Preparing for your Camping trip

Campground Packing Checklist

Shelter & Sleep

• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad or air mattress
• Inflatable pillow
• Extra blankets (optional, depending on weather)

Clothing

• Weather-appropriate clothes
• Warm layers (even in summer)
• Pajamas
• Underwear and socks
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Comfortable shoes or sandals

Camp Setup

• Camp table
• Camp chairs
• Lanterns
• Headlamps or flashlights
• Rechargeable power bank
• Charging cables

Food & Storage

• Cooler
• Ice
• Trash bags
• Reusable food containers
• Snacks and meals
• Water bottles

Cooking & Eating

• Camp stove or grill (if needed)
• Cooking utensils
• Plates, cups, and cutlery
• Paper towels
• Dish cloth or sponge

Personal Care & Toiletries

• Toiletries
• Towels
• Sunscreen
• Bug repellent
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste

Safety & Essentials

• First aid kit
• Bear spray (where recommended)
• Matches or lighter
• Multi-tool or knife
• Campfire wood (if not provided on-site)

Extras for Fun

• Games or cards
• Camera
• Bluetooth speaker (used respectfully during non-quiet hours)
• Small projector or downloaded movies

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Fun Facts About Camping & Campgrounds

• Most campgrounds are designed for comfort, not survival.
  Many offer restrooms, running water, picnic tables, fire pits, and small camp stores — making them a great middle ground between roughing it and glamping.
• Drive-in campsites are the most popular option in the U.S.
  They’re ideal for first-time campers and anyone packing coolers, chairs, and extra gear.
• Wildlife is more interested in your food than you.
  Raccoons, squirrels, and bears are attracted by scent, not people — which is why proper food storage is essential.
• Setting up your tent first is a pro move.
  Weather can change quickly, and having shelter ready early can save you from setting up in rain or darkness.
• Quiet hours are taken seriously at campgrounds.
  Most begin between 10–11 PM and are enforced to keep the experience peaceful for everyone.
• Campfires are both functional and social.
  They’re used for cooking, warmth, and gathering — and are often the highlight of the night.
• Campgrounds encourage “Leave No Trace” principles.
  Everything you bring in should be carried out to help protect nature and keep sites clean for future campers.
• Camping improves sleep quality for many people.
  Natural light cycles and fresh air often help campers fall asleep faster and wake up earlier.
• You don’t have to disconnect completely.
  Many campers bring power banks, lanterns, games, or even small projectors to balance comfort with outdoor time.