BEGINNER’s GUIDE TO CAMPING: TIPS FOR OUTDOOR SUCCESS

Are you ready to swap your cozy bed for the great outdoors? Whether you’re a novice or need a refresher, camping is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with nature, clear your mind, and even test your survival skills. But before you toss your gear in the car and hit the trails, be prepared with our Beginner’s Guide to Camping.

Come wander and explore the great outdoors with our tips, tricks, and must-haves for your first adventure in the wild. We’ll cover everything from essential gear to safety tips to ensure your outdoor adventure is a success. Let’s dive in!

Why Go Camping?

Camping is our jam! Give us an open flame and a few camping essentials and you have the makings for the PERFECT way to recharge our batteries. When life starts to get a little crazy, camping outdoors in the fresh air is an excellent getaway option and does the trick. Who needs air conditioning!?

While our preferred method of hanging out in nature is in a tent, there are all types of camping including rocking RV camping, car camping, hammock, or even glamping. We promise you’ll be hooked with the perfect camp spot, our guide, and your adventurous spirit! I think I hear Mother Nature calling.

Camping isn’t just about “roughing it.” It’s an opportunity to experience nature in a way that’s impossible in everyday life. From starry skies to fresh air to campfire stories, camping provides the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of modern living. Whether you’re heading to the woods, the beach, or the mountains, camping offers numerous benefits like:

• Mental clarity – Disconnecting from technology can help clear your mind. It’s one of the best places to get lost and dive into a good book.
• Physical health – Hiking, swimming, and outdoor activities get you moving and breathing fresh air.
• Bonding – Camping creates opportunities for lots of fun and meaningful connections and spending quality time with friends and family.

So, don’t just take our word for it. Come adventure with an open mind, the right camping gear, and these beginner camping tips for the BEST first-time camping experience that will have you singing show tunes by the campfire!

Good news! This GET OUTSIDE ON A BUDGET AND START CAMPING WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK is perfect for your first camping trip along with our BEGINNER’s GUIDE TO CAMPING: TIPS FOR OUTDOOR SUCCESS.

Pitch Perfect: Picking the Ideal Campsite.

The first step in planning a camping trip is selecting the right campsite. There are many types of campsites to choose from—each offering different amenities and experiences.

PRO TIP- Popular campsites tend to fill up quickly so make your reservation early. Cancellations happen often online so keep checking your desired dates. Camping in a State Park!? The Ranger Station Check-In is also a great place to call for those last-minute changes of plans. 

Types of Campsites:

• Backcountry Campsites: Ideal for experienced campers looking to disconnect completely. These sites usually have no amenities and require hiking to access.
• Car Camping Sites: Perfect for beginner campers. You can drive right to your campsite, making it easy to bring along everything you need.
• RV Sites: If you prefer a bit of comfort, RV sites offer electricity and water hookups, making them great for a more relaxed camping experience. Here are Florida’s top 10 RV Parks.
• Campgrounds with Facilities: Some campsites offer basic amenities like restrooms, shower facilities, and even Wi-Fi. These are great for beginners who want to ease into camping without sacrificing too many comforts and have a great time!
• Glamping: The art of enjoying nature without sacrificing comfort—think luxe tents, cozy beds, and gourmet meals under the stars. Yes, Please!

For beginners, it’s best to start with a developed campsite that offers amenities like restrooms, running water, and even a picnic table. Research local campgrounds, state, or national parks that offer beginner-friendly camping experiences. Check reviews and ensure the site is accessible and fits your skill level.

We jumped into first-time camping when the boys were little. It was a Cub Scout weekend in the backcountry camping area at an established campground. That first night we had wild animals, no one had a good night’s sleep, and did I mention that there wasn’t any toilet paper!?  EVEN after all that, we had the best time and were hooked!   

Camping in Florida!? Here are our favorites:

• Explore Fall camping at Anastasia State Park, the crown jewel of St. Augustine, Florida!
• Lake Kissimmee State Park Camping in Old Florida
• Beautiful Florida Camping at Fort De Soto Campground

Gear Up With Must-Have Essentials for New Campers.

Now that you’ve chosen your campsite, it’s time to gather your camping gear. While camping can be as simple as grabbing a blanket and a flashlight, a little more preparation goes a long way. In this beginner’s guide to camping, here’s a list of basic gear every beginner needs for a successful trip:

Beginner’s Guide To Camping Gear Checklist:

• Tent: A good-quality, weather-appropriate tent is essential. Choose a tent with enough space for the number of people in your group and make sure it is easy to set up. Not sure where to start!? Here’s our TOP pick instant tent.
• Sleeping Bag, Cot, and Pad: Depending on the weather, you’ll need a sleeping bag rated for the temperature of your campsite. A sleeping pad will add comfort and insulation from the ground. We love a cot and a thick memory foam pad for the ultimate night’s sleep.
• Camping Stove or Grill: If you’re not planning to cook over an open fire, a portable camping stove or grill will be your best friend for preparing meals.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: Essential for navigating the campsite after dark. A headlamp is great because it keeps your hands free for setting up camp.
• Cookware and Utensils: Bring lightweight, durable cookware and utensils for meal prep. Consider a compact camping cookware set with pots, pans, and a kettle.
• First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, so a well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for any camping trip. Flaming marshmallow anyone!? 
• Water Bottle or Hydration System: Stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle or hydration pack. Ensure you have access to clean water, either by bringing your own or filtering water from a natural source.
• Clothing: Layering is key to staying comfortable in the outdoors. Bring moisture-wicking clothes, a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and extra socks. Here’s a camping clothing guide we think you’ll love!

Looking for amazing camping gear!? Check out our favorite essentials!

• LET’S GET LIT: EASY OUTDOOR CAMPSITE LIGHTING IDEAS
• BEST OUTDOOR CAMPING COT FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
• EXPEDITION COOL: BEST BATTERY OPERATED FANS FOR CAMPING

Campfire 101: Sparking Your Beginner’s Flame.

One of the most iconic camping experiences is sitting around a campfire. Not only is it a great way to stay warm and cook meals, but it also provides a cozy setting for stories, songs, and s’mores.

Beginner’s Guide To Camping Campfire Tips:

• Choose a Safe Location: Set up your fire in a fire ring, if available, or in a cleared area away from tents, trees, and other flammable materials.
• Gather Wood: You’ll need three types of wood: tinder (small twigs and dry leaves), kindling (small sticks), and fuel wood (larger logs).
• Start the Fire: Use matches or a lighter to ignite the tinder, and gradually add kindling and fuel wood as the fire grows.
• Safety First: Never leave your campfire unattended, and make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving or going to bed.

PRO TIP- We love grabbing Fire Starter logs for the campfire. It takes the guesswork out of lighting the fire. DO NOT COOK OVER A FIRE LOG. Add your wood and develop embers that will provide enough heat safely to cook your food.

Campfire Cuisine: Meals Made Easy.

We’ve all been there. Our inner Gordan Ramsey yields himself and for the next 6 hours, we’re stuck over a campfire! You can still have delicious Michelin Star meals without being slaves to camping cuisine. I mean, who doesn’t love a hot dog taco!?

• Plan Simple Meals: We love meals that are easy to prepare and require minimal cooking equipment. Think of one-pot dishes, foil packet meals, and pre-cooked meals that only need reheating.
• Pack Non-Perishable Foods: Our go-to’s are tortillas, pancake mixes, instant mashed potatoes, peanut butter, and those DELICIOUS Knorr sides. These items can withstand the elements and last for days. Yum!
• Bring Snacks: Snacks like energy bars, chips and salsa, and fruit are easy to carry and will keep you energized on your hikes or outdoor activities.
• Cooking Tip: A cast-iron skillet is a versatile tool for camp cooking. You can use it over the campfire to cook anything from breakfast eggs to the perfect sides. 

Our meal planning has simplified over time. We adore easy camping meals that fill our bellies and leave a smile on our faces. Our quick camping meal strategy is simple: pick a few items that can pull triple duty and that play well with each other.

Looking for easy campfire meal inspiration!? We gotcha!

• QUICK & EASY CAMPING SIDE DISH IDEAS FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
• EASY CAMPFIRE BREAKFAST TACOS: YOUR NEW CAMPING RECIPE
• OUR ABSOLUTE BEST CAMPFIRE FOOD TO COOK

Camp Smart-Safety First.

While camping is a fun and rewarding experience, it’s important to stay safe. Here are some tips to help you stay secure while enjoying the outdoors:

Beginner’s Guide To Camping Safety Tips:

• Know the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before your trip. Weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains or by the coast. Always check the forecast before you leave and pack accordingly. If you’re camping in a colder climate, consider bringing an extra blanket or jacket. Be prepared for rain, too! ESPECIALLY if you’re camping in Florida! 
• Stay on Marked Trails: If you’re hiking, always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or encountering dangerous wildlife. Always let someone know your plans and expected return time.
• Wildlife Awareness: Store food securely and never leave it unattended. In bear country, use a bear canister to store food and scented items. Avoid approaching wildlife, and make noise while hiking to alert animals to your presence. The raccoons can be nuts! 
• Leave No Trace: One of the most important aspects of camping is leaving the environment as you found it. Clean up all trash, avoid damaging vegetation, and follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure that others can enjoy the beauty of nature as you did.
• Know How to Use a Map and Compass: If you’re hiking in remote areas, knowing how to navigate using a map and compass can prevent you from getting lost.
• Check for Ticks and Insects: Ticks and mosquitoes can be more than just annoying—they can carry diseases. Wear long sleeves and pants when hiking in wooded areas, and use insect repellent to minimize the risk.

Leave No Trace Only Footprints.

One of the most important principles of camping is leaving the environment as you found it. There’s nothing worse than rolling up to a remote campsite that’s completely trashed! As a beginner, it’s essential to understand the “Leave No Trace” principles, which help preserve the natural beauty of the places you visit.

Leave No Trace Principles:

• Pack Out What You Pack In: Don’t leave trash behind. Bring trash bags and pack out all waste, including food scraps.
• Camp on Durable Surfaces: Set up camp on established campsites or durable surfaces like rocks or gravel to avoid damaging the environment.
• Minimize Campfire Impact: Use a camp stove instead of a campfire when possible, and ensure your fire is fully extinguished when you’re done.

Adventure Awaits Fun Activities Under the Stars.

Camping isn’t just about sleeping under the stars—it’s also about enjoying nature in a variety of ways. Here are some fun outdoor activities to try during your first trip:

Hiking

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the area around your campsite. Beginners should stick to shorter, easier trails to get a feel for the terrain and the experience. Always hike with a buddy and stay on marked paths.

Taking A Nap

Yep! You just read that correctly! Kick back in a comfy camping chair by the fire or hang out in a hammock and just chill.

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star

One of the perks of camping is being away from city lights. If you’re camping in a remote area, take advantage of the dark skies to stargaze. 

Fishing

Who doesn’t love a fresh catch grilled to perfection on the campfire!?  Be sure to check local regulations for fishing permits and restrictions before you cast your line.

Wildlife Watching

On a recent camping adventure in the Smokey Mountains, we had the opportunity to watch an owl family all week. Too cool!

Camping is a great opportunity to spot wildlife in its natural habitat or your fellow campers…just sayin’. Keep a safe distance and observe animals from afar. Bring binoculars and a field guide to help identify species. 

Are You Ready To Embrace an Outdoor Camping Adventure!?

Camping is one of the best ways to disconnect, recharge, and reconnect with the natural world. Whether you’re enjoying the simple pleasures of a campfire or exploring a new hiking trail, every camping trip is a chance to learn and grow. 

As a beginner, the key to success is being prepared, starting small, and keeping an open mind. With these beginner guide to camping tips, you’ll be ready for a fun, safe, and unforgettable outdoor experience.

Ready to go camping? Pack your gear, gather your friends or family, and let the adventure begin! Your outdoor success starts here. Happy Wandering!

      

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