How to Have Great Sex in the Woods!

Ever been curious about having sex in the woods? You're definitely not the only one.

Maybe it's the pull of being outdoors and feeling closer to nature. Maybe the thrill of possibly getting caught is what draws you in. For some, it's the appeal of tapping into something a little wild and disconnected from everyday civilization. And if you've never had sex anywhere outside a bedroom, stepping into a space without four walls around you can feel genuinely new! We're big fans of trying sex in fresh, unexpected settings.

By the way: Here are 48 great places to have sex.

That said, having sex in the woods comes with a few important guidelines to help you avoid any unwanted surprises.

The Best Approaches to Woods Sex

Craving a little outdoor fun in the forest? Here are some of your best options:

• Set up a tent. You get a bit of privacy while still staying close to nature — plus, waking up to sunlight filtering through the tent walls is a nice bonus if you're camping.
• Grab your picnic blanket. Once the snacks are gone, cuddle up with your partner and see where things lead! The blanket shields you from the ground, though not necessarily from any bugs drawn in by leftover food.
• Rent a cabin. Step outside for gorgeous views, then retreat indoors, safely away from weather, wildlife, and strangers. Cabins run the gamut from rustic to luxurious, and there's no shortage of rental options.
• Use your car. There are a few things worth knowing about car sex specifically, and we've put together an entire guide covering it. It's cheaper than a cabin but offers more privacy and security than a tent.
• Anywhere works, really. If you're fine keeping most of your clothes on, a quickie in the woods is totally doable, letting you slip back into your day without anyone the wiser.

Take Woods Sex Up a Notch

Sure, you could just hike up your skirt and lean against a tree while your partner takes you from behind, and that's a fine option. But it's far from the only way to enjoy outdoor sex — and honestly, it's not even the comfiest. For a bit more comfort, keep these tips in mind:

• Scout your location carefully. Check out a campsite or potential spot ahead of time. If you're renting a site, aim for one tucked behind trees or rock formations to help make the night memorable for the right reasons.
• Clear the area first. Just as you'd never pitch a tent without clearing away rocks, branches, and other debris, skip that step before getting intimate too. Some people lay down yoga mats or similar padding as a base beneath their tent — it protects you from injury and keeps your tent or air mattress from getting damaged. Which brings us to our next tip.
• An air mattress upgrades nearly everything, especially a double-tall one. Slide it into your tent for a more comfortable night overall while camping. A good-quality mattress makes a real difference too, though it can make finding leverage trickier, and squeaky mattresses are a real risk. If you go this route, bring your favorite sheets and make the bed feel like home — some people call this "glamping."
• A cozy blanket is worth packing regardless. It gives you cover if you're trying to stay discreet, keeps ticks and bugs off exposed skin, and helps you stay warm without other protection from the outside air. Consider swapping your old sleeping bag for something bigger and plusher that fits two comfortably.
• Don't forget contraception. There's no nightstand drawer out here, so plan ahead and keep supplies within reach. Condoms also simplify cleanup since you can tie one off and toss it when you're done. If you rely on another form of birth control, remember to bring and take it as needed while camping.
• Pack wet wipes if you're heading out during the warmer months. They'll help you stay fresh, which can be a challenge when you're roughing it.
• Play some music if getting caught worries you. A Bluetooth speaker or even your phone will do the job — just keep the volume low enough not to disturb neighboring campers, who might otherwise report you.
• Kill the lights after dark. Any illumination makes your silhouettes easy to spot from a distance. Exploring an exhibitionist streak can be exciting for some, but it's definitely not for everyone!
• Travel light. We're big fans of sex toys, but if you're backpacking, you'll be carrying everything on your own back. Plus, the longer setup takes or the more noise involved (vibrators, we're looking at you), the higher your odds of getting caught or drawing attention.

Positions Worth Trying

Missionary works perfectly fine for sex while camping, but don't limit yourself to just that. Riding your partner in cowgirl or reverse cowgirl tends to work well, even inside a cramped tent. Doggy style, on the other hand, might be worth skipping given how uncomfortable a hard forest floor can get.

Make use of whatever's around you. Got a picnic table? Have sex on top of it, or bend over it for a different angle. Try the washing machine sex position!

Leaning against a tree, boulder, or even a vehicle opens the door for your partner to go down on you or finger you — and you can return the favor once roles switch. Kneeling while he's seated works well for a blowjob too, using some of these techniques.

Plan for the Unexpected

Things can go sideways with sex under any circumstances, and outdoor sex is no exception! Coming prepared can help you make the most of whatever conditions you encounter. Think about what would make a regular camping trip or hike more manageable, and apply the same logic here.

• Pack bug spray just in case, and a citronella candle or torch can help too.
• Learn to recognize poison ivy and similar plants so you can steer clear. Keep hydrocortisone on hand in case a rash develops anyway.
• Watch out at higher elevations. Sex already gets your heart racing, and altitude can intensify that. Slow down if you're camping up a mountain!
• Bring a basic first aid kit just in case. You may never need it, but a cut or twisted ankle can quickly derail the mood.
• Know the local laws. Trespassing or being caught, especially anywhere near children, could mean fines or worse. This risk exists any time you're having sex while camping or in public — and for plenty of people, that very risk is part of the appeal!

If venturing into actual woods isn't in the cards, you can always pitch a tent in your own backyard for a similar vibe. A white noise machine playing crickets and birdsong can add ambiance. Or set up a small tent or sleeping bag near your fireplace for a hint of rustic charm without going all in. Not everyone needs the full experience to enjoy themselves.

And really, that's what sex in the woods comes down to — knowing what works for you, doing a bit of prep beforehand, and everyone involved should have a great time!

October 31, 2020