How To Setup A Calm Remote Campsite (SUV And Tent Camping)

Imagine a crisp autumn morning, where the excitement of adventure tingles in the air as you load up your SUV, ready for a peaceful escape into nature. The hustle and noise of daily life seem like a distant memory as the SUV winds its way out of the city and into the sprawling countryside. The sun peeks over the horizon, casting golden hues across the fields, hinting at the serenity that awaits.

The journey is part of the adventure, with playlists and podcasts setting the mood as the scenery transforms from urban landscapes to forests and open plains. You have chosen a remote campsite, perfect for getting away from it all.

When preparing for your trip, it is essential to pack mindfully. A checklist ensures nothing is forgotten. Essential gear such as a quality tent, sleeping bags with adequate insulation, and a portable stove for cooking are packed securely. Don’t forget a cooler stocked with your favorite snacks and drinks—essential for a memorable campfire evening. Also, ensure you have some camping chairs, a first aid kit, flashlight, and plenty of water. Being prepared helps you to immerse yourself in nature without worrying about inconveniences.

As you approach your destination, the criteria for selecting the ideal campsite come into play. The campsite should preferably be near a water source—though not too close to avoid flooding risks and mosquito swarms. Seek an area that offers some natural protection from the wind, perhaps bordered by trees or shrubs. The ground should be level and free from rocks to ensure a comfortable night’s rest.

Setting up, you find a spot bathed in morning light, with enough tree cover to provide shade during the warmer parts of the day. After the tent is pitched and the camp arranged, the time is yours to explore, unwind, or simply soak in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

By the evening, gather by a campfire, allowing the warmth and the crackling sound to melt away any lingering stress. As you gaze at the stars, you revel in the peacefulness that only a remote locale can provide, a calmness that gently lulls you to sleep.

When I get ready for our camping trip, I like to discuss the decisions we need to make and assign tasks. This way, everyone knows what’s happening and feels involved in creating a great experience:

1. Choosing Campsite Location:
   • I would suggest we decide on a couple of ideal spots before we leave. These should be near water but not too close.
2. Packing and Transport:
   • I like to divide who is bringing what. That makes everyone accountable and start being responsible with their participation.
3. Meal Planning:
   • I like to plan our meals to make shopping easy and meals efficient once there
4. Setting Up Camp:
   • When I arrive, I like to make sure who has what responsibilities. It is a family participation
5. Safety and First Aid:
   • I like bringing a first aid kit, just in case i or we need it or another camper along the way needs it and they did not pack a kit.
6. Activities Planning:
   • This is ideal to have a checklist or a planner already set up. Stargazing at night or looking for wildlife in the distance is a past-time favorite of mine.

When checking out your campsite and planning your zones, here’s a checklist to ensure an organized and less stressful setup. This structure helps maintain functionality, hygiene, and safety:

1. Sleeping Area:
   • Location: Choose a flat area away from the campfire and food prep zone to avoid smoke and odors.
   • Importance: Ensures safety from sparks and minimizes food scent carrying into sleeping areas, reducing wildlife disturbance.
2. Food Prep Zone:
   • Setup: Establish this downwind from your sleeping area to keep food smells away. Use easily accessible surfaces for cooking and storing food.
   • Importance: Keeps food odors contained, reducing the chance of attracting animals, and improves camp hygiene.
3. Wet Gear Zone:
   • Placement: Select a sunny area to hang and dry wet gear effectively. Set up lines or racks to keep items off the ground.
   • Importance: Ensures clothes and gear dry quickly, reducing mildew risk and keeping your sleeping area dry and comfortable.
4. Campfire Location:
   • Guidelines: Ensure it’s in an area clear of overhanging branches or nearby combustibles. Maintain a safe distance from tents.
   • Importance: Provides a controlled environment to prevent wildfires, and enhances safety for all campers.
5. General Camp Layout:
   • Space Management: Keep pathways clear between zones for easy movement, and have an established waste disposal spot.
   • Importance: Maintains organization, reduces tripping hazards, and simplifies waste management to keep the campsite clean.

Tangible reasons for this organization include enhanced safety, increased efficiency when setting up and using the campsite, and maintaining environmental conservation standards to protect the area for future campers.

Mornings:

1. Wake-Up Routine:
   • Start with a gentle alarm (e.g., birdsong or soft music) to wake you up naturally.
   • Perform quick stretches to shake off any stiffness and energize your body.
2. Breakfast Preparation:
   • Designate a small crew to brew coffee or tea and prepare a healthy breakfast.
   • Use this time to discuss the day’s plans and set expectations with everyone involved.
3. Campsite Tidying:
   • Have everyone contribute to cleaning up the campsite—washing dishes, securing food, and disposing of waste properly.

Importance: By setting a consistent morning ritual, you ensure the day starts smoothly, keeping everyone focused and reducing the chance of delays or disagreements.

Exploration Time:

1. Activity Planning:
   • Review the day’s activities and divide into groups based on interests (hiking, fishing, or photography).
   • Ensure everyone has necessary gear and provisions (e.g., water, snacks, maps).
2. Safety Measures:
   • Establish check-in times and locations, especially for groups taking different routes.
   • Ensure each group carries a first-aid kit and communication device (if possible).

Importance: Structured exploration prevents chaos, maximizes enjoyment by catering to various interests, and maintains safety standards—a priority in remote locations.

Evenings:

1. Dinner and Campfire Setup:
   • Rotate cooking and fire-starting duties to share the workload.
   • Use dinnertime to recount the day’s adventures and bond over shared experiences.
2. Relaxation and Reflection:
   • Dedicate time for relaxation activities, such as stargazing or storytelling around the campfire, promoting a sense of calm and connection.
3. Wind-Down Routine:
   • Plan a brief period for preparation for the next day (organizing gear, setting breakfast plans).
   • Implement quiet hours for rest, ensuring everyone gets a good night’s sleep.

Importance: A structured evening closes the day on a positive note, fostering a communal spirit and ensuring everyone is prepared for the following day.

Keeping a daily flow smooth reduces stress by providing predictability and structured flexibility, encouraging everyone to contribute and feel valued. This systematic approach not only enhances enjoyment but also nurtures a collaborative environment, ensuring a memorable and stress-free camping experience.

Organized campsites provide a sense of safety and predictability for kids, especially in unfamiliar environments. Here are some reasons why:

1. Defined Boundaries:
   • Campsites typically have clear boundaries, which help kids understand the safe areas for play and exploration, reducing the risk of wandering too far.
2. Predictable Patterns:
   • Campsites often have structured layouts (areas for sleeping, cooking, playing), which helps establish a routine. Predictability in daily activities can comfort children, making them feel more secure.
3. Safety Protocols:
   • Many organized campsites have established safety protocols and rules, such as quiet hours, fire regulations, and guidelines for wildlife interactions, enhancing the overall safety.
4. Community Environment:
   • The presence of other families and staff can create a community feel, offering additional security and support if needed.
5. Accessible Facilities:
   • Organized campsites usually provide accessible facilities such as restrooms and emergency contact points, which can ease concerns about navigating unfamiliar environments.