Concerned

[jenng2007 (as guest)]

This is my first time camping, and I am very nervous! It is just going to be me and my significant other. Is it really safe? I may be making a big deal out of nothing and just nervous.
Thanks in advanced!

[Al]

Generally speaking it is more dangerous to drive to the park, or daily where you live, than camping.  What are you afraid of?

Al

[jenng2007]

Yea, I have already read up on how dangerous it is driving up there and I am currently about 11 hours away.
Well of course people are scaring me, saying how dangerous it is since it is so close to the border.

[Al]

Unless you are camping down river road in one of the few campsites very near the river I've not heard of a problem.  Even then it's rare.  It's a very remote place and the chances of someone popping out from behind a rock are two: slim and none.  I'd be more worried in down town Houston or Dallas than Big Bend.  Big Bend is about getting away from all that stuff.  It's wonderfully peaceful and relaxing.  It's a place to let go of those kinds of worries.  I recommend it!

Al

[jenng2007]

HA thanks. I think its my city girl personality shinging through. Thinking someone will mug me at the next tree. 

Thank you very much for comforting my thoughts.

[Al]

Thanks for listening.  I took my wife to a remote state park in Utah once.  We drove as far into the park as one could.  I stopped, got out of the car, took a deep breath and felt relaxed for the first time that day.  She freaked out about someone jumping out from behind a rock and mugging us!  I couldn't believe it.  Yea, right,  muggers hang out in the middle of nowhere with no water or food hoping a mark will drive up some day.  Not exactly a target rich environment.  Anyway, we had to load up an leave.  It was really silly.

Al

[jenng2007]

That is actually what he wants to do. Go to a remote area since we come from a loud and busy city. I really would enjoy that but I just got a little nervous. HAHA. Your wife sounds like me. I have never even slept on the ground in my life, so this should be interesting. lol.

[Al]

My guess is you will either love it or hate it.  You might suggest there is no reason to go out in the middle of nowhere to be miserable because you didn't bring enough stuff.  If he is experienced it should work out great!

Al

[jenng2007]

thank you!!! you really calmed my nerves lol! wish me luck.

[Al]

Let it all go and enjoy!  It's a unique and special place.

Al

[Al]

P.S.  The advice is free but we do expect a trip report when you get back, please.

Al

[jenng2007]

OH i will come back with tons of stories and pictures. Do not even worry about that!

[Casa Grande]

Jenn,

You make me laugh, and I mean that in an endearing kind of way :)

I think your willingness to go despite your fears says something about your character.  Relax, I know you'll have fun....in the 17 years I've been going to the park (that's several trips per year), I've only seen 1 bear and 1 live rattlesnake (neither of which wanted a thing to do with me) and I've never seen a mountain lion or a Mexican Bandito!  Have a great time!

Looking forward to hearing about your trip.

[Undertaker]

Jenn, been going to Big Bend since 1966 at least once a year sometimes more, you have little or nothing to worry about, take camera enjoy and relax. It took me years to talk wife into going, finally came and she loves the park. Talked girl friend of hers and her husband in joining and everyone is ready to go again. Read the numerous post on this site, and you should not have anything but great photos and a wonderful time. Relax and remain calm, once you go you will be hooked. I assume your husband has camped before, take a bottle of wine, scotch or beer and enjoy the sunrise/sunset and the most beautiful night sky you will ever see. Glad you are going, you have nothing to fear but fear itself (heard that somewhere).

[presidio]

you have nothing to fear but fear itself (heard that somewhere).

That would be paraphrased from Franklin D. Roosevelt's first Inaugural Address, March 4, 1933. It always sounded more Churchillian to me, but it was FDR.