Call Toll Free (800) 537-6251

As a camper, you’re part of a community of outdoor enthusiasts who are all sharing the same beautiful campgrounds we’ve been blessed to enjoy. It’s every camper’s responsibility to do his or her part to respect these communal spaces where we are cohabitating with others, so everyone has a great experience now and for generations to come.

With that in mind, there are some basic rules of campsite etiquette that you should always keep in mind. These guidelines include the following:

  • Keep your campsite clean the whole time you’re there—When you’re camping, you naturally create a lot of trash. From the disposable cups and plates to the paper towels and everything in between, trash accumulates quickly on a campsite. It’s your responsibility to keep your campsite clean the whole time you’re there. That’s why it’s recommended that the first thing you do upon arrival to your campgrounds is to set up your trash bag and recycling bag. That way, you always have a place to put your trash.
  • Cut the noise after dark—Chances are that you’re not going to be camping completely alone. You’ll probably be with some friends and there will be other parties in the campsites around yours. Proper etiquette dictates that you don’t be loud at night while other people are trying to sleep. Remember, most campers spend their days doing all sorts of activities, so when it gets dark out, they’re ready to get some sleep. Even if you’re a night owl, just make sure to keep the noise down.
  • Keep your pets under control—A lot of campers like to bring their dogs with them. That’s okay. Your pets will have a great time outdoors. However, you have to take steps to be a responsible pet owner on the campsite. Either keep your dog leashed or make sure you keep a very close eye on it any time it’s off leash. You also need to make sure to pick up after your pet when it goes to the restroom, so it’s a good idea to bring a few extra plastic bags with you.
  • Be friendly to your neighbors—You’ll be sharing space with other campers. Be a good neighbor. Introduce yourself to your neighbors, and if they need help with anything, do your best to help them. Camping is all about community, and being a friendly neighbor goes a long way to keeping that community alive and well.
  • Leave no trace that you were there—This is the most important part of campsite etiquette. Don’t leave your campsite trashed. When you leave, the grounds should look as good as or better than when you arrived. Pick up all trash, scatter the rocks you used for your campfire rings, and do anything else necessary to restore the campsite to its natural glory. 

Whether you’re a first-time camper or a vet, these tips will help you mind your manners at your campsite.

If you’re looking for the best camping near Houston, come see us at Bethy Creek Resort. We welcome tent campers and RV campers, and you’ll love all the amenities our campsite has to offer, like cable wakeboarding, fishing, and so much more! Learn more at www.BethyCreek.com