1 of 14

Write now Article Tools

Ah, camping. For us nature lovers, there is no compare. The smells of pine and wood smoke, the sights of a star studded sky or wildflowers in bloom, the sounds of birds and someone's really loud radio.

Whoa, hold everything.

A loud radio? Who wants to listen to even good music blaring through the woods and disturbing your peace and quiet? Obviously the person playing it does. What if you don't? Is it acceptable to approach the camper in question and ask him/her to please turn that thing down? What is acceptable behavior in the campsite? There are a few universal rules that most campers try to follow. This is camping etiquette, a loose definition being; desired behavior and manners in order for groups of people to get along smoothly in a campground or "How to Avoid Mobs of Angry Campers, Descending on You Waving Pitchforks and Torches."

This is good advice for the beginner camper, as well as a reminder for us old timers.

NOISE

Most campsites and Parks have what is called "Courtesy Hours", sometimes posted, sometimes not. This is the magical time when peace and quite is expected, usually between the hours of 10 pm and 10 am. But even during other times of the day, certain behavior should be avoided.

1)Loud raucous talking/laughing. Please keep your voices at a reasonable level. No one expects you to tip toe around whispering, but yelling is not a good idea. Unless a ground squirrel is making off with your Snickers bar. Or a raven is stealing your Oreos. (The ravens will be loud and raucous, but that's their job.)

2)Radios. I've heard campers' radios clear across a campground. Yikes. Sometimes partnered with sounds of heavy-duty partying. This is not what I came to the woods/desert/mountains for! I can always go downtown back home if I want that sort of thing. No loud parties, no loud radios. It is amazing how far the sound of music will travel in an otherwise silent forest. If you want to play some music or listen to the game but you're not sure of the volume, take a walk and keep your ears peeled. If you can hear every word and feel every bass note two sites away, it's too loud.
3)Late Night Arrivals. Now is the time for quiet talk. Lots of sleeping campers all around you, tired from a day of activity and too many roasted marshmallows. Again, sound magnifies at night. This is the time for tiptoeing. Also, please do not keep your headlights on to see where to pitch the tent. Those babies can really travel! Use a flashlight instead. Or one of those really cool

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about The ins and outs of camping etiquette?
We want to hear your view. Write now!