Last Updated on March 20, 2025
Camping is a cherished pastime that allows us to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a rookie just starting out, there are certain unwritten rules that can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. These guidelines might not be on the official list you receive at check-in, but they are just as important. We found a great video that breaks down these essential tips.
1. Stay Out of the Left Lane
The left lane is like the VIP section of the highway, reserved for speed demons and passing vehicles. Nothing screams "rookie" louder than cruising your RV in this precious territory. Do yourself and everyone else a favor by sticking to the right lane. You'll avoid frustrated drivers, angry honks, and let's be honest, some questionable hand gestures. Plus, you'll save yourself from becoming the campground's latest gossip topic.
2. Your Fire Ring is Not Your Personal Trash Can
It's tempting to toss everything from empty beer cans to half-eaten hot dogs into the fire ring, but resist the urge. This communal space is for cooking dinner and making s'mores, not for burning your garbage. Is it really that hard to walk a few extra steps to the trash bin? Keep your beer bottles and broken flip-flops out of there, unless you want to be known as the campground's resident trash panda.
3. Only Use Local or Kiln-Dried Firewood
Untreated firewood can introduce invasive pests to the campground, wreaking havoc on the local ecosystem. Most campgrounds offer firewood for sale, or you can support a local neighbor selling it down the street. One piece of infested wood can spread like wildfire, so let's do our part to ensure future generations can enjoy these beautiful parks. Remember, nobody wants to be responsible for the next campground apocalypse.
4. Don’t Leave Your Outside Awning Lights On All Night
Awning lights can add a cozy ambiance to your outdoor living space, but there's a time and place for everything. Your neighbor shouldn't be subjected to a disco show at 2 a.m. If you want to host a rave, maybe a campground isn't the best venue. Turn off those lights and let everyone enjoy the peaceful night sky.
5. Don’t Feed the Wildlife
Those cute chipmunks and squirrels might seem harmless, but feeding them can lead to bigger problems. One minute you're sharing your sandwich, and the next, you've got a bear doing the cha-cha slide into your RV. Store your food correctly and avoid surprise visitors. Unless you want to start a wildlife dinner party, keep your snacks to yourself.
6. Don’t Let Your Dogs Bark Non-Stop
Our furry friends are part of the family, but nobody wants to hear Fido's greatest hits on repeat all day long. It's your job to control the canine concert. Bring their favorite toy, take them for a walk, or find another way to curb that pent-up energy. Otherwise, you might find yourself the star of a campground-wide complaint session.
7. Pick Up Your Site
Leaving trash behind is not only inconsiderate but also against the "leave no trace" principle. Pick up empty chip bags, beer cans, and candy wrappers. It's not the next camper's responsibility to clean up after you. Remember, your mom doesn't work here, so it's up to you to keep your site tidy. Unless you want to be known as the campground slob, clean up your mess.
8. Respect Common or Shared Areas
Shared spaces like bathrooms, picnic tables, and playgrounds are for everyone to enjoy. Don't take a half-hour shower if people are waiting, and always clean up after yourself. Keep your dog poop bags and sewer hoses off the picnic table. If your kids are old enough to play unsupervised, they're old enough to be held accountable for their actions. Nobody wants to find "Timmy wuz here" carved into every swing.
9. Let Your Neighbor Set Up Before Saying Hello
Imagine trying to back your 30-foot RV into a tight spot while someone bombards you with questions. Give your neighbors a minute to settle in before you introduce yourself. If you see them struggling, offer help, but don't take over like a traffic cop in New York City. A little patience goes a long way in making a good first impression.
10. Don’t Knock on Your Neighbor’s Door
While it's great to be friendly, not everyone wants to be included in your plans. Knocking on your neighbor's door at 6 a.m. for morning coffee is a surefire way to make enemies. Respect people's privacy and remember that not everyone is a morning person. The last thing anyone wants is an uninvited guest before they've had their coffee.
Remember to spread the word about these unwritten rules of campground etiquette. If you have any other tips, feel free to comment below. As always, we appreciate you watching the video and don't forget to like and subscribe to the "Camping Loop" channel. Watch the full video below for more insights.
