Aging gracefully under the stars: Camping tips for senior citizens

By Steven V. Dubin

I just returned from my 28th consecutive Father’s Day camping trip to Nickerson State Park in Brewster.
At one time, the camping weekend included three bustling and growing families, car loads of kids, neighborhood friend, a pile of bikes, and cartons and cartons of food. Now we are essentially down to three cranky old Dads who are delighted to be in the woods with some peace and quiet and an occasional visit from an adult child or a fresh new grandchild.
What is better than spending a weekend with old friends telling and retelling stories around the campfire? And there is the added bonus of coming home stinking of campfire and itching for a comfortable bed.
Here are some thoughts about the joys of camping and the great outdoors for seniors.
Just because you’ve traded late nights at the disco for early-bird specials doesn’t mean your sense of adventure has to retire. In fact, camping might just be the perfect way to reconnect with nature, your loved ones, and perhaps your long-neglected ukulele. Before you lace up those orthopedic hiking boots and hit the trail, here are a few senior-friendly, slightly whimsical camping tips to ensure your outdoor escapade is more “aaah” than “ouch.”

  1. Choose the right campsite (Translation: One with flush toilets)
    When you were 22, a patch of dirt and a log to lean against might’ve sufficed. At this stage, however, comfort matters. Look for campgrounds with level ground, accessible trails, and – yes – actual bathrooms. Bonus points if there’s a camp store nearby selling marshmallows, bug spray, and aspirin. Here is a link for MA options: www.visitma.com/things-to-do/outdoors/camping/
  2. Upgrade your sleeping arrangements
    Sleeping on the ground is a young person’s sport. Invest in a good-quality air mattress or a memory-foam camping pad. Better yet, consider a pop-up camper or RV. Me, I’m cheap, so I am still tent camping with some choice bedding.
  3. Pack like a pro (or a scout leader)
    Forget “packing light.” At this age, it’s “packing right.” Bring layers for those chilly nights, a sun hat for your midday constitutional, and a chair so comfortable it practically hugs you. Don’t forget medications, a flashlight with fresh batteries, and a good book. (Preferably one with large print – your eyes have earned the break.)
  4. Embrace senior-friendly activities
    You might leave the rock climbing to the whippersnappers, but there’s plenty you can enjoy. Nature walks, birdwatching, campfire storytelling, and identifying constellations are all excellent, low-impact options. Bonus: You can impress younger campers by casually dropping phrases like, “I remember when Pluto was still a planet.”
  5. Prioritize safety (because you’re too wise to be foolish)
    Keep a whistle around your neck. Carry a walking stick. Stay hydrated. And let someone know where you’re going if you wander off to commune with the chipmunks. Remember, it’s not paranoia – it’s preparedness. Besides, no great campfire story ever started with, “Everything went exactly as planned.”
  6. Bring the right company
    Camping is always better with good company. Whether it’s grandkids, old friends, or a partner who doesn’t snore too loudly, choose companions who appreciate nature, laughter, and a well-timed nap. Bonus points if someone knows how to make s’mores.
  7. Don’t forget the creature comforts
    Who says you can’t have a bit of luxury in the great outdoors? Bring your favorite pillow, a Thermos of your special tea blend, and maybe a portable speaker loaded with your favorite golden oldies. Remember, nature’s soundtrack is lovely, but sometimes “Dancin’ in the Moonlight” under actual moonlight is unbeatable.
    So go ahead – grab that sun hat, load up the cooler, and head for the hills. Because adventure has no expiration date, and neither does your sense of humor.

If you know of a senior who is doing something interesting with their retirement, I look forward to hearing from you! Please email me at SDubin@PRWorkZone.com 

Steven V. Dubin is the founder of PR Works, a lightly used public relations firm based in Plymouth which helps small to mid-sized nonprofit organizations and for-profit companies navigate the overwhelming options of advertising. Steve lives in Plymouth with his wife, Wendy. He is a contributing author to “Get Slightly Famous” and “Tricks of the Trade,” the complete guide to succeeding in the advice business. He recently authored “PR 101,” an E-book.