Woodsitters

Woodsitters is a term used to describe individuals who engage in extended periods of solitary living within natural wooded environments. These individuals often seek to disconnect from mainstream society, embrace a simpler lifestyle, and immerse themselves in nature. While the practice is not formally organized, woodsitters typically find remote locations, often on public or private land with permission, and establish a temporary or semi-permanent dwelling.

The motivations for becoming a woodsitter vary. Some are driven by a desire for self-sufficiency and a rejection of consumerism, while others seek spiritual or personal growth through solitude and connection with the natural world. The lifestyle often involves foraging for food, building shelter from natural materials, and minimizing their environmental footprint. There can be an emphasis on observation of wildlife, ecological processes, and the changing seasons.

Woodsitting can range from a few days to several months or even years. It is important to note that the legality and ethical considerations of woodsitting can be complex, particularly concerning land use rights and environmental impact. Individuals engaging in this practice often aim to leave no trace and respect the natural spaces they inhabit. The term itself is not widely recognized in academic or official circles, but it is used within certain subcultures and online communities focused on alternative living and wilderness skills.