Camping Guide

Why Go Camping?

Camping is the most accessible form of outdoor adventure. Whether you're pitching a tent at a crowded state park or pulling a dispersed campsite deep in national forest, a night under the stars resets your perspective in a way few things can.

Types of Camping

Car Camping

The most beginner-friendly style. Drive to a developed campsite with a fire ring, picnic table, and nearby restrooms. Great for families and first-timers.

Backpacking

Carry everything you need on your back to remote campsites unreachable by vehicle. More demanding but deeply rewarding.

Dispersed Camping

Free camping on public land (BLM, national forests) without designated sites. No fees, no reservations, minimal facilities.

RV Camping

Bring the comforts of home to campgrounds with hookups for water, power, and sewer.

Essential Gear

• Tent — Match it to your group size and the seasons you plan to camp. A 3-season tent covers most trips.
• Sleeping bag — Know your comfort rating. A 20°F bag works for most 3-season camping.
• Sleeping pad — Insulates you from cold ground and adds comfort. R-value of 3+ for 3-season use.
• Cooking system — A canister stove and lightweight pot covers most camp cooking needs.
• Water treatment — Filter, purifier, or chemical treatment for any water source in the backcountry.

Planning Your First Trip

1. Choose a campground on recreation.gov or your state park system
2. Book your campsite 6 months in advance for popular parks
3. Use OfAdventure's planner to generate a complete packing list
4. Practice setting up your tent at home before your trip
5. Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return