Category: Trip Planning

Leave No Trace is a set of principles designed to help people enjoy the outdoors while minimizing their impact. While these principles are often associated with backpacking, they apply to car camping too. Campgrounds see heavy use, and small actions by many people add up.

This guide explains the seven Leave No Trace principles, developed and promoted by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and how car campers can apply them.

The Seven Principles

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impacts
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

Good planning prevents many problems.

• Know the rules: Check campground regulations, fire restrictions and food storage requirements.
• Check the weather.
• Reserve sites when possible. See campsite booking tips.
• Plan meals to reduce trash and leftover food. See our camp kitchen setup guide.
• Bring trash bags and supplies to pack out waste.
• Use a checklist. See our car camping checklist.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Use designated campsites and tent pads.
• Park only in designated areas.
• Stay on established trails.
• Do not clear vegetation or dig trenches around tents.
• In dispersed camping areas, use previously impacted sites rather than creating new ones.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

“Pack it in, pack it out.”

Trash

• Pack out everything you bring, including food scraps, wrappers and fruit peels.
• Use campground trash and recycling bins where provided.
• Pick up micro-trash such as twist ties and bottle caps.

Dishwater

• Strain food particles out of dishwater and pack them out.
• Use designated dishwashing stations if provided.
• Where allowed, scatter strained gray water away from water sources.
• Use biodegradable soap sparingly, and keep soap out of lakes and streams.

Human Waste

• Use restrooms or vault toilets when available.
• Where no facilities exist, follow local guidance. Leave No Trace generally recommends catholes 6 to 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails, unless local rules require packing out waste.
• Pack out toilet paper where required.

4. Leave What You Find

• Do not take rocks, plants or artifacts.
• Do not carve trees or build structures.
• Avoid hammering nails into trees.
• Use tree-friendly hammock straps where hammocks are allowed.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Check fire restrictions every time.
• Use existing fire rings.
• Keep fires small.
• Buy firewood locally to avoid spreading invasive pests.
• Do not burn trash, especially plastics and food waste.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Drown, stir and feel: Douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and repeat until everything is cool to the touch.

Consider using a stove or lantern instead of a fire. See camping lanterns and headlamps.

6. Respect Wildlife

• Observe from a distance.
• Never feed wildlife. Human food harms animals and can make them aggressive.
• Store food securely according to rules, such as using bear lockers or locked vehicles where allowed. See how to pack a cooler.
• Keep pets controlled and follow leash rules.
• Avoid wildlife during sensitive times such as mating or nesting seasons.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Respect quiet hours.
• Keep music low or use headphones.
• Do not walk through other campsites.
• Control pets and clean up after them.
• Limit bright lights that shine into other sites.
• Leave your site clean for the next campers.

A Departure Checklist

Before you leave:

• [ ] Pack out all trash and food scraps
• [ ] Check for micro-trash
• [ ] Ensure the fire is completely out and cold
• [ ] Remove tent stakes and guylines
• [ ] Return the site to how you found it, or better

Teaching Kids Leave No Trace

• Turn trash pickup into a game.
• Explain why we do not feed animals.
• Encourage them to observe and photograph rather than collect.

Leave No Trace With Pets

Pets are welcome at many campgrounds, but they can affect wildlife and other campers. Keep pets leashed where required, pack out pet waste, do not leave pets unattended and store pet food as carefully as human food. Barking dogs can disturb wildlife and neighbors, so plan for a calm space for your pet at the site.

Leave No Trace at Busy Campgrounds

Campgrounds receive heavy use, so small impacts add up. Stick to tent pads and paths, keep vehicles on pavement or gravel, and avoid creating new trails between sites. Use designated parking, avoid stringing lines on young trees and pick up any trash you find, even if it is not yours. Leaving a site cleaner than you found it is one of the most visible ways to help.

Learn More

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics offers educational materials, courses and resources for families and groups. Many land management agencies also publish guidance specific to their areas, including food storage requirements and fire rules.

Campfire Alternatives

Fire restrictions are increasingly common in dry seasons. Some campers enjoy propane fire pits where allowed, though these may also be restricted during high fire danger. A lantern and warm layers can create a cozy evening without a fire. Always check current rules, which can change daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Leave No Trace apply to campgrounds?

Yes. The principles apply anywhere outdoors.

Can I burn food scraps in the campfire?

Leave No Trace recommends against it, since food often does not burn completely and attracts wildlife.

Is biodegradable soap safe to use in streams?

No. Keep all soap out of water sources.

What should I do with dishwater?

Strain it, pack out food bits and dispose of the water according to campground rules.

Why should I buy firewood locally?

Moving firewood can spread invasive insects and diseases.

The Bottom Line

Leave No Trace principles help keep campgrounds and wild places enjoyable for everyone. Plan ahead, camp on durable surfaces, pack out trash, leave what you find, minimize fire impacts, respect wildlife and be considerate of others. Small actions make a big difference.

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Editorial note: Camp Craftly is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.

Popular campgrounds can fill quickly, especially on summer weekends and holidays. Knowing how reservation systems work, when sites open and how to choose a good site can make the difference between a great trip and a frustrating search.

This guide covers practical campsite booking tips for car campers. Reservation rules vary by agency and park, so always check the specific campground’s policies.

Where to Book Campsites

Federal Campgrounds

Recreation.gov is the reservation site for many federal campgrounds, including many sites managed by the National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

State Parks

Most states have their own reservation systems. Search your state parks department to find the official booking site.

County and Local Parks

Local parks may use their own systems or accept phone reservations.

Private Campgrounds

Private campgrounds and RV parks often take reservations directly or through booking platforms. Some offer amenities like showers, laundry and stores.

Private Land Platforms

Services like Hipcamp list campsites on private land, from farms to vineyards.

Know When Reservations Open

Many reservation systems open sites a set amount of time in advance, often on a rolling basis. Some federal campgrounds open up to six months ahead. State parks vary widely. Check:

• How far in advance reservations open
• The exact time of day they open, including the time zone
• Whether there is a lottery for high-demand sites

For popular parks, be logged in and ready at the opening time.

Create Your Account Early

Set up your account on the reservation site before booking day. Save payment information if the site allows, and familiarize yourself with the booking process.

Be Flexible

• Camp midweek when demand is lower.
• Consider shoulder seasons like spring and fall.
• Look at nearby campgrounds if your first choice is full.
• Be flexible on site type.

Use Cancellations

People cancel reservations, and sites may reappear. Check the reservation site regularly, especially in the days before your trip. Some third-party services send alerts when sites open up; review their terms and costs carefully.

First-Come, First-Served Sites

Some campgrounds keep sites available without reservations. Tips:

• Arrive early in the day, especially on Fridays.
• Have backup options nearby.
• Bring cash for self-registration if required.

Policies change, so check current rules.

Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping means camping outside developed campgrounds, often on national forest or BLM land. It usually has no amenities. Check local rules, fire restrictions and road conditions, and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Choosing a Good Campsite

Many reservation sites include photos, maps and site details. Consider:

• Site type: Tent-only, standard, RV or group.
• Size: Will your tent fit on the tent pad? See best 4-person tents.
• Shade: Valuable in hot weather.
• Privacy: Sites at the end of loops or with vegetation between them.
• Distance to restrooms and water.
• Level ground.
• Parking: Number of vehicles allowed.
• Hookups: Electricity can matter if you need power. See portable power stations for camping.
• Proximity to roads or noisy areas.

Reading reviews and studying campground maps helps.

Understanding Fees and Rules

• Reservation fees may apply in addition to nightly fees.
• Change and cancellation fees vary.
• Maximum occupancy and vehicle limits.
• Quiet hours.
• Check-in and check-out times.
• Pet policies.
• Fire rules.

Plan for Arrival

• Check whether you need to visit a check-in station or proceed directly to your site.
• Save your reservation confirmation offline, since cell service may be limited.
• Arrive before dark if possible to set up. See our car camping checklist.

Booking for Groups

• Look for group campsites, which allow more people and vehicles.
• Coordinate with your group about dates and costs.
• Check occupancy rules for standard sites.

Booking Accessible Sites

Many campgrounds offer accessible sites. Reservation systems usually indicate accessibility features. Contact the campground for details if needed.

Using Maps and Reviews

Reservation sites usually show campground maps with site numbers, loops, restrooms and water spigots. Spend a few minutes studying the map before booking. Sites near restrooms are convenient but may have more foot traffic and light at night, while sites on the outer edge of a loop may be quieter. Many campers share photos of individual sites online, which can help you judge shade, tent pad size and privacy.

Building a Backup Plan

For popular destinations, prepare a backup plan before you leave:

• A second campground within a reasonable drive
• A list of first-come, first-served sites in the area, with typical fill times if the managing agency publishes them
• Dispersed camping areas that allow car camping, with current road conditions
• A motel or lodge option for bad weather or full campgrounds

Having alternatives ready reduces stress, especially if you arrive late or find your first choice full.

Keeping Records

Save your reservation confirmation, site number and campground contact information in a note on your phone and on paper. Record which sites you liked and which you would avoid next time. Over time, this list becomes a valuable guide for booking quickly when reservation windows open.

Booking Etiquette

If your plans change, cancel as early as possible so other campers can use the site. Many reservation systems charge fees for late cancellations or no-shows, and holding sites you will not use makes it harder for others to get outside.

Holiday Weekends

Holiday weekends are among the busiest times at many campgrounds. If you want to camp then, book as early as the system allows, arrive early and expect more noise and traffic. Alternatively, plan your trip for the weekend before or after a holiday, when campgrounds are often quieter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book a campsite?

For popular parks, as soon as reservations open. For less popular campgrounds, a few weeks may be enough.

What is Recreation.gov?

It is the reservation site for many federal recreation areas and campgrounds.

Can I find a campsite without a reservation?

Sometimes, through first-come sites or dispersed camping. Have backup plans.

What if my campground is full?

Check for cancellations, look at nearby campgrounds or consider dispersed camping.

How do I choose a good campsite?

Look at size, shade, privacy, level ground, distance to facilities and noise.

The Bottom Line

Booking a great campsite takes planning: know when reservations open, have your account ready, stay flexible and check for cancellations. Choose sites based on size, shade, privacy and amenities, and always review campground rules before your trip.

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Editorial note: Camp Craftly is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.

Car camping is one of the easiest ways to spend time outdoors. You can bring more gear than backpackers, drive right up to your site and enjoy comforts that make camping relaxing. But it is also easy to forget something important, like a lighter, tent stakes or the coffee.

This checklist covers the essentials for a typical car camping trip, organized by category. Adjust it for your destination, the season and the size of your group.

How to Use This Checklist

• Print or save it and check items off as you pack.
• Keep a camping bin with duplicate kitchen tools and supplies so you are always half-packed.
• Review local conditions before every trip, including weather, fire restrictions and wildlife rules.
• Customize it after each trip. Note what you forgot and what you never used.

Shelter

• Tent with poles, rainfly and stakes. See best 4-person tents.
• Footprint or ground tarp
• Extra stakes and guylines
• Mallet or hammer for stakes
• Extra tarp and rope for rain cover over the picnic table
• Small broom and dustpan for the tent
• Doormat for outside the tent door

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping bags rated for expected temperatures. See sleeping bag temperature ratings.
• Sleeping pads, air mattresses or cots. See our sleeping pad buying guide and camping cots vs. air mattresses.
• Pump for air mattresses, plus a repair kit
• Pillows
• Extra blanket for cold nights

Camp Kitchen

• Camp stove and fuel. See our camp kitchen setup guide.
• Lighter and backup matches
• Cooler and ice. See how to pack a cooler.
• Pots, pans and a kettle
• Plates, bowls, cups and utensils
• Cooking utensils: spatula, tongs, ladle, sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Can opener and bottle opener
• Coffee maker or pour-over setup
• Water containers
• Biodegradable soap, sponge and wash bins
• Trash and recycling bags
• Paper towels and dish towels
• Food storage containers and zip-top bags
• Food and snacks for each meal

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Insulating layer, such as fleece or a puffy jacket
• Rain jacket and rain pants
• Hiking shoes or boots
• Camp shoes or sandals
• Warm hat and gloves, even in summer at higher elevations
• Sun hat and sunglasses
• Extra socks
• Sleepwear

Lighting and Power

• Headlamps for everyone, with spare batteries. See camping lanterns and headlamps.
• Lantern for the picnic table
• Portable power bank or power station. See portable power stations for camping.
• Charging cables

Camp Furniture and Comfort

• Camp chairs
• Camp table if your site lacks a picnic table
• Hammock with tree-friendly straps, where allowed
• Shade canopy for hot, sunny sites

Health and Safety

• First aid kit
• Prescription medications
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper and a trowel if there are no facilities
• Map of the area, since cell service may be limited
• Emergency whistle
• Fire extinguisher or bucket for water, where appropriate

Tools and Repair

• Multi-tool or knife
• Duct tape
• Repair patches for tents and air mattresses
• Extra cord or paracord
• Work gloves for handling firewood

Campfire Supplies

Check fire restrictions before your trip. Many areas restrict or ban fires during dry periods.

• Firewood purchased locally or at the campground. Many areas restrict moving firewood because it can spread invasive insects and diseases.
• Fire starters and kindling
• Long lighter
• Roasting sticks for s’mores

Personal Items

• Toiletries
• Quick-dry towel
• Phone and charger
• Identification and campground reservation details. See campsite booking tips.
• Cash for firewood or fees

Fun and Extras

• Books, cards or games
• Binoculars
• Camera
• Bikes, kayaks or fishing gear, plus any required licenses

Packing the Car Efficiently

• Pack heavy items low and toward the center of the car.
• Load items you need first last, such as the tent and kitchen bin.
• Use clear bins so you can see what is inside.
• Keep a day bag with snacks, water, sunscreen and layers within reach.
• Do not block your view out of the rear window.
• Secure loose items so they do not shift while driving.

Before You Leave Home

• Check the weather forecast for the campsite, not just the nearest town.
• Confirm your reservation and check-in time.
• Check fire restrictions and any campground alerts.
• Tell someone your plans and when you expect to return.
• Fill up on gas, since stations may be far from the campground.
• Set up your tent at home if it is new, so you know how it works.

Leave No Trace

Pack out all trash, respect wildlife and leave your site better than you found it. See our guide to Leave No Trace for car campers.

Seasonal Additions

The core list stays the same all year, but conditions change what else you need.

Spring

• Extra rain gear and tarps, since spring weather can change quickly
• Warmer sleeping bag for cold nights
• Insect repellent as bugs emerge
• Waterproof boots for muddy trails

Summer

• Shade canopy and extra water
• Lighter sleeping bag or a blanket
• Sun protection, including hats and sunscreen
• Extra ice for the cooler

Fall

• Warm layers, gloves and a hat for chilly evenings
• Warmer sleeping bag and an insulated pad
• Extra lighting, since days are shorter
• Blaze orange clothing in areas where hunting seasons overlap with camping

After the Trip

Unpacking well makes the next trip easier. Dry the tent and tarps completely, wash and dry the cooler, clean and restock the kitchen bin, recharge batteries and power banks and write down anything you forgot or did not use. Updating your list right after a trip is the most reliable way to build a checklist that fits how you actually camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most commonly forgotten camping item?

Many campers report forgetting things like lighters, tent stakes, headlamps or cooking utensils. Using a checklist and keeping a pre-packed camping bin helps.

Do I need a tent footprint?

A footprint can protect the tent floor from abrasion and moisture. Some tents sell them separately.

How much water should I bring?

It depends on whether the campground has potable water. Check ahead, and bring enough for drinking, cooking and cleaning if it does not.

Can I bring my own firewood?

Many parks and campgrounds restrict bringing firewood from elsewhere. Buy it locally when possible and check the rules.

What should I bring for kids?

Extra clothes, familiar snacks, a headlamp sized for kids, activities and a comfortable sleeping setup.

The Bottom Line

A good car camping checklist covers shelter, sleep, kitchen, clothing, lighting, safety and comfort. Pack the essentials, double-check local conditions and keep a dedicated camping bin so future trips are easier. Then you can spend less time worrying about gear and more time enjoying the outdoors.

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Editorial note: Camp Craftly is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.