There is no doubt that at CampWild, community sits at the core of everything we do. It’s what drives us, brings us together, and makes so many of experiences meaningful and special. Earlier this week, we welcomed the autumn equinox, and it feels like the right moment to reflect on a highlight from the summer—our community campout at Escape to the Lake. We had the privilege of meeting some truly amazing people, including Alice, a wildlife photographer and founder of Female Explorers UK. Alice has captured her experience at our CampWild and Red Paddle Co campout in this behind-the-scenes write-up. We’re excited to share her perspective and the connections we built along the way.
Tucked away at the foot of the Malvern Hills, CampWild & Red Paddle Co's Camp Out at Escape to the Lake offered more than your average camping trip. It was an invitation to reconnect—both with nature and with ourselves. Beneath the expansive skies of rural Worcestershire, this gathering felt like a call to slow down, breathe deep, and share in the simple joys of community.
Arriving at the lakeside camp, the air was warm and carrying a fresh earthy scent. I was immediately greeted by another guest who parked next to me, the lovely Rebecca, who was also travelling alone. She had a beautiful way of making me feel instantly relaxed, and suddenly any of the fears associated with doing things alone disappeared.
The lake mirrored the surrounding hills and set the tone for the weekend: serene, still, and utterly immersive! Walking into camp we were greeted with a warm welcome from the other campers, and the amazing Tom & Alex, founders of Camp Wild, the UK’s only Wild Camping platform. With over 150 private Wild Spaces already in the UK, they’re on an important mission to work with landowners and unlock previously inaccessible land for wild camping, and by doing so create meaningful and lasting experiences in nature. I could feel this wasn’t just any outdoor escape—this was a shared journey into something deeper.
The weekend began with a splash, quite literally. As the sun started to lower, we all took to the lake, diving into the surprisingly warm water. Will & Pippa, founders of Escape to the Lake, have created a beautifully biodiverse space. Teeming with water birds and other wildlife, a serene haven and the perfect open water swimming spot. In the water the conversations deepened and we moved from swimming, to gliding gracefully across the surface on stand-up paddleboards, courtesy of Red Paddle Co. Ironically, there’s something very grounding about being on the water. Every stroke of the paddle invites you to focus on balance, on your body’s subtle movements, and the peaceful nature of the lake provided the perfect backdrop for reflection.
After a good couple of hours of laughing and playing, until our fingers had gone all wrinkly, we ambled back to our camp, started cooking, and formed a circle around the campfire ready to absorb the knowledge of Lizzi Larbalestier, a coach and advocate for the growing “Blue Health” movement, and who, in collaboration with Red Paddle Co, has just completed the first scientific study into the benefits Blue Health has on mental wellness. We were already feeling the calming influence of the lake so her words resonated deeply. She spoke about the ways in which being close to water can reduce stress, promote mental clarity, boost overall well-being and encourage a natural movement towards sustainability and protecting our beautiful planet. In a world that often feels overwhelming, Lizzi’s message was a gentle reminder of nature’s ability to restore balance, and most importantly, heal.
As the day faded into evening, we gathered around a crackling campfire, sharing anecdotes, beers and laughs. Discussing Tentsile’s innovative tree tents we’d checked out earlier in the day, and listening to adventures from the four corners of the Earth. Fireside storytelling has a special timelessness to it—there’s something about recounting experiences under the stars that forges connection. The sense of community, a deep new bond, was tangible.
After a good night's sleep, the morning in camp was quiet, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. As the sun began to break through the mist, a gentle yoga session with Lizzi welcomed the day. Stretching out overlooking the lake, with each pose encouraging us to root ourselves in the moment, to feel the earth beneath us and breathe in the new day with gratitude.
I left Malvern that day with a new group of friends and a profound sense of belonging. I will continue to carry a renewed sense of community, of the importance of spending time in wild spaces, and a reminder that in nature, we find both clarity and connection. At the heart of the Camp Out was a simple truth: we are nature, too. And when we slow down long enough to listen to the water, to feel the earth beneath our feet, and to share stories by firelight, we remember who we are.
Alice Maturin-Baird
Photographer & Co-Founder of Female Explorers UK
Comments