Frozen Fury: An Adrenaline-Packed -23°C Winter Camping Experience
Ever since I moved to Norway, I’ve dreamed of being the first Filipino woman to survive a true winter camping adventure in the Norwegian wilderness at temperatures as low as -23°C. Over the past two years, I’ve dedicated myself to researching and preparing for this ultimate challenge—from selecting the right equipment and scouting ideal locations to choosing the perfect camping companions.
“Tents aglow in frost so deep,
A winter camp where silence sleeps.
Snowy trails and moonlit skies,
Cold winds whisper, embers rise.
Through the night, the lights shine bright,
A frozen world wrapped in soft twilight.”
Planning the Adventure: From Solo Camping to Team Expedition
Normally, I love my solo camping trips, but when it comes to extreme cold, safety and camaraderie are key. I decided that this challenge was best tackled with friends. I mapped out a one-week window with clear blue skies, a mild breeze, and temperatures ranging from -7°C to -23°C—the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.
“I camp in winter’s embrace,
Bundled in a Mammut sleeping bag in my Samaya 2.0 space.
In the vestibule, my Salomon shoes rest with a call,
Ready for rugged adventures in the Norwegian wild’s thrall.
A blend of comfort and outdoor spirit shines anew—
Experience true winter camping where adventure rings true.”
I split the week into two destinations:
Kvinlog: A two-night stay in one of the coldest, most remote areas in Norway, located just a couple of hours from Stavanger.
Sinnes: A one-night expedition in another frosty gem of the Norwegian wilderness.
With the plan in hand, I invited two friends who share my passion for the outdoors. Bee joined me for the Kvinlog leg of the journey, while Ida was up for the thrill in Sinnes.
“Amidst the snow in daylight’s glow,
A sauna warms the world below.
At -23°C, the frost still bites,
Yet steam and laughter spark delight.
A winter escape, a fireside stay,
Heat and ice in bold display.”
Camping in winter isn’t for the faint of heart, but this trip wasn’t just about braving the cold—it had a glamping twist. Just a kilometer from our Kvinlog camp, we stumbled upon a farmland offering sauna and hot tub rentals. After a long day of trekking through the snow, the idea of sinking into a steaming hot tub under the winter sky felt like a luxury survival tactic. The contrast between the biting cold air and the soothing warmth of the water was absolute bliss. It wasn’t just a way to unwind—it was essential for staying warm before crawling into our sleeping bags for the night.
Mastering the Art of Snow Camping
Preparation was everything. As beginner campers, we weren’t taking any chances—especially after a near-disastrous beach camping experience where the wind nearly sent our tent flying. That lesson stuck with us, and this time, we invested in metallic snow pegs, choosing gold-colored ones for extra glare and a touch of fun. These sturdy pegs gripped the packed snow securely, ensuring our tent stayed anchored no matter how fierce the wind got. Lesson learned: when nature plays rough, the right gear makes all the difference.
“Golden pegs in snow so bright,
Anchored strong through frozen night.
A shovel waits, the path to clear,
For winter camps that hold so dear.
When winds arise and cold grips tight,
The right gear turns wrong to right.”
Ready to Take on Winter Camping?
“Tents shine beneath the frozen sky,
Where northern winds and shadows lie.
Snowdrifts glisten, hushed and deep,
A realm where icy secrets sleep.
Mountains whisper, bold and high,
A winter's throne where dreamers lie.”
Ready to embrace the wild beauty of winter camping? Whether you're looking for a cozy glamping escape or an adventurous night in subzero temperatures, the right preparation makes all the difference.
Have you ever camped in extreme cold? Share your best winter camping tips, must-have gear, or memorable experiences in the comments below! And if you're planning your first snow camping adventure, let’s chat—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
