It really depends how deep your pockets are. Many of the old dogs here including myself are self taught. We became experts at building/repair long before becoming the pilots we are today. We also had access to flying areas without the bylaws that prohibit flying from school yards and parks as they exist today. There are far fewer places you might go to to safely teach yourself how to fly. If you have wide open spaces and you really want to attempt to teach yourself to fly I see no reason you cannot. Just be safe don't hurt yourself or others. Be prepared for the cost of fixing what you break. This cost may end up being more than the cost of joining a local club and making use of the instruction available.
My advice would be to find a club and if you haven't bought a trainer yet find out what they recommend. They may even know of some used equipment at a cost savings.
Good luck keep us informed of your progress.
Dennis