One of the biggest perks RVing offers is freedom. The freedom to leave everything behind (for some temporarily, for others permanently) and just hit the open road. And when you get to the campground, you find the joy of meeting other free-spirited souls like you. Unfortunately, some RVers mistake this freedom as the liberty to do as they please, even on the campground. But in all honesty, freedom is no reason to ignore campground etiquette. After all, without camping rules, written or not, there will be chaos on the campground.
5 Basic Camping Rules that Promote Campground Etiquette
Before you hit the road this summer, remember the 10 camping rules below so as to make your camping adventure a pleasant one. The best memories are pleasant ones after all and not those of an irate campground neighbor throwing your dog’s poop into your face (better than in the stew though). But more on that below.
Image via koa
1. Rules are not Made to Be Broken
Every campground has a list of rules written down, in some campgrounds, they hand you the list, in others, you have to read it on the walls in the reception. Whatever the case, you have to familiarize yourself with the rules and abide by them, at all costs. Breaking a set of rules is not cool, no is it a way to have fun. It is downright rude and disrespectful. Besides, it destroys the family atmosphere that most campgrounds have. So, stick to the rules and enjoy your campground experience.
2. Take Care When Parking the Rig
Just because you are at a campground doesn’t mean all the space there is at your disposal. Most RV Parks have clearly marked out sites where you should park and how, although in some instances, the only clue to parking orientation is the hookups. But in any case, make sure to park in such a way that you won’t encroach on your neighbor’s space, even with just the awning. Treat your site the way you would treat your yard at home – respect the neighbor’s property and they will respect yours. This is where the biblical law of “do unto others as you would them do to you” applies. You wouldn’t be happy if someone disrespected your space, would you? So, when it comes to parking the rig, do so in a way that is best for you, your neighbor, and everyone else.
3. Take Care of Your Pets
Pets are family for most of us. But they can be disruptive members of the family if not controlled properly, and especially at campgrounds, as they tend to become over excited at the new sights and smells. When you first arrive at the campground, take your pet for a walk – leashed. This will help your pet stretch its legs after the long journey while at the same time get over the excitement of the new environment. Once your pet has settled in, be sure to constantly monitor its movements so as to make sure it doesn’t get itself and you in trouble – especially when it comes to dumping last night’s supper. Be sure to pick up after it whenever it does, and that as quickly as possible.
4. Maintain Your Space
Because of the minimalistic nature of camping, there are no garbage disposal units or trash cans that are as big as the ones you left at home. This is no excuse to be sloppy. No one likes litter, and the only thing worse than litter is a litterbug – don’t be the litterbug everyone will love to hate at the campground. Cleaning your space is a responsibility you should take seriously, and if you have kids, have them do the same. Whether it is their toys or leftovers, everything should be picked up and put in the right place. And the day you leave, make sure to leave the site the way you found it, or better if possible.
5. Watch Your Noise Levels – Especially at Night
Let’s be honest – human beings are noisy creatures when they are happy. And a campground is one of the happiest places on earth. But make sure to keep your noise levels moderately low so as not to disturb other campers, especially at night. Whether it is music, shrieks of joy, or Bingo reconnecting to nature, remember to respect your neighbors and keep everyone’s noise levels in check.
Campground Etiquette – The Key to a Pleasant Camping Experience
Although most campground etiquette is mainly unspoken, it is important to treat the campground and other users with great respect. Failure to do so will result in a terrible experience, defeating the whole purpose of the vacation. In those rare instances where you are not sure just what to do, follow this simple rule – do unto others as you would want them do unto you.
Feature image via MARVAC