KOA Camping Field Guide Part #1

Camping is the perfect getaway from your daily life, and with some planning, you can feel confident and in control of your trip’s activities. Whether you want to relax during a getaway or go on an exciting recreational escape with the family, you can find what you’re looking for in the great outdoors.

If you’re new to camping, the best way to learn is to jump right in and try. You may encounter a few bumps along the road, but it is important to remember that your camping trip will rarely go as planned. Get familiar with camping basics, and start making memories of experiences that will help you become better at camping.

Prepare for your trip with some helpful first-time camping tips to get you on track for a successful outing.

HOW TO START CAMPING

A good camping shelter is simple to use and able to keep you dry, warm and safe. How to camp comfortably and safely depends on how you choose to stay — in a tent or an alternative lodging option. Tents are a popular beginner-friendly option because they are portable and adaptable.

You can find tents in various shapes and sizes, with varying degrees of weather protection and insulation. Some are designed with solo travelers in mind, while others have multiple rooms for the whole family. Before choosing a tent for your first camping trip, consider the following:

• Your needs: Tents are beginner-friendly for most campers but not suitable for everyone. Older adults or those who may struggle sleeping on the ground should seek out more comfortable alternatives. Additionally, some tents may not be ideal for young children or rambunctious pets.
• The weather: Tents do not have air conditioning or heating. For hot weather camping, you can pitch your tent in the shade or bring along a battery-operated fan — but some prefer to skip tent camping in the heat altogether. Frigid temperatures can also pose as a deterrent. While tent heaters are available, they require strict attention to safety guidelines and may not be ideal for all environments.
• Your experience: If you are unsure how to get into camping, one of the best places to start is by learning how to pitch a tent and create your own campsite. That said, some tents are more complicated than others and may require assistance or previous training. Always read your tent user manual and watch some how-to videos before you hit the road.

TIPS FOR PITCHING A TENT

Tent assembly depends on which type of tent you own, where you are assembling it and what kinds of add-ons and accessories you are using with it.

If you are a beginner camper, here are some tips for setting up your tent:

• Know your tent: To assemble your tent correctly, you need to know which type of unit you own. Common tents include dome, A-frame, popup and ridge tents, though other variations are available. Check with your tent owner’s manual for specific instructions.
• Choose a level spot: The place you pitch your tent must be on flat ground, preferably near shade, away from fire pits and mud, rocks or tree roots. Avoid pitching in areas where rainwater might gather and seep inside. Fortunately, every Tent Site at KOA is level and spacious, making it easier than ever to set up camp.
• Be mindful of tent stakes: If using stakes to secure your tent or tarp, pack extra if possible. Be sure to stick stakes deep into the ground and always practice caution when walking near them — they are notorious tripping hazards.
• Always use a tarp: Even when you know rain is not in the forecast, you want to avoid being surprised by a late-night drizzle. A tarp helps insulate your tent from the elements. It’s also good for summer camping and will keep your tent from overheating.
• Make it more comfortable: To make your tent more comfortable, consider choosing a unit with a window for airflow and natural light. Bring along a battery-operated fan or tent-safe heater to create your ideal sleeping environment. If possible, sleep off the ground by using a cot, inflatable mattress or sleeping pad — this will help keep you warmer, drier and less likely to wake up with any muscle soreness. Look for water-resistant tents when shopping and hang a tarp over the roof of your tent for additional rain protection.

TENT CAMPING VS. LODGING OPTIONS

Curious about how tent camping compares to other lodging choices? Tents and lodging each have their advantages — here is what you need to know:

• Cabins: Cabins — like those at Kampgrounds of America — are fully enclosed shelters with furnishings. The type and level of furnishing depend on which kind of cabin you are renting for your stay. For example, KOA Camping Cabins have electricity and beds, while KOA Deluxe Cabins also offer features like private bathrooms. Depending on location and availability, you may even get TVs or kitchenettes. Camping Cabins and Deluxe Cabins are an ideal lodging option for groups of family or friends just learning how to go camping and are not quite ready to take the plunge into tent camping. They are also great ways to stay if you are celebrating a special event or just want to leave the tent gear at home.
• Glamping: Glamping is a special type of camping that has grown in popularity. In the 2019 KOA North American Camping Report, 45% of surveyed campers said they want to try glamping sometime in the future. What makes glamping so appealing for beginners is how easy and unique it is. Instead of assembling your own campsite, Glamping Tents are already set up, with comfortable furnishings and decorations inside. You can also go glamping in other unique lodging options, like renovated cabooses, yurts and tree houses. Contact a KOA to learn more about available glamping options.
• RVs: RVing is a popular tent alternative because you still get a lot of the same flexibility as a tent but without the need to assemble your own. RVs are also more suitable for all-weather use, and you can even use them as transportation. RV Sites at KOA are either Back-In or Pull-Thru, with full hookups and amp connections available. They are a great match for families who travel often. Unlike tents, RVs require some prior experience setting them up and troubleshooting plumbing, electric and automotive concerns. They also require ongoing servicing and maintenance. If you want to try RVing before purchasing one, you can rent an RV for a camping trip as a test drive.

More KOA tips to come!