5 Tips for Fall Camping

Have the best fall camping trip with these tips from Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

The leaves are changing color. The weather’s getting colder. And fall is definitely in the air.

While summer is the height of the camping season, fall camping can be just as fun. You won’t have to worry about pesky mosquitoes or the hot summer weather.

Use our five tips to get the most out of your fall camping trip.

1. Prepare to Sleep in Cold Conditions

During the day, you can enjoy the nice weather. But nightfall may bring on cooler temps. A sturdy tent with a rain fly is the first step to keeping the cold at bay.

Use a tarp underneath your tent to keep moisture out. You’ll also definitely want a sleeping pad. It will make for a more comfortable night’s sleep. And it also puts another layer between the ground’s moisture and you.

Once you have the sleeping pad down, it’s time to break out a warm three season sleeping bag. It will keep you warm in temperatures down to 10 degrees. It also doesn’t hurt to bring a few extra blankets than you normally would.

2. Make a Camping Checklist

Any camping trip, no matter the season, requires some prep work. Whether you’re backpacking or camping at a campsite, you’ll want to follow a checklist.

You’ll need the basics, such as food, a tent, sleeping bags, and personal care items. You can use our camping checklist and modify it to fit your needs.

3. Research the Perfect Location

The perfect location can mean saving money or enjoying everything fall weather has to offer. Check with local campgrounds to see if there’s a change in pricing from the busy summer season. Many state parks and national forests also have reduced fees after Labor Day.

It’s a good idea to plan your trip around the fall activities you want to enjoy. You could go look at the pretty fall foliage, apple pick, or even kayak. You should check with the locals for a fun-filled trip.

4. Prepare Your Campsite For Inclement Weather

Fall weather can be unpredictable. Once you’ve found the perfect campsite, it’s time to make sure you’ll be protected from the elements.

Look for a spot where there is natural shelter to help block out the wind. Hanging a tarp between trees by your tent can also help block cold gusts of wind. A tarp hung over your picnic table or eating area is also a good idea, especially if there’s going to be rain.

5. Find Various Ways to Stay Warm

Obviously, you’ll want to dress appropriately for the fall weather. Layer up with base layers or thermal underwear, a flannel shirt or sweatshirt, and a rain gear or a windproof softshell outer layer. You’ll also want to bring a winter hat to keep the wind and cold at bay.

There are other ways to keep warm when you’re fall camping, too. Hand warmers are great for days spent hiking. Sipping on hot beverages like hot chocolate or coffee throughout the day can keep you internally warm.

You can also use a hot water bottle to keep warm while sitting or laying around at your campsite.

Fall camping is a great way to spend time with your friends and family while enjoying everything nature has to offer.

For more tips and tricks for braving the great outdoors, visit our Camping Blog.