Early Spring Camping: Tips for Enjoying the Outdoors Before the Crowds

tourist tent camping in mountains at sunset — Adobe Stock

Are you suffering from cabin fever and ready to get out in the wild on the year’s first camping trip? We are right there with you! Spring is a great time to go camping as the weather can be milder, the bugs calmer, and the campsites far less crowded this time of year. Before you head out to go camping (or glamping) make sure you check off all the items on our list of tips for enjoying the great outdoors before the summer crowds.

Be Prepared

Travel items laid out flat — Photo by Alice Donovan Rouse on Unsplash

As the old Scout motto says, “Be prepared.” Spring is an end to winter and a beginning to summer. This is a time of radical changes in weather and wildlife. As excited as you are to get back to enjoying the outdoors, don’t just rush out there. Be sure to examine your gear, check all of the new rules that may be in place at your favorite spot, and make a strong list of all the items you could possibly need.

Check the Weather Forecast

umbrella with rain — Photo by Erik Witsoe on Unsplash

Weather is a much bigger deal in the spring than in the summer when it comes to camping. Rain is more likely to create floods in the spring and cold temperatures can put a wet camper at risk of hypothermia. Don’t just check once, keep checking for changes in the forecast as your camping trip nears. Consider consulting a Farmer’s Almanac, as their weather forecasts take a more long-term, seasonal approach, but are surprisingly accurate.

Pack Heavy

folded laundry — Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash

In this case, less is not more. Camping in the spring can be chilly, and sometimes, downright cold. Be sure to pack clothes that can be layered to keep you warm. It is also important to pack plenty of clothes in case you get wet and need to change clothes more often than expected. It may be good to bring a makeshift clothesline to help out should this be an issue.

Stay Dry

rain on a tent — Photo by Suhyeon Choi on Unsplash

It might seem like this keeps coming up, but in the spring, rain is a big issue for campers. While you should stay on top of the forecast, a shower can always pop up and surprise you. It is imperative that you have a dry place to keep your clothes, personal possessions, and other items that could be ruined by being soaked.