Winter Tarp Camping - Wolves Came To My Camp At Night

Well this trip was quite the adventure. I went out expecting to have a relaxing camp where I could practice some bushcraft skills. I got the camp and skills part, but this trip was anything but relaxing.
I spent most of the first day hiking due to the deep snow. It was a long and difficult hike. I was able to get my fire going and get a nice little camp set up still. Since I ran out of daylight so fast I decided to stay up a bit later than usual enjoying my fire and the outdoors.
When I finally went to bed, the wind picked up. It was gusting pretty good and a lot of trees were falling that night. Whenever I set up a campsite I always make sure there are no big dead-standing trees in my immediate surroundings. The last thing I need is to get squished while I’m trying to sleep. The noise of a large tree falling is definitely enough to wake me up though and because of that my sleep was often interrupted.
Just when I thought it couldn’t get any worse… I heard a large animal running in my direction. The sound of it got louder and louder real quick. Luckily it stopped at around 25 yards away from where I was sleeping and went in a different direction.
Wolves are pretty timid towards humans. They do not see us as a food source. Rather, they see us as a threat. I can only assume that wolf was travelling and just so happened to stumble upon my camp. Once it caught my smell I believe it turned and ran away wanting nothing to do with me. Even though I know that a wolf attack is extremely unlikely, it was still nerve wracking to have something running in my direction at night. In the morning when I checked the tracks and realized it was a wolf it definitely shocked me a little.
Now, with that being said, one should always take precautions when it comes to wildlife. Just because a wolf doesn’t consider you food doesn’t mean it can’t attack you. I do carry a form of protection with me whenever I’m in the outdoors.
I want to thank everyone who watches my videos. Your support means the world to me.
FAQ/Gear Info:
Are there wild animals in this area?
Yes. There's a variety of big game (moose, deer, grizzly bears, black bears, cougars, wolves) in this area. They tend to avoid humans for the most part though and don't pose much of a threat. I do carry a form of protection just in case.
What clothes am I wearing?
Upper body: cotton base layer, wool insulating layer, waxed cotton jacket (outer layer).
Lower body: cotton base layer, polyester insulating layer (I would like to have wool pants for insulation, but they are very expensive to buy.. I will likely make my own in the future), waxed cotton pants (outer layer).
I've been criticized for wearing cotton as my base layer. Cotton is actually a great insulator... as long as it stays dry. I do not allow myself to work up a sweat so my base layer always stays dry. I've been wearing cotton base layers for many years and I've never had an issue, even in -30 degree weather. I know wool is better and my reasoning for not wearing wool is solely due to the cost.
What was the temperature on this trip?
It was not very cold. About -5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit) during the night.
Gear that I use:
Backpack - Kelty Redwing 44 - It's an ok pack. Comfortable enough to carry but it has a lot of flaws in it's design. I use it because it's all I have. One day I will replace it I'm sure.
Hatchet - This was an $8 antique store find. I put a new handle on it and it has been my go to for a couple years now. No makers mark on it so I'm not sure what brand it is but it holds an edge very well.
Knife - Mora Carbon Steel - Mine has a custom wood handle I put on it. It's a great blade and works excellent for carving/crafting. It's inexpensive and is great quality. One of my best knives.
Saw - Bahco 21" Peg Tooth Blade - The wood frame I made myself. the blade is decent quality. Works quite well.
Boots - Sorel Pac Boots (I think) - I don't know if the specific model I have is still available. But they're Sorel brand. Not the best boots. I have to wear thick wool socks to keep my feet warm and sometimes they still get cold. Once again though they're all I have so it's what I use.
Wool Blanket - 2x queen size 100% wool blankets - I received both as a gift and I believe they were bought second hand. No label or anything on them.
Sleep Mat - Cheapo foam sleep pad found in any camping store - It's just the typical foam sleep pad that most camping stores carry. Inexpensive but the warmest sleep pad I've used. Bulkier than an inflatable one but a fraction of the cost and warmer. I've placed this sleep pad on bare ground in -30 degree Celsius weather and never had the cold come through. There's a lot of myths about camping gear out there... get out and experiment. You'll be surprised.
If you have any other questions or comments please let me know in the comments section down below.

[@KuskBushcraft]

What's been your closest encounter with wildlife? As always, there's more info in the video description regarding trip details, gear I use, FAQ, and more. Thank you to everyone who watches and supports the channel!

[@pzernze]

Closest to bushcrafting was in the military :)

[@kingrafa3938]

Monitor lizard and diffetent species of snake which is common in our country.

[@TheBrettFrederick]

While camping in the mountains here in Alberta, we had a grizzly walk past our camp in the middle of the day. There was also about 8 of us standing around and it didn't care. It was about 15-20 yards away. It looked at us, and continued casually walking past us. What a cool experience

[@OntheTrailwithDale]

Great video man! I was out hiking once and got within 15-20 feet of a mangy coyote chewing on a raccoon carcass. He either didn’t hear me or didn’t care. Another time I had a big Ol barn owl sweep down within inches of my head. I ducked but it still scarred the piss out of me. Needless to say I lived to tell the tale, haha!

[@ThePitGoJoe]

Sleeping in the desert next to a small fire woken by what sounded like 10 + coyote yapping hunting rabbit I think real close to camp. Also had a mountain lion poke around near camp in the snow once didn't see it but my dog alerted me and found tracks the following day.

[@Bushcraftmind]

I love that there is no music, no narration, just natural sounds. So relaxing and very informative. Makes me wanna camp out in the garden

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for your kind words!

[@Coyote5555]

@@KuskBushcraft I am a relatively new subsriber, and you my friend are an inspiration. I really enjoy watching your adventures. Please keep making videos. Your format is truly excellent.

[@pgroove163]

makes me want to camp out on the roof of my apt..in NYC

[@rodsharp8346]

Exactly, that’s why I don’t watch Alone anymore .

[@hadleybaker]

I guess I did not think of this consciously, but now that you mention it I think that’s why I like these videos as well.

[@timtucker7745]

I am in Kharkov, Ukraine attempting to evacuate ex-wife and her disabled mother plus 2 cats in tow. After traveling west to east LViv. Kiev, now Kharkov I am viewing your channel with mental peace, gosh I certainly am in need. GOD IS GREAT !

[@maaz322]

I was hammock camping once and also had a similar experience. Just when I got used to the sound of all the leaves shuffling and small footsteps, I heard deep footsteps. Shun my light at it and it was a cougar staring at me like 15 yards away. I made some noise to make my presence known, but it only hissed at me. I started to shout at it back, that's when it got even more aggressive and kept hissing like I agitated it. Was a tense standoff but it finally backed off, kept hissing as it went off in the distance. This was my first time camping alone in the woods, so I have been left traumatized. Though the area was called Wildcat Canyon so I guess it was a feature of the location.

[@AzSedonaAdventurer]

Sounds wild. Always best to take a firearm with you. You can use it to scare off an animal like that so they learn to avoid humans and not be aggressive.

[@goldiloks08]

My jaw DROPPED when you put your hand down next to that paw print. That must’ve been a BIG puppy. Glad you’re safe!

[@ostrowgore]

yeah, the one was big like a moose. sh..that was close. In Poland in compare we have puppies, not wolfes. Our wolfs are protectec by the federal law. So they stopped afraid of human. They are causing troubles more and more.

[@CampingwithSamBananas]

I really like this new style of video with the subtitles. You always had some of the best content. Really stoked to see you back at it.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for your kind words. Happy trails!

[@craigdankovich7607]

Dude I just wana say you are the man and have inspired a computer geek/sales guy to get out as much as I can and learn from each outdoor experience. Thank you for the quiet lessons.

[@lesterjohntalde296]

Hey man, just got back from camping alone. I was afraid back then to camp and go to the woods alone but with what you said about or rather replied in my comment last year that the woods is the safest place i tried it and it feels good thanks man.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Glad to hear you had a good time. Thanks for your continued support! Happy trails.

[@lele9exl]

I love how there is no audio commentary! Just a few subtitles. I really enjoy these videos! Keep them coming!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for the feedback! Happy trails my friend.

[@hip2bsquareguitar]

Wow man. Just wow. Watching from South Shields, North East of England.

[@choibulifeinnature77]

The scene when the first fire is lit is very impressive.👍

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you!

[@waltski4375]

An adventurous trip with an unexpected guest. Thank you for sharing.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching!

[@scottvann4267]

Mother nature can put a shiver down your spine😮

[@chriswoodboogernelson2395]

I’m a new subscriber to your channel and I have to say that it’s refreshing to see someone out there camping with using vulgar language and not drinking like a fish. Tip of the hat to you sir.

[@Shivam._Sharma._]

Watching your videos under blanket is an exceptional vibe 😌❤️

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you!

[@Labuenavidasurf]

These videos really relax me when I’m feeling sad. Thank you for sharing

[@mikehuhman3249]

The food you have had is making me hungry 😂 . I enjoy your videos! Thank you! For sharing! Stay healthy and safe!

[@sauhardasitaula7423]

Watching ur video at night time before sleeping is very relaxing. Thanks brother. Love from Nepal.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you!

[@pauloconnor4511]

Love your videos. The peace and tranquillity you’re experiencing is Devine. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us.

[@Juss4Funn]

I loved the video. Loved the "no commentary" but at times we like to hear what you have to say too.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for the feedback!

[@Qigate]

You are one of the coolest men I know..... I hope you post more videos soon. I love your channel. Thanks !

[@bevinmodrak4997]

I love your videos and am so glad you're back. I till am amazed that you can be comfortable in a winter night with a couple wool blankets and a fire. Thanks so much.

[@sdsi68]

Great to see you out and about 😃, looking forward to your next video 😁🤙🤙🤙

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thanks for tuning it! Hoping to get back out there soon! Happy trails my friend.

[@performanceregina]

11:30 add a second little Tupperware of peanut butter to go with the jam, and some bacon on the side, and that’s the perfect bush breakfast! Great video as always!

[@delts99]

Bannock....good Scottish staple

[@Pengalen]

Lighting a fire by friction is definitely the most magic-like method.

[@bridgetmcbride6634]

I'm cold and tired... and oddly chill just watching this. :)

[@wandererschronicles82]

That shot at 7:28 is worth all your effort - moon with a silouhette of the dry branches and some snow - Wow!

[@wildtransmissions2987]

I still love coming back to the video months after watching it. The wolf encounter is something else!

[@learningfromthewild4237]

Awesome video Kusk!! Love the style of filming/editing because it allows the viewer to feel as if they are there with you. 🙌🏼

[@restoreallthings1806]

Nice Kusk, glad man was given dominion in the earth. Camp ,food, and cooking was great - enjoy going even as conditions in winter are more challenging.

[@arolimichel9998]

Great, it was fun to be part of a new Adventure again 👍👍👍

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for tuning in!

[@arolimichel9998]

@@KuskBushcraft ❤🖐

[@angelieaugusto9186]

Oohh! Good to see you back..hope all is well with you..💪🏼🙏☺️

[@KuskBushcraft]

All is going well, thanks. I appreciate you tuning in. Happy trails!

[@KrishanKumar-jo7ss]

Great peace by watching your video🥰😍

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you!

[@daspencer4537]

It's a huge wolf that leaves a print that size. Great video, stay safe!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for tuning in!

[@EDKG]

Great fire making, so satisfying to see that burst of flame🔥!

[@woodrowcall3269]

Very therapeutic to watch this. Great bushcraft skills. It took me a little while to finally realize your frying pan is the lid to your pot. Ingenious, less is more. Well done 👍🏻

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching! Yea it's a good little cook kit. It's the Woods Nootka Cook Set. I've had it for close to 5 years now and it's held up great. Hope to see you in the next one. Happy trails!

[@moisesgutierrez7559]

The view u show us and every little detail and with the natural sound gets me so relaxed. Keep up the great work

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you!

[@WestForkWoodsman]

That camping spot with no snow is quite a find this time of year. I don't trust animals that run in packs. I always keep a little something for them, in case I have to fend them off. Sleep or no sleep, this was another awesome Kusk adventure!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching. Happy trails!

[@chiekichie3281]

I love the sound of jungle...it makes me feel so relax and calm.

[@wattyler9806]

Great video. Great camp. I really enjoyed watching you.

[@michaeleveleth7979]

Thanks I have enjoyed your video for a long time!

[@paulc9434]

Great content! I’ve learned to expect nothing less honestly. Keep up the outstanding work!

[@Pothosandpines]

300K subscribers??! I remember when it was 12,000. Bro congratulations you deserve it! Loved watching your content then and still do. Cheers friend.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you so much for your continued support! Hope to see you in the next one. Happy trails!

[@bobbyvillamar196]

welcome back sir! nice to see you again on your channel ,take care ,stay safe and god bless...may the almighty god protect you always...from phillippines...

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for tuning in. God bless you and your family as well.

[@DCOutdoors]

Great camp out Riley, man, its always unsettling when any unknown critter is crunching around in the night, finding out it was a wolf would have been pretty intense. Breakfast looked fantastic. Love simple meals like this. Glad to see you're back out at it!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching!

[@VasilyKiryanov]

Wolves usually steer clear of humans. The coyotes and bears are more... opportunistic.

[@terrieyeakley82]

Well you might have found a place with no snow on the ground but I believe it's snowing now. You just can't win . We have an ice storm here in NW Arkansas.Been here for two days. Hopefully it will melt soon. It's nice to see you out again. Ive missed seeing you. Stay safe

[@nishachauhan2545]

Big fan from India. One day I also want to go for camping like you

[@donaldpang]

Watching this from a warm tropical country is a blessing. Stay safe and take care. Thanks fr the content.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching!

[@mikerogers9711]

Heading to the woods next weekend. Awesome video.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Stay safe my friend! Happy trails.

[@anayelisoria37]

I don't camp and I would probably never will because I'm too fat and too old for that, but boy I DO LOVE watch people doing it! Thank you so much for sharing this!

[@jfk64kennedy95]

you are one of the few, who I see do and I don't understand why many others don't do 1st, starting a fire

[@vaterlandsfreund3993]

...Der mit dem Wolf tanzt....fantastisch. Grüße aus Germany

[@petewatson9866]

Hi, Another great upload with a bit of a scary night .👍👍

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching!

[@vukan0008]

i discovered your channel an hour ago and a few videos into it i just wanted to tell you that i love your content. watching your videos is really relaxing and chill. it looks like you really know what you are doing out there. thank you for making my evening a little nicer, i will be sticking around.

[@Clappers66]

Amazing video again 👏. Great find on that camp spot with no snow! Looking forward to the next trip.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thanks for watching!

[@dmasu]

from Japan. We always have fun look. The sounds of wind, snow, trees, and flames make a wonderful BGM, and I watch it while drinking alcohol before going to bed. We support you in the future.

[@WoodyAndy]

Really love your films. Just about perfect in terms of atmosphere, content, narrative, visuals. Experiences like this with the wolf are a great reward for getting outdoors in a calm and confident manner. All the best form the UK, Andy

[@WoodyAndy]

oh and that bread looked fantastic, Will try that next time I'm out!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for your kind words. Happy trails!

[@alanchomor701]

excellent video Kusk, especially showing the old ways...the feather sticks and friction fire from start to finish, were a thing of beauty. I have to tell you, the shot of the the embers you made, was the best I have ever seen...kudos to you and see you on the next trip

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching! Happy trails!

[@brendan190770]

Fantastic!! Thankyou.

[@johnskelly2542]

thanks for posting, love seeing your adventures mate

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching!

[@oscarzelada7365]

Excelent adventure and camping. Great experience inside forest and the path of the wolf. Good job. 👍🏻

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thanks for watching!

[@Angela-nr8el]

Wow, fresh snow fell last night ? It is just chilly snow for me . You are amazing! And the jam looks really fresh and beautiful.

[@reydelacosa]

Seeing that paw print compared to your hand was quite sobering. Another great video!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thanks for watching!

[@asphaltlou]

Great vid!

[@troysoley6475]

Great video, keep them coming!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you!

[@rahulram9701]

❤Love from *India* 👍🌷🌻

[@KettleCamping]

Great video! Thanks!👍

[@mattheweastburn273]

You continue to produce wonderful video experiences that captures the outdoors and its beauty. Very impressive as always!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching!

[@LarkmeetsWren]

Excellent channel! I've never come close to large animals in the wild, only small ones, thankfully. Stay safe out there!

[@dobrofool]

This was a great watch. Just starting out with bushcraft myself, all because of these types of videos. Tarp tent sleeping in my backyard tonight. Second weekend in a row. Working through my skills and getting the bugs out. Really enjoyed your video format! Good stuff!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Best of luck! Glad to hear of your interest in bushcraft. Happy trails!

[@eddiemegonnell3429]

Back again 😁👍🙏

[@eddiemegonnell3429]

Are you going to do another trapline and going to do more hunting this year

[@khalidmsnr]

simple tools, simple food, great xp and great vids

[@floundergearjam]

Love watching your content, very calming,.

[@diggersdentysonu.k.m.d8813]

Got to try this one day for sure definitely

[@margarethooten3007]

Well done!!! 🤩

[@szeryf7983]

Witaj dziękuję za film pozdrawiam serdecznie 👏👍💪🤗🐾🐺

[@esenyell]

Çok güzel bir video olmuş. Emeğine sağlık.

[@zeke1eod]

All those trees crashing and snapping my mind would of went straight to hairy man not wind blown. Awesome camp, thanks for sharing. Stay safe and God bless

[@jean-simondubois8655]

WOW really nice! I guess I would freak out in the middle of the night if this would happen to me!! Glad for you, that you're doing ok!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching!

[@roderickhenryjordan]

Dope content! Love you Rachael!

[@z.4737]

I'm glad you weren't hurt by wolves.

[@QuelThalasz]

Brother youre experiencing another world that few have experienced.. keep it up.. love from India

[@joanneazeez9938]

Thanks for sharing X

[@ruivog]

Thank you for sharing.

[@fitzybitz9181]

Camping in Eastern Oregon a few years ago and have wolves come thru our camp. We were tent camping that night, and needless to say we slept in the car

[@dennisphillips]

Most enjoyable

[@davidinghram2494]

It`s good to see you back. The bread looked good.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for watching!

[@beachy6758]

My elderly father really enjoys your videos. He was very much like you when he was young. Keep making videos, it lowers my blood pressure. 😉

[@jakeplissken9991]

Love your videos and information - keep it up!

[@stevecarlson3779]

Love your channel

[@Aventure_Tourist]

Great video man, the crackling fire gets me every time. I always learn something useful from these trips that I can try out. Nice close up shots as well, definitely honing the filmmaker craft. Greetings from Belarus!

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thank you for your kind words! Happy trails.

[@Cwaniakpl]

I just found you channel and I must say I appreciate no commentary but subtitles, it's perfect as ASMR. Cant wait for a new video. Stay safe!

[@jamesrenegade1010]

This really is a good asmr

[@SchmiddiLA]

Hi Riley! Very nice video once again. I love to see your gear and how you set up your camps. Nice and simple. Your dinner reminded me to something I cook for myself very often, but I use to throw some Cashews to the rice and beef. Not only to add some more calories but I love the taste too. Your breakfast looks delicious as well. Nice and simple. I'm looking very forward to your future videos. Best wishes from Germany! Christoph

[@jefflink4671]

I could only do that if I was packing heat and even then it would be a restless night. Nice video, thanks for sharing.

[@KuskBushcraft]

Thanks for watching!

[@jejakngebolang8466]

Wow amazing

[@MikeStar2000]

Thanks for a great video! Really relaxing to watch. I promised myself in the army never to camp again, but your video almost made me wanting to do it again. 😄

[@danielfernandes5182]

Esse vídeo é perfeito! Eu me senti como se estivesse junto contigo. Demais

[@kop_life]

Great video. Survival and bushcraft lovers please like this video.

[@nikhilpradhan586]

M from India 🇮🇳... watched all ur clamping vlog... It's really peacefull nd lov the view...nd places are stunning... Waiting for your next vlog...bro...👍