Camping is a wonderful way to spend time out of doors. There are many factors that make up a great campsite, and the perfect site may be unattainable, like a mirage hovering in the distance. On the other hand, if you follow these simple guidelines and lower your standards just a bit, you can have the perfect campsite every time.
There are 3 things to keep in mind when selecting a campsite. These guidelines are important whether you are at a developed campground, backpacking in the woods, or stranded on a tropical island. Safety should be your primary concern, especially when camping with children. Next, consider your impact on the environment, especially if you are creating your own campsite in an undeveloped area. And finally, consider the function of the camp in terms of the various tasks you will be performing.
Safety first. Take a look around. What are the hazards? What if bad weather comes in? Lightning. Floods. Falling rock. Your campsite should be in a safe place, and your tent should be sheltered, out of the wind, and away from natural hazards like rivers or cliffs, cactus or poison ivy.
Leave only footprints. That pristine meadow may be a tempting campsite, but what will it look like after you leave? If you are in a developed campground, there will be an obvious place to set up your tent. Avoid trampling vegetation, damaging trees, or scarring the land. Use bathrooms, if available, or handle your elimination wisely and discreetly. If you have a fire, use an existing fire pit or make your own and dismantle it after you leave.
Get comfortable. This is the fun part of selecting a campsite. Find a level, soft place to sleep. Look for a nice spot for cooking and eating. Think about morning sun, or shade, depending on the weather. How is the view? These things will go a long way towards turning an adequate spot into the perfect campsite!