In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best places in the USA for stargazing and give a few tips to help make your next night under the stars even better.

What Makes a Good Stargazing Spot?

You don’t need much to enjoy the night sky, but a few things make a big difference:

• Low light pollution: Far from towns or cities; dark-sky parks are ideal.
• High elevation: Clearer skies with less haze.
• Dry climate: Deserts and mountains offer excellent visibility.
• Open horizons: Fewer trees or canyon walls blocking the view.
• New-moon nights: The darker the night, the brighter the Milky Way.

With these in mind, let’s look at some of the best places across the country

Best Stargazing Locations in the USA

1. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend is known for having some of the darkest skies in the entire United States. On a clear night, the Milky Way stretches overhead like a glowing river. The quiet desert surroundings make the experience even more peaceful.

Why it’s great:

Warm nights, huge open views, very little light pollution.

Tip: Nights cool off quickly in the desert — pack a warm layer.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoos look even more magical at night. The air is crisp, and the high elevation helps create perfect stargazing conditions. Rangers often host astronomy programs that are worth checking out.

Why it’s great:

High elevation, clear skies, and unique canyon views.

Tip: Inspiration Point is a beautiful place to sit quietly and watch the sky.

3. Great Basin National Park, Nevada

This park is far from busy cities, making it one of the best places for natural darkness. On a moonless night, the sky fills with thousands of stars. The park also hosts an annual Astronomy Festival.

Why it’s great:

Remote, quiet, and extremely clear skies.

Tip: Valley areas often have the widest, most open views.

4. Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

If you’re on the East Coast, Cherry Springs is a real treat. It’s a designated International Dark Sky Park and offers a special astronomy field for nighttime viewing.

Why it’s great:

One of the darkest spots in the Northeast.

Tip: Bring a red-light flashlight — white lights aren’t allowed in the viewing areas.

5. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree has a peaceful desert atmosphere that’s perfect for night-sky watching. Mild winter temperatures make it a great choice if you prefer stargazing during cooler seasons.

Why it’s great:

Wide-open desert skies and interesting silhouettes of Joshua trees.

Tip: Hidden Valley is a popular and beautiful spot after dark.

6. Glacier National Park, Montana

On clear nights, the stars reflect on lakes and create a quiet, peaceful scene. Glacier is also far enough north that you might even see the northern lights during strong solar activity.

Why it’s great:

High mountains, reflective lakes, and cool evening air.

Tip: Even in summer, pack warm clothing — nights get chilly fast.

7. Mauna Kea (Lower Slopes), Hawaii

While the summit area requires special permissions, the lower slopes of Mauna Kea still offer amazing views. The island’s clear, dry atmosphere makes stargazing unforgettable.

Why it’s great:

Perfect clarity and a fun mix of tropical camping and astronomy.

Tip: Respect local cultural guidelines, especially around sacred areas.

8. Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Canyonlands is a wide, open landscape with some of the least light pollution in the country. The “Island in the Sky” area has excellent nighttime views.

Why it’s great:

Dry air, deep canyons, and huge open skies.

Tip: Green River Overlook is one of the best stargazing spots in the park.

Simple Tips for a Better Night-Sky Camping Experience

Check the moon phase:
A new moon gives you the darkest sky.

Bring a red-light flashlight:
Helps you see without losing night vision.

Pack warm layers:
It’s usually colder than expected once the sun sets.

Use binoculars:
You don’t need a telescope. A simple pair of binoculars works great for star clusters and the Milky Way.

Look up slowly:
Allow your eyes some time to adjust — around 15 to 20 minutes is enough.

Stargazing With Kids or First-Timers

Night-sky viewing is great for families. Kids love spotting constellations, satellites, or even a shooting star. Bring warm drinks, blankets, and turn it into a relaxed and fun activity.

A simple “night sky scavenger hunt” can also make things exciting:

• Find the Big Dipper  
• Spot a bright planet  
• Count shooting stars  
• Look for the Milky Way band  

These small challenges help keep everyone engaged.

Leave No Trace at Night

It’s easy to forget, but nighttime camping needs care too.

• Keep the lights dim and pointed down  
• Stay quiet to avoid disturbing wildlife  
• Put out campfires safely  
• Pack out all trash  

Small actions help keep these places beautiful for everyone who visits after you.

Final Thoughts

Night-sky camping is one of the most peaceful experiences you can have outdoors. Whether you’re watching the Milky Way stretch across the sky or spotting a bright planet rising over the horizon, moments like these stay with you for a long time.

Pick a dark, quiet spot, bring a warm blanket, and enjoy the view. The night sky always has something special to show.

The good news? More and more people are connecting with nature. There’s a downside, too, though. Because of this spike in popularity, finding a spot at a campsite is harder than ever before! That means you may need to work a little harder to carve out the perfect camping experience for you and your party, and you may even want to look a little further afield.

Want the best possible camping trip? We’ll help you narrow down your options with a list of the best US states for camping — and will give you some fantastic campsites to consider, too.

1. Rhode Island: Best Overall

It might seem unbelievable that the country’s smallest state would have the most expansive camping opportunities, but it’s not far from the truth!

It isn’t just that Rhode Island’s best campsites are equipped with the best amenities, but that the state has an amazing variety of landscapes, from lush forests to picturesque coastlines, or that there are exciting activities for every taste — from fishing to kayaking, and from hiking to swimming.

It’s also that all the things you could want to experience while camping in Rhode Island are within convenient driving distance, and Rhode Island is one of the safest places to go camping.

So, where? To get your brainstorming session off to a great start, we recommend checking out:

• Burlingame State Park in Charlestown has wonderful fishing and hiking opportunities, beautiful picnic tables, and clean restrooms.
• Fishermen’s Memorial State Park and Campground in Narragansett is a peaceful campsite with a relaxing village vibe.
• George Washington Campground in Chepachet is a primitive camping facility best for people who don’t need modern amenities and simply want to enjoy a “back to basics” camping experience with beautiful coastal views and swimming opportunities.

2. Utah: Best for Desert Camping

Utah’s raw, breathtaking beauty makes the state the perfect place to go road-tripping. Whether you’re traveling in an RV or plan to pitch your tent at one of Utah’s otherworldly national parks, you can’t miss out on the sheer variety the Salt Lake State offers — and you’ll be good to go even if you plan to do absolutely nothing but admire all the natural wonders.

Are you up for a more active camping trip? Besides hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and river rafting, you definitely have to check Utah’s dark sky parks out. Protected from the light pollution that defines so many areas, these parks allow you to admire the Milky Way galaxy in all its natural glory.

Looking for a place to camp out? Our top three picks for Utah are:

• Watchman Campground in Zion National Park is open all year and has trash collection and restroom facilities available. Campers aren’t allowed to start fires, but the fact that you’ll have access to the campground’s trolley system, exciting trails, and stunning views of red rock cliffs more than makes up for that! Plus, Zion National Park is famous for its amazing stargazing opportunities!
• Dead Horse Point State Park Campground is an international Dark Sky spot that looks out over the Colorado River. You’ll be able to explore the nearby Canyonlands National Park and enjoy exciting mountain biking trails here.
• Goblin Valley State Park Campground. Whatever you do here, it’s going to rock! When you get bored of taking in the view (hoodoos and goblins all around!), you can take rock climbing lessons.

3. Massachusetts: Best for Woodland Camping

We know — Massachusetts doesn’t usually feature high on lists of places to go camping. However, if it’s a woodland experience you’re after, you couldn’t choose a better state. That’s not just because of the modern amenities and beautiful views, but also because Massachusetts’ Department of Conservation and Recreation has embraced a staggered booking model that ensures you can reserve your spot ahead of time (and you won’t be left without a place to camp).

Campers have a total of 32 sites to pick from, including woodland and coastal campgrounds, but our three favorites are:

• Mount Greylock State Reservation. Located in Lanesborough, this is the perfect place to go camping if you’re looking forward to enjoying the state’s highest peak in a relaxed environment. Open year-round, you’ll have the chance to try hunting, snowmobiling, hiking, skiing, or mountain biking — depending on the date you choose.
• Nickerson State Park. You’ll feel right at home at any of the 400+ campsites in this beautiful National Park in Brewster, on Cape Cod. Nickerson is great for fishing, boating, kayaking, and horseback riding!
• Mohawk Trail State Forest. Looking for a zen experience in one of the country’s most stunning woodland areas? You’ll come face to face with lots of wildlife, but otherwise, this forest is best for campers who simply want to relax.

4. Colorado: Best for Mountain Camping

If you’re from a warm state and you can’t wait to escape the heat, Colorado is an absolutely fantastic place to go camping. Think of exceptionally cool summers as a nice bonus to go along with the Rocky Mountain views! Colorado is not just one of the best states to enjoy the mountains, though — it’s also a top pick if you’re after a true wilderness experience. Because the state allows dispersed camping, you’ll be able to pitch your tent in nature without any amenities.

So, where in Colorado should you go? Good question! Why not start your planning by checking out these great spots?

• Moraine Park. This campground in Rocky Mountain National Park is a wonderful base from which to plan your hiking, lakeside, and wildlife-viewing adventures.
• The Great Sand Dunes Oasis campground gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a uniquely stunning landscape while enjoying pretty unusual activities. Sandboarding, anyone? Yes, it’s a thing!
• The campground at Mueller State Park is definitely a great choice for all hiking enthusiasts, because you won’t get bored with the exciting trails and beautiful mountain views any time soon.

5. Minnesota: Best for Lakeside Camping

Minnesota isn’t called the land of 10,000 lakes for nothing. Whether you love fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming, it’s your best camping destination if you crave a lakeside camping adventure. Of course, Minnesota is also a good choice if you simply want to enjoy the sound of rustling leaves, the smell of campfires, and the gentle breeze in your hair.

Where should you pitch your tent? With so many options to pick from, it isn’t easy to narrow your choices down, but you could start here:

• Itasca State Park is home to the beautiful Mississippi River headwaters — as well as several relaxing campgrounds. Campfires aren’t just allowed, but even encouraged (responsibly, of course), as firewood is for sale there.
• Split Rock Lighthouse State Park also offers several exciting campgrounds, including the new Shipwreck Creek campground. Hike the trails, explore the lighthouse, or just soak up the relaxing atmosphere.
• Voyageurs National Park is the place to go if you love boating, primitive camping, or camping in winter. This vast park has a multitude of campsites, and while you’ll need to hike a few miles to find your woodland paradise, nobody will disturb you when you get there.

That Sounds Great, But Where Should We Go?

If you enjoyed this quick look at some of the most exciting campsites for a true wilderness experience, we wouldn’t blame you if you’re having trouble deciding where to go camping. After all, you only have so much free time — and you can’t see everything on your bucket list this year.

These questions should help you narrow down your choices:

• Do you prefer woods, beaches, mountains, desert landscapes, or lakeside camping? Don’t even think — just answer the question!
• Will you be pitching a tent, or do you plan to pull up in an RV? Many campsites cater to both camping styles, but not all do. If you’re planning to pitch a tent, do you prefer campgrounds with modern amenities, or do you want to test your skills and try out primitive camping?
• What outdoor activities would you like to try this year? Go on — pick some that you’ve never dipped your toes in before. Whether it’s paddleboarding, snowboarding, sandboarding, rock climbing, fishing, or mountain biking, choosing an activity will force you to narrow your campground choices down a fair bit.
• How experienced are you? If you’re going camping for the first time, we’d recommend a campground with modern amenities to ensure you can enjoy your time in the wilderness without feeling totally lost.

Once you decide where to go, don’t forget to make reservations in advance (where possible). Too many would-be campers leave it too late and discover there’s no space at the campground of their dreams.

Don’t be one of them, especially if you’re going out of state!

Keep calm, stay caffeinated, and try these coffee hacks out in the wild — but whatever you do, make sure you have a solid backup plan in place.

1. Pre-Portion Your Coffee Into Waterproof Bags 

Packing properly might not be all you need to have a wonderful camping experience, but it will get you about 30 percent there. That goes for your coffee, too, so make sure you’ve got a nicely organized setup. 

Are you not sure what exactly to do with your coffee grounds? It’s easy enough. Pre-portion all your coffee grounds (or instant coffee) into Ziploc bags. Make sure to use the proper portion size for the drinking container you’re taking camping — it will probably be bigger or smaller than the mug you’re used to. Once you’ve figured out the correct amount, pack as many Ziploc bags as you think you’ll need, and then some. 

The best part? Your coffee won’t get soaked and nasty, even when your backpack inevitably gets wet. As long as you choose handy waterproof bags and seal them properly, your coffee will stay nice just for you. If you’re not convinced, you can always seal off the top part of your Ziploc bag with duct tape for extra durability. Now, you’ll have easy coffee baggies ready to go!

This pack of Ziploc bags from Amazon should last you a while, but if you want to be more environmentally friendly, we’d suggest this Lerine 10-pack of reusable silicone bags. If you don’t want to portion out your coffee grounds, you can also store them in a plastic container or metal tin.

2. Buy Instant Coffee 

If you’re a coffee snob, you might be gasping in horror at the mere suggestion of buying instant coffee. We know the feeling. However, you can’t deny just how convenient instant coffee is, especially when you’re going camping. All you need to do is boil clean water and add some instant coffee, and Bob’s your uncle. 

Yes, its taste is objectively suboptimal compared to filtered coffee, but instant coffee still works wonders when you’re suffering from that dreaded coffee withdrawal. 

Are you not ready to stoop so low as to drink instant coffee? We’d still recommend packing at least some instant coffee as a backup. Instant coffee is, after all, a lot better than no coffee — and you definitely just want to take our word for it, rather than finding out for yourself.

Here’s a nice box of single-serve packets of instant coffee from Amazon. You could also choose this big jar of instant coffee for a better deal.

3. Bring a Water Filter 

You may see coffee as the only central ingredient in your cup of coffee, but it’s time to rethink that. Without clean water, you’re going nowhere. If you’re dipping your toes into primitive camping, that part of the equation can get a little more complicated than you want it to. 

Don’t go out of your way to bring all your fancy equipment to make coffee only to forget to take a water filter with you. That would be a tragedy! They’re not very expensive, and you’ll need a water filter in your camping kit even if you don’t drink coffee. This water filter is one of many options available on Amazon.

4. Take a Portable Coffee Maker (French Press, Moka Pot)

Unless you decide to stick to instant coffee on your camping trip, you’ll definitely need some kind of portable coffee maker. The two main choices are a French Press or an Italian Moka pot. Portable coffee makers designed especially for camping are also on the market. 

With so many different options, you might not know which coffee maker is right for your camping trip, so let’s take a look at the options. 

French press:

• Delicious coffee. 
• Good for light and dark roast coffee. 
• Needs coarsely ground coffee. It’s a good idea to bring pre-ground coffee in a Ziploc bag (see above!). 
• Don’t let the usual glass design deter you. French presses can also have stainless steel designs that are great for camping.
• It can cool down a bit fast, so it’s a good idea to put your coffee in a thermos after brewing. 

Italian coffee maker (Moka pot):

• Super portable, making it perfect for any backpacking trip.
• Virtually indestructible. 
• Convenient with nearly no learning curve. 
• Makes very strong coffee.

Portable coffee maker:

• Lightweight and easily fits into most bags. 
• It can only brew one coffee cup, so it’s not really suitable for big camping groups.
• A bit hard to use, but incredibly easy to clean. 

5. Get a Thermos

It’s always a good idea to bring a thermos along on your camping trip to keep your cup of coffee warm. Once you’ve finished brewing your delicious, steamy coffee, you can use your thermos as a hand warmer, too. You could even brew yourself a cup of coffee right before your camping trip to have it ready, and it’ll stay warm for an hour or two.

Check out this nice Stanley thermos from Amazon that will keep your coffee nice and cozy, for example!

6. Buy Powdered Milk

Do you take your coffee with milk? Powdered milk is a must! It won’t go bad in your backpack, you can store it for a long time, and it allows you to have coffee with milk on the go. You could even make campsite lattes if you wanted to! Are you in? You can get a big pack of powdered milk here, or just swing by your nearest Walmart or Target.

7. Make Cowboy Coffee

Cowboy coffee is fantastic for any camping trip. It’s really easy to make and requires nothing but a heat source, a kettle, and coffee. 

• Boil some water in a camping kettle with the lid on. You can do this with a camping stove or even over a campfire. 
• After you bring your water to a rolling boil, remove it from the heat source and allow it to cool down for a minute. Don’t skip this step — if you do, your coffee will taste bitter!
• Add coarsely ground coffee to your hot water — about one to two tablespoons per cup of coffee does the trick. Stir the coffee and put it back on the heat. 
• Wait for the coffee to simmer. You don’t want it to fully boil, or (you guessed it!) your coffee will be bitter. You’re good to go when you see small bubbles, but the water isn’t quite boiling yet.
• Take the coffee off the heat and let it sit for two more minutes with the lid on the kettle. 
• Pour your coffee into a cup, making sure to leave the last little bits in the kettle, because all the grounds will sink to the bottom.

8. Invest In a Good Camping Stove

You can’t have a warm cup of coffee without a heat source. Camping stoves can be a bit bulky and hard to carry around, but if you’re planning to have warm meals and coffee, they’re totally worth it. Some camping stoves can fit nicely into your backpack, and these are a great start. For instance, this neat little portable camping stove can heat one liter of water.

9. Buy Coffee-Flavored Energy Bars or Caffeine Pills

Depending on just how desperate you are for a cup of coffee, you might want to turn to coffee energy bars or even caffeine pills. They don’t have the same warm, rich flavor of coffee, but they will get you caffeinated. 

Think of these two options as the contingency plan you’re ashamed to put in place, but not to the point where you don’t consider it. While we’re not recommending specific coffee energy bars, this gives you a general idea of what to look out for. You can also get a big bottle of caffeine pills from Amazon. For emergency situations like dealing with actual caffeine withdrawal while building a shelter, only! 

That About Covers Coffee, Doesn’t It? 

Not quite! No matter what kind of coffee you decide to drink while camping, you’ll inevitably create some waste — and nothing is more important than cleaning up after yourself while camping.

If your campgrounds have trash collection, that makes things easier. Single-serve plastic should always be disposed of responsibly, while glass instant coffee containers can be recycled. As for coffee grounds, they are quite useful. If allowed, scattering them around actually acts as a reasonably effective insect repellent, and that can make your camping experience significantly more enjoyable! 

Looking back, though, you probably realize that some of your favorite memories were made while camping. Singing songs around the campfire while making and eating s’mores, running around the wilderness with siblings and friends you made while camping, trying out canoeing for the first time, or buying ice cream from the campground store, anyone?

If you’re gearing up to give your kids the same amazing experiences, and it’s been a while since you last went camping, you’ll want to make sure the campground you choose is child-friendly — whether you’ve got little ones or teenagers. 

This guide is packed with tips to make it happen. 

What Makes a Campground Child-Friendly? 

This question is crucial — because it’s going to determine what you’re looking for. No two families will have the same set of criteria. The answer doesn’t just depend on the age of the children for whom you’re hoping to create an amazing camping experience, but also on your personal preferences. 

Still, there are some things we can all agree on. We want children to be safe, have a wonderful time, and learn some new skills while camping. How you’re going to achieve that will differ from one family to the next. 

Our criteria? Well, when it comes to little ones (let’s say, toddlers to eight-year-old kids), we want:

• Modern restrooms and showers help us keep them clean. 
• A campground equipped with a well-stocked first-aid station and easy access for first responders, in case it’s needed. 
• Exciting playgrounds for small children to enjoy — but also opportunities to ditch these curated facilities in favor of mud, stones, sticks, and bird-watching. (After all, you want your kids to connect with nature!)
• Child-friendly water activities are high on our list of must-haves as well. Pedal boats and inner tubes always make for great family fun, for example.
• Call us crazy, but we want there to be a place where slightly older kids can get ice cream alone or buy some dinner supplies. Campground stores make for great memories!
• Another essential ingredient? Other children! If a campground has a reputation for being family-friendly, your little ones will have lots of opportunities to play with other tiny campers.

Teenagers are a different story. They benefit from activities specifically organized for teens and an opportunity to break free from parents to explore nature with people their own age. Look for teen activities or ranger-led tour opportunities.

Your teens probably have WiFi high on their priority list, but if you’d love for them to unplug from the web and connect with nature instead, you may want to look for WiFi-free campgrounds. 

Ready for some suggestions? Here they come! 

1. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Mammoth Cave, KY

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Mammoth Cave, a stone’s throw away from Mammoth Cave National Park, is an attraction-filled camp resort with campgrounds, an RV park with full hookup amenities, and luxury cabins.

Why?

While Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Mammoth Cave offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors (caving, kayaking, ziplines, fishing, and more), it’s got that fun commercial feel that most small children go absolutely crazy for. You’ll have a hard time deciding whether to try mini golf, wagon rides, the waterpark, the floating obstacle course, or the gem mining experience — and that’s just the start! For the teens, there’s even a gaming arcade and full WiFi access.

2. Smoky Bear Campground, TN

What?

The Smoky Bear Campground & RV Park is one of the many amazing family-friendly campgrounds within the Good Sam network. Nestled within the Northeastern part of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, it has all the amenities you could possibly want — including RV sites, cabins, and tent sites. It’s a clean and beautifully maintained base from which you can explore the Smoky Mountains as a family.

Why?

The Smoky Bear Campground is a wonderful choice for families who are looking for a camping experience with lots of organized activities but with a more natural (and less resort-like) feel. There’s a pool, a playground, fire rings, and even a library.

3. Pineland Camping Park, WI

What?

Pineland Camping Park in Arkdale, Wisconsin is a beautiful woodland campground from which you’ll be able to explore nearby attractions like Petenwell Lake and the Wisconsin Dells. It caters to literally every camping style, from TV hookups to tent sites and cabins. With so many unique activities, this camping park is the golden ticket to fun for the whole family.

Why?

Mini golf, safari bikes, a heated pool, ATVs, Kid’s Clubhouse & Arcade, jumping pillows, live music, and other exciting activities ensure it’s a trip your kids will always remember — no matter what their ages. While Pineland Camping Park is a wild ride, those of you who would simply prefer to chill and escape the crowds can rest assured that this campground offers privacy and relaxation, too.

4. Bluebell Campground, Custer State Park, SD

What?

Custer State Park is home to a variety of amazing campgrounds, including primitive campsites, but Bluebell Campground is one of the more child-friendly options in this area. With modern amenities like laundry facilities, fuel, and a wonderful campground store, you’ll be able to enjoy your wilderness experience in style. Despite that, Bluebell Campground definitely opens the door to a traditional camping experience.

Why?

If your kids are going through their “cowboy phases” right now, Bluebell Campground is a must-do! Think hayrides, cookouts, horseback riding, and amazing guided tours your kids won’t forget any time soon. For the grown-ups, hunting and fishing await!

5. Mountain View Campground, VT

What?

Do you believe camping is all about discovering a new way of life — and do you picture sitting around the campfire singing songs together after tubing, hiking, and kayaking all day? Mountain View Campground, which looks out over the Great Mountains in Vermont, offers you that rustic experience.

Why?

Start with river tube and kayak rentals, explore the trails, and enjoy the convenience store with propane refill facilities before you retreat to your own RV site or tent. When the little ones get a little overwhelmed by all that nature, there’s mini golf, a lending library for games, and a very cool playground. 

WHERE?

3154 VT Route 15 East, Morrisville, VT 05661

6. Family & Friends Playground, Sebago Lake, ME

What?

This camping retreat near Sebago Lake in Maine is wonderful for families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life — but still camp in comfort. Relax in a beautiful woodland area and pick from RV hookups, cabins, and tent sites that all include picnic tables and fire rings. Family & Friends Playground is that wholesome, all-natural campground you’ve been looking for if  the camping resorts we looked at earlier fill you with dread.

Why?

Got small kids? They’ll be able to enjoy a fantastic playground and organized activities — but they’ll also have the freedom to potter around in nature without commercial attractions. Got teens? There’s a great swimming pool and a camp lodge with ping pong, billiards, and other fun games, but also a fishing pond. You, meanwhile, can be as active as you want — or just enjoy a camp meal cooked over your fire ring while soaking up the sunset.

7. Arrowhead Point Campground & Cabins, CO

What?

Want a camping experience that gives you a full view of the Rocky Mountains while allowing you to explore nearby attractions like Denver, the Great Sand Dunes, and Pikes Peaks? Arrowhead Point Campground & Cabins caters to different camping styles, from tent sites to RV hookups and cabins. 

Why?

Well, if we had to sum it up in four words, “guided Colorado river rafting” would probably do the trick, but there’s more. Hiking is one of those mandatory camping experiences, but at Arrowhead Point, you can explore the trails on horseback instead! You and your children can also look forward to fishing, ziplines, an absolutely amazing adventure park, and mountain bike trails!

Looking for Child-Family Campgrounds? Some More Tips!

We hope you enjoyed our recommendations, all of which allow you and your family to pitch a tent, pull up in your RV, or rent a cabin — but we know the campgrounds we featured won’t be within everyone’s reach.

Want to explore family-friending camping options closer to home or further afield?

Continue your search with these handy websites:

• Reserve America — type in where you want to go and get a list of state and privately-owned campgrounds.
• GlampingHub — if you want a luxury camping experience or you’re excited to stay somewhere unusual like a tree house or yurt.
• The Dyrt — a great place to explore wonderful campsites near you (or far away!).
• Kamgrounds of America — pick the perfect campsite for you and your family!

Once you narrow your options down a little, don’t forget to look for reviews posted by other families with children of similar ages as yours. This extra step will give you a more realistic idea of what to expect, and it can definitely help you avoid doozies!

We’ll give you some easy, delicious, and well-balanced camping recipes that won’t make you run for the nearest restaurant. There’s something for everyone, too. 

Must-Have Supplies for Outdoor Cooking

This guide assumes that you’ll have access to grocery stores on the go, and a means to store your fresh ingredients. You will, however, still need essential supplies. Most campers should aim to strike a balance between practicality and convenience, and some trade-offs will definitely need to be made along the way. That cast-iron Le Creuset pan should probably stay at home, for example, but a can opener will come in handy. 

Don’t forget to read our article on: What Is The Best Gas For Your Camping Stove

Here’s what to bring to make the recipes on our list doable:

• A camping stove, camping grill, or both (and the fuel to run these appliances). 
• Cooking pots and pans — at least one, but preferably two or more.
• Grilling supplies like tongs, a spatula, and a grill brush.
• A basic cutting board. 
• Mixing bowls — freezer containers can be a good substitute if you’re looking for something extra lightweight. 
• A knife, a can opener, a corkscrew, and other handy little tools — or a reliable multi-tool like a Leatherman or Gerber multi-tool. (You’ll still want a good chef’s knife even if you have a multi-tool! If you’re planning to eat fish, you’ll need a filleting knife, too.)
• Aluminum foil.
• A portable cooler to keep fresh ingredients good for longer.

You won’t want to bring your entire spice rack, but if you hate bland food with a vengeance, you can still add flavor to your food. It’s easy. Simply place a small amount of your favorite spices in Ziploc bags and tie them together with an elastic band. 

You can bring non-perishables with you from home, but you should get fresh supplies while camping. Who knows? You might even be able to reel in a fish or two to enjoy! 

(A final note: We’re going to assume that you’re an experienced cook, and we won’t provide precise measurements in these recipes. We promised you easy meals, after all.)

1. One-Pot Pasta

One-pot pasta recipes have become very popular over the last few years, and you’ve got tons of different options. However, we’ll look at the classic that started the trend here — a light, tomato-based pasta that’s perfect for sunny days. Everything cooks together in the same pan from the start, making preparation and cleanup wonderfully easy. 

Here are the ingredients. Remember to adjust them to the size of your party!

• Tomatoes — the juicier, the better. We like aromatic cherry tomatoes. 
• A generous amount of garlic.
• Lots of diced onions. 
• Salt and pepper to taste. 
• Sliced black olives to add once the dish is cooked. 
• Spaghetti.
• (Olive) oil.

If available, garnish with fresh basil! (If not, dried basil works, too.) Beyond that, you don’t really need any instructions. Cook until the pasta is done, and enjoy.

2. Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a popular Middle Eastern dish that’s delightfully tasty as well as easy to make. With lots of eggs, it will give you a royal dose of protein to fuel your camping adventures!

Countless different variations exist, but the basic version requires:

• Oil — ideally olive oil. 
• Canned tomatoes. 
• Chicken eggs.
• Garlic.
• Diced onions.
• Fresh herbs — parsley works best, but oregano, mint, dill, or thyme are good, too. 
• A pinch of cayenne pepper. 
• Salt.

Here’s how to prepare shakshuka:

• Heat the oil over medium heat in a frying pan. 
• Add diced onions and fry until they soften. 
• Add garlic and cayenne pepper and fry for a few more minutes.
• Add canned tomatoes until the base of your frying pan is covered. 
• Crack chicken eggs over the tomato base — you’ll usually be able to fit around five of them in. 
• When the eggs are done, to the consistency of fried eggs, remove your pan from the heat and add salt and fresh herbs. 

To spice things up, you can add peppers, feta cheese, spinach, or pretty much anything else you think of.

3. Chicken Kebabs

This tasty recipe requires:

• Boneless and skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed. 
• Olive oil. 
• Garlic. 
• Lemon juice (fresh or store-bought).
• Cumin. 
• Salt and pepper.

Let the chicken marinade for at least half an hour before putting it on skewers and grill them until done. You can even make chicken kebabs in the campfire! 

4. Grilled Fish

Grilled fish is a wonderful addition to your outdoor cooking plan. You’ll need:

• Fresh fish fillets — salmon, tilapia, and trout all work well. 
• Olive oil.
• Lemon slices.
• Salt and pepper. 
• You can also add fresh dill or other herbs, if you can get your hands on them.

Clean the fish and cut it into smaller pieces if necessary. Preheat the grill and oil it. Cook between four and six minutes on each side, ideally closing the grill lid. 

5. (Spanish) Omelet 

We all know how to make basic omelets. Spanish omelets, with garlic, onions, and potatoes, are more substantial. They require you to precook potatoes, which you then fry with onions and garlic before adding the omelet over the top. Delicious! 

6. Grilled Corn

This one doesn’t require any explanation. You can use your grill or wrap your corn in aluminum foil to cook it over your campfire. Either way, you’ll have a tasty snack that everyone is sure to enjoy.

7. Baked Potatoes

Jacket potatoes are another camping classic! To make them, let your campfire die down until you’re left with a bed of hot embers. Wrap decently-sized (and well-cleaned) russet potatoes in aluminum foil and let them bake for around 45 minutes, after which you can unwrap one to check if they’re ready. 

Toppings like coleslaw, cheese, sour cream, chives, and even baked beans complete the experience.

8. Stir-fry with Noodles

Instant noodles are easy to prepare while camping. Stir-fried vegetables turn this student favorite into a full and delicious meal. While you can pick any ingredients you like, consider:

• Some protein — boiled eggs, tofu, chicken, or shrimp, for example. 
• Garlic and ginger are non-optional. 
• Mushrooms, carrots, peas, zucchini, spinach, and broccoli are all great vegetable options.
• The magic lies in the sauce. Bring teriyaki, soy sauce, oyster sauce, or mushroom sauce.
• Sunflower or canola oil are OK, but sesame oil is best for stir-fries.

9. Pancakes 

Pancakes are great for when you’ve got a sweet tooth. Good, camping-friendly toppings include:

• Nutella and sliced bananas. 
• Lemon and sugar. 
• Jam.
• Maple syrup.

10. The Obligatory Burger

You know you’re going to want one eventually. Simply use store-bought burger patties, which can also be vegetarian, and add toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers. Make a sauce out of mayonnaise, finely diced pickles, lemon, and finely diced onions. 

A Final Word

All these easy recipes are wonderfully easy for camping novices — and you’ll soon get a taste for more. Remember to use biodegradable, eco-friendly dish soap while you’re camping, and aim to leave no trace! 

Even if you’ve never used a camping stove before, you’ll have seen blue and orange gas canisters. You’ll definitely need to know what’s in them before you embark on your campground culinary journey, and this guide will (hopefully!) cover all the questions you have. 

Types of Camping Stoves: A Quick Look at the Basics

Are you about to invest in a camping stove? You may be surprised by the impressive array of options you come across online or at your local outdoor adventure store. You’ll probably come across:

• Solid-fuel camping stoves, which are powered by wood, hexamine, or meta fuel. These stoves are great for heating MREs or boiling water, but they’re less suitable for complicated campground cooking adventures. 
• Liquid-fuel camping stoves use fuel sources like paraffin or petrol. They’re tricky to operate and not great for inexperienced campers, so definitely stay away from these if you’re new to cooking on the go. 
• Solar-powered camping stoves are a relatively new addition. They’re pricey and not suitable for areas that don’t get a lot of sun. 
• Canister gas stoves. This is the type of camping stove that uses gas — the subject of this guide. Basic camping stoves have a single ring, but more elaborate versions are also on the market. You can even find portable barbecues that use gas as fuel! 

What Gases Can Be Used in Canister Camping Stoves?

Gas canisters for camping stoves are often filled with propane or butane, although some use isobutane as well. Propane canisters are usually blue, while butane canisters are often orange. In addition, modern camping canisters often contain a blend of multiple gases, as well. For example, you might come across 80 percent butane and 20 percent propane blends. Always check the label before making a purchase!

When compared to other types of camping fuel, these gases have several distinct advantages. The canisters are fairly lightweight, and they can get the temperature up really quickly for amazingly fast results. Plus, they’re available nearly everywhere you go. 

However, there are some important differences between butane, propane, and isobutane, and understanding them will help you make the right choice for your camping trip. 

What Are the Main Advantages of Butane as a Gas for Your Camping Stove?

Butane camping canisters have several key advantages:

• First off, they’re cheaper than propane canisters, making them an attractive choice for campers planning a longer outdoor vacation. 
• Butane is lighter than propane. That comes in very handy if you’re backpacking and lugging canisters around with you.
• Beginners generally discover that butane canisters are significantly easier to get going, because this fuel doesn’t need as much pressure to vaporize. With easy ignition, your outdoor meal will be on its way before you know it!
• On that note, the fact that butane ignites more easily makes some camping enthusiasts see this gas as safer to use. 

On the other hand, butane canisters don’t perform nearly as well in cold temperatures or at higher altitudes — and they’re best suited for hot weather camping. If you’re planning to camp up in the mountains or in winter, butane isn’t a great choice. 

What Are the Benefits of Propane Gas?

Many campers prefer propane over butane, and here’s why:

• Propane reaches high temperatures more quickly than butane, making it much more efficient. 
• The gas can be used for more than camping stoves. If you plan to power lanterns, portable heaters, or grills, propane is just the ticket. 
• Propane may be slightly pricier than butane, but there’s an upside, too. It’s much more widely available, allowing you to replenish your supply on the go — pretty much regardless of where you’re going.

Perhaps most importantly, propane gas will power your camping stove even in very cold weather and high altitudes, ensuring that you’ll always be able to cook. 

What About Isobutane?

Isobutane, which has a different chemical structure, is a less talked-about camping fuel that shares many similarities with propane in terms of performance. Like propane, it’s extremely reliable in cold winter weather or at high altitudes. It’s also lightweight and, with a high energy content, isobutane reaches high temperatures very quickly. 

What About Blends?

Many camping fuels are blends of different gases. Made to ensure you get the best of all worlds, they often combine 80 percent isobutane with 20 percent propane — giving you excellent performance in all weather conditions. 

So, What Camping Stove Fuel Is the Best?

One size nearly never fits all, and camping stove fuels are no exception to this rule. Butane gas is great for hot weather camping trips and easy for less experienced campers to cook with. However, venture into colder regions or mountainous areas, and you may discover that it doesn’t work nearly as well as you’d hoped. Those situations call for propane or isobutane. 

There’s another point to consider, too, and that’s the availability of your chosen fuel. If you’re taking your love of camping global, it’s good to do some advanced research to find out what types of fuel are most widely sold where you’re going.

Some camping stoves are designed to accommodate multiple types of fuel, including uncommon options we haven’t looked at, including white gas, diesel, and jet fuel. If you have one of those, you’ll be prepared for anything. 

However, other camping stoves are designed to work with either butane and propane or isobutane, which can be quite limiting on the road. 

If you plan to go camping in different locations and in winter as well as summer, investing in a multi-fuel camping stove is your best bet. These camping stoves are versatile enough to allow you to choose the best gas for every scenario you may encounter. 

You can’t call yourself a prepared camper unless you come armed with bug and insect repellents. This guide walks you through your options and takes a closer look at the pros and cons of each.

Synthetic Insect Repellents

While camping, it’s essential to strike a balance between personal safety and protection and a sense of responsibility to the environment.

Everyone draws that line differently.

We’re not here to judge — only to give options. Three synthetic insect repellents are highly effective. 

DEET

DEET (N, N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) is nasty stuff — but it’s also, in our experience, the only thing that reliably prevents tick bites. That makes DEET a good option to consider for any woodland camping trip because ticks live on all continents except Antarctica. Depending on the local climate, they can be active throughout the year. As an added and very welcome bonus, DEET also keeps nearly all other bugs away. 

Any product with at least 30 percent DEET will usually work like a charm, but be careful because experts warn that you have to wash it off your skin after 24 hours. 

Picaridin

Picaridin is another chemical bug repellent that’s usually very effective. It’s a bit milder than DEET but it will still get the job done. 

Permethrin

This insect repellent is a bit different in that it’s designed to be applied to clothing and your tent. It will help you keep bugs away without applying it directly onto your skin, which is a bonus for people who often have strong reactions to chemicals. 

An Added Note

If avoiding bug bites and stings is a priority for you, but you still hope to minimize the impact you have on the environment around you, avoid aerosols and sprays and choose lotions and balms instead. This gives you the chance to keep disease-carrying bugs away from you and your tent without spreading toxic chemicals that might harm pollinators through the air.

Natural Bug Repellents 

If you would love to keep bugs at bay without turning to nasty chemicals, you have quite a few options. Needless to say, some are more effective than others, and some are more specialized in that they repel some, but not all, bugs.

Citronella Candles

Citronella candles emit a scent that mosquitoes hate, and they’re quite effective at keeping these bloodsuckers away. However, the light may attract other types of insects, including moths. 

Essential Oils

Essential oils are a key part of any natural approach to keeping pests away. Several work quite well:

• Lemon eucalyptus oil is effective against mosquitoes. Some people claim it keeps ticks away, too, but that’s not always true in our experience.
• Lavender oil doesn’t just keep mosquitoes away, but it will also help you sleep better during your camping trip.
• Peppermint oil works against spiders, ants, and mosquitoes (to a lesser extent).
• Tea tree oil is really quite good against mosquitoes, and it is moderately effective against ticks. This natural disinfectant also comes in handy if you get any cuts or scrapes.
• Neem oil is a famous natural insect repellent among gardeners. It’s safe to use and can keep some bugs away.

Bundles of Sage

This trick works really quite well. If you have any sage plants growing in your garden, trim four-inch portions off them and dry them. Create bundles tied together with sewing thread or string made from natural materials, and bring them on your camping trip. Simply chuck one of these bundles into your campfire to keep mosquitoes and other irritating insects away.

Mosquito Nets

Installing mosquito nets in your tents is a wonderful idea, and a critical safety step in areas where mosquitoes commonly carry diseases like malaria. You can also set up mosquito nets in outdoor relaxation areas. 

Here’s how to choose a mosquito net that will actually work:

• Choose a mosquito net with a fine mesh — with 285 holes per square inch being ideal. 
• White mosquito nets work better than black or dark ones.
• Make sure your mosquito net can be closed securely. Zips and magnetized closures can both work well.
• Remember that mosquito nets treated with insecticides are on the market. These are much more effective than untreated mosquito nets, as they combine the physical barrier that the netting offers with synthetic insecticides. 
• Make sure that the net you buy fits into your tent. For nets you plan to use outdoors, check that you’ll have a place to set them up.

Ultrasonic Bug Zappers

You may have seen ultrasonic devices that claim to keep bugs, from flies to mosquitoes, away by emitting an “unpleasant” sound inaudible to the human ear. Similar devices that aim to keep rodents away are also available.

Keep in mind that there’s very little scientific evidence to prove that these work.

While this isn’t a scientific claim, we can say that we’ve had these before, and found flies zooming around in their immediate vicinity. 

The moral of the story? If you invest in electronic bug repellents, take their efficacy with a whole pot of salt — and never rely on them as your only means to keep bugs away. 

A Final Word

If you want to maximize efficiency (important in tick-rich areas or places where mosquitoes carry dangerous diseases), DEET is by far your best bet, with other synthetic bug repellents earning second place. 

On the other hand, if repelling bugs while being a good environmental steward is your priority, a combination of all the natural bug repellents we recommended in this guide will serve you best. 

No matter what option you prefer, a mosquito net is always a valuable addition to your camping experience. However, know that not all mosquito nets are equally good, and invest in a high-quality option that’s highly effective and long-lasting.

Here Are 15 More Quick Tips How To Avoid Insects While Camping

1. Choose your campsite wisely: Opt for areas away from standing water and dense vegetation, as these are breeding grounds for insects.
2. Use insect repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing.
3. Wear long sleeves and pants: Covering up with loose-fitting clothing can help prevent insect bites.
4. Use mosquito nets: Utilize mosquito nets over sleeping areas and dining areas to create a barrier between you and insects.
5. Keep your campsite clean: Dispose of food scraps and garbage properly to avoid attracting insects.
6. Avoid strong scents: Perfumes, scented lotions, and heavily scented products can attract insects. Opt for unscented alternatives.
7. Stay indoors during peak activity times: Many insects, such as mosquitoes, are most active during dawn and dusk. Minimize outdoor activities during these times.
8. Keep doors and windows closed: Seal up tents, cabins, and other sleeping areas to prevent insects from entering.
9. Use citronella candles or torches: Citronella has natural insect-repellent properties and can help keep bugs away from your campsite.
10. Avoid wearing bright colors: Bright and floral patterns can attract certain insects, so opt for neutral-colored clothing.
11. Check your gear: Before setting up camp, inspect your gear and clothing for any hidden insects or nests.
12. Create natural barriers: Plant insect-repellent herbs like lavender, citronella grass, and basil around your campsite.
13. Use natural repellents: Essential oils like lavender, citronella, and tea tree oil can act as natural insect repellents. Apply them to your skin or clothing.
14. Stay dry: Insects are often attracted to moisture, so try to keep yourself and your surroundings as dry as possible.
15. Educate yourself: Learn about the insects commonly found in the area where you’ll be camping and take appropriate precautions.

These tips should help you enjoy a bug-free camping experience!

The only problem? Nature doesn’t necessarily feel like connecting with you. 

To preserve the local ecosystem — and ensure that future campers can enjoy the same wonderful experience you’re having — you need to take your responsibility as a camper seriously. You might not quite manage to fulfill your mission to “leave nothing but footprints, and take nothing but memories,” but you can get pretty darn close with these Environmental Camping Tips.

Here’s how. 

1. Develop a Waste Disposal Strategy

This section covers two things — waste that comes from the things you take with you, like packaging and plastic, and the waste you produce yourself. 

“Don’t litter” is one of the essential commandments of ethical camping, but you’d be surprised how many people fail to follow it. You risk accidentally leaving waste behind even if you have the best of intentions, so it’s good to develop a plan. Here are a few handy tips to get you started:

• Always bring plenty of garbage bags with you. Remember that wind can sweep them away, so secure them with a heavy rock or keep them in your car. 
• Dispose of waste products immediately. Be especially mindful of the danger of disposable plastic bags and the little plastic rings six-packs of drinks come with. Birds and other wildlife can get their necks stuck in these plastic waste items, potentially maiming or killing them. Also remember that lightweight plastic packaging, like candy bar wrappers, can fly off within a second if you leave it unattended. 
• Remember that leftover food counts as a waste product, too, and dispose of it responsibly.

As far as human waste goes, it’s good to dig an outdoor toilet as soon as you arrive on the scene. Your outdoor toilet should be at least 200 feet from the nearest natural water source (like a river or lake) and be at least 12 inches deep. Don’t forget to cover it with soil when you go home! Human feces can contain microorganisms that are dangerous to the local wildlife. 

2. Keep Your Dog on the Leash

Taking your dog camping can be a very rewarding experience — and a chance for you both to have a great time. Be careful, though! No matter how well-trained or obedient you think your canine best friend is, you should always keep your dog on the leash. 

Let’s face it. It’s in Fido’s nature to start chasing birds, foxes, deer, and other wildlife. In the process, your dog may not only manage to kill animals but may also disturb their breeding grounds.  You wouldn’t be the first to think your dog is the exception to the rule, only to find him running toward you excitedly with a duck in his mouth. Just keep your dog on the leash, please! 

Unless of course when it’s safe, we certainly understand that camping has to be fun for your dog too! Research can also be done in advance to find out how pet-friendly your camping spot is.

3. Don’t Disturb the Environment

There’s more to leaving no trace than taking your litter home. It’s just as important to stay mindful of the damage you cause to nature while you’re camping. Some things to avoid doing include:

• Pitching your tent on top of rare flowers or mushrooms. Not sure if you’re disturbing rare vegetation? In that case, stick to a designated campground. 
• Chopping down trees or vegetation to make space for your tent. 
• Venturing off designated trails and disturbing the local ecosystem. 
• Use biodegradable products while washing yourself, your dishes, and your clothes. 

It might go without saying, but please don’t pick up any eggs or baby animals you may come across while camping, either. In many cases, this can lead the parent animals to abandon their offspring.

4. Take a Responsible Approach to Campfires

Never assume that you’re allowed to start a campfire. Always check first! If starting a fire is permitted, only use designated fire rings or pits if they are available. If not, make very sure you find a suitable place for your campfire:

• Pick a flat spot away from any dry vegetation like shrubs, grass, and trees. Check that there are no overhanging tree branches. 
• Build a proper fire pit, either by using rocks or by using a metal fire ring. 
• Never leave your campfire unattended. Fire spreads faster than you think, especially if the wind picks up. 
• It’s wise to keep a bucket of water and a pile of soil nearby at all times to enable you to quickly extinguish the fire if necessary.

Have you never made a fire before? Practice in a safe spot, like your own backyard, first. Wildfires are a growing concern, and many are accidentally started by people who don’t know what they’re doing.

Make sure you read our article about Fire Safety Tips While Camping.

5. Keep Your Noise Levels Down at Night

Campgrounds usually have quiet hours. If you’re going camping in nature, it’s crucial to keep your noise down after dark, too. The local wildlife has an established sleep-wake cycle just like you do, and noisy campers can throw the animals for a loop. 

A Final Word

Nothing is worse than arriving at a “beautiful campsite” only to be met with empty drink cans, scraps of toilet paper, cigarette butts, and other unpleasant reminders of human activity. Don’t be that person who ruins everything for other campers and local wildlife. 

Prepare for your camping trip by learning what it takes to leave no trace — and don’t pitch your tent until you know you can leave the environment exactly as you found it. Fortunately, it’s easier than you think. A combination of planning and using common sense gets you more than half of the way there.

While you’re at it, don’t be scared to clean up the mess less considerate campers have left before you showed up. You’ll be doing Mother Earth a favor, and it’s a great way to show how much you appreciate that time spent in nature. 

Starting a wildfire that tears through countless acres is the worst-case scenario, but a campfire left unattended for a second or a camping stove knocked over can wreak havoc. Want to stay safe? Read these tips and apply them every time.

Campfire Safety Essentials

Campfires are cozy and practical, but they also pose risks. Always use a designated fire pit or fire ring where available. If not, portable fire rings aren’t just the safest option (because they’re elevated and away from dry vegetation), but they’re also supremely convenient. Building a fire pit out of a ring of rocks can be very safe, but it’s your option of last resort. 

Regardless of the option you use, always take the time to clear any debris from the fire site, including dry vegetation, leaves, and anything else that could catch fire.

Beyond that, follow these fire safety rules:

• Never leave your campfire unattended. Fire catches faster than you may think. Don’t assume it can’t happen because you were responsible and cleared away debris.
• Always keep a large water bottle or bucket of water near your fire, so you can extinguish it quickly whenever necessary. 
• Don’t leave dying campfires to extinguish themselves. Make sure they are completely out by throwing a bucket of water over them.
• Use wood no thicker than your wrist to ensure the campfire doesn’t last too long, and so that it’s easier to extinguish.

Finally, and this is very important, NEVER START FIRES IN AREAS WHERE THEY’RE NOT ALLOWED. The regulations exist for a reason. 

While not strictly related to fire safety, make sure to only choose dead twigs and branches that you find on the ground. Don’t cut dead branches from trees, because they’re often habitats for local wildlife.

Outdoor Cooking Safety

Cooking your food makes your camping trip much more exciting, but it’s critical to be mindful of the risks. We advise:

• Using a sturdy table as a steady surface for your camping stove, rather than placing it on the ground. This puts distance between your camping stove and any dry vegetation.
• Always remember to remove any flammable items (like toilet paper, kitchen towels, and so on) from the vicinity before lighting your camping stove.
• Don’t step away from your camping stove while it’s on. 
• Camping pans tend to get hot very fast. Always come prepared with a towel or oven glove to avoid burns. 

Outdoor cooking safety is mostly common sense, but it’s always prudent to remember that the outdoor environment is significantly less predictable than your home kitchen. A gust of wind can cause unsecured items to blow toward your camping stove, for example. Be extra careful, and you should be good to go. 

We generally recommend against using alcohol-powered camping stoves, because they’re simply too effective. In other words, things get heated far too quickly. Choose butane or propane stoves instead.

Keep up with the famous “Leave no trace” line which you can also read much more about in our article about Environmental Camping Tips for Preserving Nature.

Stay Up to Date About the Fire Risk

Forewarned is forearmed, and the fastest way to stay safe in the face of a fire is not to light any fires at all. When camping in the United States, keep a close eye on the National Fire Danger Rating System, brought to you by the USDA and Forest Service. 

These ratings estimate how fast a fire could spread in case of accidents. These ratings often determine whether you’re allowed to start a fire at all, but even if campfires are permitted, you can use this system to make an informed judgment about the dangers involved. 

Tracking the AirNow Fire and Smoke map, which shows the sites of active fires across the US, is another great thing to do. Knowing where fires are currently blazing enables you to evacuate quickly, should that become necessary. 

Don’t Smoke

Too many wildfires have been started by people carelessly discarding lit cigarettes in the past. It’s best not to smoke at all while camping. If you’re addicted to nicotine, vaping is now a commonplace alternative to cigarettes. While this is no place to get into its pros and cons, it’s quite clear that vaping can help you avoid accidentally setting your local forest on fire — which makes it a winning way to consume nicotine while camping. 

If you do use cigarettes, stick to designated smoking areas and always, always, make sure your cigarettes are completely extinguished before appropriately discarding them.

A Word About Magnifying Glasses 

Some campers want to test their survival skills in the wild, and they might feel tempted to try to get a fire started by reflecting sunlight through a magnifying glass. This is extremely dangerous. If there’s dry vegetation (like dead leaves or grass) nearby, you could start a fire that spreads rather rapidly. Just don’t do it. 

Here are 6 Quick Tips To Safely Start Your Campfire

1. Teepee Method: Gather small, dry sticks and arrange them in a cone or teepee shape over a small pile of tinder such as dry leaves, grass, or paper. Light the tinder from the bottom, allowing the flames to catch the kindling. As the fire grows, continue adding larger sticks in a teepee formation around the initial flames.
2. Log Cabin Method: Begin by stacking medium-sized logs in a square or rectangular shape, leaving space in the center for tinder. Place your Tinder in the center and light it. As the fire catches, the logs will ignite from the inside out due to the airflow between them.
3. Upside-Down Fire: Start with the largest logs or branches on the bottom of your fire pit, stacking them parallel to each other. Add progressively smaller pieces of wood on top, layering them in a crisscross pattern until you reach the top. Place your tinder on top of the stack and light it. The fire will burn downward, igniting the larger pieces first.
4. Dakota Fire Hole: Dig a small hole about a foot deep and another tunnel leading into it for airflow. Place your tinder and kindling at the bottom of the hole. Light the tinder, and the fire will draw in oxygen through the tunnel, burning hot with minimal smoke.
5. Fire Starter Cubes or Gel: Firestarter cubes or gel are convenient and easy to use. Simply place one under your kindling and light it. These starters burn for several minutes, providing ample time for your kindling to catch fire. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
6. Dryer Lint and Egg Cartons: Collect dryer lint and stuff it into each compartment of an empty cardboard egg carton. Pour melted wax over the lint-filled compartments and let it cool. Cut the carton into individual compartments, each containing a lint starter. When ready to use, simply light the edge of the egg carton compartment with the lint, and it will ignite easily, providing a steady flame to catch your kindling.

Remember to always have water or a fire extinguisher nearby and follow all safety guidelines and regulations when starting a campfire.