In the ANV, there were several instances of wifes being present in camp. From a diary of a man in the 5th Alabama Infantry Regiment:

"There were actually three or four different camps within the regiment. The regular camp, one for a squad with body lice, one for a squad with the mumps, and another for the wives of Captain Pegues of Company G, and 1st Lieutenant Potts of Company B."

Although camp life could be quite difficult compared to the conveniences to be found at home, wives or other family member of officers would periodically spend time with the army. Colonel/General John B. Gordon (6th Alabama) had his wife with him throughout most of the war.