I like to make roads and clear paths when I make outposts. Drop a secure portal on shore for boat access and clear a wide trail to the mining node.

If you always do this, you'll have less wood/stone to gather and if something nasty surprises you while mining you'll have a clear path of retreat and room to fight.

Also the act of clearing the path will draw in all the mobs so you can clear the area before you get down to mining.

If you enjoy being methodical this works pretty good. I know not everyone does.