Where Do You Go When The Brown Stuff Hits The Fan?

In an ever-changing world, unforeseen challenges can test our resilience and preparedness. From natural disasters to civil unrest and unexpected societal upheavals, having a well-thought-out contingency plan is not just prudent but potentially lifesaving.

When the proverbial “brown stuff” hits the fan, where do you find solace and safety?

This article showcases some strategic bug out locations that can serve as refuge during times of crisis, offering a roadmap for those seeking reliable escape strategies. From the familiar embrace of friends and family to the remote serenity of national wildlife refuges and the vast expanses managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

We’ll look into all these potential safe havens that could become the key to our survival when the world demands quick and calculated responses. So, let’s check the possibilities and considerations that could make the difference between vulnerability and resilience in times of uncertainty.

Friends and family

Undoubtedly, the most prevalent choice for a majority of individuals is relying on friends and family during challenging times due to its inherent convenience. In times of crisis, having a support system of trusted individuals is a natural inclination. However, the stark reality may unfold differently when confronted with a world in turmoil, as various unknown factors can potentially extend one’s stay beyond the initially anticipated duration.

Before designating this option as your primary refuge, several critical considerations should be taken into account. Foremost, it is imperative not to presume that friends and family, despite their willingness, can singularly cater to all your needs and those of your family during an extended crisis. While they may provide initial assistance, should your stay exceed a few days, proactive contributions become essential. Consider procuring and storing necessary supplies, ranging from sustenance and water to toiletries and clothing, at their residence to alleviate any undue burden.

Furthermore, it is paramount to acknowledge the potential limitations in living space, especially if your family is sizable or includes pets. In such instances, a judicious approach may involve discussing alternative arrangements with your hosts, such as camping on their property. If this proves viable, consider investing in the requisite camping gear and storing it on-site for expedient access.

Lastly, the formulation of comprehensive bug-out plans necessitates meticulous discussions with the designated hosts. In an unpredictable crisis scenario, the duration of evacuation remains uncertain, and hosts should be apprised of the potential for an extended stay. Their preparedness to accommodate such exigencies should align with the pragmatic considerations that accompany an extended lodging, fostering a mutual understanding of the expectations in the face of adversity.

Bug out location

When contemplating a bug-out location, the typical mental image often gravitates towards a well-appointed bunker nestled in a secluded area or a fully self-sufficient cabin situated off the grid in a remote wilderness. Realistically, however, the financial feasibility of such locations is beyond the means of most individuals, necessitating the exploration of alternative retreats for times of exigency.

Consider, for instance, the pragmatic approach adopted by certain preppers who opt for more attainable solutions, such as a camper strategically positioned in wooded areas or a shelter established on another individual’s property, constituting their sole bug-out locations. For these individuals, the efficacy of their chosen refuge prevails, and any contemplation of change hinges on the availability of a significantly superior alternative.

The fundamental principle behind selecting a bug-out location revolves around its capacity to accommodate all members of your party while concurrently providing a level of comfort aligned with individual preferences.

The comfort factor varies based on personal skills and the willingness to employ them over an extended duration. For instance, some may prioritize access to running water, while others willingly engage in the collection and purification of water for their necessities. Variances extend to preferences for electricity and modern gadgets; while some individuals find it indispensable, others embrace the prospect of temporarily disconnecting from such amenities.

Ultimately, the root of the matter lies in the bug-out location’s ability to furnish all essential elements, streamlining the survival experience. It need not be extravagant; a practical example may encompass a simple family canvas tent equipped with a wood-burning stove, a foldable table, chairs, and sleeping bags. The essence lies in functionality rather than opulence, emphasizing the adaptability and resourcefulness required for survival with the least amount of inconvenience.

Forest Service lands

Presently, it is approximated that nearly nine percent of the United States’ vast expanse is under the careful stewardship of the U.S. Forest Service, accounting for approximately 200 million acres of national forest.

The realm overseen by the Forest Service distinguishes itself from the jurisdiction of the National Park Service, offering a broader spectrum of possibilities for utilization. Beyond the realm of recreation, these lands extend an invitation to limited resource exploitation, granting access to activities such as hunting, fishing, timber extraction, and mining.

Within this expansive territory, a network of dirt roads unfolds, catering to a diverse array of vehicles, although pockets exist where the intrusion of motor vehicles is strictly prohibited. Renowned as a favored destination, these lands are revered for endowing a unique freedom unparalleled elsewhere.

Extended camping is permissible, contingent upon adherence to the stipulation that a single site is not occupied for more than fourteen days. The flexibility extends to the allowance of firearms for hunting purposes, while traversing vast distances is facilitated by the efficient use of ATVs or off-road motorcycles.

Venturing further into these lands reveals designated wilderness areas, accessible solely by foot or horseback, meticulously preserved to maintain an unspoiled state. Spanning millions of acres, these roadless expanses exhibit minimal traces of human impact, becoming coveted havens for enthusiasts of primitive survival.

In the context of a bug-out scenario, national forest lands emerge as sanctuaries sought after by hunters and aspiring survivalists alike, engendering a competition for the abundant resources concealed within. The allure of these lands lies in their lack of roads, trails, or conspicuous drainages, offering an escape from unprepared crowds and an opportunity to elude potential confrontations.

National Wildlife Refugees

Within the realm of national wildlife refuges, noteworthy examples such as the expansive Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in Georgia often boast larger acreages than their counterparts in national forests and parks. While certain wildlife refuges capture the limelight, others remain quietly nestled, evading the notice of the general public. These lands share a common purpose: the preservation of diverse wildlife habitats, nurturing ecosystems that provide a sanctuary for a myriad of species.

It’s interesting to note that certain extensive tracts governed by the federal system within this framework were acquired through the initiatives of private organizations. As government regulations wane in influence, these lands are poised for a shift into private ownership, sparking keen competition among those in search of a fresh start. Much like the pioneering domains of our ancestors, these lands create ideal conditions for safeguarding the most endangered species during critical times—humans.

Consider, for instance, the sprawling expanses of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, where untamed landscapes mirror the pioneering spirit of preservation. Many wildlife refuges, including Okefenokee, impose stringent restrictions, prohibiting activities such as camping and any human conduct that could compromise the land’s integrity.

This commitment to preservation underscores the crucial role these refuges play in shielding wildlife and potentially serving as sanctuaries for human survival amid the uncertainties of pivotal moments.

Bureau of Land Management Lands (BLM)

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), a government agency overseeing an expansive portfolio, currently administers nearly 260 million acres of federal lands across 12 western states, including Alaska. This jurisdiction encompasses diverse terrains, ranging from lush forests and sprawling grasslands to arid deserts, firmly placing the BLM at the helm of their regulation.

Amidst these vast tracts, some transform into desolate wilderness areas, widely regarded as prime bug-out locations by discerning individuals. Yet, it’s crucial to recognize that certain BLM territories, despite their potential, remain shrouded in obscurity, known only to a select few.

Uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of these lands are the locals, possessing an intimate knowledge that enables them to harness these resources effectively. Invariably, these residents are poised to designate these territories as secure havens, staunchly maintaining their positions when interfacing with outsiders.

For those residing in the western states, delving into the BLM lands in close proximity is not merely advisable but an astute course of action. Familiarizing oneself with these vast expanses could prove invaluable, offering insights into potential safe havens and strategic retreats should the need arise.

Concluding

In the quest for strategic retreats during crises, exploring diverse landscapes managed by government entities reveals unique possibilities. From the embrace of friends and family to rugged expanses controlled by the Bureau of Land Management, and pristine wilderness in national wildlife refuges, each option has distinct considerations.

Navigating potential havens emphasizes adaptability and resourcefulness. Contemplating bug-out scenarios requires preparedness, understanding regulations, and appreciating local insights.

Our choices should align with physical necessities and a deep understanding of landscapes and communities. As we prepare, the key is not just the destination when the “brown stuff” hits but navigating and adapting to unforeseen challenges. An informed approach ensures chosen refuges are sustainable havens for resilience and survival.

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