How to Plan Ahead for Your Spring Camping Season

It might feel like winter just started, and for some parts of the country, we have a long way to go before thinking about warmer weather.

But, it’s never too early to prepare for your next season of camping. In fact, thinking about Spring now will help to make the transition much easier for you.

It’s a good rule of thumb, really, whether you’re a year-round camper or seasonal, to always be one season ahead in your preparations. So, even though Spring might seem far away, it’ll be here before you know it.

With that in mind, let’s go over a few tips you should use to be prepared once the thaw hits.

Check the Weather

While you can’t really predict what the weather is going to be months in advance, it’s always a good idea to check the forecast as often as possible, and to even look at long-term projections on what meteorologists think upcoming seasons will look like.

Spring is always going to be more unpredictable than summer. You might have to deal with cold nights and rainy days. Sometimes, that rain can become a problem, especially if thunderstorms are involved. Strong winds and storms can be dangerous for campers. So, make sure you have the right gear packed for any Spring excursion you take, and check the weather ahead of time. If storms are in the forecast, you may want to consider rescheduling.

Pack the Right Sleeping Gear

When you’re camping, it’s important to get enough rest. In order to do that, you have to be comfortable, warm, and dry. Again, because Spring weather can often be unpredictable, that means packing the right gear for cold and wet situations.

A down sleeping bag is your best bet in the Spring - one that can keep you warm even if temperatures dip down below 20 degrees. A sleeping pad can also help to keep you off the ground so you don’t get wet and you can stay warmer. These pads are inflatable and can easily be backed away without taking up too much room.

Call the Campsite

Whether you have a preferred camping spot or you want to go somewhere new, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead for where you want to park. Some campgrounds will let you pick your own spot, so the sooner you get a hold of them, the more likely it is you’ll get that “rockstar” location (maybe near the bathrooms?).

You can also ask someone who works at the campground about any exploring you should do in the area when you’re there. When you know a bit more about what to expect, you can continue to plan accordingly for things you might need to bring along.

Don’t wait until the weather gets warmer to start planning your Spring camping trip. If you do, it can become a frustrating experience and you may not get to do everything you’d like. By planning ahead, you can be fully prepared for Spring, and actually enjoy your time away, rather than stressing over it.

Jan 6th 2020 Stacey Koziel