Over the last couple of years of traveling, Keith and I have met some great people, and thoroughly enjoyed the places we’ve been. I have very few complaints about this lifestyle, and would recommend it to anyone who would like to experience the simple life. That being said, here are a few things that I think are important to share to ensure we are not only good camping neighbors, but that we are safe when we are out there.
Camping is a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. However, it’s essential to follow proper etiquette, and safety guidelines, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
Respecting Your Neighbors
- Noise Control: I am all about spending time with family and listening to some good music, but please, be mindful that you are sharing space with others, and they would like to do the same. Keep noise levels to a minimum, especially during quiet hours. Avoid loud music, shouting, and excessive generator use.
- Light Pollution: We love our outdoor lighting, and it’s hugely beneficial to spend time outside playing games, or being able to see your people when it’s dark. It is important to remember that not everyone wants to be lit up by you. Be mindful of where your lighting is focused (not on another camper), and how bright it is. Remember, you can’t see the stars with too much lighting.
- Respect Privacy: It’s amazing how many different camping set-ups there are, and I’m one who is always curious to see what awesome things you’ve done. I understand the curiosity, but it is a bit creepy to have someone peer in on you. Avoid peering into other campers’ tents or trailers, and if you are curious about something they have….just ask.
Camping with Pets
- Leash Your Pet: This is a big one for me! We try hard to keep Tucker on leash at all times, and to be aware of others’ pets around us. It’s important to leash your pets. You never know what another dog might do if he feels threatened in some way. Some of the nicest dogs will do whatever it takes to protect their people if they feel threatened. Tucker was attacked last month by a dog, even though the owner swore he never does anything wrong. Tucker won’t start, but he will darn well finish if he needs to. So please, keep your pets on leashes at all times, or fenced in with portable fencing. And do not leave them unattended outside. Avoid excessive barking or barking during quiet hours.
- Pet Cleanup: Boy do I love to step in dog poop, or have that be what I smell when I’m outside hiking? Just a little sarcasm there! No one came to camp to be surrounded by dog poop. Be courteous and clean up after your pets. It only takes a minute.
Caring for the Environment
- Leave No Trace: My job as a campground host is to maintain the trash on the grounds of the park. The walking is good for me, and being out in nature is always amazing. It always shocks me though when I come across sites where someone has left their trash without any intention of picking it up. Firepits tend to be the worst. Let me be clear, metal does not burn, your trash that you left in there this morning on your way out did not burn, and the 500 cigarette butts you left in there did not burn. And no, the next camper does not want it as their tender to start a fire. The bugs love it though. Now, I am left to pick up your firepit, so the next camper gets a clean space without pesky creatures foraging through it. I think I made my point here…. Pack out all trash and leave the campsite as clean as you found it.
- Fire Safety: Many campgrounds have designated firepits. If they do, then only build fires in those designated areas. It’s important as well to extinguish them completely before leaving. It can take just one spark to cause major damage. Check out Reserve America’s guidelines for firepit safety.
- Water Conservation: I don’t encounter this often, but there are some campgrounds that have limited water available. So please use water sparingly, especially in these campgrounds, so there is enough for everyone to enjoy.
- Wildlife Protection: Feeding wildlife may seem like a harmless act, but it can have serious consequences for both the animals and their habitats. Avoid feeding wildlife, even though they are cute, and typically willing.
Safety First
- Know Your Surroundings: Familiarize yourself with the campground’s rules, regulations, and emergency procedures. Take a quick walk to check out your site, identify their emergency shelter if they have one, and any hidden dangers you aren’t aware of (ex. close to water, a snake bed, a hole that’s deep).
- Secure Your Site: Here in Arkansas the weather is crazy unpredictable at times and the wind can come out of nowhere. Be mindful and take precautions to ensure you’re not up in the middle of the night trying to save your tents. (Ask me about proposal weekend on the beach) Use proper stakes and guy lines to secure your tent or trailer.
- Food Storage: A bear’s sense of smell is 7 times better than a blood hound’s or 2,100 times better than a human’s. I mean, I don’t want any confrontation over an Oreo. Store food and scented items securely to prevent attracting wildlife.
- First Aid: I cannot stress enough the importance of a good first aid kit. We have used it for us, other campers, and Tucker. Be prepared for emergencies by carrying a first aid kit and knowing basic first aid procedures. Check out our post on first aid kits here!
- Carbon Monoxide Safety: If using a generator or other fuel-burning appliances, ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Here are some great safety tips for proper use.
By following these guidelines, you can help create a positive and safe camping experience for yourself and others. Remember, respect for the environment and your fellow campers is key to enjoying a memorable outdoor adventure.
Did I miss some good tips you have? If so, we’d love to hear them!
