The Inaugural Outsiders, Together Trip — Valley of Fire
On January 31st, I posted a silly TikTok video about wanting to get a group of singles together for a camping trip. On February 11th, 35 strangers from the internet were huddled around a campfire in the middle of the desert.
Over the course of three days, we all made unforgettable memories, belly laughed around a campfire, shared deep conversations, saw breathtaking landscapes, and formed incredible friendships.
And when I tell you that every single person who showed up was kind, open, courageous, and so unique and incredible, I truly mean it. There was so much to learn from each and every person in the group—and the bonds most people form over weeks of knowing others were formed in mere nights.
Valley of Fire State Park is located in southern Nevada and boasts brilliant red and orange rocks that span the entirety of the area. There is abundant BLM land surrounding the park for free camping, and our group set up next to Lake Mead near the East Entrance of the park. We piled close to 40 vehicles onto a (somewhat) flat area overlooking the lake and marveled at how all of us came together on such short notice.
On this plot of land, art was created, journals written in, secrets shared, steak cooked, and corn hole played. With 35 humans and six dogs overtaking the area, it was impossible for everyone not to be stoked on life—and that excitement and contentment poured out into everything we did and shared together.
This trip was a breath of fresh air for the entire group. What began as a TikTok video became a truly memorable weekend where lifelong friendships were made. You definitely don’t want to miss out on the next trip, so join our Facebook Group and get in on the action! We have over 4,500 members located around the world, so there will definitely be outdoorsy folk looking for similar adventures in your area.
If you don’t believe me, take it from them:
“If you’re a fellow Outsider who missed this meetup, or are on the fence about going to the next one, take it from an introvert: this is the best decision you will ever make. Great views, good vibes, and incredible people. Thank you Outsiders, Together.” —Wes
“Being with a group of people that enjoy what you enjoy made me know I found a community I can call home.” —Harrison S.
“One of the most inclusive groups I’ve been a part of in a long time. The minute I pulled up, all of my anxieties about the weekend ahead faded away as I was welcomed with smiles and open arms.” —Mari
“It was amazing to see people from all walks of life brought together through the love of the outdoors and a chance sighting on social media. Everyone was so welcoming and helped one another enjoy this event as much as possible. Just like the name suggests we were all outsiders who came together to create new relationships and wonderful memories.” —Kady
“Memories are such valuable possessions. And in the beauty of the desert this group made beautiful memories we will never forget.” —Vic
“This camping trip grew me, pushed my comforts and gave me more motivation to keep exploring who I am and what I want out of life. I left inspired to live more freely and I’m super thankful for all the connections and friends that were made.” —Noah
“I was in a place that made me feel small, surrounded by people that made me feel big.” —Gunnar
"One night around the campfire, someone asked me if I was extroverted or introverted. I said I used to think I was introverted, but then I realized I wasn’t introverted, I had just been surrounding myself with people who made me feel like I couldn’t be myself. Experiences like this weekend are what remind me that there are people out there who make me feel like I can be 100% myself—35 to be exact. This was one of the best ‘yeses’ I have ever made.” —Katie
“And like the moon, we must go through phases of emptiness to feel full again. This group has helped me feel full once again.” —Tanner