15 Essential Rules for Perfect Campground Etiquette
Camping season is here! If you’ve ever had a trip ruined by noisy neighbors, messy campsites, or that one person who seems to think the whole campground belongs to them—you’re not alone. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just getting started, understanding campground etiquette can make or break your outdoor experience.
At Between Mile Markers, we’ve been on the road full-time for over two years, and we’ve seen it all—the good, the bad, and the downright annoying. So, we’ve put together 15 golden rules to help you avoid being "that neighbor" and make your camping experience better for everyone.
Let’s dive in!
1. Respect Campground Staff
Campground staff work hard to keep things running smoothly, often dealing with issues behind the scenes so you can have a stress-free stay.
Be polite and follow the campground’s rules.
If you encounter a problem (like a broken water hookup or a noisy neighbor), don’t take matters into your own hands—report it to the staff.
A simple "thank you" to the staff can go a long way toward building good relationships and fostering a positive atmosphere.
2. Respect Quiet Hours
Most campgrounds have quiet hours, usually from 10 PM to 7 AM (but check the specific rules where you're staying).
Keep music and conversations low during these times.
Avoid loud packing up or setting up your rig after dark.
If you need to leave early, prepare quietly the night before to avoid waking your neighbors.
3. Control Your Pets
We all love our furry companions, but not everyone else does—especially when they bark at 6 AM!
Keep pets on a leash at all times unless you’re in a designated off-leash area.
Clean up after your pet immediately and dispose of waste properly.
If your dog tends to bark at every passing squirrel or stranger, try to manage their behavior or keep them inside the RV.
4. Respect Other Campers' Space
Your campsite ends at the boundary of your site—don't cut through someone else's space.
Walking through someone else’s site is like walking through their living room.
If you need to pass through, take the long way around using designated paths or roads.
Keep your gear (like chairs, grills, or hammocks) within your own campsite limits.
5. Keep Children Supervised
Camping is a great way for kids to explore the outdoors, but it’s important to keep an eye on them.
Make sure kids aren’t running through other campsites or disturbing other campers.
Teach them campground rules like respecting quiet hours and staying away from fire pits.
Encourage kids to play in designated areas rather than near other RVs.
6. Limit Generator Use
Generators can be a lifesaver, but they’re also noisy and can disturb the peace.
Only use your generator during the campground’s designated hours.
If you’re boondocking (dry camping), position your generator away from neighboring campers.
Invest in a quieter generator model if you camp often.
7. Keep Food Secure
Wildlife and even curious neighborhood pets can be attracted to food left out at night.
Store food in sealed containers or bear-proof lockers (if available).
Don’t leave food scraps or trash lying around—it attracts everything from raccoons to bears.
Clean up cooking areas after meals to avoid lingering smells.
8. Clean Up Your Campsite
Leave your site better than you found it. The "Leave No Trace" principle applies to everyone.
Pick up all trash, even if it’s not yours.
Sweep the site and make sure no small items like bottle caps or cigarette butts are left behind.
If you used a fire ring, clean out any leftover ash or debris.
9. Extinguish Fires Completely
A small spark can turn into a disaster, especially in dry conditions.
Before leaving your campsite or going to bed, pour water over the fire and stir the ashes until they are cold.
Never leave a fire unattended, even for a quick bathroom break.
Follow local fire bans or restrictions, especially during dry seasons.
10. Be Considerate of Arrival and Departure Times
Setting up your rig or leaving in the middle of the night can disrupt others’ sleep.
Try to arrive and set up between 1 PM and 7 PM when most people are awake.
If you need to leave early, prepare quietly the night before to minimize noise.
Avoid slamming doors or talking loudly while hooking up or packing.
11. Don’t Hog Amenities
Showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities are shared—be mindful of others.
Keep showers short if there's a line waiting.
Clean up after yourself—wipe down the sink, pick up hair from the drain, and throw away trash.
Don’t leave your laundry sitting in the machine long after it’s finished.
12. Drive Slowly in the Campground
Children, pets, and other campers are often wandering around the campground.
Follow the posted speed limit, which is usually 5 to 10 mph.
Keep an eye out for cyclists, people walking dogs, and kids playing near the road.
Avoid using bright headlights at night to prevent blinding other campers.
13. Use Dump Stations Properly
Dumping gray or black water improperly is not only gross—it’s illegal in most places.
Only use designated dump stations.
Don’t leave the dump station messy for the next person—rinse it down if needed.
If you have a leak or spill, notify campground staff immediately.
14. Be Mindful of Lights
Bright lights at night can ruin the peaceful vibe of a campground.
Keep porch lights and exterior RV lights off unless needed for safety.
Use low-wattage or solar-powered path lights if you need to light your site.
Avoid using high-beam headlights when pulling in or out at night.
15. Be Friendly and Courteous
A little friendliness goes a long way toward creating a positive atmosphere.
A simple "hello" or wave when passing fellow campers can set the tone for a friendly stay.
If you borrow something, return it promptly and in good condition.
If a neighbor needs help setting up or packing down, lend a hand if you can!
Final Thoughts
Turns out "common sense" isn’t always common, right? These 15 rules might seem straightforward, but they can make or break your campground experience.
By following these guidelines, you’ll help create a more enjoyable and respectful environment for yourself and others.
Happy camping!
