1. A Place to Stay

This may obvious, but it’s also very essential. Whether you plan on camping in a tent, camper, RV, cabin or van, be sure to make a reservation in advance.

Tip: If this is your first time camping, it might be a good idea to borrow a tent and some pricier items (if you can) to ensure it’s an investment you want to make.

2. Bedding

After long days and late sunsets, you’re going to be ready for a good night’s sleep. Be sure to bring:

• Extra blankets

• Pillows

• Sleeping bag

• Sleeping pad

Tip: Check the weather before you leave. If it’s supposed to be cold at night, bring extra layers. If it’s supposed to rain, bring a waterproof tarp for your tent or outdoor areas

3. Cooking Basics

Will you be cooking over the fire? Do you need to bring a propane camp stove? Decide before you go, and be sure to bring all the basics:

• Firestarter

• Cooler and ice

• Pots

• Cast iron pan

• Plates, cups, bowls

• Silverware

• Spatula

Cooking while camping can seem like a big undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be! Choose recipes that are easy to make with little prep. If you can put together dishes before you leave and heat them over the fire, even better. Bring snacks you can take on the go and, of course, ingredients for s’mores.

If you’re a caffeine drinker, instant coffee or tea bags are an easy way to get your morning boost of energy. Or you could bring along a percolator or tea kettle.

Never leave food, meal remains out, or garbages out unattended, as they might attract curious wildlife in the area. Seal up everything in a large bin any time you’re away from camp and lock it in your vehicle overnight.

Tip: Making a basic meal plan before you leave can take a lot of stress out of preparing food every day. It could be as simple as planning dinner on the road for night one, then cooking breakfast and lunch before leaving camp the next day. Plus, having an idea of what and where you’re eating your meals ahead of time keeps you from overpacking. And … if you’re cooking, that means you’re also cleaning. Bring soap, oil, paper towels, drying towels, and a container big enough to wash dishes in.

4. Table and Chairs

Bring lawn chairs to lounge around the fire and eat in. A folding table is great for storage and when cooking.

Tip: Do some research on your campsite before you leave. Most campsites include picnic tables.

5. Lighting

Most campsites don’t have a lot of illumination given we are in a dark sky preserve, so you should bring flashlights, headlamps, and lanterns.

Tip: Battery-powered string lights are a fun way to add light and character to your campsite.