Setting up your campsite

The first thing to do after signing in and getting to your campsite is to pick the perfect spot for your tent and then set up your camp area. Here are a few top tips.

Look for relatively high but flat ground
In case of rain you don’t want to be at low level ground where water could roll under and into your tent. Also camping on a slope is not a good idea so make sure you find some flat and even ground that will give you a good night’s sleep.

Look for shade
It is worth finding an area for your tent that has some shelter from the sun. Direct sunlight is not overly good for the longevity of a tent and it can also mean that whatever is inside your tent can heat up very quickly (not good for chocolate supplies). However, do not pitch your tent directly under a tree for shade because if it rains your tent will continue to get wet long after the rain has stopped and you will be more at risk of lightening.

Find a cooking area
It goes without saying that cooking can NEVER be done in your tent. Often campsites will have designated areas where campfires and BBQs are allowed. Some campsites do not allow any type of cooking method that is directly on the ground so make sure you check the rules before arriving. If there is no designated area then choose somewhere that is clear of trees, bushes and twigs and at least 6 metres from any tent.

Find your nearest facilities
It is a good idea to try not to be too far from the nearest toilets and showers to save long treks across the field in your towel, however make sure you’re not too close to avoid unwanted smells and any water leakages.

Find your nearest water supply
Many campsites will have taps in designated areas for cooking, washing up and drinking. Ask at the office for the nearest water supply to your campsite and make sure that it is not too long a walk from where you put your tent. Also keep a bucket with water near an open fire at all times in case of an emergency.

Keep clear and tidy
Find your nearest bin and regularly take any rubbish and recyclables from your campsite to the designated waste zones as this will reduce the likelihood of pests and keep your camp area clean and tidy. Similarly find the designated washing up area and try to do this after every meal.