Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Next Getaway

12° North Team
12 minutes ago
5 min read

Choosing the right spot for your next outdoor adventure can make all the difference. Whether you’re into overlanding, hiking, kayaking, or just relaxing under the stars, finding a campground that fits your style and needs is key. From rugged off-road trails to serene lakeside views, the perfect campground spot offers more than just a place to sleep - it’s the gateway to memorable experiences.

How to Choose the Best Campground Spots for Your Adventure

When scouting for the perfect campground, it’s not just about finding a place to park—it’s about curating the kind of experience that matches your mood, your gear, and your goals.

Are you chasing solitude in a remote backcountry site where the only sounds are wind and wildlife? Or do you prefer a well-equipped campground with creature comforts like hot showers, fire pits, and nearby trail access? Your choice of location sets the tone for everything that follows—from how you cook and sleep to how you explore and unwind.

Whether you're overlanding with a rooftop tent or pitching canvas under the stars, here are key factors to help you land the right spot for your next adventure:

Accessibility: If you’re driving an off-road vehicle or towing a camper, check if the roads to the campground are suitable for your rig.
Activities Nearby: Look for campgrounds near hiking trails, climbing spots, or kayaking launch points to maximize your outdoor fun.
Privacy and Space: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites with plenty of privacy, while others are more communal.
Wildlife and Scenery: Choose spots that offer beautiful views or chances to see local wildlife.
Season and Weather: Consider the time of year and typical weather conditions to ensure a comfortable stay.

For those who want to explore hiking and climbing, campgrounds and parks with well-maintained trails and natural features are ideal. These locations often provide a balance of adventure and convenience.

Eye-level view of a forested campground with tents and off-road vehicles — Campground nestled in a forest with tents and off-road vehicles

Essential Gear for Your Campground Spots

Packing the right gear isn’t just about convenience—it’s the difference between surviving the night and savoring it. Whether you're carving out a remote overlanding route or setting up camp under a canopy of stars, having the essentials dialed in transforms your trip from rugged to remarkable. This checklist is built for those who chase the horizon and embrace the elements:

Shelter and Sleeping Gear
- Durable tent or rooftop tent ~ Choose a weather-resistant tent with reinforced seams and a sturdy frame, or opt for a rooftop tent for quick setup and elevated sleeping
- Sleeping bag rated for the season ~ Match your sleeping bag’s temperature rating to the climate—down for cold nights, synthetic for damp conditions
- Sleeping pad or air mattress for comfort ~ A quality pad or inflatable mattress adds insulation and support, turning rocky ground into a restful base
Cooking and Food Storage
- Portable stove or campfire grill ~ A compact propane stove or foldable grill lets you cook reliably, even when open fires aren’t allowed
- Cooler or portable fridge ~ Keep perishables fresh with a high-efficiency cooler or a 12V fridge powered by your rig’s battery or solar setup
- Bear-proof containers if in wildlife areas ~ Essential in bear country—use certified bear-resistant containers to store food and scented items safely away from camp
Navigation and Safety
- GPS device or maps ~ A dedicated GPS unit or offline maps on your phone ensures you stay on course, even without cell service
- First aid kit ~ Stock with bandages, antiseptics, meds, and trauma supplies tailored to your group size and activity level
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries ~ Hands-free lighting is a must for night hikes, gear repairs, or late-night nature calls—always pack backups
Outdoor Activity Equipment
- Hiking boots and climbing gear ~ Waterproof, ankle-supporting boots and any technical gear needed for scrambling, climbing, or rappelling
- Kayak or inflatable boat with paddles ~ Ideal for lakeside camps—choose a lightweight, packable model if space is tight
- Multi-tool and repair kits for gear ~ A solid multi-tool plus patch kits, duct tape, and spare parts can save the day when gear fails in the field
Comfort and Convenience
- Camp chairs and table ~ Lightweight, foldable furniture turns your site into a livable space for meals, gear prep, or fireside chats
- Weather-appropriate clothing layers ~ Pack moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells to adapt to changing conditions
- Insect repellent and sunscreen ~ Keep bugs and burns at bay with DEET or natural repellents and broad-spectrum SPF—don’t underestimate the elements

Having the right gear ensures you can enjoy your time outdoors without unnecessary stress. It also allows you to adapt to changing conditions, whether you’re tackling a steep trail or paddling a calm river.

Close-up view of camping gear including a tent, sleeping bag, and hiking boots — Essential camping gear laid out for an outdoor trip

Can I Just Sleep in My Car at a Campground?

Many adventurers wonder if sleeping in their vehicle at a campground is allowed. The answer depends on the campground’s rules and the type of vehicle you have.

Designated Campgrounds: Most official campgrounds allow sleeping in cars, trucks, or vans as long as you pay the camping fee and follow site regulations.
Overlanding-Friendly Sites: Some campgrounds cater specifically to overlanders and have spots designed for vehicle camping.
Local Restrictions: Always check local laws and campground policies. Some places prohibit overnight parking outside designated areas.
Safety and Comfort: Sleeping in your car can be convenient, but make sure you have proper ventilation and insulation for comfort.

If you plan to sleep in your vehicle, consider investing in window covers or shades for privacy and temperature control. Also, bring a comfortable sleeping pad or mattress to improve rest quality.

High angle view of a camper van parked at a forest campground at dusk — Camper van parked at a forest campground during sunset

Exploring Beyond the Campsite: Activities to Enhance Your Getaway

Once your rig is parked and the firewood stacked, the real adventure begins. Settling into your campground isn’t the end—it’s the launchpad. Whether you're deep in the backcountry or posted up near a trailhead, the surrounding terrain offers more than just scenery.

From adrenaline-fueled excursions to quiet moments of discovery, these activities are designed to complement the spirit of camping and offroading, turning a simple overnight stay into a full-spectrum outdoor experience:

Hiking and Climbing: Use nearby trails to discover scenic overlooks, waterfalls, or rock formations. Bring climbing gear if you want to tackle boulders or cliffs.
Kayaking and Water Sports: If your campground is near a lake or river, kayaking is a peaceful way to experience nature from the water.
Offroad Adventures: Take your 4x4 or dirt bike on nearby trails to explore rugged terrain and hidden spots.
Wildlife Watching: Early mornings and evenings are great for spotting animals. Bring binoculars and a camera.
Campfire Cooking: Try new recipes over the fire or portable stove. Share meals and stories with your group.

Planning your activities ahead of time helps you make the most of your trip and ensures you have the right equipment.

Tips for Respectful and Sustainable Camping

Protecting the environment isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a responsibility that ensures future generations can enjoy the same wild beauty we do today. Whether you’re posted up in a remote overlanding site or nestled into a public campground, your actions leave a footprint.

Respectful and sustainable camping means minimizing impact, honoring the land, and keeping these spaces open, clean, and accessible for everyone who follows. Here are a few guidelines to help you camp with integrity and leave no trace behind:

Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and minimize your impact on the land.
Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and do not feed them.
Use Established Sites: Camp in designated areas to avoid damaging vegetation.
Manage Fire Responsibly: Use fire rings and follow local fire regulations.
Conserve Water: Use water sparingly and avoid contaminating natural sources.

By camping responsibly, you help preserve the natural beauty that draws us all outdoors.

Finding the perfect campground spots is about matching your interests with the right location and preparation. Whether you’re setting up a tent, sleeping in your vehicle, or launching a kayak, the right spot can turn a simple trip into an unforgettable adventure. Explore, respect, and enjoy the great outdoors!