Camping is one of the most popular outdoor activities. From solo travelers to groups and families, camping has been a treasured pastime for so many.
But do you know there are multiple ways to camp?
The activity has evolved over the years to include all sorts of innovations. Let’s dive in and explore 11 different types of camping.
Do you know all of them?
Do You Know the 11 Types of Camping?
There are 11 different ways you can take up temporary residence outdoors. Let’s take a look at all of them.
1. Tent Camping
Tent camping is one of the most common forms of camping, and it’s been around the longest. A tent is made of a material such as waterproof fabric.
The material attaches to poles to shape it like a dome or A-frame. It might be tall enough for standing, or you may have to crouch to fit inside. Tents come in all shapes and sizes.
Besides shelter, the main benefit of tent camping is that you can take a tent nearly anywhere. From backcountry camping to campgrounds, tents fit just about anywhere.
And tents can be budget-friendly, which makes them accessible to almost anyone.
2. Car Camping
Car camping is just as the name implies. You use your car as a shelter to sleep in. It’s an even more budget-friendly option than tent camping if you already own a car.
There are many free campsites around the country that car campers utilize, such as on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land.
3. Backpacking
Backpackers often stay outdoors overnight, which is backcountry camping. They use a tent for shelter or sleep under the stars in a sleeping bag on the ground or in a hammock strung from trees.
Since you often don’t know exactly where you’ll be sleeping while backpacking, it’s a good idea also to bring an inflatable or closed-foam pad.
4. RV Camping
RV camping is a form of camping that has been growing in leaps and bounds recently. You can find an RV in nearly any size and shape.
There are pop-up campers, travel trailers, fifth wheels, motorhomes, and camper vans. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a family of eight, there are floor plans out there for you.
RVs can park in campgrounds, driveways, parking lots, or on land specifically set aside for them. Basically, anywhere that the RV will fit is a potential camping spot.
And because RVs can have kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, air conditioning, insulation, running water, and so much more, they’re an ideal way to camp for long periods.
Pro Tip: Before you head out on your next camping adventure, make sure you Don’t Forget To Pack These Essentials When Camping.
5. Boondocking
Boondocking, or dry camping, is off-grid camping people usually do in an RV or vehicle. It’s when you are without access to electricity, water, sewer, or any amenities.
Boondocking is often free, but not always, and sometimes you need to get a permit.
The most common places to boondock are on BLM land.
6. Overland Camping
Overland camping, or overlanding, is a combination of off-roading and camping in a motorized vehicle. It’s meant for vehicles that are self-contained and can travel over rugged terrain.
Unlike off-roading on its own, overland camping is about the destination and not only the journey.
Overland vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, from Jeeps to vans to million-dollar vehicles made specifically for overlanding, like the EarthRoamer.
7. Bushcraft Camping
Bushcraft camping is when you use wilderness survival skills to camp rather than modern-day conveniences. It’s a rugged form of camping that typically takes place in very remote locations.
The goal is to bring little equipment and use whatever you find in nature to make a shelter and survive.
A key to bushcraft camping is to be prepared with essential supplies and have the skills to survive in the wilderness.
8. Hammock Camping
Hammock camping is when you sleep in a hammock suspended from trees. Backpackers are fond of hammock camping because hammocks are lightweight and more convenient than bringing a tent.
If you’re more comfortable with something over your head during the night, you can tie fabric or a tarp to trees for overhead protection.
Pro Tip: Don’t get stuck sleeping with a rock jabbing into your back with these 5 Best Hanging Tents For Camping In 2021.
9. Canoe or Kayak Camping
You may hear someone call canoe or kayak camping “touring” or “expedition canoeing.” It’s a combination of canoeing or kayaking and camping with tents or hammocks.
Basically, it’s like backpacking, but you’re getting from point A to point B over water versus land.
10. Glamping
Glamping is a relatively new type of camping, or at least the term is more recent. It means glamorous camping.
Glamping has a few more creature comforts than if you were sleeping on the ground in a tent. For example, you can find resorts that offer glamping in yurts similar to hotel rooms in terms of the amenities.
Essentially it’s a way to enjoy the outdoors without roughing it.
11. Bicycle Camping
Bicycle camping is also similar to backpacking, but a bike is the form of transportation.
Cyclists carry a tent or hammock with them. Whether you’re mountain or road biking, it’s a great way to get outdoors.
What Types of Camping Have You Tried?
How many of these types of camping have you tried or want to try?
Perhaps there are some on this list that you’ve never heard of. Whether you’ll be packing a tent on your bicycle or driving your motorhome across the country, we hope you have the opportunity to get out there and camp.
Safe and happy travels!
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As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
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