Tent Camping, Tent Sites & Campgrounds

Tent camping at KOA combines all the traditional elements you love, like campfires and sleeping under the stars, with the convenience of having the necessities nearby. You'll have a wide variety of amenities to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable when you choose tent camping at a KOA Campground.

Tent camping is an experience that is sure to create lasting memories. Here are a few reasons to choose a tent over other forms of lodging:

Benefits of Tent Camping

Tent camping keeps you in tune. Pitching a tent and cooking underneath the stars is the perfect way to connect to nature, yourself and one another. KOA tent campsites take the hassle out of your camping experience by providing clean, level sites and convenient amenities. You’ll have camp set up in no time, so you can head out, explore and enjoy your perfect way to stay.

KOA Tent Campsites

Take the hassle out

of your camping experience by providing clean, level sites and convenient amenities.

So why pack up a tent for your next camping trip? Check out these reasons for choosing tent camping for your next adventure.

• Making a Connection to Nature: If you really want to feel connected with nature, camping in a tent is a great option. It’s the perfect way to relax, recharge and appreciate all that nature has to offer since you’ll spend the majority of your time outdoors. Plus, you can fall asleep under the stars listening to the soothing sounds of nature all around you.

Improved Mood

People who regularly camp in tents find that they return from their trip happier than when they left.

• Improved mood: People who regularly camp in tents find that they return from their trip happier than when they left. This makes sense, as spending extended periods outside in the sunlight is known to improve your mood!
• It's Easy, Just Pack and Go: The ease of loading up your vehicle and going lets you effortlessly explore anywhere around the country, near or far. You can navigate windy mountain roads, take the scenic route, and adventure to the next town or the other side of the country. With locations across North America, KOA makes it easy to stop for the night every step of your road trip.
• Finding Your Own Community: When you stay at tent camping locations, you have the opportunity to get to know your neighbors. The tent camping lifestyle fosters a sense of community among campers. It's the perfect way to socialize while you explore, whether you come with a group or meet new friends along the way.
• A Great Way to Stay Active: Since many tents don't have a lot of room for daily activities, you'll likely only use yours for sleeping. The rest of the time, you'll be out and about. Staying in a tent may encourage you to be more active and participate in a variety of fun camping activities during your trip.
• Great for Families: Tired of your typical family vacations? Tent camping offers a family-friendly way to bond and enjoy the outdoors. Swap stories over the campfire, make s'mores and let the kids lead the way on a family hike. Plan a nature scavenger hunt to explore the local area. Spot your favorite constellations before retiring to your tent for the night. No matter how you spend your time, a camping trip is one family vacation you'll never forget.
• Great for Couples and Friends: Tent camping is also an ideal way for couples and friends to spend quality time together. From exploring the great outdoors to enjoying a relaxing meal by the campfire, tent camping is a great way to disconnect from everyday stresses and enjoy time reconnecting with each other.

Keep the following tips in mind when preparing for your tent camping adventure:

When selecting your ideal tent camping destination, look at different places you've always wanted to see, visit and explore. Consider locations near relatives who live in other states. Or think about different events or activities you would like to do in another area. All of these ideas can help you come up with some location options for your perfect tent camping trip. It's also easy just to pull in and pitch a tent for a quick stop along the way to another destination.

You don’t have to go far

from home to enjoy a camping experience.

Find Tent Camping Near Me

Looking for tent camping near you? You don't have to go far from home to enjoy a camping experience. If you're short on time, you could pitch a tent at a campground near your house.

If you're interested in electricity, check to see if the campground offers electrical hookups. This can be important for things like charging cell phones. Water access is another important issue. How far do you have to walk to fetch water for camp?

KOA puts a lot of thought into campsites to eliminate the usual issues that make tent camping less enjoyable. KOA Campgrounds offer you privacy, thanks to the large size that lets you spread out without being too close to your neighbors. Tent Sites are also typically off the beaten path, so you don't have to deal with a lot of foot traffic, while still offering easy access to amazing sites, attractions and parks near you. With so much space, you have plenty of room for your tent and all the activities you want to do at your campsite and at the same time maintaining that private camping experience feel.

Nearby Attractions

No matter which KOA location you choose, you are bound to find plenty of nearby attractions and activities that pique your interest. In fact, many locations are a short drive from amusement parks, shorelines or major cities. Check out local museums, visit historical sites or hike in nearby national parks.

Nearby Attractions

Many locations are a short drive from amusement parks, shorelines or major cities.

If you have an upcoming event, reunion, wedding or another group activity, KOA is a great option for your lodging. You'll save money by tent camping at KOA instead of renting an overpriced hotel room for the event. With close proximity to many cities, our sites can get you close to sporting events, music festivals and so much more.

Not sure when to camp? Each season offers something special. Watch nature come alive in the spring. Summer brings plenty of opportunities for water sports and playing in the sun. Head out for Memorial Day, the 4th of July and Labor Day for holiday fun at KOA. Fall camping trips let you see the color changes in the foliage up close. You can also camp to catch your favorite fall events, such as Oktoberfest. Looking to tent camp in the winter? Head to a southern KOA Campground.

KOA makes it easy to reserve a site for your next tent camping adventure, from weekend getaways to multi-week vacations. You can reserve a tent camping site online or by using the KOA App when you find your KOA Campground.

The KOA App is a convenient way to reserve a tent camping spot. The app lets you search for nearby locations, compare amenities and reserve a campsite all from the convenience of your phone. It's the perfect way to find a camping site while you're on the go. Join our KOA Rewards program and save 10% every time you camp at a KOA Campground.

KOA Rewards

Join our KOA Rewards program and save 10% every time you camp at a KOA Campground.

You can also call your preferred location directly or stop by and walk into the office to make your reservation. A local staff member can check on the availability of your selected dates, answer any location-specific questions you might have and handle your reservation. You must be at least 18 to make a campsite reservation.

Most of our locations require a deposit to hold your camping spot reservation, typically equivalent to one night's stay, but the specific amount may vary by location. Should your plans change, you have the option to change or cancel your reservation.

We generally require at least 48 hours' advance notice if you need to cancel a reservation. If you need to cancel, please contact the location directly no later than 4 p.m. at least two days before you are scheduled to arrive. Specific reservation and cancellation policies may vary by location, especially during peak travel times or special events.

Don't wait to claim that perfect tent camping spot. Reserving a campsite well in advance of your trip ensures you get the dates you want in a spot that lets you take advantage of all KOA has to offer. Early reservations are particularly important during peak camping times and around summer holidays when everyone is looking for a camping getaway.

It's time to pack up for your trip, but what do you bring? Tent camping does require a little more gear than staying in a cabin. Your specific checklist may vary, but here are a few tent camping tips and essentials to get you started:

• Tent: This may be an obvious one, but make sure you don't forget the tent. Tents come in all different sizes and configurations, from small two-person dome tents to massive tents with multiple rooms. Choose a tent that fits your party size and your preference.
• Extra stakes: Your tent should come with all of the stakes and poles you need for setup, but it doesn't hurt to bring extra stakes just in case one breaks or gets lost.
• Hammer or rubber mallet: You'll want a hammer to pound the stakes into the ground.
• Bedding: Unlike cabins and RVs, tent camping comes without a bed. Make your experience as cozy as possible by packing comfortable bedding solutions. Foam padding and air mattresses are two options for a night of great night sleep. If you bring air mattresses, don't forget the pump. Another option is to bring camping cots, although they will take up more space in your vehicle and in your tent. Make sure to pack sleeping bags and extra blankets, especially if the nighttime temperatures get cool.
• Earplugs: The Great Outdoors is beautiful, but can be a little noisy for some sleepers.
• Camp chairs: Bring along some comfortable camp chairs to kick back and enjoy the fire or chat with friends.
• Flashlights: Bring along several flashlights and to help you stay safe and see what you're doing at night. A lantern also works.
• Cooler: When you tent camp, you don't have access to a refrigerator. Instead, bring along a cooler or two to keep your food from spoiling and your drinks cold. Don't forget the ice.
• Camp stove: While your campsite might already come with a fire pit or grill, this handy cooker will expand your cooking options. Don't forget the fuel!
• Matches: You'll need matches or another kind of light to start that memorable campfire.
• Utensils: These include both utensils for eating and cooking. Don't forget to bring a sharp knife and a cutting board.
• Pots: Bring cook pots, pot holders and a frying pan.
• Openers: Bottle openers and can openers are extremely useful but often forgotten on camping trips.
• Cups and plates: If you want to do less washing on your trip, you can opt for plastic cups and plates. A greener option is to bring reusable cups and plates to minimize waste on your camping trip.
• Salt and pepper: You don't have to get too fancy with spices while camping, but you can't do without these two basic condiments.
• Canned foods: Many delicious meals come from a can, including chili and soup.
• Dried foods: Jerky and fruit are two delicious dried food options.
• Energy foods: You might appreciate some trail mix or an energy bar when out on the hiking trail.
• Pancake mix: Pancakes are a camping favorite. Don't forget the syrup!
• Cooking oil: This is a basic cooking ingredient that's easy to forget.
• Coffee maker: Even though you're on vacation, you might still appreciate that morning cup of joe.
• Trash/recycling bags: Cleaning up any trash, food waste or recyclables is an important part of being a responsible camper.
• Moisture-wicking clothing: Bring along underwear and t-shirts that will wick moisture away from your body.
• Long-sleeve shirts: This will help keep away the bugs and protect you from the sun.
• Quick-drying shorts/pants: We tend to get our clothing wet while camping, so quick-drying fabrics are a great idea.
• Socks: We recommend wool or synthetic.
• Games and toys: Bring along your favorite board games and recreational equipment to pass the time at the campground.
• Fishing gear: Spend some time doing one of the most iconic camping activities.
• Hiking poles: Hiking is another common camping activity, which is made much easier with the aid of hiking poles.
• Binoculars: Enjoy nature from a distance as well as up close.
• Sun protection: This includes sunglasses, sunscreen and a sun hat.
• Toiletry kit: You might be sharing a bathroom with many other campers, so it's convenient to have all your toiletries contained in a single bag.
• First-aid kit: Be well prepared for any small injuries like cuts, scrapes or allergies.

When packing, consider

whether you actually need an item.

When packing, consider whether you actually need an item. While you don't want to forget anything important, you don't want to go overboard. Packing items in plastic tubs with lids helps protect the items from the elements and makes storage a little easier. Stack the tubs inside your vehicle or in a corner of the tent if you have space.

Before you head out to tent camp, take a look at these safety tips to stay safe and help make the trip go smoothly:

• Do a test run on tent setup: If you're using a new tent, don't wait until you arrive to test it out. Make sure you know how it goes together by doing a test run in your backyard. You'll be glad you did when setup at the campground goes more smoothly.
• Arrive early: Tents take a while to set up, so you don't want to pull into the campground late at night. Plan your trip so you can arrive earlier in the day before it gets dark.
• Set up camp first: It's tempting to start exploring your surroundings right away, but don't delay setting up camp. It's much easier to set up a tent in the daylight when you have plenty of time. You'll also be glad you got the tent set up early, especially if the weather turns.
• Store food securely: Food attracts wildlife and insects, so keeping it well contained at your campsite is important, especially in areas with bears and other wildlife.
• Dry your tent before storing: Once you arrive home, you need to air out your tent and let it dry. This prevents mold and mildew growth that can damage the tent.

Reserve Early

Call your selected site as soon as you choose dates for the best chances of everyone in your group being together.

When packing, consider whether you actually need an item. While you don't want to forget anything important, you don't want to go overboard. Packing items in plastic tubs with lids helps protect the items from the elements and makes storage a little easier. Stack the tubs inside your vehicle or in a corner of the tent if you have space.

Here are some additional valuable tips for making tent camping your new favorite camping experience:

• Prepare for the weather: Weather becomes more of a factor when tent camping. In a cabin or RV, you have protection from rain, cold and other elements. In a tent, there's just a thin piece of fabric between you and the outdoors. For this reason, it's always important to check the weather before you go. Bring plenty of warm bedding, even in summer, as nighttime can get chilly. Have a backup plan in case of severe weather.
• Waterproof: Waterproofing your tent is also important. Many tents come with factory-sealed seams to keep water out. If the seams start to fail or they aren't already sealed, use a seam sealer to keep the water out. Patch any holes in the tent to keep the rain out. A rainfly also helps keep you dry. If you notice peeling on your tent, the waterproof coating may be coming off. At this point, you may want to replace the tent. You can also apply a polyurethane sealant. Choose a sealant designed for the type of fabric used on your tent.

Make Campfire-Friendly Meals Before You Arrive

You can plan ahead and prepare some meals that are easy to cook over a campfire.

• Make campfire-friendly meals before you arrive: Just because you don't have access to a large kitchen doesn't mean you have to go without great food. If the idea of hot dogs and baked beans don't excite you while camping, you can plan ahead and prepare some meals that are easy to cook over a campfire. Check out some of KOA's great camping recipes.
• Consider the noise: Some people enjoy the sounds of nature, while others find the chirping crickets, blowing leaves and other noises distracting when trying to sleep. Bringing earplugs or using a form of white noise can help you sleep more soundly.
• Bring additional padding: Tent camping does not have to be an uncomfortable experience. There is excellent gear available that is designed to help you sleep comfortably in your tent, including sleeping pads and inflatable mattresses.
• Bring games: While your camping trip will certainly include outdoor activities like swimming and hiking, there will likely also be some downtime. Make sure to bring along your favorite board games for some of the more relaxing moments of your vacation.
• Go during the week if possible: If your schedule permits, try to go during the week to avoid the weekend crowds.

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If you'd like to reserve a tent site for your upcoming camping trip, do so in the easiest way possible: with the KOA App. This App allows you to search for locations nearby, compare location amenities and make a reservation for a tent camping site — all conveniently from your phone. You can also make a reservation online or by calling your desired KOA location. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your outdoor camping adventure today!