What Is Backcountry Camping?
Backcountry camping is camping in an area away from electricity, water, or toilets. While there are prepared backcountry campsites, many campers prefer to camp in spots they discover themselves. A backcountry campsite is often only accessible by hiking or 4x4 vehicle.
You might want to backcountry camp if you're looking for an outdoor adventure that's a step up from traditional camping. Backcountry camping can be more challenging and requires more preparation than traditional camping, but it also offers a unique and rewarding experience. Here are a few reasons why someone might want to try backcountry camping:
You want to get away from civilization and enjoy nature in its purest form.
You're looking for an outdoor adventure that tests your skills and abilities.
You want to spend time in pristine, untouched areas of nature.
You're looking for a more immersive and authentic camping experience.
Where Can I Backcountry Camp?
As a whole backcountry camping is allowed where the landowner has given permission for camping. Backcountry camping is most popular in the western United States on land managed by the Bureau of Land Management which allows people to camp on spots without reservations as long as they don't stay in a single location past 14 days. Many national and state parks also allow backcountry camping with permits. And you might also be able to camp on private land such as deer leases outside of deer season.
While backcountry camping can be more challenging than traditional camping, it's important to know the common challenges people face so you can be better prepared. Some of the most common challenges include:
-Finding a good spot to camp. This often requires scouting around for an area that isn't already occupied and has been used as a campsite before to minimize the impact of camping on our natural areas.
-Building a good campsite. A well-built campsite will make your trip more comfortable and protect you from the elements.
-Packing the right gear. You'll need to pack everything you need to survive in the wilderness, which can be tricky if you're not familiar with backcountry camping.
-Managing your food and waste properly. This is critical for ensuring that you don't leave any trace behind and don't attract predators or pests.
How Do I Get Started With Backcountry Camping?
If you're interested in trying backcountry camping, the best way to get started is by doing some research. Read up on the basics of backcountry camping, what gear you'll need, and how to properly manage your food and waste.
The first thing to do is to determine the type of camping you want to do.
For example, many people who camp in the backcountry prefer to take an RV. When you camp in the backcountry in an RV this is called boondocking. Thanks to cheap and effective solar panels, you can enjoy boondocking in an RV as well as you are at a front country campsite.
Or do you want to truly rough it by primitive backpacking trip. In this case, you need to make sure you have a backpack, tent, rain gear, clothing, and of course plenty of food and water to take with you.
Before you go on any backcountry camping trip, make sure that you go on at least one camping trip at a front country campsite. This will give you an idea of what to expect and how to properly pack for a camping trip.
Once you've done your research, it's time to start planning your backcountry camping trip. One of the best ways to do this is by using a website or app that allows you to find campsites in specific areas.
A popular app is AllStays. Another option is to use AllTrails. And there are many popular Facebook groups dedicated to backcountry camping in general as well others that are focused on specific areas.
How Hard Is Backcountry Camping?
As a general rule backcountry is harder than front country camping because there is no potable water, toilets, or electricity. A camper must bring everything they need to camp safely with them and they must take all of their waste with them. If you are backpacking then you must carry everything with you on your body and hike in and out of your destination.
Is Backcountry Camping Safe?
On average, backcountry camping is more dangerous than front country camping. What makes backcountry camping more dangerous is that you are far away from help. At least when you are front country camping, there are park rangers to assist if you need help. While most people fear animal attacks or snake bites, most injuries in the backcountry are caused by falls, dehydration, heart attacks, and car wrecks. You can minimize the dangers by preparing and going with at least one more person.
One of the best things about backcountry camping is that it can be done almost anywhere. There are a few things you need to take into consideration before deciding where to go camping, though.
The first thing you need to think about is the type of camping you want to do. If you want to camp in an RV, you'll need to find a campsite that allows RV camping. There are many beautiful places to camp in the backcountry, but you'll need to make sure you have the proper gear for backpacking if that's what you want to do.
The next thing you need to think about is your experience level. If you're a beginner camper, it might be a good idea to start out by camping at a front country campsite. This will give you an idea of what to expect and how to properly pack for a camping trip.
You can also go camping with a friend who is more experienced with backcountry camping.
Most importantly, make sure you let someone know back home where you are going and when you will be back. That way if something happens, they can arrange for search and rescue.
While backcountry camping requires more planning than front country camping, it's a lot of fun and a great way to escape from the stresses of life.