How do you choose a good campsite. It’s not merely about finding a picturesque spot amidst nature where you can pitch your tent. A lot more thought and consideration come into play. I learned this during one of my early camping trips. Not knowing any better, I chose a site that appeared just perfect – right by the river, under a beautiful canopy of trees. It turned out to be a disaster. The ground was uneven, the river noise was deafening at night, and the insects- don’t even get me started. That experience taught me an invaluable lesson – the importance of careful campsite selection. In this article, I’ll walk you through the key elements and strategies for choosing a good campsite, ensuring that your outdoor adventure is a memorable and enjoyable one.
Understanding What Makes a Good Campsite
When it comes to choosing a good campsite, one must consider various factors. According to the American Hiking Society, a good campsite should have level ground, be free of potential hazards (like dead trees), have access to a water source, and be at least 200 feet away from water bodies and trails.
Level Ground
What might seem like a minor detail, having level ground is crucial for a comfortable sleep. Nobody enjoys sleeping on a slope or atop rocks and roots, after all.
Access to Water & Proximity to Trails
Having a water source nearby is essential for hydration, cooking, and cleaning. However, remember the 200-foot rule to prevent contamination of water sources.
Being close to hiking or backpacking trails can provide easy access to your day’s adventures. However, ensure adequate distance to avoid disturbing wildlife and maintaining solitude.
How to Research Campsites Online
In today’s digital age, researching campsites has never been easier. Numerous websites and apps, such as ReserveAmerica, Campendium, and Recreation. gov, allow you to explore campsites across the country. They provide essential information, including site availability, cost, amenities, and often, user reviews.
The Outdoor Foundation reports that 41. 67 million people went camping in the United States in 2019. With the increasing popularity of camping, these online platforms can prove invaluable in securing a good campsite, particularly in peak seasons.
Using Online Platforms
While using these online platforms, keep an eye out for the site terrain (most platforms provide pictures), access to water, availability of shade, and distance from restrooms and other facilities. The reviews section can also provide insights into factors like insect or wildlife presence, noise levels, and privacy.
In the next part of this article series, we will delve into evaluating a campsite in person and the critical Leave No Trace principles every camper should abide by. Choosing the right campsite is both an art and a science, but with the right knowledge and a bit of practice, you can become a master at it.
Evaluating a Campsite in Person
So, you’ve done your online research and arrived at your chosen destination. Now comes the hands-on part: evaluating the campsite in person. As we touched on in Part 1, what looks good online doesn’t always translate to the best experience on the ground. Here’s how to size up your spot before you unpack.
Shelter from Wind and Weather
First, assess natural features that can provide shelter. Look for natural windbreaks, like stands of trees (watch out for dead limbs, often called “widowmakers”) or rocky outcrops. Wind can make nights cold and cooking challenging, so positioning your tent with some protection is key. At the same time, avoid setting up directly under old branches or trees that look unhealthy, as they can fall without warning.
Privacy and Noise
Next, consider privacy. Are there other campers nearby. Is the site close to a busy trail or road. A good campsite gives you a sense of seclusion without feeling totally isolated.
While proximity to amenities is helpful, too much foot traffic can detract from the peace you’re seeking.
Hazards and Drainage
Check the ground for signs of flooding or poor drainage—like low spots, areas with sparse vegetation, or debris lines left by previous high water. After all, a sudden rainstorm can turn a seemingly nice spot into a soggy mess. Look for insect nests, poison ivy, and animal tracks or droppings, which could indicate unwanted nighttime visitors. And always inspect for sharp rocks and roots before pitching your tent.
Real-World Example
Let’s say you arrive at a campsite and notice a slight depression in the middle of the clearing. Even if it’s dry when you set up, an overnight shower could leave you waking up in a puddle. Instead, opt for higher ground with a gentle slope away from your tent to direct water runoff.
Leave No Trace Principles and Campsite Selection
Now that you’ve chosen a suitable spot, it’s time to consider how your presence affects the environment—a concept at the heart of Leave No Trace (LNT) ethics. The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics offers seven principles, two of which are especially relevant to campsite selection: “Travel and camp on durable surfaces” and “Dispose of waste properly. ”
Durable Surfaces
Always camp on existing sites or durable surfaces like gravel, sand, or dry grasses. Avoid trampling delicate vegetation or creating new clearings, as this can cause long-term damage to natural habitats. If you’re in the backcountry and can’t find an established site, look for areas that show minimal signs of use.
Distance from Water Sources
As discussed in Part 1, keep your campsite at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams. Not only does this protect the water from contamination, but it also preserves sensitive shoreline ecosystems. According to the National Park Service, nearly 90% of backcountry impacts come from campsites set up too close to water sources.
Waste Management
Part of choosing a good site is ensuring you have a plan for waste.
Many public campgrounds offer facilities, but in the wild, you’ll need to pack out everything you bring in—including food scraps and trash. If you need to dispose of human waste, be sure to use established toilets or follow LNT guidelines for digging catholes.
Respect Wildlife
Choose sites away from animal trails or berry patches, and always store food securely. According to a 2022 survey by KOA, 16% of campers reported wildlife encounters in popular campgrounds—most often due to improper food storage or campsite selection near animal habitats.
Statistics: The Growing Challenge of Campsite Selection
With more people camping than ever before, finding a great campsite can be a challenge. Let’s take a look at some numbers:
- Campground Bookings: According to ReserveAmerica, advance bookings for popular state park campgrounds have increased by 80% since 2020. Many high-demand sites are fully booked within minutes of reservations opening.
- Campsite Crowding: The Outdoor Industry Association reports that 50% of campers have encountered overcrowded sites, leading to decreased privacy and increased environmental impact.
- Resource Strain: The National Park Service recorded over 93 million overnight stays in 2022, up from 78 million in 2015—a 19% increase in just seven years.
- Leave No Trace Violations: The Leave No Trace Center notes that “camping too close to water” is among the top five most common infractions reported by park rangers.
These statistics highlight why it’s more important than ever to follow best practices, plan ahead, and remain flexible in your campsite selection. The more we all do our part, the more enjoyable and sustainable camping will be for everyone.
Now that you’re equipped with the know-how to evaluate campsites in person and understand the importance of Leave No Trace, you’re well on your way to picking the perfect spot. In Part 3, we’ll dive deeper into safety considerations, fun facts about camping, and answer some of the most common questions campers have about choosing a site. Stay tuned for more tips to make your next outdoor adventure safe, memorable, and fun.
In the last segment of our series, we explored how to evaluate a campsite in person and the importance of the Leave No Trace principles in preserving our natural habitats. As we continue our deep dive into the art of choosing the perfect campsite, we’ll uncover some fun facts about camping and introduce you to an expert who has made it his mission to help others find their perfect outdoor escape.
Fun Facts About Camping
- More than 40 million Americans go camping annually: This number has steadily risen over the years, reflecting the growing appreciation for the outdoors and the joy of camping.
- The world’s first-ever campsite opened in 1894: Located on the Isle of Man, the Cunningham Campsite had tents with wooden floors, beds, and even electric lights.
- Camping can improve your sleep cycle: Spending time outdoors without electronics can help reset your biological clock, aiding better sleep.
- The longest camping trip lasted over 2 years: A French family holds this record, living in their caravan as they travelled around the world.
- The largest campground in the US is in the state of Michigan: Covering 19,000 acres, the Michigan State Forest Campground has over 1000 campsites.
- Camping can boost your Vitamin D levels: Spending time outside in the sun increases your Vitamin D levels, which is essential for bone health and a strong immune system.
- Most campers prefer public campgrounds: According to a survey by the Outdoor Foundation, 70% of camping is done on public lands.
- Camping is eco-friendly: It leaves a relatively low carbon footprint compared to other forms of vacationing, especially if campers abide by Leave No Trace principles.
- Campfires are more than 1. 5 million years old: Humans have been gathering around campfires for warmth, food and companionship since prehistoric times.
- Smoky the Bear was a real cub: The mascot for wildfire prevention was a real bear cub rescued from a New Mexico wildfire in 1950.
Author Spotlight: Andrew Skurka
Andrew Skurka is a renowned adventurer, guide, and author known for his extensive knowledge of backpacking and camping. Having hiked over 30,000 miles through the American backcountry, Skurka’s experiences have made him a go-to expert on choosing the best campsites. His book, “The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide,” is a treasure trove of practical advice and tips, including campsite selection.
In his blog, Skurka shares valuable insights, like finding the most wind-resistant site or the importance of a camp kitchen’s location. His commitment to sharing his knowledge and fostering responsible camping practices makes him an integral part of the camping community.
As we continue our exploration in the next part of this series, we’ll turn our focus to frequently asked questions about campsite selection. We’ll address common concerns and clear up some of the confusion that first-time campers might have, ensuring that you’re fully prepared for your next outdoor adventure.
FAQ Section
1. What is the most crucial factor to consider when choosing a campsite.
The most important factor is safety. This encompasses everything from the levelness of the ground, proximity to water bodies, signs of wildlife, and potential natural hazards like falling trees or flooding.
2. How can I ensure my chosen campsite is eco-friendly.
Follow the Leave No Trace principles.
Camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, respect wildlife, and minimize campfire impacts.
3. What are some tips for first-time campers when selecting a campsite.
Research ahead, considering factors like site terrain, access to water, shade availability, and distance from restrooms. Check user reviews on platforms like ReserveAmerica and Campendium. Once you arrive, evaluate the site in person for signs of wildlife, potential hazards, and privacy.
4. What should I do if my ideal campsite is already occupied.
Flexibility is key. Have a backup plan and be ready to move on to another site if your first choice is taken. Remember, the outdoor experience is about adaptability and resilience.
5. Why is it necessary to stay 200 feet away from water sources.
Keeping this distance helps protect the water from contamination and preserves sensitive shoreline ecosystems. It’s a critical principle of Leave No Trace ethics.
6. Can I create my own campsite if I can’t find an established one.
Creating new campsites can cause long-term damage to natural habitats. If you’re in the backcountry and can’t find an established site, look for areas that show minimal signs of use and are on durable surfaces like gravel, sand, or dry grasses.
7. How can I identify potential hazards at a campsite.
Look for dead or dying trees (which could fall), insect nests, poison ivy, and animal tracks or droppings. Also, check the ground for signs of flooding or poor drainage.
8. How can I ensure privacy at my campsite.
Choose a site that gives a sense of seclusion without feeling totally isolated. Being too close to a busy trail or road can detract from the peace you’re seeking.
9. What should I do if I encounter wildlife at my campsite.
If you see wildlife, respect their space and do not approach or feed them. Store food securely to discourage wildlife from entering your site.
10. How can I secure a campsite during peak camping season.
To secure a campsite during peak times, book as far in advance as possible. Online platforms like ReserveAmerica and Recreation. gov allow you to book campsites months ahead.
As the NKJV Bible verse, Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven. ” Similarly, choosing the perfect campsite involves understanding the landscape, the weather, and the season. It’s about respecting the environment and ensuring the best experience for everyone.
In conclusion, the art of choosing the right campsite lies in three core areas – thorough online research, rigorous in-person evaluation, and a deep respect for nature and its rules. All this, coupled with the wisdom from camping experts like Andrew Skurka, will ensure that your camping adventure is a truly memorable one.
Remember, a good camper leaves nothing but footprints and takes nothing but pictures. So, on your next camping trip, choose your campsite with care, respect the environment, and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.