A Field of Punk Rock Dreams – Camp Anarchy Recap

Article and Photos by Maria Cardillo

If you’re a hardcore punk rock fan, Camp Anarchy, which took place May 31-June 2 in Thornville, OH, was definitely the festival to get your fix. As a first-time attendee of this music festival, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it absolutely did not disappoint. I was a tad nervous entering into this world of punk that I knew so little about but came out a new fan and a believer that punk is certainly not dead. There was only one main stage, which means there were no scheduling conflicts, which was a huge win for us punk fans. Most music festivals love to rip your heart out by scheduling two bands you desperately want to see at the same time. Luckily for Camp Anarchy attendees, no hearts were broken over having to choose one band over another.

A Little Rain Won’t Kill Ya

The weekend started off with rain and storms leaving the fields of Legend Valley a giant mud pit, which only added to the atmosphere. After the storm Friday evening, everyone still seemed to be in high spirits and waiting in anticipation for The Offspring to close out the first night.

Walking into day two, I was immediately surrounded by a sea of bold, colorful hair and studded jean jackets. The sun was shining, and everyone was ready to rage. The first band that kicked off Saturday was Voodoo Glow Skulls, one of my must-see undercard acts. Fans screamed as the lead singer rushed out onto the stage wearing a traditional Mexican blanket and bull mask as he waved a Voodoo Glow Skulls flag in the air.

Suicidal Tendencies at Camp Anarchy

Later in the day, the Suicidal Tendencies brought a ridiculous show that many claimed, myself included, to be one of the best all weekend. Running around in circles, doing backflips off of the speakers and jumping into the crowd… these dudes truly know how to rock. One amped-up crowd-surfer after another floated their way from every corner of the crowd as the stage overflowed with punk rock glory. If you didn’t get out enough rage during the Suicidal Tendencies set, there was dodge ball to sign up for. Not much else helps you take the edge off like throwing balls at strangers and/or friends, right?

On Sunday it was clear that everyone was anxiously awaiting the return of NOFX, who had been kicked off the lineup last year for controversial comments. Before NOFX made their debut back in the U.S., Less Than Jake played a couple of hours earlier and not only brought the party but extra toilet paper, just in case you ran out. If you’ve seen Less Than Jake, then you know how much they love to shoot rolls of toilet paper into the crowd. Each band member contributed to the hype by dancing and jumping around and even inviting a couple of lucky fans on stage.

Finally, NOFX was welcomed to the stage by thousands of overly excited fans. The lead singer, Fat Mike, comically addressed the fact that they’ve been kicked off and/or canceled from all U.S. tours for the past year and that it was rad to be back. For being the last show of the festival on a Sunday night, the crowd seemed to have more energy than the first two days combined. As NOFX successfully closed out the festival in their outrageous attitude and fashion, they left the attendees rowdier than ever.

More than Just Music At Camp Anarchy

If you weren’t feeling like getting pushed around in a mosh pit or having dodge balls thrown at your face, Camp Anarchy had you covered at the craft beer-tasting tents. Purchasing a ticket got you the chance to taste freshly brewed beer from all over Ohio. After getting full on craft beer, most people made their way over to the food. There wasn’t a huge selection, but the basics were covered, including tacos, pizza, mac ‘n’ cheese, and sandwiches named after famous rappers. While on stage, the guitarist from Less than Jake claimed that the macaroni on a stick was the only thing anyone would ever need in life. I, unfortunately, cannot confirm or deny the veracity of this statement.

Overall this festival had all the basics covered to ensure a good time for all ages, from the music and the activities to the genuinely friendly crowd. Camp Anarchy will definitely be on my list for next year, and I’m sure for many others are too. I would love to see some additional food vendors in 2020 and some interactive art installations added, but as long as the punk rock vibes are as strong as they were this year, I will be coming back time and time again.

Check out our Full Photo Recap of Camp Anarchy Below!

Camp Anarchy

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