If you are a tent camper you most likely will be concerned at some point about privacy. Unlike Rv camping, tents do not necessarily have the same amount of privacy. How can I make my campsite more private? Here is a list of things you can do to increase your privacy at the campground.
- Find a tent only area. Campgrounds at times have specific areas for tent campers. This helps separate the Rv campers from those who are tent camping. These areas at times have better spacing, more room, are cheaper to reserve due to not needing hookups etc., sometimes have better scenery (closer to the water etc.), have more tree cover and are generally more geared towards what tent campers want.
- Buy a larger tent. If you are doing primarily car camping and are traveling it may be a good idea to purchase a much larger tent. Having a larger tent will allow you to comfortably spend more time inside without feeling cramped. You can purchase one with a screened add-on for an eating area (not recommended in bear country) or an entirely separate screened eating area. Having a larger tent can block the view of other campers when outside and provide a feeling of more privacy and comfort.
- Research the campground beforehand. Checking out the campground you will be staying at beforehand can help you choose the right one. Looking at reviews, and at who the campground caters to can give you and idea of what’s in store when you arrive. Provincial and Federal campgrounds tend to be a little more appealing to tent campers because they do not have the same financial restrictions that private campgrounds have, thus giving them more freedom to space out the campsites and allow for a more private experience. You can also Google satellite view the campground and get a good idea of the layout of the campsites. You can easily see where the best ones might be by looking at tree cover and spacing.
- Read up on forums and reviews. Sometimes you can get feedback on the best campgrounds and campsites from discussion forums or reviews. You may even be able to see what some recommend as the best and most private campsites in a given campground and the reasons why. This can help you make a wise decision.
- Position your vehicle in the right spot. You can sometimes position your vehicle in a way that partially obscures the view of passerby and neighbors.
- Hang a clothesline with clothes on it. You can hang a clothes line from two trees or other things and hang clothes, towels and other gear on the line that will help obscure the view of where your spending most of your time around the campsite.
- Set up your seating around the fire with your backs against the other campers. This can at least help with a feeling of privacy. You will not be facing the other campers so you won’t see them. Your speech will be carried in the opposite direction.
- Go backcountry camping. This is the most obvious option if you are wanting more privacy. Tent campers can go where RVers and other car campers can’t. Learn the skills necessary to separate yourself from the pack and go to an area where true wilderness can be experienced.
