12 Numbers to Know Before Your First Camping Trip This Spring
Spring’s calling and your gear’s been in hibernation. Whether you’re dusting off your tent for the first time this year or finally making good on that New Year’s resolution to get outside more, a little prep goes a long way. Here’s a checklist—with numbers!—to ensure your first camping trip of the season is more ahhh than ugh.
1 Tent Check
Pull it out. Set it up. Make sure the zippers zip, the poles aren’t snapped, and no critters made it into their winter Airbnb. Bonus: airing it out gets rid of that stale gear smell. (Heck, do a dry run and camp in your backyard for a night or two.)
2 Nights Minimum
Give yourself at least two nights out—especially if it’s your first trip of the year. The first night is for shaking off the rust. The second is when the chill really sets in (in the best way).
3 Forecasts to Watch
Check the weather from three sources: NOAA, a weather app, and the local ranger station. Spring is moody. Be ready for sun, wind, and maybe even snow flurries.
4 Campsite Essentials
You don’t need everything—just the right things. Make sure you’ve packed these four campsite MVPs:
• Headlamp or flashlight (fully charged or with fresh batteries)
• Comfy camp chair
• Fire setup or stove
• Simple sustenance: camp snacks and a water jug or filter
5 Miles (or Less) to Hike
Don’t overdo it. Early-season trails can be muddy, snowy, or washed out. Pick an easy hike nearby, and remember: it’s not about bagging peaks; it’s about stretching your legs.
6 Feet of Rope
Yep, this multi-use camper’s best friend can be a makeshift clothesline, emergency guy line, or bear bag hanger. Throw a length of paracord in your kit—you’ll always find a use for it, trust us.
7 Principles of Leave No Trace Refresh
Brush up on your Leave No Trace skills. Spring campsites are especially vulnerable after winter—tread lightly, even if it’s just a quick weekend trip.
8 Degrees Can Make or Break You
Temps can swing heavily between day and night this time of year. As little as 8 degrees can make the difference between comfort and misery. Pack layers. Yes, even if the forecast says 70 and sunny.
9 Days Out to Book
Spring weekends fill up fast, especially in popular public lands like Yosemite, Great Smoky Mountains, and Shenandoah. Reserve your campsite at least 9 days ahead—longer if it’s a holiday.
10 Campfire Rules to Know
Before you light a match, check for fire restrictions. Spring is wildfire season in many areas. Use this checklist from Reserve America to enjoy campfires responsibly and safely.
11 Backups Worth Keeping in the Car
You don’t need to bring the whole garage—but a few extra stashes can turn a mishap into a minor hiccup. Keep a tote or duffel in the car with these just-in-case heroes:
• Extra snacks (trail mix, bars, something salty)
• Blanket
• Backup batteries and chargers
• Rain poncho
• Small first aid kit
• Dry socks and a warm cap
• Tarp or groundsheet
• Paper map (yes, really)
• Multi-tool
• Camp towel
• Headlamp
Peace of mind packs light.
12 Hours of Daylight (Give or Take)
Use it well. Wake up with the sun, stretch into golden hour, and enjoy how good everything tastes when you eat it outside. Spring camping isn’t just a trip—it’s a reset.
