SETTING UP YOUR SITE

Setting up your campsite can feel stressful and overwhelming for some. Where do I start? Where should I set up? When do I start? Fighting the fleeting sunlight can add to the pressure, but don't be defeated. This section will describe strategies to set up and takedown your campsite to create a smooth and enjoyable process.

UPON ARRIVAL

Here are some simple and effective steps to take right after you put your vehicle in park!

• Get a lay of the land

  • Scan and analyze your campsite

  • Where are there obstacles or uneven ground

  • Find flat ground to potentially set up tent

  • Think about sun/shade orientation

• Rake/Clear campsite

  • Remove debris, rock, branches, or sticks that may be a tripping hazard

  • Around the tent, walkways, picnic table, campfire pit, etc.

• Walk around campground

  • Find the nearest sanitary facilities, water source, ranger station, etc.

• Take a picture of the gear IN your car to reference when repacking at end of trip

SETUP RECOMMENDATIONS

Suggestions on what to set up first:

• Tent

  • Cleared flat ground

  • Set down and secure tarp

  • Set up and secure tent

• Lighting

  • Spread lighting out around site to prepare for night

  • Have headlamps, flashlights, and lamps readily available

  • Set up portable string lights

• Unpack the rest of camping gear

  • Set up camping chairs

• Gather kindling and fire supplies

  • Gather twigs, fire starters, wood, etc. before the sun goes down

TAKEDOWN RECOMMENDATIONS

Suggestions for when your trip is coming to an end:

• Disassemble tent

  • Deflate any air mattresses

  • Remove gear and equipment from inside tent and set aside

  • Break down tent

• Place all gear near vehicle to visualize where it can go OR look at picture taken previously

• Use proper body mechanics

  • Use wagon or roll items when possible

  • Ask for help

  • Pack in heavy items first and put near doors for quick and easy removal at home

• Make sure you clean

  • Remove any trash, gear, and belongings for the next campers

  • If you brought it in, you take it out

• Get ready for a planned travel day

RESOURCES

Set up Campsite Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbETCk6S7H4

Setup/Takedown Campsite Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnAHrxhLEDc&t=839s

Tent Camping For Beginners Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrCrmBz6fBA