Tucked within the hollow heart of an ancient oak, my bushcraft dugout offers sanctuary from wind and rain. I carved a low entrance just wide enough to crawl through, preserving the tree’s living bark for camouflage and strength. Inside, I lined the floor with dry ferns and layered pine boughs for insulation. A small, carefully shielded fire pit near the entrance provides warmth and a place to boil water, its smoke venting through a natural crack in the trunk. Felled branches and moss seal gaps, while a woven reed mat adds comfort. Hidden, dry, and surprisingly snug—it’s the perfect survival retreat.
