8 Must-Know Fall Camping Tips

The fall season practically begs you to break out the camping tents. Sure, the night falls faster and the days seem shorter, but the bugs are gone, the foliage is colorful, and the milder weather can’t be beat. But before you pack up your camping gear, it helps to plan.

Read on for several must-know fall camping tips for your autumn adventures!

8 Must-Know Fall Camping Tips for the Best Experience

From layering your tent to protect it from fall weather to making the most out of shorter evenings, here are eight important camping tips to help you enjoy the fall camping experience.

#1 Choose an Open and Accessible Campsite

Fall is a fantastic time for leaf peepers to head into the backcountry woods to take in the colorful foliage. But that doesn’t mean that every forest campground is open year-round. In some parts of the country, such as New England, campgrounds are known to shut down in the fall (or at least shut off water, limiting your resources). So verify that the campground is actually open and you’re able to snag a site.

Dispersed camping is always an option, whether campgrounds and sites are limited or not. However, off-grid camping means limited cell service and requires greater self-sufficiency. For instance, dispersed camping requires the right vehicle. You must keep tabs on the road conditions and weather, too.

#2 Always Weather-Proof Your Tent

One great advantage of camping in the fall is milder temperatures. You can finally beat the summer heat. However, most autumn climates bring cooler nights and the potential for rain, so it’s good to check the weather forecast to plan and pack the right gear for your tent.

For instance, you may want to bring a protective rainfly to repel water and trap heat, and add an extra tarp or footprint for insulation and to make your tent cozier. With the chance of rain, it helps to have an extra pop-up shelter where you can gather beneath to cook, eat, or hang out. Just be sure to stake it down securely to take on those blustery autumn winds.

#3 Layer Up to Dress for Fall Weather

When packing clothes for a fall camping trip, consider layering. This tip is most important during autumn, when the weather can change drastically from a warm, sunny 70-degree day to chilly, windy 30-degree nights. So remember to pack garments like moisture-wicking tees and flannel button-down shirts, but also don’t forget those thermal pajamas, thick socks, and knit beanies too!

Bring along water-resistant boots like wellies or mudders, along with warm camp slippers for wearing around the site or slipping on at night when dashing to the restroom. And a lightweight windbreaker, hoodie, or rain jacket is essential!

#4 Upgrade to Warmer Camp Bedding

You’ll need layered camp bedding, just like you do with your clothes. Choose a quality 3-season sleeping bag (15F-30F temp rating) to keep you warm during fall nights. A thicker sleeping pad with a higher R-value is necessary, as it contributes to your ground insulation and overall temperature rating. If you’re car camping, consider bringing an extra quilt—just in case!

#5 Bring Camp Lighting for Earlier Nights

When daylight saving time ends in the fall, the sun sets earlier. Almost too early. At least for some campers. If you enjoy sitting around and chatting into the night, consider a few camp lighting ideas to add around your campsite, like solar-powered lanterns or string lights. Illuminating your site keeps meal prep and pathways safe while offering overall ambiance and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

This fall camping tip also comes in handy in case you arrive at your campsite later than anticipated. While it’s wise to arrive before dusk early enough to set up camp and make dinner, some things are out of your control. And shedding a little light on the situation can help pitch the tent and set up camp quicker.

#6 Make the Most of a Bonfire’s Warmth, But Remember Fire Safety

Campfires are quintessential to the fall camping experience. Campers might light a small campfire for ambiance in summer, but a solid bonfire is important during cold fall nights. So bring plenty of firewood and learn how to manage your fire so that it keeps you warm all evening.

However you choose to keep warm and whether you prefer gathering around a traditional wood fire ring, a wood-burning stove in a canvas tent, or a campfire alternative like portable, smokeless propane fire pits, remember basic fire safety and be mindful of leaving it unattended.

#7 Do Meal Prep at Home

Since the sun sets earlier during fall, one must-know fall camping tip is to prep your meals at home. Searching for ingredients and cooking in the dark can be stressful. So plan ahead and make easy, one-pot meals (think chili!) that you can simply reheat on the stove or over a fire. It makes cooking quicker and feeds and warms bellies faster!

#8 Bring Warm Drinks to Stay Hydrated

When the temps turn cold, it’s easy to forget to hydrate. And staying hydrated is all too important when engaging in physical activity like hiking and other outdoor activities. But if you had a hot drink to keep you warm, wouldn’t that be easier? Consider skipping cold waters and beverages and bring warm drinks instead.

Wake up with camp coffee in the morning and brew hot tea in the evening as you settle in for the night. Hot cocoa is a favorite for kids and the young at heart. So is warm apple cider – a fall must! Adults can even bring a flask to make themselves a hot toddy nightcap. And get everyone an insulated mug so they enjoy sipping for hours.

Fall Camping: Perfect for First-Time Campers

Many folk prefer camping during the fall season, and it’s easy to understand why. There are many advantages to fall camping – comfortable temperatures, lighter crowds, and mosquito-free sites – not to mention the beautiful foliage and the ambient glow of bonfire nights.

In fact, it might be the ideal time for first-time campers. Whether you’re considering getting into camping yourself or want to take younger family members out for their first camping trip, the fall season is an ideal time to do it!