’t have wanted to take a chance in the morning especially with that wet looking snow. Hey I’m guessing with a Red Bull down you were good to go for driving anyway! Cheers to another good one.

[@RevereOverland]

I wouldn't have been able to sleep after that either!

[@jeffmorris739]

Hi Ed, since you asked, I would keep a chainsaw big enough to handle any size tree that could pen you in. Being alone as I am on most of my trips into the Appalachian mountains, I started carrying a EGO electric chain saw, however, on my last trip into the Cahutta some unexpected high winds and storms came through. The Cahutta is full of fall down some huge trees littered the sides of the road. I am carrying a larger gas saw now.

[@mikemcleod3208]

Moving to Knoxville, TN this summer. Looks like there aren't too many areas for dispersed camping.

[@jeffmorris739]

@@mikemcleod3208 Look in the Cherokee national forest south of the SMNP, There are quit a few. Also, check out the Daniel Boone national forest north west of Knoxville. It's not like out west but they are available.

[@reidcrosby6241]

We have a camp in the Appalachians, no far from our home, I ALWAYS opt for the gravel road most direct route. I also carry a large gas chainsaw and 4 tire cables, and 4 tire chains no matter the season.

[@hoss6048]

Just inherited my dads FJ Cruiser. It has 200,000 miles on it but runs very good. I’m confident in it operationally. Think I will try my hand at improving it and getting on some trails! In your situation I think I would have thought twice as well. Many ways to cut with a saw without a too long a bar but chain saw could be indispensable out there. If the ability to relax is gone maybe time to go.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Congrats on the FJ Cruiser, it is a great vehicle, and 200k miles means you’re just breaking it in 👍

[@jessemunoz7300]

Good call on going home better to be safe than sorry

[@zenhammer]

Always trust your intuition. Treefalls have killed more than one camper in my state, and on a backpacking trip, four hours into our hike to the camp site, one of our party said he felt ‘funny’, so we hiked back out. Turns out he was having an appendicitis and ended up having surgery later that day. Being good in the outdoors means paying attention to your instincts.

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Great video Edward! I was worried it would be a wild animal. That happened to me before, a bear was sniffing my food. The PNW sure has a lot of tree fall, if hardly crosses my mind here in California.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Those bears seem to be more emboldened now than ever. I try to pack away food before bed at camp because of those dang critters (raccoons are another pest )

[@MichaelRasmussen-x4w]

I was in George town dirt biking in the mountains. it was a nice day clear sky's there was light wind. I was riding for a while and came to a stop to rest for minute and turned the bike off. Not but 2 minutes went by and a small gust came and a tree came crashing down about 50 yards from were I stopped. I was like welp time to go.

[@TheTechwiz99]

That flashlight though! I got one in desert tan and hope to test it out on some camping in the backwoods up here in Snohomish county. Congrats on the new addition! I probably would have done the same especially with the newborn checkup the next day.

[@adambauer6872]

What was the brand/model? Thanks in advance!

[@jim9win]

I'm excited and happy to see that you got a Jeep now can't wait to see the modification that way I can do some for mine congratulation on the baby

[@KrokemOutdoors]

There are lot of things happening to the Jeep in the next few weeks. Stay tuned! 👊

[@mtnbound2764]

man im glad to see you getting out and camping and doin gyour thing even with a 2 wk old! you still gotta make time for you and the channel so good work. i like the jeep set up, simple and it works!

[@COGirl444]

I think following your gut instinct is a good thing!

[@eddison50]

You made the right call. Solo winter camping can introduce a new set of risky variables that without your tools for every contingency in Dusty, I would lean toward being safe. Tantamount is getting yourself home in one piece and on time. The tent could be better if it were designed with cross bars offering greater support between the poles. I have also found in snow conditions using a type of Deadman works extremely well.

[@랙죠]

beautiful tree covered snow and quite peaceful space!

[@Ravenwood82]

Falling trees when I'm out by myself are always a thot in the back of my mind. I used to carry a battery chainsaw but now have a 20" gas one which I always carry and will handle some fairly large stuff. I enjoy your vids. Thanks.

[@OutOfOfficeCamping]

Great you had the chance to try out some new gear. Long term with the Jeep build or any build for that matter you have to take a look at the Force Protector - Sweet Spot 2.0 kit (awning/shade kit). At 14 lbs and the ability to mix and match you won't be disappointed. Plus it can be used from vehicle to vehicle or other applications. Mark (& Teresa) Maryland

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Will check it out, thanks!

[@OutOfOfficeCamping]

@@KrokemOutdoors 😊

[@OpenRoad4Two]

Such an awesome spot. Safety is always paramount.

[@babsedotes9365]

First time viewing your channel. Great job!! I like your comments about the extra winter items, including your supper. I think I would have waited until daybreak to head out though, but you did what you felt was right at the time. Trees do make lots of noise ~ that's how it is in wintertime. Maybe come springtime your family can join you for a little camping trip too. Keep up the great job of sharing your adventures!!

[@jaycerd24]

Go with your gut Ed! I felt like I was watching a scary movie during this video lol.

[@shawnsocha1683]

Hey Edward. What is the net cargo above your head? Not the one for the shelf but the one above the middle of the inside of jeep? Looks very useful to me. Thanks for your videos.

[@AustinH7]

0:48 even if your chainsaw isn’t big enough to cut a tree, I’ve been able to winch or just use a tow rope to pull the tree further down the hill allowing me to pass through

[@LoveTribeOverland]

It makes me super nervous to go on a day trip without recovery gear or a saw in inclement weather. I can't imagine camping out and trying sleep with the worry that I could be stuck in a remote spot. (Which reminds me, I need to get a saw) You made the right choice by packing it in... you weren't going to get any more sleep anyway. "Live to die another day" is a mantra I say to myself often. You can be too careful every day, but not careful enough maybe only once.

[@UnsanctionedTV_]

I probably would have stayed but getting home is the most important part of the trip so do not blame you for doing so a little earlier

[@All_Things_Out_Doors]

What some fantastic shots! Snow camping is the best....especially in a hammock, IMO lol. Hoping to experience some western snow soon!!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

I miss hammock camping in the snow! I agree with you, it can’t be beat

[@OffGridAdventures7]

Love the vids Edward, truly like your Jeep and set up

[@thetrailoutthere]

Good tip on not eating MRE's for the longterm lol...I wonder if they still make the chili mac one.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

I still see them around!

[@DHOutdoorAdventures]

Another awesome video 👍🏼👍🏼

[@flyfisher530]

Finally got a chance to sit down and see this video. I probably would done the same thing as far as leaving. I live in a house with huge trees around us and it is no joke when they fall. Better safe than sorry - especially with a beautiful newborn baby! Btw....your hat is awesome!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

I love the hat! It’s quickly become one of my favorites, thank you for letting me have one! 👊 Also, agree with the tree situation, I think many people underestimate the potential for damage from falling trees.

[@ToddOutdoor]

I would have left as well.

[@bungieking9468]

You said you like running light, you might consider the Slumberjack Roadhouse tarp. It’s made for SUV camping but I use it on the back of my truck and it offers a lot of coverage beyond the tailgate.

[@MeanOneMeanOne]

Nice spot. I think you'd have been aok to stay put if there was no wind.....now if it was blowing in the direction of camp....YEP, I'm outti!

[@Kadenventures]

Awesome setup man, I like how you can drive the Jeep into the tent. I would have waited out till the morning so you have more day light vs hitting the trail in the dark. But better safe than sorry with a little one back home! Cheers man

[@debidoo1644]

You did right always follow your gut when you feel like it could be dangerous good job🤩🤩🙏

[@braddickens4080]

I subscribed. I really like the way you present your content. Been watching since you wrapped the Toyota. I’m slow on the subscribe button. LOL

[@KrokemOutdoors]

It’s never too late. Welcome to the channel 👊

[@MrToyFrog]

Always trust your first instinct, and never second guess yourself in that situation. May have been different in a group or if you had a saw or another way out. Glad all was good.

[@jjfieldsma]

I def would have gone home too. No need to take the risk. On a different note, I've been watching all your videos and thought you might have a good perspective on a good area to head out to in mid-march. It would be a solo rig, two people, relatively new to the hobby. Open to high deserts as well as mountains or coast and keep getting mixed messages from boards and my own research on what will be open or isn't too challenging. Thought you might be willing to share your thoughts and experience. Thanks Edward!

[@vincentkeith5259]

Having not been there I can only guess but, if trees are uprooting because of ground conditions (last week's heavy rains) - then you're as likely to get clobbered on the drive out as sitting there. For me, having assessed the surroundings and given the conditions, I'd have stayed put until daylight. I see less risk in being struck by a fluke tree fall than driving a snowy road with downed trees at night. I suspect our different approaches say more about our risk tolerance and where we see risks than it does about the correctness of our choices. You seemed to be pretty comfortable with the drive out at night, making that a reasonable choice for you.

[@MrKeenaz]

G’day Edward. Don’t worry to much about the Jackery giving you cancer. The food packaging leaching leaching into our food and water is more of a concern. Also I would have moved to a safer spot or as you did, gone home. Stay safe and safe travels to you buddy. 🤙🏼

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Appreciate it, brother 👊

[@랙죠]

I would left camp too of course safety is priority !

[@mtnbound2764]

man that tent thingy looked like a pia to set up, snow stakes or otherwise. I have one that is made i think by an australian company that goes over the back of an suv or jeep, and just has 2 poles out at each corver to prop it up, its great and way easier to set up. and more secure/ stable as it hooks to the body of the vehicle.

[@IronWolfOverland]

Agree with the other comments - you always have to check for widowmakers, but just not having any widowmakers doesn’t mean a tree can’t fall on you. While camping in the Hoosier national forest, we heard a similarly loud boom, and realized that a tree had fallen nearby. There did not appear to be anything wrong with that tree before it fell. Fortunately, it was about 100 yards away. At our land in the upper peninsula of Michigan, you frequently see healthy looking trees fall over due to shallow roots. We have to observe the growth in the area to assess the likelihood of a healthy tree uprooting and falling over. I don’t think there is any way to eliminate the risk of a tree falling on you while you camp in a forest. All you can do is significantly reduce the risk by looking for known signs of trees that are at risk for falling. One other quick comment - I have used my truck and a winch to pull deadfall off of a trail when I did not have a saw with me. It can work if the tree is not too enormous.

[@OFFTHEGRIND]

I’m not gonna lie, I was one of the weird guys in the service who really looked forward to MRE. I like then way too much lol! I’m with you on the tree situation though. I always think about my wife and kid back home. Chances are you would’ve been fine, but not something you want to mess with. Having fun is important. Making it home is more important

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Some mre’s are decent, even when cold. But there are some others… 😆

[@OFFTHEGRIND]

@@KrokemOutdoors keep that vegetarian option out of my face! Lol (actually they have the best desserts though)

[@TheWhitetailrancher]

I would have rolled over re-adjusted and gone back to sleep. No question.

[@tedo1634]

Hi Edward , chainsaw it’s very important part because if you plan going out into forest must have petrol or electric ; if you carry electric chainsaw it’s better keep spare batery also chain. Nice video stay safe always.

[@praisechapelcovina]

I would of definitely got some rest and dealt with it in the morning/daylight. No matter the situation you would have to still deal with no matter what however in darkness brings some many more unknown and unwanted issues that could be more dangerous than in the daylight... And remember your chainsaw or minimum a hand / folding saw which should be part of your emergency kit or bug out bag ....loved the vid and thanks for the 5'11" part as I needed that to see if my son and I could fit in the rear of a jeep 👊🏽

[@Toglander]

Turn the stakes sideways when securing them in snow. Then pack snow on top as you did and they will not go anywhere.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

I appreciate the tip! 🙌

[@irockcanada]

I’m surprised that you never brought any kind of saw..I always bring a saw of some kind when venturing off road.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Yep, definitely should’ve brought my silky saw

[@Jan-pw4po]

Edward, loved the photography, tough decision but I always go with my gut instinct. We usually carry snowshoes to pack down our camping area, as for your dinner, yea it didn't look to appetizing

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Thanks Jan. I love the idea of carrying snowshoes of packing down camp 👌 And yes, that dinner was horrible. Lol

[@alexhurtado4708]

Hey Edward - I would opt for safety, which means stay home during those conditions. I recommend the same for you. This also prevents you from putting others at risk if you were to call for help/SOS. Au contraire, your adventures allow me to enjoy from my living room. Cheers mate.

[@Venture2Roam]

Trust your instincts. Great cliffhanger man.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Thanks Buddy!

[@chrisware5602]

I carry a big enough saw to cut a good amount along with fuel. The one time I didn’t it was a pain and that was summer. Trees fall in all seasons and conditions.

[@kwesty1]

I'd have stayed. You appeared to be in a good spot and did your due diligence. The chances of a tree falling on you are about the same as being struck by lightening. Ohh, and don't ever eat an MRE unless your desperate..LOL I was in the Infantry for years and I swear I'll never eat another unless desperate. I'd rather fast several days than eat one again. Safe travels.

[@thegoathiker]

Looks so wet my friend! Growing up in Oregon I recognize that snow.

[@davidmelendez8519]

Hey Edward love the videos Bro…. Keep them coming I am fairly new to your channel, and would love to do some version of outdoor camping with my family.

[@asaprocky8195]

Best to follow safety guidelines. Like the saying goes, "Choose your battles. Live to fight another day." There's always tomorrow.

[@TACTICALNOMAD]

@Edward Shin, 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼! Personally, instead of buying snow stakes I cut 1 - 1 1/2" dia. X 24 - 30" L branches and use them as corner & guy-line snow stakes. They work perfectly or I use pieces of firewood as anchors. They, too, work perfectly. Maybe it was Sasquatch knocking over a tree?! 😉😁 It was probably a tree popping from freezing. It happens quite frequently in sub-zero temps. I've heard many that sound like a .30 or .50 cal gun shots. When traveling in the back-country, especially in winter, never go without these three essential tools in your vehicle: 1. Axe 2. Shovel (I always carry a grain shovel for snow season and a flat bottom shovel in summer) 3. Hand Saw (one big enough to cut an 18" dia. tree My choice: I would have stayed. As long as there iis no sign oof a fallen tree around me, then back to bed I go.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Have all of that in the Ram, I should’ve packed them into the jeep. Thanks for the tips on the stakes! 👊

[@TACTICALNOMAD]

@@KrokemOutdoors, Anytime, brother!👊🏼👍🏼

[@maxattacks25]

I don’t blame any amount of caution with a newborn in the equation. I’ve left camp for less too, and I don’t even have one.

[@davehaines9133]

dont ever co camping without a saw or at least a ax. Always be prepaired

[@applegateoutdoorsadventures]

I would not have gone up that road without saws and axes but I travel tool heavy anyway. You would like my winter tarp setup off the back of SUV. Nothing fancy but gets the job done in freezing weather. The tarp creates an enclosed area protected from the wind where I can stay toasty. With the rear hatch open and propane heater on a folding table facing inside the vehicle my toes are warm all night. May not be for those who are nervous about critters.

[@abrahamreyes4535]

Most people take a partner vehicle w/wench, shotgun, park ranger notification, trail camera set ups for future & security w/motion lights & trip wire for nose maker. Especially facing opposite directions to cover your six w/dash cam. A flare gun might have scared it to know, I can see you if you get close. Do know the rules in that part of the state, but you can ask law in that area, back up plan.

[@jerryb953]

NEVER EVER EVER go out by yourself without full recovery gear (chainsaw). I probably would not go out by myself in that type of weather conditions. I have seen too many healthy trees in the woods with shallow root systems that have fallen, especially here in Oregon and Washington.

[@Rick-xt2cz]

Since I would already be wide awake after hearing the tree fall; I would just pack it in and roll out of the campsite. There's no way I couldve gone back to a relaxing sleep mode with all those concerns troubling me.

[@DaProJ81]

Safety is definitely number one on any trip I take.

[@studiooff2946]

That was sasquacth marking its territory and u did the right thing by leavng, alternatively if you wanted to stay you can always leave a fruit outside or some sort of gift to show you're ok with them being there. Next time maybe

[@jeffreybalandra8891]

Man I had enough of that MRE meal for 20 years of my military career. It is easy to make but it’s not all that, but I do like the area that you camped out of. Be safe man, specially when you are by yourself.

[@ryanbaxley9727]

Being alone and not having a saw most of all baby appointment in the morning you made the right choice

[@Orangebrigade]

Glad you split. Once I hear something it’s hard for me to get rest after. Stay safe and always carry your firearm 👍

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Never leaves my Side 👊

[@masonstruckadventure9368]

If it's enough to keep you up, I'm out. Call me chicken I don't care. Lol

[@seib6324]

I like Dusty's garage pretty neat

[@alberttu8120]

Sick flashlight

[@henryfownes1201]

Better to err on the side of caution when you're solo. Especially when you have a family expecting you back in the morning.

[@garygoldsmith9844]

I would have done the same, go with your gut! Something did not want you there.

[@idaho_trd]

Back to bed for me. 😴🙌

[@MrWinger1951]

I appreciate your effort in featuring new gear, but that DoD tent is outrageously priced (and the 50% off at $499 is laughable). Check out the Slumberjack roadhouse tarp that has a much thicker fabric, easier to set up and has more useful possible configurations.

[@macmcneill8801]

If the situation gives you the hee-beejeebies then follow your instinct. Better safe than sorry.

[@MichaelRasmussen-x4w]

My last snow trip I was solo with my six year old son and I. The snow collapsed my tent we had to retreat to the truck. Then the truck wouldn't start. Have to be prepared for anything.

[@teenad9672]

You definitely did the right thing by leaving

[@twocrowsdown]

Try camping in Australia if you want to hear strange noises - noises like heavy footsteps and shuffling of feet. Actually kangaroos. There's one particular spot I go to and they'll come hopping right alongside the vehicle in the dark. It's a little worrying until you figure out what's going on.

[@SueBarnes1]

it would of been safer to stay until daylight i reckon , and ya dont need snow stakes to put a tent up in the snow, theres a few videos on you tube that shows you different ways of pitching a tent in snow. congratulations on the new baby :)

[@fwdadventuresza254]

Beautiful scenery but potentially dangerous 😥 Good call Edward🤛🏻

[@maccamacdonald4410]

Hey mate, I think I would of stayed, after all you made the effort to go out there, I would of waited till Morning. Regardless a chainsaw should of been with you in those conditions, I don’t like the tent setup, way too much hassle to set up for an overnighter, I prefer a side awning. . All in all you do great video and editing content . Keep up the good work.

[@Kad3nSJ]

Hell yes i would have also high tailed it the hell out of there

[@vince4316]

Love the adjustability of those chairs from DoD, was going to purchase, and they raised the price from $85 to $149. Not now though that's just pure greed. Love the solo vids. I would have stayed, something happens in the dark while you are trying to drive out would be even worse. To each their own

[@insaynbcr]

I feel that any form of chainsaw (electric or gas) AND a manual saw or axe should be on the recovery gear list in winter outings. Down trees in the PNWet are always a real thing. Along with the option of moving down trees to get back out, processing firewood in the event the trip gets extended due to a complete road closure from trees, washout/sink hole, or rock slide. A nice hot fire to keep your mind in check can be the difference between a good decision and a bad decision.