Winter Woodland Bushcraft Camp. Tarp Shelter. Spit-Roast. Firebox Pancakes.

In this video, I head off to a beautiful Beech woodland for an early January wild camp. After setting up camp with an Adirondack style tarp shelter and collecting firewood, I settle down to cook and eat a delicious spit roasted chicken and fried potatoes. Drifting off to the comforting sounds of owls in the trees, I sleep restfully. The morning brings the smell of coffee and pancakes cooking in my cast iron skillet, a perfect end to my overnight camp.
I hope you enjoy the video and thanks for watching!
Pancake Recipe
1 1/2 cups plain flour
1/2 cup dried milk powder
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
1 egg
Water (enough to make a slightly runny batter)
Mix the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients in a ziplock bag. Close the bag, leaving a gap enough to pour the batter through. Heat up an oiled or greased frying pan or skillet. Pour the batter into the pan, cook until each pancake can be flipped (when the wet batter has cooked around the edges) flip and cook until golden brown. (Pick out any debris). Smother with maple syrup and enjoy!
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Music: As we go By The 126ers

[@WELSHEMTB6523]

I know this is an old video and you probly won’t see this comment but you make me want to go camping so bad I’ve started accumulating gear and I’ve started having a few hours out making a fire ect just want to say thanks on behalf of myself and all your subscribers for making us all want to get out in the woods 👊🏻 your a legend Simon

[@theanachronist9125]

I don't care if it makes me sound weird - I kinda wanna be this guy's friend. He looks like a blast to go camping with

[@simonhopkins3867]

3 years on and 141k subscribers & still a bloke in the woods! 👍🏻

[@Arizona-Sonoran-Desert-Guy]

I am watching this video for the umpteenth time, along with countless other Simon videos. His videos are timeless and enduring. Each time I re-watch, I notice something new I missed in previous viewings. Simon's videos are the gift that keeps giving.

[@dwaynestewart6095]

Hello Simon I just wanted you to know that I truly enjoy your videos. I will be 60 years old on my birthday and I am just getting started in bushcraft. I survived stage 4 cancer in my head and neck and it gave me a new appreciation for life and thanks to you and Andy and a few others I watch. You guys have given me a new start . Thank you very much Dwayne

[@DangerousSportsForSeniors]

Good luck. I survived stage 3 tonsil cancer in my mid fifties, six years ago. Went and bought a really fast motorcycle. Enjoy life to it’s fullest !

[@terry7907]

Missed Maggie, but glad you were so thoughtful about her well being.

[@utahjohnnymontana3373]

I find myself sitting her with a smile on my face as I watch you camping and cooking and I don't think that happens with the other channels I subscribe to. You seem to be very genuinely enjoying the experience and its infectious. Thank you for the effort it must take to make these videos.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thank you Johnny! 😁👍🏕

[@petersmith6974]

I got bit by a tick 6 yrs ago. It gave me a bacterial infection called Lyme disease. It changed everything in my life. Health and employment. Life changer.

[@norseman1137]

Watching this reminded me of the saying that fire wood warms you three time 1. Collecting it 2. Processing it 3. Burning it Great videos as always... Ive become a bit addicted... Fantastic camera work editing and music as well as your natural friendly demeanour.. Good work Sir

[@gregbueta2079]

Watching your camping video is the next best thing to real camping.

[@keithshwalbe6981]

Simon, the quality of your outdoor skills and videography are exemplary. Thanks so much for sharing with us.

[@Hortonscakes]

I can't wait for my hoodie to come in! The weather here is finally getting cooler.

[@janewhitzend688]

No one in my family shares my love of the wild. I havent the confidence to do it alone yet. Picking up loads if tips, ideas and living vicariously via these vids. Cheers.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Hi Jane, take the plunge - you’ll never turn back - solo camping is so rewarding - you get the place to yourself and you can work to your own agenda! 👍🏕😁

[@ohforfxcksake]

Get yourself out there. You'll love it . Just don't watch the Blair witch project the night before you go .....like I did 😳

[@shortiebae152]

@@ohforfxcksake hahaha 😂

[@sarapulford5957]

Good lad. First time I've seen hands being cleaned. I'd need to turn my boots upside down and give them a good shàke though, before putting them on in the morning. Oh Lord. Pancakes, my mouth is watering.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Haha - thanks Sara! Luckily we don’t have any beasties that will do me any harm here in the uk. Should have checked really though - it’s good practice! 😁👍

[@sarapulford5957]

@@simonablokeinthewoods : I'm English and I know we don't have anything frightening to go in boots but, being queasy I'd still shake them. Happy Camping and Take Care.

[@WayneTheSeine]

Wow.... the meal looked awesome. I love the way you put that chickens in a full nelson...he ain't going nowhere but down the slop chute. Here in the South US we always say..... the most sought after inheritance is the cast iron... priceless items that have played a huge part in the bonding of family and friends over some truly great meals. In the South.....Louisiana particularly....the dinner table is the hub and hearth of the family.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thanks Wayne! Can’t beat a bit of cast iron! 🔥

[@nicolab2075]

Brilliant comment. Louisiana sounds amazing, must visit one day. All the best from the UK

[@ritawilliams3788]

I like the idea of you washing your hands. You are the first person to wash your hands I have never seen it before On Bush craft video.

[@perhapsfreddie8434]

You da best. You taught me everything I know. This is how many people love simons vids and have learnt from them 👇🏻

[@Scorpio45Libra]

And here 5yrs. later, you're at what...210K subs? Utterly fantastic friend! Much love from the US.

[@dogsoupblues]

It's a great day when Simon uploads a video!

[@1967AJB]

JPac of Cigarettes Yep!

[@juleesadventures7925]

Keep the videos coming they brilliant

[@sueelphick9060]

Great videos Simon.... love watching your outdoor adventures and as i used to do similar when i was younger they bring back Happy memories of life outdoors ...Thanks Sue

[@loudonize]

Brilliant Simon, good work, love your style, you have so many different set up’s, you just show us how you do it…more than talk about it / the best gear etc…don’t change…😂

[@rolandsalazar9562]

Your videography is awesome. You really capture the camping experience. From the equipment use to your methods and prep. Brilliant as always. Thanks for sharing 🙏🏼⛺️😎

[@xfiles-thetruthisoutthere8038]

Mr.Simon,I truly enjoy watching your camping videos. It’s always in the evening and I’m alone with my hot tea. I find myself forgetting where I am at times because I’m so involved watching and it’s almost like being there with you. Keep pumping them out when possible okay? Enjoy! 👽

[@deenunya7735]

Your Editing is Quality stuff Si.being bothered to climb into your Pit at night and back out to turn off and reverse in the Morning , plenty of Effort and thought , hence good number of Subbers 👍

[@davidhuxtable8918]

Yer owl impressions are really quite realistic too!

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

😂😂😂

[@lauradavenport8199]

Another great video. When I first heard that owl in the middle of the night I thought it was a wolf but after the second time it hooted I knew it was an owl. You hear so many amazing sounds out in the woods. Some of them not so great but most of them are beautiful and bring so much joy 🙂

[@giannigiaganini3586]

Beautiful video.... Grazie from Italy

[@smallandy75]

Yorkshire tea 👍🏼

[@jamesmccaghren3711]

You're a good man, caring as you do for Maggie. My Maggie is Gus.

[@MG.50]

Noticing his opening on this video, I recalled an old maxim, especially for solo trekking far in the backwoods. "Never step on anything you can step over, never step over anything you can step around." A sprained ankle or a broken bone from a fall alone and miles from assistance is serious. Of course this maxim came from a time before ubiquitous communication via wireless phone or satallite phone or "panic button" locators. It is worth remembering if hiking off trail (bushwhacking) in areas without cell carrier service.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Very good advise - even in the modern age, it’s always best to be cautious. 👍

[@cdelectric1]

I watch where I step, and step where I watch.

[@davidbarnfield9849]

Good video Simon big fan. Dave B Thailand

[@appalachianbushcraft6335]

Very nice, good old fashioned camping. Just want to thank you, your videos have made me dust off my backpacking gear and go out and enjoy the outdoors. Bought a hammock after watching your channel and must say one of the best nights sleep ever! Cheers

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thank you! Really glad you’ve been inspired and thrilled that you got on so well with the hammock - not everyone takes to hammock camping. Happy hanging!

[@thomasnoteboom1531]

Hay that a sign you are a good animal lover, when you really care,sometimes you make a decision for the best for your animal, tuff love kind of thing. TSN

[@green123o4]

Was looking forward to your next video and I was so pleased that it was a long one! 😄 gosh, those pancakes looked amazing! That's breakfast sorted for me tomorrow haha! Great work, Simon 👌

[@gstevef]

Just thought I'd endorse the praise for your editing. I loved the timing of the owl. And well worth getting up twice for those sleepy dawn shots. Thank you, from someone newly disabled who lives vicariously on your channel.

[@bobbymcdonald4365]

Thanks Simon, I have just started watching and already learnt so much. Enjoyed your easy way of things and you have given me plenty to aim for. Stay safe and thanks for posting; looking forward to following you in the future and furthering my education in the woods.

[@johanswanepoelswanies7483]

Lekker to watch the older episodes, before Simon started drinking beer 🤣

[@higgsfieldinthefield9916]

No matter how many times I see it, I really like watching someone start a fire,

[@juliestoker-buckell5398]

I definitely would like my pancakes drowned in syrup !

[@va3vjc84]

Great Vid mate..and yes Cast Iron is the way to go... I myself have a collection of 12 various Skillets and a Dutch Oven. Cheers

[@fallbaby999]

The best happy reaction to a stack of pancakes ever :)

[@Woodsman_wildcamper]

Brilliant. Really enjoyed this Simon, your pink socks were a strong move 😜 The chicken looked awesome to. Thanks for sharing your first camp of 2019. Take care, buddy.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Hahaha - it’s the modern me - pink is the new olive drab! I know.....what happens in the boots, stays in the boots!

[@nicktant1756]

My socks would be too damp to sleep in.

[@outsideedgebushcraft3017]

You are a man after my own heart. Twas a black day for poultry ere I was born. ATB Pete

[@geographyinaction7814]

Fantastic! Would never do a chicken like that here, invitation to every bear for miles, LOL!!!! Thank's Simon, great video! Mike.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Ah, yes, that’s not a dinner guest you want! He only have to worry about other people! 😁

[@backpackingireland8624]

Outstanding Simon . The Cookery alone could be on mainstream television! Great video. Atb Tony 🇮🇪🇮🇪

[@maxboonkittypoison]

Hello Simon, Good video and I know that you put a lot of effort and time into it and I appreciate that very much! B.T.W.: Nice socks Looking forwards to the next camping video. Greetings,, Kitty.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thanks Kitty! Bushcraft purple - to match my wool smock hahaha!

[@maxboonkittypoison]

@@simonablokeinthewoods hahahahaha

[@wobba1981]

I do enjoy your videos, I especially enjoy watching them on the nights I wish I was out myself! Haha.

[@ausoutback1162]

hey bud happy new year from oz. great video its no suprise your subs are going up your getting better every time

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thank you! And happy new year! 😁

[@JEBOOUTDOORS]

Great trip and camp, Simon! Pleasure watching your videos.

[@TOM_OUTDOORS]

those pancakes looked amazing. gotta love a hooped bivvy, great choice, and love the tarp configuration, another i need to try out. cheers mate.

[@Helliconia54]

you really do need to take a holiday and come to Australia.It would turn everything you know upside down.NO winter.Thick bush everything hardwood.NO naturally growing European trees ,just Eucaplypt and Acasias.And lots of nasty wild life.Loving your video's never the less.Was born i Cardiff,Wales and seeing those woods you walk in brings back many memories

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Cheers John - visited your lovely country many moons ago - spent several months in WA, good times and like you say another world! 😁👍 🇦🇺

[@tentage26]

Great vid as always thanks for taking us along all the best alan

[@guzgrant]

I love your videos . Like the Walton’s , little house on the prairie ..wholesome stuff

[@Eric-Red]

Happy new Year! Love my Firebox Nano TI. It's my go-to stove for most camping.

[@BushmanAOD]

honestly watching videos on this stove, too finniky IMO, other than the quick setup, I dont like the stability issues as well as those feeder holes are way too small. for probably one tenth the price (slight exaggeration by the way) just get the Lixada mini pocket folder. Mine was only GBP7.49 and works just as good as it's big brother. I also dont think there is much of a big differnce in weight between these two pocket folders. Cheers

[@grahamefreestone5309]

I enjoyed that Simon. Thumbs up mate. 👍

[@ScoutLakai]

Great video as usual brother. Way to walk us through the experience of a woodsman at camp. You covered plenty bud...you must edit a lot. lol...Like the part where you hopped in your bivvy. People probably didn't realize that you needed to get back up to turn to lights and camera off. lmao...Nah, I really like how you show the different detailed aspects of it all. Picture if I didn't know how to camp the woodsman's way. You provide the different areas by covering it. As I said awesome as usual. Cheers!

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thank you mate! Glad you enjoyed it! I spend a lot of time on these camps and on trips setting up shots, sometimes reshooting because it’s out of focus - in and out of my sleeping bag several times sometimes haha! I shot a video a year or so ago of my climbing a mountain, man, I swear I climbed that mountain three times! Setting up shots, climbing up 100ft it so, turning round, climbing back down for the camera, only to set up the next shot haha!! Keeps me fit though!! All the best buddy! Simon

[@shauncarney3685]

Never been interested in camping until i stumbled across your videos...thankyou

[@rachaelwyatt754]

hey Buddy, good to see you back out again. It has been a while or it seemed like it. Every day I am getting closer and closer to getting out again and it is mainly thanks to you. I am seriously thinking of getting the Grizzly Bush-craft Wood-burner Stove Pro 3KW as I just think that building my own might be a step too far. The Lavvu is a work in progress and I am hunting down black cotton canvas so I can do all of the mods in one go and then attach it to to the Lavvu. I am not sure about the weight of the canvas or how I am going to attach it yet, but this way I can get it all ready without making the Lavvu unusable for any time, if that makes sense. Still need to get a wool blanket for the warm shirt and I am not sure what is next in the plans. Let me know what we are going to be working on next :) Kindest regards Simon Rach

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thanks Rach! That’ll save you a load of work - lots of cutting and a bit of welding too. Good idea to make up the panels etc for the lavvu mods first! Like your thinking! I’ve got some work to do on my wool shirt - needs a few tweaks! 😁

[@rachaelwyatt754]

Simon I hope you are safe and well, but please check the weather before you go anywhere over the next few days. I have been watching the weather over Europe for the last week and it looks horrendous. Please keep safe Buddy. Rach

[@kingrafa3938]

That chicken looks tasty and delicious.

[@jamesellsworth9673]

Those suet fried potato cubes looked fine! Here in the USA, the 'food police' have driven suet out of the markets. I have to order mine in from the UK in order to make a traditional steamed pudding. Rendered beef tallow is permitted and I use that for potatoes...sometimes. I also like to use rendered duck fat from pan-searing the breasts. Fine image of 'rosy-fingered dawn' through the bare trees after a night's sleep.

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

James That’s crazy, suet better for you than a lot of these highly processed oils. 👎🏻👎🏻👎🏻 Glad you can get it from here. It’s also cawl fat if you can find a friendly butcher. 👍🏻

[@jamesellsworth9673]

@@Yorkshiremadmick Caul fat is wonderful for wrapping sausage meat without the frustration that comes so often with natural casings. Because we have few old-fashioned craft butchers in the USA and because almost all carcases are broken down in mega-processing plants prior to distribution, such things are almost impossible to come by.

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

James that’s a real shame, we are also losing a lot of good butchers as people are abandoning them in favour of supermarkets 👎🏻

[@prepcommsuk]

James Ellsworth Crazy isn’t it. You can go into a 7-11 and buy a bucket of sugar and that’s ok apparently. I had a Slurpee when I went to the US and I thought I was going to die lol. I don’t think I have ever used suet but I might try it now.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thanks James! They were really good - it’s the first time I’ve used suet this way - really good fat, long ambient shelf life and not messy like some other fats ( I’ve always used it for puddings and dumplings though!) glad you can still get it shipped over!

[@KentSurvival]

Kent Survival potatoes and a whistling chicken lol, looked fantastic :) im commenting half way through because the chicken whistling made me laugh haha

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

That was the tin of spam in my pack whistling in protest!! 😂 spuds were lush!!

[@SwampValley]

What a great night out, those pancakes looked amazing, cast iron is usually worth the weight if you're not walking too far. All the best mate 👍 Skye

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thanks Skye! I seem to be going lighter and lighter with kit - compensation for the cast iron! 😂

[@tthomp57]

Yes, GREAT camping, canoeing, outdoors, cooking and all around good guy! I did a little looking about the word Bloke. I guess that pretty much describes me too. We have some of the worlds best camping, canoeing and outdoors areas in the world here in the US. Guess I'm a lucky Bloke! Thanks for another great video!

[@chrisneedham5803]

I use Opinel knives in the kitchen at home because they're better than the so called 'celebrity chef knives' and a quarter of the price.

[@chrisneedham5803]

Just liked my own comment, and why not it's New Year 🍺 🍷 👍 👍

[@JoonesAdventuresMC]

Why not? 😎👍 Every one says “you have to believe in yourself” so it seems logical to like your own comments. Abt Jonas

[@ChaplainMike777]

Great video! Getting good ideas for motorcycle camping. Thanks from Portland, Oregon USA

[@leeeverett8109]

Simon, you ever watch yourself eat during the editing process and just say to yourself "You Animal"? hahaha 19:29

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

All the time!! 😂😂😂

[@MHarenArt]

Oh my gosh, that bag you used to inflate the sleeping pad was genius! I have not seen anyone else using one of those!! Enjoyed the whole video Simon! Thanks!

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thanks Maggie! It came with my sleeping pad - it’s basically a big stuffsack with a stretchy plastic aperture on the bottom that fits snugly over the valve - simple and effective. Cheers!

[@chrisneedham5803]

Strange but I also make owl noises just before I fall asleep 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@windowclean100]

Chris Needham My noises are more like Barking spiders LOL

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

😂😂😂😂 damn, I thought I’d got away with that one!

[@tomgregelevich6493]

Awesome video !!! The chicken look outstanding.

[@Vargarslet]

Hi Simon, I live in Sweden so I should be able to send you the Oboy to be used with hot water if needed. Just dropp me a line. Cheers, Ulf

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thank you Ulf! That is very kind! I’ve been pointed in the direction of a Swedish mail order food company here in the uk that stocks O’boy!! Yay!! I very much appreciate your generous offer however, thank you!

[@Vargarslet]

I followed one of the links in the comments but that Oboy is to be utses with milk. Not hot water. Just so you know. Cheers Ulf

[@mikesullivan4354]

Simon, they sell it on amazon UK

[@stewartsetter3921]

Legend ! loved hearing the owl just before you signed off.

[@Gabblerwba1]

That looked the perfect night out with good food ta boot. Congrats on your growing channel Simon, well deserved.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thank you buddy! 😁

[@brianwofford3831]

Very nice video, I enjoyed the tarp setup.it was very reminiscent of the whelan tent.

[@duaneho555]

Another goodies. Thanks for sharing. 👍🏻

[@chrisandsamlivingthedream]

Nice 1 buddy.. good camp there .. cheers Chris & Sam

[@bigchris80]

Yorkshire tea, quality choice👌 great videos man. Can't wait to get out in the wild again!

[@benjaminrigg762]

For sure my top u tubers love all of your vids

[@WarrenKimpel]

another nice video THANKS

[@erhardt1477]

Well... As a not so serious outdoors person, like you sir, I can honestly say, watching your videos sir, is like a FREE course in camping 🏕 Not bad 👍😉👋 Greetings from Germany sir ... PS. now at well over 100k subs ... nicely done ✅

[@martinoutdoors6941]

Fantastic Simon, just shows you don’t need an epic adventure to enjoy a night out in the woods, especially with some excellent food to be enjoyed. Liking your simple set up seems that could be a many season and nights set up with only increasing food for more nights.

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Cheers Martin! Definitely a great all season tarp setup - really good protection on three sides and the flap at the front gives cover for your fire - perfect winter configuration. The food was good!! 😁

[@chrisrobson8540]

another rewatch ....100k not far off.....keep it coming

[@lorddiablo8575]

Simon, your roast chicken and potatoes are fantastic .... it must be delicious too !

[@steveb1972]

Those pancakes! We could all see your mouthgasm at first bite! Lol

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

😂😂😂

[@bobgerhardt5616]

Great trip and video! Thanks for sharing.Simon!

[@noseybirdadventures5880]

Great camp and great food

[@janlovesmany6058]

I very much enjoy your channel thank you.

[@johnkelenfoldi350]

thanks Simon just had my tea now i am hungry again awesome video...atb

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Sorry John! 😁

[@gervaiscurrie6675]

Stumbled upon this at random - like yr style & yr smile :-) - keep on keeping on!!

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

Thank you! 👍😁

[@stevenavison9684]

Yes boy tasty pancake

[@rm8679]

Have been watching you for years and love your videos. It must be nice not having to think about bears or snakes.

[@jamesbleess5282]

Great video, I enjoy your enthusiasm.

[@mikew9893]

the crows smell the juicy chicken drippings from last night....incredible cleanup machine animals.

[@steveqhanson6835]

Looks like a great breakfast

[@eddiekeylon323]

I surely do enjoy every single video Simon. Thanks so much.

[@richlovin2173]

We generally don't use lean-to's. We have bears, mountain lions, rattle snakes, and coyotes to bother us. Your videos are excellent.

[@manojsikder2175]

I like your all videos.

[@tonywoollcombe1799]

Rewatched again….a charming video Simon, well done

[@robertshand8101]

Nice one again Simon, its great seeing all you folks getting out this time of year. Tasty looking piece of hen too....Here's a tip (...although you probably already know !!)....give the leg bone a twist near the end of cooking, if it comes out clean the bird should be cooked through. The middle of the sticks isn't the place for dodgy guts...😂😂😂 Cheers..👍

[@simonablokeinthewoods]

You’re not wrong there buddy - I’ve been ill before on a camping trip - no fun at all!!! Good tip about the leg bone! 😁

[@marksadventures3889]

Good to see it's Yorkshire Tea sir. A bit about trees is good, knowing about the safer trees and the ones thst are vulnerable to the wind.