Giving a stranger my camp coordinates turned into a bad idea fast

I was out on the Pacific Crest Trail last fall and met a guy at a water source. We talked for a bit, and he asked where I was planning to sleep that night. Without thinking, I pulled out my map and showed him the exact spot. He nodded and went on his way. Later that evening, I was alone at my campsite when he showed up with three other people, saying they decided to join me. The area was tight, and I felt really uncomfortable with a group I didn't know. I ended up packing my gear in the dark and hiking another two miles to find a new place. It messed up my rest and left me on edge for days. Now, I only give vague answers about my plans to people I meet on the trail.

3 comments

3 Comments

the_hugo1mo ago

Taking vague answers further, I just say "somewhere up ahead" lol

kimb361mo ago

Love how you take vague answers further, @the_hugo. It reminds me of when people give directions like "over there" or "just past that thing." Once, a friend told me the meetup was "by the big tree," but there were five big trees in the park. That kind of answer leaves you guessing and often leads to more questions. But in a way, it adds a bit of adventure to finding your way. Still, clear answers save a lot of time and hassle.

william_taylor29d ago

Trust is earned out there, not given away with a map. Your story is exactly why I keep my camp plans to myself now. That gut feeling when things get crowded is your best tool. Vague is safe.