Camping

Few experiences are quite as unique as sleeping under the stars in the Southwest. Whether you’re looking to go car camping on Missionary Ridge or primitive camping in the Bisti Badlands, our region has it all. Opt to rough it and commune with nature or seek out creature comforts in a woodsy setting. No matter your style, here’s a breakdown to help you decide how to get off the beaten path.

DISPERSED CAMPING

Dispersed camping is the traditional primitive experience. To access dispersed camping sites, you may have to hike to a spot, and generally won’t have access to bathrooms or other amenities. The appeal of dispersed camping is that it allows you to stay in a more remote, natural setting.

CAR CAMPING is generally done at an assigned campsite with your vehicle close at hand. Benefits of car camping include the fact that most campgrounds provide restrooms, trash services and sometimes even showers.

RV/VAN CAMPING is the perfect answer for people who want to get out in nature but aren’t comfortable sleeping outdoors. An RV or van can provide the some of the comforts of home, such as a bed, kitchen, bathroom and full power. Some parks in the area offer dedicated RV sites with full hook-ups, others offer boondocking only.

Backpacking

is the most adventurous form of camping. Spend the day hiking or biking through nature until you reach a desired campsite. Before setting out on a backpacking trip, remember to let someone know where you’re hiking and when you expect to return.

GLAMPING is camping’s trendy, more glamorous sister. Most glamping sites feature tents permanently pitched on decks in a scenic setting. They usually feature beds, bathrooms and other luxuries. Additional perks range from Wi-Fi to stocked kitchens.

WHAT TO KNOW

• The weather in this region can change without warning, especially in the summer months. Be prepared with proper dry gear, and always dress in layers. • Depending on your location, you may be required to purchase a pass or permit. Review your destination and plan ahead. • Be aware of your location. Obey all posted signs and notices at campgrounds and trail entrances. • Popular campgrounds can be booked many months in advance. It’s best to make a reservation sooner than later. • Expect to run into wildlife ranging from lizards and squirrels to rattlesnakes and bears, depending on where you camp. Familiarize yourself with the safety guidelines and etiquette of wildlife encounters in the area where you plan to camp. • Remember to care for the delicate ecosystem of the Southwest by following Leave No Trace principles.

What to pack

• Tent with a rain cover • A warm sleeping bag • A pillow and sleeping pad • Camp stove and/or waterproof matches • Drinking water, water purification tablets or tools • Layers of clothing, including a waterresistant coat, wool socks and long underwear • Flashlights, headlamps or lanterns • Sunscreen, bug spray, first-aid kit, and toilet paper