How to Find a Place to Camp

Camping allows you to get closer to natural wonders like the hot springs and geysers of Yellowstone National Park or the astounding, steep-sided walls of the Grand Canyon National Park. However, it is not all about adventure; a successful camping trip requires plenty of planning and preparation. When it comes to choosing a campsite, do not just consider your own safety and comfort, also be mindful of the land, wildlife and other campers.

Instructions

  1. How to find campsites in recreational parks

    • 1

      Select a campground from one of the national parks, state parks, regional parks and private camping areas in your desired location. According to Campingtourist.com, some of the best camping destinations include Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Fontainebleau State Park, Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park.

    • 2

      Choose a park campground then pick a campsite within that campground. Many parks have multiple campgrounds with many campsites. Some parks allow campers to reserve specific campsites ahead of time while others assign campsites for visitors.

    • 3

      Choose a campgorund or campsite depending on your activity needs and preferences. If you plan on hiking, you may want to choose a campsite near the trails. If fishing is a planned activity, choosing a campground near the fishing area is most convenient.

    • 4

      Camp only in designated areas to lessen impact. National and forest parks often have designated campgrounds even in wilderness or back-country areas.

    How to find campsites when there are no designated campgrounds

    • 5

      Choose a flat, shaded site near a water source such as a stream or lake. Water source is important for cooking and cleanup. Finding a spot with a great view is good, but it should only be secondary to the proximity of a water source.

    • 6

      Camp near water, but not too close. Pitch your tent at least 200 feet away from hiking trails and water. If possible, stay out of sight of other hikers and campers. Do not obstruct the animals' path to water.

    • 7

      Look for higher ground. Avoid low spots especially when camping along a river or narrow canyons in case bad weather creeps in during the night. Low areas can get flooded.

    • 8

      Choose a campsite beyond the most prominent tide line when camping on the beach.