Are you planning on camping this season or sometime in the future? Sometimes heading into the great outdoors can be as simple as a short drive to your local campgrounds. Campground locations are usually found in every state of the U.S., so you should be able to find a great camping spot any time of the year without having to travel too far.
But should you do (or not do) when you go camping? Here are five simple tips to keep in mind for your next local camping trip:
DO check your accommodations.
Not all campgrounds are created equally! Some will offer the chance to camp in a cabin or an RV, whereas others only have space for tents. Make sure you know about what is and isn’t allowed at your preferred campgrounds, so you don’t wind up breaking any rules. If you’re going cabin camping, you should also make sure to book your accommodations beforehand.
DON’T camp in forbidden areas.
Because some ecosystems can be incredibly delicate, you’ll want to make sure that you’re camping in an appropriate spot. For example, those who like to go tent camping, which 86% of campers surveyed preferred, need to make sure they don’t disturb the environment at their campgrounds. Choose bare spots of ground if you’re going backpacking, and pay attention to any signage at your campgrounds.
DO plan multiple activities.
Most campers don’t just go camping to stand around in the woods. They also stay active! Camping is the perfect time to go fishing, mountain climbing, or swimming when the weather permits. In fact, 92% of campers like going hiking, making it the most popular activity for campers in the United States. Additionally, 87% of campers surveyed said they participate in multiple outdoor activities, so start thinking about how to spend your days in the wild before you get there.
DON’T go camping alone.
While some people love solitude in nature, this could be a bad decision if you’re headed into the wilderness. In the event of an emergency or injury, or if you get lost on a hiking trail, being alone with no one to turn to can be downright deadly. There’s safety and fun in numbers for camping, so take your friends or family members with you when you go. And if you’re staying at your favorite local campgrounds, taking friends and family with you can mean having memories to share for years to come.
DO have fun!
Whether it’s a family vacation or a trip with close friends, plan on having some fun while you’re out exploring nature. Hike, swim, fish, or participate in any other of your favorite outdoor activities. Your local campgrounds may also have some other activities that everyone can enjoy, from games of volleyball or tennis to entire water parks that anyone young or old can enjoy.
What are your camping dos and don’ts? Tell us in the comments.
