Jon and Emilie James have embarked on an ambitious project to transform a derelict three-acre caravan park in Llanelli, Wales, into an off-grid campsite. The couple, aged 36 and 37, purchased the abandoned site for £90,000 in June 2022, having sold their previous home for £132,000.
With only £500 remaining after the purchase and no mortgage, the Jameses began restoring the land, which had been deserted for over 30 years. Their initial living situation was basic, residing in a 25-year-old caravan equipped with only an outdoor shower and a camping toilet. For two months, they endured a lack of hot water. Despite these challenges and no prior building experience, they relied on YouTube tutorials to learn skills such as installing solar arrays and cladding.
Over three years, the couple invested £43,000 into renovating their personal caravan, which now includes a wood-fired barrel sauna. Their journey has been documented on TikTok under the handle @camp_out_west, where they share their progress with a following of over 291,000. The couple emphasized their commitment to a long-term vision, stating they "chose a harder life in the short term to create a better one in the long term." They aim to demonstrate that it is possible to build a home debt-free through significant sacrifice.
Renovations on the wider campsite are ongoing. Plans include adding a glamping tent, a communal camping shower, and a laundry room. An outdoor cinema space has also been created, shared on their YouTube channel, Camp Out West, which has over 202,000 subscribers.
When the campsite opens to the public, it will offer a seasonal glamping tent, an accessible van, and campervan pitches. The Jameses also hope to host workshops on the property, focusing on skills such as candle making.
The site was previously owned by coal miners and fell into disrepair after closing in 1989. The couple's initial task involved clearing the site, which contained three caravans filled with rubbish. Local residents have expressed enthusiasm for the land's rejuvenation. The Jameses are anticipating welcoming their first guests to the completed campsite.