>>1490021Just go out. I just started this year and now I spend nearly half my days outside. Grew up with single mom and never camped or did anything outdoors.
Start with very little gear and buy stuff slowly as you learn more from your experiences. Just buy a decent 3 season sleeping bag (<$200) and a cheap tarp from a hardware store. Bring a blanket to sleep on top of. Some cord to tie down the tarp. A knife (any will do, take a steak knife if you don't have one).
If you don't want to see/talk to people, I recommend dispersed camping in forest areas rather than dedicated campgrounds. Just drive to your state forest, park off the road, and hike a few miles into the woods. Don't camp right off the road, that's where the boogies are.
I like to hike/camp near rivers. That way I don't need to carry a lot of water and I like the noise when I'm sleeping.
An axe is my essential /out/ tool. I just got a $20 one form hardware store. It's all you need for wood processing. Don't bring a gun.
Don't buy expensive boots. Just wear sneakers or boots you already have. I like to bring sandals and just strap to my pack. That way if I cross a river or swampy area I can tie my shoes to my pack to dry and continue hiking.