Johnson's Shut Ins

campfire and rain

As it's getting colder, we're going on a short camping trip with the car full of gear.

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After driving two hours south through the Missouri backcountry, past trailer homes, American flags and Trump signs, we reach Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park. We arrive after dark, set up our camp and light a fire to cook hot dogs for dinner. The night is cold, but with all our blankets, it’s manageable.

The next morning, we prepare a hearty breakfast and take a walk along the river, where we go for a dip. The campsite is deep in the woods, with a stunning view of the star-filled night sky. We spot a few bunnies and countless ladybugs.

That evening, we enjoy making raclette over the fire, sipping beer and playing Yahtzee as night falls. Although it gets dark earlier, the second night is slightly warmer.

After breakfast in the tent, we pack up in the rain and start the drive back to St. Louis, navigating without cell service for part of the journey. I enjoy driving on American roads again and simply being behind the wheel after all these years.

Then I head to the greyhound station and it's back on the road again for me.Read more