It’s time for fall camping when the days are getting shorter and the temperatures are getting cooler. I love camping in the autumn because I like the chilly mornings, warm days, and the changing seasons. It’s also when I can slow down a bit from the busy summers we have and I can enjoy camping.

This year, we were able to hit our annual goal of 45 nights of camping and then some. So, from all the camping in the last few years, I am sharing in this post my best tips for fall camping, including gear suggestions, hacks, and food ideas. These tips are also practical for any time of the year.

26 Best Tips and Hacks for Fall Camping

1. Check the Weather

Fall weather is known for being unpredictable and can change very quickly. Check the weather forecast before you head out. Be prepared for any type of weather and for the weather to change quickly. In Montana, it has been known to snow on the 4th of July or get fall storms that are not predicted ahead of time.

2. Dress in Layers

Temperatures in the fall can vary a lot throughout the day. Your morning could start chilly and then it’s blistering hot in the afternoon, It’s important to wear moisturizing layers and even an outer waterproof layer.

3. Choose the Right Sleeping Bag

It’s too often that people do not get the right sleeping bag. I always recommend at the minimum a 0-degree bag or even a 4-season bag. If needed, you can also pack a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth.

4. Bring Extra Blankets

Extra blankets for warmth are a must. I invested a few years ago in purchasing some camping blankets. But really, any extra blanket will do. A good wool blanket should always be included for car camping.

5. Prepare for Early Darkness

In the fall, the days are much shorter. Plan your activities accordingly, like ensuring you are back from your activities by dark and starting dinner on time. It’s all the time of year that extra camp lighting is helpful.

6. Pack Waterproof Gear

Rain is common in the autumn, so I always make sure that we are ready for rain. One of the two most important things that I pack is a tarp (or canopy for car camping) and raincoats. It’s also the time of year that I will often wear my muck boots, and water-proof paints and jacket.

7. Use a Ground Tarp

Because the fall can bring colder weather, camping sites are often wet and muddy. A ground tarp or tent footprint will help keep your tent clean, dry, and warmer.

8. Keep Your Tent Dry

It’s very important to keep your tent as dry as possible, especially before packing it away. A few ways to keep your tent dry are by using a rain fly and a footprint and keeping wet gear and clothing outside.

9. Choose a Campsite with Good Drainage

One year, our favorite fall camping site had already been taken. My husband made the mistake of camping at the bottom of the trail at the bottom of the hill. Needless to say, the tent filled up with water and it was the end of our camping trip. Always look for a site that is away from drainage and dry.

10. Bring a Camping Stove

I love cooking over a campfire, but it can be challenging when the seasons change if it’s raining or snowing. And fire is not always allowed, depending on fire restrictions. If we aren’t taking the camper, I will always pack a propane stove, a butane stove, or a pocket stove, depending on the type of camping.

11. Pack High-Energy Foods

I like to pack easy-to-make meals. In the fall, I prefer ready-to-eat soups and meals because they are quick and nutrient-dense. I will also pack high-protein granola bars. Camping snacks are a must-have for any camping trip.

12. Stay Hydrated

Water is important and the number one essential for any hiking or camping trip. Also, pack plenty of water and/ or have a way to purify water so you are drinking enough. I will often also take with me a powdered electrolyte mix like Liquid I.V., HydroMATE (low in sugar), or ScratchLab. When I buy electrolyte hydration packets, I almost always get the variety pack.

13. Be Mindful of Wildlife

Wildlife is quite active in the fall. It’s mating season for many animals. It is also the time of year when animals are getting ready for winter. For example, bears are eating anything and everything in sight. Not only be bear-aware but be extra mindful of all wild animals during the fall season. Bear spray is highly recommended.

14. Use a Campfire Safely

Even though the temperatures are lower in the fall and there is more moisture, fire danger can still be high. I’ve witnessed two pretty intense wildfires in the fall. Always practice good fire safety.

15. Prepare for Fall Allergies

The older I get, the worse my allergies get. Though I do okay during the summer, my fall allergies are worse, especially around wood fires. Make sure you are prepared for fall allergy season.

16. Pack a First Aid Kit

You should always be ready for emergencies. Having a first-aid kit is a must for any camping, backpacking, or hiking trip.

17. Bring a Multi-Tool

A knife is always handy when you are in the great outdoors. But, a multifunctional survival tool is even better. Two of my favorite gadgets are the multi-tool hatchet and the multi-tool shovel. Both have all of the little add-ons you think you won’t need but will eventually use. And, I always keep a multi-tool shovel in my car and have used it several times.

18. Let Others Know Where You Are

As with any outdoor excursion, always let people know where you are. More people are investing in emergency GPS devices in case of an emergency. Too many people die each year out in the woods because people didn’t know where they were or they had no way of calling for help.

19. Be Prepared for Falling Leaves

Often there are falling leaves or needles more often in the fall than during the summer. Take more care to clean up around your campsite and campfire.

20. Bring Insect Repellent

Usually, in the autumn, there are fewer bugs but always bring bug spray. Some bugs are worse in the fall than in the other seasons. We get these weird little gray flies only in the fall and they bite.

21. Stay Warm and Dry

Be sure to keep warm and dry. Though it usually doesn’t drop below freezing in the fall, you can still be prone to hypothermia. Make sure you have adequate and quality gear to keep you out of the elements. You can die in three hours from hypothermia.

22. Check Your Gear

I can’t stress how important it is to have functional, durable, and well-made gear. Always check your gear after each trip and repair or fix it as needed. It’s frustrating when you forget the zipper on your tent isn’t working and you didn’t fix it.

23. Know Your Campsite’s Regulations

Whether you are in a public campground boondocking or using disbursed camping sites, always know the regulations. Many campgrounds close for the winter or start winterizing their utilities well before winter.

24. Pack a Camp Chair

It doesn’t matter if you have a large camping chair or a small;l one, you should always have something to sit on even if it’s just a cushion. It can help you keep your body dry or from being chilled.

25. Enjoy the Fall Foliage

Enjoy the changing of the seasons. Trees are so pretty in the fall, even pine trees. Many areas of the Rockies have Tamracks, that turn gold in the fall and many buses that change to brilliant shades of scarlet and orange.

26. Camping Meal Ideas

If you love camp cooking, soups and ready-made dehydrated meals are easy and filling for fall camping. Some of my favorite meals are:

• Beef Jerky Stew
• Butter Chicken and Rice
• Cheesy Chicken Broccoli
• Broccoli Beef With Rice

27. Be Prepared

Be extra-prepared for any scenario, may it be getting snowed in or getting stuck in the mud. I have a plan for any emergency should it arise. I always plan for “extra” – extra clothes, extra food, extra water, extra warmth, extra fuel, etc.

By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable fall camping adventure. Do you have any other tips that you think should be included? Drop a comment below. Happy camping!