Recharging Under the Stars: Why Camping is the Perfect Escape for Active and Retired First Responders

Every day, first responders— police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics—stand on the front lines of crisis, trauma, and emergency. Their selfless commitment often comes at a personal cost, with long hours, emotional strain, and exposure to traumatic events taking a heavy toll.

At Glampsite Joe, we recognize the incredible service these heroes provide, and we believe they deserve a chance to truly unwind, recharge, and reconnect—with nature and with themselves.

That’s why we’re proud to announce the 12 Knights project.  This season we are setting aside 12 free nights of glampsite camping for both active and retired first responders. It’s a small gesture of gratitude for the immense sacrifices they make.

We know firsthand about the profound healing power of nature, and the unique benefits that camping can offer those who dedicate their lives to helping others.  This is a way to show gratitude and to share.

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The Invisible Weight of a Hero’s Duty

The public sees their uniforms and quick actions, but behind the scenes, first responders bear the weight of life-and-death situations daily.  Studies indicate that between 15% and 37% of first responders may experience symptoms of PTSD, compared to about 7% in the general population. 

As many as 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions, including PTSD, compared to 20% in the general population. The numbers are even higher in high-trauma regions or in the aftermath of major disasters.

Chronic stress, sleep disruption, and cumulative trauma can lead to burnout, relationship struggles, and long-term health issues. These aren’t just statistics—they’re realities faced by people we rely on every day.   

The need for restorative, meaningful breaks from the front lines and from the potentially isolating retirement that comes after is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

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Nature: A Timeless Prescription

More and more mental health professionals are turning to ecotherapy—also known as nature therapy—as a powerful tool for healing. Time in natural surroundings has been proven to:

• Reduce cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone.
• Improve mood and decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Enhance sleep quality, which is often disrupted by shift work and stress.
• Increase focus and clarity, helping to quiet the “mental noise” of high-stress professions.

One study from Stanford University found that walking in nature decreased activity in the part of the brain linked to rumination and worry. Another, published in Frontiers in Psychology, found that time spent camping significantly improved well-being, especially for individuals recovering from high-stress occupations.

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Why Camping Hits Different

There’s something uniquely powerful about camping. It’s more than just staying outdoors—it’s about immersing yourself in a slower, more mindful pace of life. No alarms. No sirens. No deadlines. No need to worry.  Just fresh air, starry skies, and the rhythm of nature.

For first responders, this environment offers:

• A break from constant vigilance: Unlike in their day-to-day roles, there’s no need to be “on” all the time.
• Opportunity for solitude or bonding: Whether camping solo or with loved ones, the space allows for real connection or peaceful introspection.
• Physical activity that rejuvenates: Hiking, fishing, setting up camp—all gentle, purposeful movements that nourish the body.
• Digital detox: Getting away from screens and constant updates allows for mental clarity and emotional release.

Camping reintroduces something many first responders don’t realize they’ve lost: the freedom to simply be.

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Our Campsite: A Space for Restoration

Located in Allegany County in Upstate New York (about an hour away from Buffalo and from Rochester), our glamping campsite is located on 25 acres of land that has been in the family since the 1800s.  Home base consists of two small camping cabins with all the creature comforts.

Tent camping spots near the creek are also available.  Last year was our first full hosting season – we’re proud to say that we earned Super Host and Guest Favorite on Airbnb for the past three quarters! 

This is a true labor of love. The mission is to create a space where a connection can be made – with nature, with family and friends, and with yourself.  So far the mission is going well!

Personal note:  I know about the weight that the job can bring. I also know that, it in some ways, retirement can be even harder at times. I served as a police officer for 20 years and still serve in the mental health crisis management field.  This place has always brought peace when I needed it most.  It’s time to share it.

12 Knights

This year, we’re opening up 12 free camping nights specifically for first responders, active or retired. Each night in one of our cabins (or tent, if preferred) is an opportunity to rest, reflect, and recharge without cost or obligation.

How it works:

• Any first responder (or someone nominating them) can contact us via the GlampSite Joe Contact page. Just send an e-mail to the [email protected] address and let us know you would like to participate.  You can also follow the links to the Airbnb listings for the Wheelhouse and the Shamut for more property information (or to book traditionally, outside of 12 Knights). 
• 12 Knights runs from June 1 thru October 1, 2025 (our first season with full washroom facilities!) and dates of stay are based on availability and preference.  Please limit requests to 1 to 3 nights.    
• It’s not required, but all are welcome to share why they could use a break and would like to utilize one of the 12 Knights.  This could potentially be a decision-making factor when there are numerous requests. 
• Otherwise, we only ask that guests respect the property – doing their best to leave it better than they found it.  

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Why We’re Doing This

Our motivation is simple: we believe in giving back to those who give and who have given so much of themselves.  Whether you’re a paramedic who’s worked every holiday, the retired police officer navigating PTSD, or the firefighter battling burnout, you deserve a space to breathe again.

This mission is personal. We know the toll that giving so much of yourself can take—and the joy that returns when time is found to reconnect with nature.

Please spread the word

If you know an active or retired first responder who could use a night under the stars, please encourage them to inquire—or nominate them yourself.

Camping is not a cure-all. But it can be a chance to breathe, and a beginning. For those who carry so much, it’s our privilege to offer even a few nights of lightness.

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Thank You

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about camping. It’s about gratitude, healing, and giving something back to the people who rarely ask for anything. For our 12 Knights guests and for all of our guests, we hope our campsite becomes a haven that helps them as much as it has helped us.

To the active and retired first responders out there: thank you. You are appreciated. And you are always welcome here—under the stars, by the fire, and away from the noise.