These Futuristic Pods At This Location Make You Feel Like The God Of Camping

Hidden away in Joshua Tree, California is the best camping experience you’re not taking advantage of. Since 2004 Andrea Zittel has been offering this Wagon Station Encampment to anyone willing to try something new.

Zittel is putting her education to work with this futuristic way to get back to basics. Before heading out to Joshua Tree, she went to San Diego State University, earning a Bachelor’s in painting and sculpture. After that, she went to Rhode Island University and earned a Master of Fine Arts in sculpting.

Now looking to give back, Zittel offers the Wagon Station Encampment experience two months a year, when weather permits. But, what exactly is a Wagon Station Encampment?

As you can see from the picture below, the unique experience places the camper in a small pod with a bed and spots to store or hang clothes. The pod then opens and closes, allowing the camper the choice to sleep under the stars or in complete dark.

One reason the pod is so small is because Zittel wants to create a community experience. Most camps feature 10 to 12 pods, with most stays lasting a week or two. The group has the ability to go on fun hiking adventures together, as well as relax during the day and get to know each other with a communal kitchen.

Of course, campers are expected to light duties as well. When you’re living in a small community, it can’t be fun and games all the time. In this case, it is 90 percent of the time. That still sounds pretty darn good to0 if you ask us!

So where did Zittel get the inspiration to place these futuristic pods in the desert for people to camp out in? Interestingly enough, the futuristic idea was inspired by the past. Zittel’s grandparents originally settled in the Imperial Valley. Oh, and NASA used the sandy safe haven when they wanted test possible habitation for Mars.

Perhaps the best feature is that Zittel believes the experience should be open to anybody; researchers, hikers, writers, artists, and camp enthusiasts are ALL welcome. However, because space is limited, anyone looking to stay must fill out an application.

The fairly simple application requires a short bio and a non-refundable $20 service fee. Once accepted, you must submit a $100 weekly fee. That doesn’t sound too bad for a possibly life altering experience.

Zittel, who believes her creation is a way for campers to find personal freedom as well as form lasting bonds with new people. She also sees the pods as an installation piece in the desert being used to create a multidimensional experience for those wanting to try.

If anyone is interested in learning more about the Wagon Station Encampment, feel free to check out this link and explore more of the world for yourself. There is also a helpful video to guide you. What do you think, are you ready to camp in the coolest way possible?