Finding a good campsite comes down to surveying the area for favorable conditions. Here’s what to look for –
If you want to enjoy a peaceful camping experience, you have to get at least a mile away from any roads or parking lots. Doing so will eliminate vehicle noise, doors slamming, and other annoyances which detract from a natural wilderness experience.
Find higher ground that will allow for proper drainage. If it rains heavily, you are less likely to be caught in a flood.
We like to camp in open and breezy areas in the warmer months. This usually provides a good view and keeps the mosquitoes away. However, bear in mind that the summer months may often bring sudden & unexpected storms.
For obvious reasons, avoid sleeping near any potential hazards.
The ground should be relatively flat.
Ideally, you want to camp near a slow-moving water source that you can use for potable water, such as a spring. Springs are often quieter and provide soothing “white noise” for sleeping. Drinking from river water (even after treating) is usually not recommended. On the flip side, insects are less prevalent near fast moving water sources since it is not conducive for breeding.
Rare Vegetation: Do not disturb or camp near rare plants or other sensitive vegetation. It can take years for these areas to recover.
Fires: Do not make a fire unless it is permitted in the area. Fires are usually allowed in national forests, but not always. If fires are permitted, burn only dead wood in an existing fire ring. We see signs of people sawing off branches of live trees in desperation of finding firewood. This is not just terrible to the tree but is worthless as firewood because live wood contains water and is extremely difficult to burn. If no fire ring is present, build up a ring with rocks. Be sure to put the rocks back where you found them once you leave the campsite.
Leave No Trace: Remember to practice the leave no trace ethics when camping. This is particularly important in primitive areas. Remove all traces of your site, so there is no evidence that you ever camped there.
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I don't recommend Crocs for camp shoes. Yeah, they're comfy and lightweight, but if something goes wrong with your regular boots/shoes, you will not want to be hiking in them (especially if in steep/rocky terrain). This happened to me. I now carry slightly heavier, lace up water shoes that have decent tread on the bottom.
A pair of super comfortable shoes is always a key for me. I love putting on a nice pair of sandles once I get to camp and take off the boots.
The point you make about safety and theft is one we don't hear about much but is a reality. We should do our best to protect our stuff without making it a huge part of the trip.
I loved when you talked about finding high ground when camping to avoid floods. We are planning on taking our kids camping in a few weeks and I wanted to make sure we found the best place as well as learn a little more about it. As I see it, taking the time to search the places where you want to stay ahead of time and making sure you have all the equipment needed can help you enjoy your time in nature.
It is interesting that you mentioned that by getting at least a mile away from the roads and parking lots, you can have a more peaceful experience camping. My fiance and I want to go camping before we get married, and we will make sure to stay away from the roads and parking lots. Thanks again for helping us have a more quality time camping as well as helping us be safer in the process! We do not want to be a part of those crime statistics!
Thank you for the info, helpful especially for those who are new to outdoor activities like camping.