Cabin fever. Low-energy. Maybe pale, pasty skin ... If you're one of the thousands suffering from Nature Deficit Disorder (aka: the extreme inability to spend time outside because all the campsites are taken), don't worry.
Hipcamp—a startup that creates new campsites by unlocking access to beautiful private lands such as nature preserves, farms and ranches—has a prescription for you.
First launched in 2013, Hipcamp recently hit the Grand Rapids scene, allowing campers to virtually scout for over 10,000 private campsites locally, throughout the state and even nationwide.
It's revolutionizing the camping experience.
Last minute? No problem.
Campsites on public land near Grand Rapids typically book up six months in advance. Hipcamp unlocks access to tens of thousands of acres of public land for private places to spend time in nature. No more crowded campgrounds—and you get a chance to explore land that's untouched by the public.
No tent? No problem.
Hipcamp makes camping accessible for anyone. If you don't have the gear, host sites offer accommodations and amenities. Choose from canvas tents, yurts, tree houses and more. And if you're not big on going without a shower, peeing in the woods or sleeping on the ground, you can find the right fit for your style.
It's immersive.
Many hosts facilitate built-in experiences for campers including learning about farming, ranching, wildlife, textile creation, pottery, winemaking and more. You could learn how to harvest grapes, explore a private waterfall or pet baby farm animals.
It gives back.
Hipcamp allows landowners to share their corner of nature with the world—while generating the income they need to keep the land in their hands.
"It's our hosts and campers who are really giving back," said Alyssa Ravasio, Founder and CEO. "Hosts are stewarding land and sharing it with the world—keeping habitats in tact, and keeping small-scale agriculture alive in America."
No need to suffer from Nature Deficit Disorder. With Hipcamp, you'll more than survive. You'll thrive.
Written by Cassie Westrate, staff writer for West Michigan Woman.
Photo courtesy of Hipcamp.
