A Tradition That Defines Hunting Culture

Deer camp is a special place. The traditions, fellowship, and enjoyment that is upheld at deer camp is unmatched in the world of hunting. In my own life, I’ve experienced an evolving attitude towards deer camp. When I was a kid hunting with my dad, I couldn’t wait to get the camper trailer to the hunting property. Sitting around the fire with my dad, uncles, and cousins was what I looked forward to the most. But as I got a little older my attitude changed. 

I still enjoyed the comradery and meals that deer camp provided, but my seriousness for deer hunting was increasing. I started to care about finding and killing the best deer more than the deer camp experience. I went on like that for the early part of my young adult life. In the last few years I’ve started to come full circle on the hunting camp experience, and I’ve been fortunate enough to share hunting camps with the people that I love in the places that I love. 

I’ve realized that in hunting, the people you share the lifestyle with are what’s most important. I can’t wait to get my future kids involved in deer camp because it will be one of the best things I can do for them. I can explain this better now than I ever have because I have realized the following truths about deer camp: 

You Can Still Hunt Hard and Enjoy Deer Camp at the Same Time

Just because you are at deer camp doesn’t mean you have to take a lazy approach to hunting. A couple of the deer camps I’ve been a part of over the last two seasons involved very intense hunting. The meals, laughs and relaxation that deer camp is traditionally known for was still very much a part of our experience. It just a looked slightly different than what some others might experience. 

The Best Meals are After a Hard Hunt

I can attest to this 100%. Our Colorado mule deer camp this year involved some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in my life. Did we make any special preparations? Nope. Various cuts of skillet-fried venison and fried potatoes were regulars on the menu just like they are at home. But the cold weather and shear effort applied to the hunt made each bite a delicacy. Whether it’s steak, burgers, or chili, the best meals are eaten in deer camp. 

Stories Get Funnier and More Interesting at Deer Camp

There are no shortage of laughs at deer camp. Familiar stories seem to be brought up often because there are no hard feelings amongst the group. There is nothing better than sitting around the fire at the end of the day with your family or friends laughing your butts off. This never gets old and if you are at a deer camp that doesn’t encourage some laughs, I advise you seek a new one. 

Nothing Lasts Forever So Enjoy Every Second Now

There is no doubt that hunting is special, but the most special aspect is that we hunt with those we love. Sadly, because we are human, nothing lasts forever. Whether it’s Grandpa greeting everybody as they arrive back to camp or a wild pack of kids throwing things into the fire, we don’t get these moments forever. Don’t ever take deer camp for granted, enjoy every second you can while you can. 

Man, I really love deer camp!

Will Bowen, Okayest Hunter Contributor