Home Camping Tips Camping Etiquette: How to Camp Like A Pro
Camping Etiquette: How to Camp Like A Pro

5 min

September 7, 2023

Regardless of whether you’re an experienced camper or heading out for your first adventure, campground manners matter.

Campgrounds are rarely empty these days, so to ensure you and everyone else has a relaxing getaway, there are a few basic rules you should follow.

Stick to these 8 unwritten rules and you will have mastered the proper camping etiquette.

1. Read the Rules

Yes, campgrounds have rules. You will either receive a list of the rules when you register or they will be posted inside the campground.

When everyone follows the rules, things generally go smoothly and everyone is happy, including the campground owner. If you choose not to adhere to the campground’s policies, you may be asked to leave, and nobody wants that.

2. Quiet Hours Really Do Mean Quiet

Most campgrounds have set quiet hours. This doesn’t mean you have to go inside your tent or RV and go to sleep, it just means you need to keep it down and be respectful of your neighbors.

Turn down the radio, shut off outdoor lights, turn off the generator, round up the kids, and enjoy some peace and quiet around the campfire.

3. Clean Up After Your Pets

We all know pets have to do their business, but we don’t need to see little reminders all over the campground. Pick up after your pets, keep them on a leash, and do your best to keep the barking under control.

Keep in mind that not everyone loves animals, and that’s okay.

4. Be Friendly 

Campers are friendly people. Say hi, wave, stop for a chat, but respect their space.

Do not walk through other people’s campsites or look inside other people’s tents. This makes people uncomfortable and can quickly cause a rift between you and your neighbors. Take the long way around to the bathroom.

5. Keep Your Campsite Clean

Nobody wants to walk outside and look at someone else’s mess. Keep your campsite tidy, throw away loose trash that could blow around, and be mindful of nature.

Make it a goal to minimize your environmental footprint and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.

6. Be Mindful of the Fire

Before you start a campfire, make sure it’s permitted and be aware of any fire bans. Never burn your trash and put your fire out before you go to bed.

7. Share the Facilities

If you are using the restrooms and showers provided by the campground, be mindful of other people. Don’t do your dishes in the sink, don’t take super long showers, and be aware that other people may be waiting to use the facilities.

8. When You Leave

Before you head home, put everything back where you found it. Have extra firewood? Leave it for the next campers.

Camping is the perfect way to getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Camping etiquette not only ensures that you will have a great time, but allows those around you to enjoy their vacation as well.

Looking for your next camping destination? Check out Camp Native and explore thousands of campgrounds nationwide.

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