As we prepare for a last-minute camping trip, there are some unwritten camping rules you never knew about or thought to keep in mind before leaving the campsite. Here’s a list of five guidelines to remember for your next camping trip.
Leave Room for Other Campers
It’s a common practice to keep our distance from others to give them privacy—and the same goes for camping. When you’re parked, you don’t want another family sitting on top of you, so why do it to them? Be kind; make sure you park farther away from other campers if the space allows and if the campground has enough space. Both you and your camping neighbor will get along if you have enough space.
Don’t Disrupt the Campsite After 10 p.m.
If you want to be loud, do it well before 10 p.m. This is a common rule you find at any campsite, especially if you need to reserve a spot. We all go camping to enjoy nature and escape from technology, so unless the campground has an event going on during the evening, resist the temptation to blare rock music or sports games.
Leave No Trace
Right before leaving your campsite, you want to make sure it looks like you were never even there. Make sure to clean up everything, throw away garbage, clean up after your pets, and place everything back the way you found it. Otherwise, you run the risk of receiving a permanent ban or a fine because you left the campsite a mess. Treat the camp like your home, and don’t forget to put your campfire out before leaving to avoid causing a wildfire.
Leave Essential Supplies Behind
Even if the camping trip is yearly, you can go the extra mile by leaving essential supplies for the next group of campers that come through, such as extra firewood. You can save the wood for next year, but it could bring home unwanted guests, so place it in a safe, dry place near the camp for others to use.
Place All Furniture Back
The other thing to put back is the furniture you used. You won’t get in trouble, but it becomes an issue if a family has to haul the picnic table back to the actual camp location if it’s found further away. Be considerate, and if you need help placing the furniture back, ask a campsite staff member; they’re more than happy to help.
While you get ready to go camping one last time, keep these unwritten rules camping rules you never knew about in the back of your mind. Leave the camp the way you found it, and be a considerate camper by demonstrating kindness and following usual camping standards.
