Not everyone has camped before, and that's okay! Here are some camping etiquette guidelines to keep from annoying others. Most of these apply when in a campground.
Campsites
- walk around (not through) occupied campsites.
- in remote sites, be sure to announce your presence as you approach other sites to prevent surprising other campers
- set up camp in a campsite, not in the middle of a path or roadway.
- do not attempt to block access to public campsites, paths, or roads.
- leaving a tent to save a place while you run to town is okay ("decoy tent"); leaving a tent so you'll have the space next weekend is not okay ("spot saver tent").
Light
- turn off exterior RV porch lights and similar light sources if you aren't actively using them.
- depending on the moon, you may not actually need a flashlight to get around in the dark.
- if you do use a flashlight keep it on the ground and out of peoples' faces.
- turn off your vehicle lights asap.
Noise
- Generator noise is widely despised; restrict use to daytime hours.
- Quiet Hours may be posted. Otherwise, assume 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- Wear headphones instead of blasting music.
Campfires
- Follow local regulations about making firewood gathering and fire creation.
- If you burn wood with staples or nails in them, make sure these items stay in the fire ring.