How to Get the Perfect Campsite
Do you have that itch for the wild you can't scratch from your couch? Nothing rivals the symphony of crickets serenading you to sleep or the exhilarating chill of dawn mist kissing your cheeks. But before you sling that backpack over your shoulder, we must pick the picture-perfect campsite first!
Let the Travacado Team guide you through the labyrinth of the great outdoors and steer you clear of those pesky pitfalls like poison ivy-lined sleeping spots or overused latrines that—you guessed it—stinks to high heaven. Let's zip into this cheat sheet instead!
Tree-mendous Choices
Nothing is better than hearing the breeze rushing through trees as you bask in its shady glory. But the aesthetic and reprieve from the sun isn't the only benefit. Dart for a campsite surrounded by strong, healthy trees. Why? Hammocks!
After a long day of hiking or just when you want to curl up with a book, hammocks offer a comfy spot that keeps you in line with nature. Keep your peepers peeled for "widowmakers," those sneaky dead branches poised to rain on your parade—literally.
WARNING - Be carefull.
Always inspect your hammock-haven trees for lurking "widowmakers"—brittle branches that could turn your serene swing into a crash course in gravity. Secure relaxation means a keen eye before you lie, ensuring those trees are alive and well, not just standing skeletons.
From Google Maps to Gorgeous Campsites
Google is your best friend when it comes to finding camping spots! It's not only restaurants and roads; Google Maps also has all the developed campsites listed. So, before even leaving your comfy lair, do a Google Earth search of your desired area. Scope out water sources, clearings, and nearest service sites.
Find the public land boundaries if you are looking for a backwoods spot. Google Maps can help you spot the boundary lines between "I-can-camp-here-for-free" and "Oops-I'm-trespassing."
PRO TIP - Plan Wisely
Pro Tip, digital-age adventurers! When you've pinpointed that perfect campsite on Google Maps, zoom in for the lay of the land, then switch to satellite view for a bird's-eye peek. Bonus move? Save the location offline in case you lose signal.
The Dark Side of Camping by Water
One of the prettiest parts of nature is the vast bodies of water. Imagine the sunsets that look like a Monet painting come to life or sunrises that make you question whether you're still on Earth. And let's not forget the unlimited rock-skipping arena!
But pump the brakes, aqua enthusiasts! Camping by water can be a real beach. Get too cozy with your watery neighbor, and you could wake up swimming in a water bed, just not the one you had in mind. Not to mention those just as enchanted by water—raccoons, squirrels, and mosquitos.
WARNING - Flash floods
Flash floods happen quickly. Always check for signs or warnings about sudden water level changes. If you see signs of a flash flood, seek higher ground immediately. Wait until the water recedes before attempting to move.
The Pros and Cons of Car-Close Camping
Think about how close you want to be to your trusty four-wheeled steed. Camping close to your car is like having a metal Swiss Army knife on wheels. Forget an item? Dash to the vehicle. Spontaneous rain shower? Change clothes in your mobile changing room. One too many s'mores got you tossing and turning? Your car doubles as a backup bedroom.
Remote areas, on the other hand, offer primo seclusion, where the only traffic jam is a squirrel darting across your path. Plus, there is no more jolting awake to the rattle and beeping soundtrack of car alarms.
BONUS - Keep your car in sight.
For an elevated camping experience, consider the proximity to your vehicle as a customizable feature. Stashing a surprise treat or a cozy blanket in your car can turn a good camping trip into an unforgettable one.
Timing your Campsite Arrival
Repeat after us: "Early bird gets the worm—or, in this case, the ultimate campsite!" You never want to arrive at dusk. Once you get there, survey the remaining grounds and choose the one you feel best fits your needs. Remember, trees block wind and provide shade! Then, locate the nearest water source and emergency station.
Oh, and about cell service? While we advocate for digital detoxing, knowing where to catch a bar or two for urgent calls is essential. Take this time to also set up your tent and gather wood for an evening fire.
BONUS - Foraging for wood.
When foraging for wood, there are a few things to look out for to give yourself the best shot of crafting a bursting, lasting flame. Scavenge for dry wood with minimal bark. Softwood ignites fast and is excellent for kindling but not sustainability since it burns quickly.
Navigating Terrain for the Flattest Site
Save the ups and downs for your epic mountain hikes or gnarly surf sessions, not for your campsite. Imagine trying to cook up your famous "forest fajitas" on a slope—it'd be like a culinary game of Jenga. And let's be honest, a bonfire on a hill? That's a Smokey Bear warning if I've ever seen one!
So do the Travacado Twist—stomp, shimmy, moonwalk, whatever floats your boat—to ensure your ground is as flat as a pancake on a Sunday morning. Keep it level, adventurers, and let the real excitement happen away from camp!
WARNING - Warning: Watch out for sneaky slopes!
Setting up on an incline could lead to culinary chaos and fire fiascos. Your "forest fajitas" might slide off the pan, and you don't want your campfire turning into a free-roaming fireball. So, adventurers, find that flat spot—it's the secret to a smooth, safe camp experience.
Locking in Your Dream Campsite
Have you ever had FOMO looking at photos of that primo cliff-side campsite that you missed out on? Yeah, we've been there, gazing longingly like a kid outside a candy store. Don't let history repeat itself. Book in advance!
If you're aiming for that jaw-droppingly spectacular piece of Earth, or if you're planning a getaway during the camping equivalent of Coachella—Memorial Day, Labor Day, Fourth of July, or those sunny summer weekends—then for the love of Smokey the Bear, book in advance!
BONUS - Book early.
Are you planning a trip to the National Parks? Lucky! However, be weary. Most campsites book six months in advance. So, as soon as you have dates locked in, get to booking!
Follow Your Heart, Not Just Your Map
We've got a PSA for you, and no, it's not about packing extra socks (although you should). Satellites in the sky are nifty, but they're not about to win a duel with your gut feelings.
BONUS - Trust your gut as your sixth sense
If your intuition waves a red flag at a campsite, don't shrug it off. Consider it the universe's way of saying there might be a better spot just around the bend.
Here Comes the Sun (or Not)
Rise and shine, or rise and whine? If you are a morning person, orient your tent to wake up to the orange, sunny rays. If you prefer night, face your tent away and grab a face mask to shield your eyes, this is a game-changer for sleeping in. Plant your tent to soak up or sidestep those early beams of glory. Your tent's orientation sets the day's vibe, people!
PRO TIP - Golden hour
If you're the type who lives for that golden-hour glow, position your tent's door towards the east. You'll get a front-row seat to Mother Nature's most spectacular light show, all from the snug comfort of your sleeping bag. And hey, it's the perfect natural alarm clock for early treks!
Stash it Right and Sleep Tight!
Let's chat about the campsite buffet—or rather, how to avoid setting one up for your furry, forest-dwelling neighbors. Go all Tarzan and swing that grub up into a tree! It's like a "No Entry" sign for the smaller munchkin critters. It will deter rodents and small animals from scavenging through your meals.
If camping in an area with bears, place all your edible items in a bear canister. While they may be cute, the last thing you want to do is attract a furry guest of that size! Place your treats within safe food storage spots and far away from your snooze zone.
BONUS - They can smell you from miles away.
Did you know that a bear's sense of smell is 7x stronger than a bloodhound? Pretty crazy, I know! That means you will want all products stashed away, not just food. I'm talking about deodorant, perfume, sunscreen, toothpaste, and other strong-smelling products!
The Happy Camper Sign-Off
And there you have it, adventurers! Ten tips to transform your campsite from "meh" to "magnificent!" Rock climbers don't throw their hands out and see what catches. They scope out their next handhold to propel them further. It's the same with camping! Planning and forethought will set you up for a triumphant outdoor adventure.
So go forth, adventurers, and may your next campsite be the makings of hundreds of memories to come. After all, the wilderness is your playground, and now you know how to pick the perfect spot on the jungle gym!
How to Get the Perfect Campsite
Do you have that itch for the wild you can't scratch from your couch? Nothing rivals the symphony of crickets serenading you to sleep or the exhilarating chill of dawn mist kissing your cheeks. But before you sling that backpack over your shoulder, we must pick the picture-perfect campsite first!
Let the Travacado Team guide you through the labyrinth of the great outdoors and steer you clear of those pesky pitfalls like poison ivy-lined sleeping spots or overused latrines that—you guessed it—stinks to high heaven. Let's zip into this cheat sheet instead!
Tree-mendous Choices
Nothing is better than hearing the breeze rushing through trees as you bask in its shady glory. But the aesthetic and reprieve from the sun isn't the only benefit. Dart for a campsite surrounded by strong, healthy trees. Why? Hammocks!
After a long day of hiking or just when you want to curl up with a book, hammocks offer a comfy spot that keeps you in line with nature. Keep your peepers peeled for "widowmakers," those sneaky dead branches poised to rain on your parade—literally.
WARNING - Be carefull.
Always inspect your hammock-haven trees for lurking "widowmakers"—brittle branches that could turn your serene swing into a crash course in gravity. Secure relaxation means a keen eye before you lie, ensuring those trees are alive and well, not just standing skeletons.
From Google Maps to Gorgeous Campsites
Google is your best friend when it comes to finding camping spots! It's not only restaurants and roads; Google Maps also has all the developed campsites listed. So, before even leaving your comfy lair, do a Google Earth search of your desired area. Scope out water sources, clearings, and nearest service sites.
Find the public land boundaries if you are looking for a backwoods spot. Google Maps can help you spot the boundary lines between "I-can-camp-here-for-free" and "Oops-I'm-trespassing."
PRO TIP - Plan Wisely
Pro Tip, digital-age adventurers! When you've pinpointed that perfect campsite on Google Maps, zoom in for the lay of the land, then switch to satellite view for a bird's-eye peek. Bonus move? Save the location offline in case you lose signal.
The Dark Side of Camping by Water
One of the prettiest parts of nature is the vast bodies of water. Imagine the sunsets that look like a Monet painting come to life or sunrises that make you question whether you're still on Earth. And let's not forget the unlimited rock-skipping arena!
But pump the brakes, aqua enthusiasts! Camping by water can be a real beach. Get too cozy with your watery neighbor, and you could wake up swimming in a water bed, just not the one you had in mind. Not to mention those just as enchanted by water—raccoons, squirrels, and mosquitos.
WARNING - Flash floods
Flash floods happen quickly. Always check for signs or warnings about sudden water level changes. If you see signs of a flash flood, seek higher ground immediately. Wait until the water recedes before attempting to move.
The Pros and Cons of Car-Close Camping
Think about how close you want to be to your trusty four-wheeled steed. Camping close to your car is like having a metal Swiss Army knife on wheels. Forget an item? Dash to the vehicle. Spontaneous rain shower? Change clothes in your mobile changing room. One too many s'mores got you tossing and turning? Your car doubles as a backup bedroom.
Remote areas, on the other hand, offer primo seclusion, where the only traffic jam is a squirrel darting across your path. Plus, there is no more jolting awake to the rattle and beeping soundtrack of car alarms.
BONUS - Keep your car in sight.
For an elevated camping experience, consider the proximity to your vehicle as a customizable feature. Stashing a surprise treat or a cozy blanket in your car can turn a good camping trip into an unforgettable one.
Timing your Campsite Arrival
Repeat after us: "Early bird gets the worm—or, in this case, the ultimate campsite!" You never want to arrive at dusk. Once you get there, survey the remaining grounds and choose the one you feel best fits your needs. Remember, trees block wind and provide shade! Then, locate the nearest water source and emergency station.
Oh, and about cell service? While we advocate for digital detoxing, knowing where to catch a bar or two for urgent calls is essential. Take this time to also set up your tent and gather wood for an evening fire.
BONUS - Foraging for wood.
When foraging for wood, there are a few things to look out for to give yourself the best shot of crafting a bursting, lasting flame. Scavenge for dry wood with minimal bark. Softwood ignites fast and is excellent for kindling but not sustainability since it burns quickly.
Navigating Terrain for the Flattest Site
Save the ups and downs for your epic mountain hikes or gnarly surf sessions, not for your campsite. Imagine trying to cook up your famous "forest fajitas" on a slope—it'd be like a culinary game of Jenga. And let's be honest, a bonfire on a hill? That's a Smokey Bear warning if I've ever seen one!
So do the Travacado Twist—stomp, shimmy, moonwalk, whatever floats your boat—to ensure your ground is as flat as a pancake on a Sunday morning. Keep it level, adventurers, and let the real excitement happen away from camp!
WARNING - Warning: Watch out for sneaky slopes!
Setting up on an incline could lead to culinary chaos and fire fiascos. Your "forest fajitas" might slide off the pan, and you don't want your campfire turning into a free-roaming fireball. So, adventurers, find that flat spot—it's the secret to a smooth, safe camp experience.
Locking in Your Dream Campsite
Have you ever had FOMO looking at photos of that primo cliff-side campsite that you missed out on? Yeah, we've been there, gazing longingly like a kid outside a candy store. Don't let history repeat itself. Book in advance!
If you're aiming for that jaw-droppingly spectacular piece of Earth, or if you're planning a getaway during the camping equivalent of Coachella—Memorial Day, Labor Day, Fourth of July, or those sunny summer weekends—then for the love of Smokey the Bear, book in advance!
BONUS - Book early.
Are you planning a trip to the National Parks? Lucky! However, be weary. Most campsites book six months in advance. So, as soon as you have dates locked in, get to booking!
Follow Your Heart, Not Just Your Map
We've got a PSA for you, and no, it's not about packing extra socks (although you should). Satellites in the sky are nifty, but they're not about to win a duel with your gut feelings.
BONUS - Trust your gut as your sixth sense
If your intuition waves a red flag at a campsite, don't shrug it off. Consider it the universe's way of saying there might be a better spot just around the bend.
Here Comes the Sun (or Not)
Rise and shine, or rise and whine? If you are a morning person, orient your tent to wake up to the orange, sunny rays. If you prefer night, face your tent away and grab a face mask to shield your eyes, this is a game-changer for sleeping in. Plant your tent to soak up or sidestep those early beams of glory. Your tent's orientation sets the day's vibe, people!
PRO TIP - Golden hour
If you're the type who lives for that golden-hour glow, position your tent's door towards the east. You'll get a front-row seat to Mother Nature's most spectacular light show, all from the snug comfort of your sleeping bag. And hey, it's the perfect natural alarm clock for early treks!
Stash it Right and Sleep Tight!
Let's chat about the campsite buffet—or rather, how to avoid setting one up for your furry, forest-dwelling neighbors. Go all Tarzan and swing that grub up into a tree! It's like a "No Entry" sign for the smaller munchkin critters. It will deter rodents and small animals from scavenging through your meals.
If camping in an area with bears, place all your edible items in a bear canister. While they may be cute, the last thing you want to do is attract a furry guest of that size! Place your treats within safe food storage spots and far away from your snooze zone.
BONUS - They can smell you from miles away.
Did you know that a bear's sense of smell is 7x stronger than a bloodhound? Pretty crazy, I know! That means you will want all products stashed away, not just food. I'm talking about deodorant, perfume, sunscreen, toothpaste, and other strong-smelling products!
The Happy Camper Sign-Off
And there you have it, adventurers! Ten tips to transform your campsite from "meh" to "magnificent!" Rock climbers don't throw their hands out and see what catches. They scope out their next handhold to propel them further. It's the same with camping! Planning and forethought will set you up for a triumphant outdoor adventure.
So go forth, adventurers, and may your next campsite be the makings of hundreds of memories to come. After all, the wilderness is your playground, and now you know how to pick the perfect spot on the jungle gym!
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