The Written and Unwritten Campground Rules You Might Have Forgotten

CampingRVTent

Jan 6

Written By Mandy

Posted April 19, 2015

Updated January 6, 2025

Camping is one of the best ways to escape the daily grind, enjoy nature, and spend quality time with friends and family. But, whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, there’s more to camping than just setting up your tent and starting a campfire. To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip—and respect fellow campers—there are some important campground rules you should follow. While some of these are obvious, others might have slipped your mind. Let’s review both the written and unwritten rules that can make your next camping adventure a great one!

Know the Written Rules of the Campground

Each campground has a set of regulations designed to keep things safe, organized, and enjoyable for everyone. Before heading out, make sure you’re familiar with these rules. Some common written rules you’ll find at most campgrounds include:

Quiet Hours: Be mindful of quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 7 AM. Some campers may be getting much-needed rest after a long drive or need a peaceful environment. Try to keep noise levels low, especially if you have kids or pets with you.
Speed Limits: Always slow down when driving through campgrounds. There are usually kids running around and wildlife nearby, so it’s vital to drive carefully and avoid accidents.
Trash and Cleanliness: Always pick up after yourself and properly dispose of your trash. Don’t leave food scraps around and never throw trash into the campfire.
Animal Safety: Keep your pets under control. Clean up after them and keep them quiet. Remember, wildlife can be sensitive to disturbances, and your dog barking may scare off local animals.
Campfire Safety: Never leave a campfire unattended, and always fully extinguish it when you’re done. Fires left smoldering can easily spread and cause massive damage to the forest.
Watching Your Children: It’s important to keep an eye on your kids, especially in more remote campgrounds where hazards like wildlife or uneven terrain exist.
Respect Site Boundaries: Stick to your designated campsite. Don’t let your gear spill into your neighbor’s area.
Don’t Walk Through Other Campsites: It’s rude and can be intrusive. Respect others’ space by walking around their campsite, not through it.
Pay for Your Site: Pay for your spot upfront, and don’t try to sneak by without a reservation. Campground rangers will catch you.

The Middle Ground - The Rules That Are Often Forgotten

Some rules are often overlooked by campers, but they can make a big difference in everyone’s experience. These middle-ground rules help ensure that everyone shares the space harmoniously.

Respect Other Campers’ Privacy

Keep your noise levels low and avoid cutting through other people’s campsites. Everyone wants a peaceful getaway, so don’t interrupt others’ relaxation.

Leave No Trace

Adhere to the Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all trash, respecting nature, and avoiding disturbing plants or wildlife. Stick to designated trails and campsites, and avoid creating new ones.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Emergencies can happen, and it’s better to be prepared than caught off guard. Always carry a well-stocked first-aid kit, sufficient water, and a way to contact help in an emergency. It’s also smart to know the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care facility.

Stay Informed: Make sure to have a map or GPS device to navigate the area. Cell phone reception may be spotty in remote areas.

Be Mindful of Fire Safety

Campfires are a camping staple, but they can be dangerous if not handled correctly.

Follow Campground Regulations: Only use designated fire rings or grills. Always have a water bucket or shovel nearby to put out the fire completely. Never leave the fire unattended, and make sure it’s fully extinguished before leaving or going to sleep.

Respect Wildlife

While encountering wildlife can be one of the best parts of camping, it’s essential to respect their space.

Avoid Feeding Wildlife: Never feed wild animals as it can be harmful to both them and you. Store your food securely in bear-proof containers or your vehicle.
Be Cautious: Stay aware of your surroundings and signs of wildlife activity. If you see animals near your campsite, be sure to take precautions.

Shared Facilities Etiquette

Many campgrounds offer shared facilities such as restrooms, showers, and water sources. Here’s how to use them responsibly:

Keep Shared Spaces Clean: If you use the bathroom or shower, clean up after yourself. Make sure everything is tidy for the next person.

Be Water (and fire) Wise

In drought-prone areas, conserve water and avoid waste. When in areas that are prone to wildfires it’s best to skip a campfire altogether or use a propane fire pit instead. We love our Outland Living Portable Firepit!

Why are rules so important to some people at campgrounds?

The Unwritten Rules

Not everything is written down, but following these unwritten rules will make your camping experience better—and foster goodwill among your fellow campers.

Respect the Rules, Even If You Think They’re Overly Strict: Don’t break the rules just because you disagree with them. Following campground guidelines helps everyone enjoy their stay.
Be Friendly: Camping is a social activity. Strike up a conversation, but be mindful of people who prefer a more secluded space. If you’re not into socializing, request a more isolated campsite.
Think About Food Storage: In wildlife-rich areas, ensure your food is sealed and stored properly to prevent attracting unwanted visitors.
For RV Owners: Don’t be careless with waste management—dispose of gray and black water properly. Also, be courteous about running your generator, especially during quiet hours.
Check Firewood Regulations: Many states prohibit bringing firewood from other areas due to the risk of spreading pests and diseases. Always check the rules before you bring firewood.

A Reminder to Enjoy the Journey

Camping is a wonderful way to reconnect with nature and spend time with your loved ones. By remembering and respecting these written and unwritten campground rules, you’ll not only have a safer and more enjoyable experience, but you’ll also contribute to a positive environment for everyone around you.

So, take a moment to review these guidelines before your next trip, and don’t forget to relax and have fun! Camping is about more than just following the rules—it’s about enjoying the outdoors and making lasting memories with those you love.