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3-year-old boy with autism found dead at resort, orange county deputies say, camping world relaxes water bottle policy for def leppard, journey concert, show to go until around 1 1 p.m. on wednesday.

Emily McLeod , Anchor/Reporter

ORLANDO, Fla. – More than 30,000 fans are expected to head to Camping World Stadium for the Def Leppard, Journey and Cheap Trick concert on Wednesday.

However, a heat advisory was in place throughout a majority of Central Florida for most of the day.

“We definitely are more cognizant of making sure concertgoers are hydrating, there’s shade and air conditioning available to them and we also have a rescue unit standing by all day there in case any concertgoers need to be transported to the hospital,” said Orlando Fire Department District Chief Daniel Romano.

Romano said that just like any event at Camping World Stadium, first responders will be there ready to assist.

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“It’s a big event, and it requires a lot of resources,” Romano said. “We’re lucky here in Orlando that we have enough staff to be able to take care of concertgoers to make sure they have a fun and safe event.”

Because of the high temperatures on Wednesday, Camping World Stadium temporarily changed one of its policies to allow people to bring in 20-ounce sealed or unsealed soft-sided water bottles to the event.

“Obviously, our number one job is our guest and patron safety,” said Orlando Chief Venues Officer Allen Johnson. “We take that very seriously. We’re relaxing some rules: you can bring an unopened bottle of water, sealed or empty bottle, just not hard-sided, up to 20 ounces, and we’ll let you bring that in and refill it.”

Johnson said he wants guests to stay safe and cool so they can enjoy all of Wednesday’s big show.

“We care about you, we want you to have a good time,” Johnson said. “It’s a long day, long night. Show is going to go until about 11 p.m., so we want our patrons to be safe.”

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About the Author

Emily mcleod.

Emily joined WKMG-TV in November 2022, returning home to Central Florida.

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Planning a Camping Trip: The Complete Guide

Planning a camping trip begins with the desire to get outdoors. Once you have the itch, you'll only need to pick a date, find a campground, choose a route, prepare your gear, go grocery shopping, and head out.

Sounds simple, doesn't it? It actually is and it gets easier with each trip to the campground. Whether you're a new camper or a veteran, let's review some tips for planning your next outdoor adventure.

Where to Go

There are two types of campgrounds: Private and public. Both have their advantages but finding a good one can be hard. That is why it's a good idea to use campground reviews and ratings to guide you. Resources like AAA and Trailer Life compile all the information you need to see if a campground is right for you.

Take into consideration if you're staying in a tent or a camper or RV. Some campgrounds are more tent-friendly than others. Likewise, some have all the amenities and hookups necessary for campers.

Do you care if there's a shower and flush toilets or are you okay with roughing it for the weekend? This is a big factor for many campers and a campground guide includes this type of information. You can also choose public parks which tend to be rustic and offer a variety of outdoor recreation options or opt for modern campgrounds that may have a game room, store, or pool.

Be aware that some campgrounds require reservations, others offer it as an option or are first-come-first-serve. If you know it's going to be a busy weekend—Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day, in particular—be sure to get a reservation or show up early.

Another option is to head out to a festival that's centered around camping . They're great fun and offer music and other activities just outside your tent.

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Top Destinations

Campers love the great outdoors, pristine natural environments, and the adventures that inspire in the wild. While it's likely that there's a great campsite nearby no matter where you live, if you're looking for a destination to travel to, we have some ideas.

Every state has its fair share of national and state parks and these really do offer some of the best camping opportunities. Yet, some states are better known for having really great campgrounds to choose from . Also, if you have not camped at any of the  top national parks , add them to your bucket list. You won't regret it.

Glacier National Park in Montana is a favorite for many campers. Lake Tahoe is another camping destination to consider, and you can find some ​ nice spots along California's coastline .

Gather Your Gear

Do you need a checklist to make sure you've packed all your gear? While you might decide to bring along a few extra things, there are some items that are absolutely essential.

As far as camping gear goes, you will need three basic things . A place to sleep is most important, so grab a tent. Something to sleep on and keep you warm is good as well, which is why sleeping bags are necessary. Also, a few things to cook your meals will help out tremendously. 

Gear in hand, now you need the supplies . Food and water are essentials for obvious reasons. You might also want a backpack cooler , camp stove, some rain gear for everyone, a knife, and a lantern or flashlight (or both).

Don't forget the first aid kit , either. You'll be miles away from town and you never know when someone will get a cut, bee sting, or some other injury that needs a quick fix.

No shower house at your campground? There's no need to go without bathing, all you need is a camp shower that's allowed to warm in the sun while you're busy with the day's activities.

When you get to the campground, you'll need to check in at the office or camp host. Find a good site that looks like a place you could hang for the weekend. The campsites with the most shade are prime real estate, so try to get there early.

From there, you'll set up your camp . Select the site for your tent, set out your cooking supplies, and settle in.

One thing you'll quickly learn is that there are annoying campers. Don't be one of them and learn what not  to do on a camping trip . This includes many common sense things like respect your neighbors, keep the camp clean​ and understand that wildlife will be around.

When you're ready to leave and head home, be sure that your site looks how it did (or better than) when you arrived. The common phrase is "leave no trace" and that means you should take your trash with you, dowse your fire properly, and pack up all your gear. When you get home, unpack everything and let it dry and air out before storing it permanently.

Plan a Backcountry Trip

​Backcountry camping, or backpacking, is essentially the combination of hiking and camping in the wilderness. Don't let the unfamiliar landscape or worries of being in the wild keep you from going backpacking. It's a lot of fun and a real outdoor adventure.

If you've not backpacked before , it's a little different than grabbing a campsite at the state park. You'll be in a remote area without your car to rely on, so it's important to take only the essential gear you'll need. It's also important to choose the right campsite, though some popular backcountry destinations offer designated sites along the way.

Also, you should be fit enough to handle the hike and understand who to call or how to get to help in case there's an emergency. Check with the park ranger in the area about any important details like that and other tips they can give you.

Tips for RV Camping

Your RV is your home away from home. It is also the most convenient way to go camping because your RV has everything you need. Just hook it up to the truck or hop in the cab and you're off to a new adventure .

While RVing is a more luxurious way to camp, it does have its own concerns. First of all, you most likely need to reserve campsites to ensure you get the electrical hookups you need. You'll also want a dump station nearby.

Along the way (and before you go) you'll want to keep up on maintenance and do some routine safety checks . RVs are great, but they are one giant vehicle with a hundred things that can go wrong. Yet, if you know what to look for and how to maintain it, it can offer years of great fun.

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How to plan a camping trip: 7 steps for a successful time

From reserving your campground to testing your gear, our expert guide explaining how to plan a camping trip will give you all you need

Our 7 steps to camping success

• 1. Decide where and how you want to go
• 2. Reserve your campsite
• 3. Research your destination
• 4: Plan your meals
• 5. Prepare for all weather conditions
• 6. Test your gear
• 7. Make a packing list

We absolutely love a camping trip. Whether it's a mini-vacation to a campground or an adventurous expedition in the mountains, camping is a great way to escape from the everyday, switch off those screens, get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.

However, we also know that it's not all idyllic sunsets, beers around the campfire and rainbows. Preparing for a camping trip and successfully executing one, particularly a big family trip, can feel like a lot of work. That's why we're here with our expert guide on how to plan a camping trip in 7 simple steps. We're also on hand to answer some of your most frequently asked questions .

So, before you pack your best camping tent in the trunk, get all your bases covered with this expert guide.

1. Decide where and how you want to go: once you know this, you'll be able to plan the rest of your trip.

2. Reserve your campsite: book early to avoid disappointment.

3. Research your destination: know what amenities you'll have and, therefore, what you'll need to bring.

4. Plan your meals: get excited about what you're going to eat and avoid packing ingredients and camping utensils that you don't need.

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5. Prepare for all weather conditions: nothing ruins a camping trip like weather you weren't expecting. Pack for all eventualities.

6: Test your gear: before your trip, test all your gear to make sure it works to avoid frustration when you get to your campsite.

7. Make a packing list: ensure you don't forget anything by creating a checklist. Need a hand: We've already put together a handy camping checklist .

Meet the experts

Backpacking and hiking lover Julia is fortunate enough to live in Scotland, where the Right to Roam means she can camp pretty much anywhere she wants. However, she enjoys a formal campsite just as much as the rest of us and is one of our main camping experts.

Alex is a qualified mountain leader and wild camping enthusiast, who also loves a family camping trip. Having spent many days camping in England's North York Moors National Park as a child, his love of campsite camping began at an early age. Here, he shares his planning expertise.

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Decide where and how you want to go.

• Where you go and how you camp are key considerations and the foundation of your plan
• You can choose to wild camp, car camp, RV camp and more
• Make sure that where and what you choose is legal in the region you intend to camp

Knowing where you want to go camping involves knowing what kind of camping you want to do. There’s backpacking, where you carry everything on your back and hike in to a remote destination, and then there’s car camping where you load up the car and drive to a paid campsite. There’s also RV and pop-up camping for a tent-free experience. 

Some of my most cherished childhood memories are of camping trips with my Father and brother. Now that I'm a parent, I'm always excited to share new camping experiences with my family and choosing the right location feels like a big responsibility. I always make sure I do plenty of research into amenities and on how much there is to entertain the little ones in the surroundings. Alex Foxfield, Advnture contributor

Backpacking is going to be the more minimalist – and adventurous – approach. You can only bring what you can carry so you’ll need a good backpack , some lightweight gear (such as a one-person tent ) and you’ll want to have some knowledge of outdoor safety , navigation and be prepared for no amenities that you don’t bring with you (read our article on how to poop in the woods ).

If you’d prefer a developed campground where you pay for a site and have amenities like toilets and picnic tables, you can drive in which means you are not so limited in what you can bring with. This won’t be such a rough and wild experience – you’ll almost certainly be sharing the campgrounds with other people – but it’s a good way to ease in to camping.

Camping in a camper van or RV opens up lots of opportunities too. The main benefit is that there’s no real set up required for camp. Once you arrive, you can just park and sleep. But you have the added factor of finding a place to legally park. Not all campgrounds accept RVs so you’ll want to research that ahead of time so you don’t end up camping in a truck drivers rest stop. On that note, if you’re camping in a tent and want a peaceful experience, you may want to pick a campground that doesn’t allow RVs so you don’t have to listen to the hum of generators and engines all night.

Reserve your campsite

• Popular campsites in national parks get full up well in advance
• Booking way ahead of your trip is a great idea to avoid disapointment
• If you're planning to wild camp, check its allowed in the region you're going

If you’ve decided on a developed campground, don’t assume you can just roll in and there will be room for you. Camping is becoming ever more fashionable and developed campgrounds are very popular with families, especially during the summer months. In National Parks, campsites can be reserved as early as a year in advance and competition for a spot is often fierce. Make sure you’ve booked your site ahead of time to avoid disappointment or you might spend the evening driving around looking for a place to sleep.

If you’re planning on wild camping, you can’t make a reservation but you should still research the area where you intend to pitch your tent and make sure that it’s allowed – not all public land is fair game. Which brings us to our next point...

Research your destination

• Knowing what amenities the campsite has and what's in the surroundings is key
• You may not have phone signal to research these things once you get there

Before any trip, I always check out apps like komoot to look at what trails, places of interest and places to eat and drink are in the area we're going to be staying. Some of my best trail runs and hikes have been planned in this way – it's a great way to build excitement before a trip. Alex Foxfield, Advnture contributor

Once you’ve decided where you’re going, do some research on the campsite and the area. This can range from mundane details such as what amenities are available and whether or not bear lockers are provided to fun stuff like what activities are available nearby. This will help you make sure you’ve packed everything you need, and once you arrive you can’t rely on having internet connection to look things up like where the nearby grocery stores and hiking trails are. 

Plan your meals

• Plan your meals ahead so you know which equipment to bring
• You can also ensure you bring the right amount of food so that there's no waste

Meal planning can be one of the best parts of camping. If you’re planning backpacking meals , you’ll need to rely on cold, ready-to-eat food or have a lightweight camping stove. With the best camping stoves , you’ll be able to enjoy a hot meal and perhaps even coffee, but you’ll still want to pack light, easy meals like freeze dried meals, packed tuna and boxed noodles.

With car and van camping, your menu can be much more varied. In addition to a bigger double-burner camping stove , you can pack frying pans to put over the fire or bring a BBQ grill. If there are picnic tables available or you bring a folding table, you can even be slicing and dicing veggies to go in your meals. But when it comes to perishable food, like meat and vegetables, remember that you’re reliant on how much ice you have in your cooler. You might find a campground that sells ice, but if not you’ll want to make sure to eat any perishable food items first before they go off, then switch to non-perishables.

In all types of camping, it’s probably best not to rely on being able to cook over an open fire. It’s definitely possible, but it’s much more difficult to control the temperature of live flames than it is over your stove at home, so you can end up with undercooked, overcooked or unevenly cooked food which can leave you with food poisoning. The other potential problem with campfire cooking is availability of dry firewood. If conditions are damp, you’re not likely to be able to get a fire going, so even if you’re dead set on cooking over the fire, make sure you bring a camping stove as a backup. In the worst of conditions, these can be set up on a picnic table under a tarp and you can still enjoy a hot meal on a chilly night.

Speaking of chilly nights...

Prepare for all weather conditions

• Prepare for wet conditions with waterproof clothing
• Nights can be chilly, so pack plenty of warm layers

You can’t control the weather, but you can prepare for it. The thing about getting drenched while camping is there’s no real way to dry off again. Wet clothes inside your tent mean damp, uncomfortable conditions, and if your best sleeping bag is filled with down, you could be in for a cold night. The most important thing to pack is a waterproof jacket , regardless of the forecast. These are lightweight and pack down small and will keep your clothes underneath dry and your body warm. If you’re expecting to see a lot of precipitation, you’ll want to consider waterproof trousers and shoes as well. 

Even in hot desert areas, temperatures can really drop overnight, so you’ll want to pack base layers which pack down small but provide lots of warmth as well as one warmer outer layer like a fleece that can also double as a pillow at night.

If you’re car camping, you might want to pack a tarp or pop-up tent that can provide shelter from the elements. These also provide good sun shade if the weather is a little too good. 

Test your gear

• Test your gear beforehand, leaving enough to time sort any issues
• This will save time and disappointment when you arrive at the campsite
• You could even do a trial backyard camp

The next thing you’ll want to do is test out your gear a couple of nights before you leave in order to make sure that it all works, and that you know how to work it. Practice setting up your tent, make sure your sleeping pad doesn’t leak air and ensure your headlamp doesn’t need new batteries. Check your camping stove works and has enough fuel, make sure your lighters still work and your first aid kit is properly stocked. It might seem like a drag, but what may take an hour or two could save you plenty in time and frustration when you get to your campsite – and this way you’ll have plenty of time to replace any faulty equipment.

You can even do a trial camp in the backyard if your kids are new to camping. This allows you to check the kit and get them used to sleeping in a tent before the big trip.

Make a packing list

• Make sure you don't forget anything by creating a list of what you'll need
• Tick it off as you pack everything

The best thing to do here is make a spreadsheet, with all the essentials listed. I do this and it allows me to return to it and adapt after every camping trip. I've got separate tabs for backpacking trips and car camping trips too. Alex Foxfield, Advnture contributor

We perhaps should have mentioned this earlier, but all this time you should have been making a checklist of what you need to bring. Sleeping on the ground? You’ll need a sleeping pad and a sleeping bag that’s the right warmth for where you’re going. Driving in? You have room to bring a proper pillow if you want. Planning on cooking over a fire? Make sure you have a lighter. Items like bug spray and headlamps are absolute must-haves for any camping experience. Make a list as you go then cross the items off as you pack them to keep track. You’ll want to pack ahead of time too, to make sure everything fits.

Once you get out into the wild, you may have no way of picking up provisions, so plan ahead and make sure you have what you need to really enjoy your time. Now you’re ready to get out there!

Frequently asked questions

You asked and we listened. Here are our answers to some of your most frequently asked question when it comes to camping and planning for a camping trip...

What is the number one rule of camping?

There are three words that, if you're into the outdoors, you've hopefully heard of. They are: Leave No Trace . This is the absolute number of rule of camping. We all head into the backcountry to enjoy the pristine nature and untouched beauty. It's absolutely vital to leave it in this way for future generations. There are broadly seven agreed upon leave no trace principles:

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces
• Dispose of waste properly
• Leave what you find
• Minimise campfire impacts
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of other visitors

Better still is the ethos promoted by groups like Trash Free Trails , who champion the act of purposefully improving the state of the trails by picking up waste left by others.

Do you have to camp at a campsite?

We all camp to get away from it all and nothing spoils that like some rowdy bunch in a nearby tent on the campsite that stay awake until 2am, singing Sweet Caroline or Ed Sheeran while under the influence of alcohol. Obviously this is the nightmare scenario, but this kind of thing might have some wondering: do you have to camp at a campsite?

Well, no, there's often the option of wild camping , or dispersed camping, away from dedicated facilities. Whether or not this is legal, or tolerated, depends on where you are in the world. We love wild camping , it's a wonderfully liberating experience but it's not quite as comfortable as car camping, where you're able to bring more home comforts along.

Of course, there are many benefits to using a campsite. For a start, it should be easy to access by car or public transport and you won't have to lug your camping gear for miles. Then there's all the amenities that campsites often have, such as toilets, warm showers, a shop, washing machines, play equipment and the like. So, for a family trip, a campsite is simply more convenient.

We also painted a rather dim picture of fellow campers in that first paragraph. What's actually far more likely to happen is that you make new friends. This is especially true of the little ones, who'll probably form a soccer team or devise a new masterpiece of musical theatre with their newfound buddies.

What is the most popular type of camping?

For a start, tent camping is more popular than other forms of camping, which includes RV, cabin and bivy camping. According to some studies, over 35 million Americans tent camped in every year since the COVID pandemic, and the number  has been steadily rising during this time to over 38 million in 2023. As a comparison, around 16.5 million Americans RV camped in 2023.

So, what's the most popular form of tent camping? Thanks to its convenience, car camping still tops the list, with most still choosing the reliability and security of a dedicated campsite over the wild option of dispersed camping or the extra expense of glamping .

Julia Clarke is a staff writer for Advnture.com and the author of the book  Restorative Yoga for Beginners . She loves to explore mountains on foot, bike, skis and belay and then recover on the the yoga mat. Julia graduated with a degree in journalism in 2004 and spent eight years working as a radio presenter in Kansas City, Vermont, Boston and New York City before discovering the joys of the Rocky Mountains. She then detoured west to Colorado and enjoyed 11 years teaching yoga in Vail before returning to her hometown of Glasgow, Scotland in 2020 to focus on family and writing.  

• Alex Foxfield

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Essential Tips and Ideas for Boat Camping

D reaming of a unique camping experience that combines the tranquility of camping with the thrill of being on the water? Dive into our boat camping ideas for an unforgettable journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the game, these tips will help you navigate through creating memories that float above the rest. 

With our creative suggestions and practical advice, your next outdoor escapade is sure to make waves. So, are you prepared to set sail on an extraordinary adventure filled with nature’s beauty and peaceful waters?

Boat Camping Ideas

If you want to have a great experience camping in the great outdoors, the entire family can have fun camping on a boat. It’s a unique experience, and one that you should add to the list for your next boat camping adventure. 

Selecting Location

Selecting the right location is crucial for a memorable experience. Research spots by identifying popular boating destinations, looking for secluded areas away from crowds, and considering available amenities nearby. Accessibility is key; choose a boat that is easy to board and disembark, ensuring proper docking facilities are available.

Safety measures should be a top priority when choosing a location for boat camping. Check for any restrictions on boat access in certain areas to avoid any unforeseen issues during your trip.

Make sure that you follow local regulations and have easy access to a first-aid kit as well as making sure that you have enough life vests for everyone on the boat.  

Privacy levels can enhance your experience; look for anchorages or marinas that offer privacy, consider using curtains or shades inside the boat, and plan your trip during the off-season to steer clear of crowded areas.

Planning the Trip

The only way to make lasting memories is to plan the trip. Here are a few great ideas to help you get out the door. 

Itinerary Creation

When planning your boat camping trip, research points of interest along your route to make stops more enjoyable. Plan for rest stops and overnight stays to ensure everyone is well-rested during the journey. Remember to allow flexibility in your itinerary for any unexpected changes that may arise.

Consider checking weather forecasts before and during your trip to stay prepared. Be equipped with appropriate gear for sudden weather changes like rain or wind. In case of severe conditions, seek shelter promptly to ensure everyone’s safety.

Mother Nature has a way of sneaking up in the middle of the night, and that’s not much fun for anyone. Know the forecast before launching. 

Weather Check

Utilize GPS or navigation apps when mapping out your route for a smoother journey. Mark important landmarks or hazards on your map to navigate effectively. Always have alternative routes planned in case emergencies occur while en route.

Create a detailed emergency plan involving all passengers onboard before embarking on the trip. Share this plan with someone on land in case communication fails at sea.

Familiarize yourself with specific emergency procedures tailored to boating situations.

Essential Gear

Sleeping equipment.

When planning boat camping, ensure you have the right sleeping gear. Invest in comfortable and compact sleeping bags or bedding for a good night’s rest.

Consider inflatable mattresses or sleeping pads to add an extra layer of comfort while onboard. Hammocks can also be a fun and space-saving alternative for sleeping arrangements.

Cooking Tools

For meal preparation, opt for portable stoves or grills that are easy to use on a boat. Pack lightweight cookware and utensils that are simple to store in limited spaces onboard.

Bringing non-perishable food items helps minimize the need for refrigeration, making meal planning more convenient during your trip.

Carrying the necessary navigation aids is crucial when boat camping. Have navigational charts or maps of the area handy to guide you through waterways safely. A compass or GPS device will assist with accurate navigation, especially in unfamiliar waters.

Installing radar or sonar systems can provide additional safety measures by helping you detect obstacles underwater efficiently.

Communication devices play a vital role in ensuring safety while boat camping. Bring along a marine VHF radio to communicate with other boaters effectively if needed during emergencies.

It’s essential to have a fully charged cellphone with waterproof protection as an additional means of communication onboard.

In remote areas without cellular coverage, considering satellite phones can be beneficial for staying connected in case of emergencies.

Optimizing Space

When boat camping, storage solutions are crucial. Utilize the boat’s storage compartments efficiently to keep items organized. Pack essentials in waterproof bags or containers to prevent damage from water exposure. Opt for collapsible storage bins that can be easily stored away when not in use.

Consider using compact furniture to save space on the boat. Choose foldable chairs and tables that can be easily set up and put away. Inflatable furniture is another excellent option as it can be deflated and stored without taking up much space. Opt for multi-functional furniture pieces like storage ottomans to serve dual purposes.

To make the most of limited space, pack multi-use items such as multi-tools or Swiss Army knives that offer various functions in one tool.

Select clothing that can be layered for different weather conditions to minimize the number of clothes you need to bring along.

Bring reusable water bottles that also double as storage containers for snacks or small items.

Safety Measures

When boat camping, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Start by preparing a comprehensive first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

Remember to include seasickness medication if needed and tailor the supplies to any specific medical requirements your passengers may have.

Life jackets are non-negotiable for everyone on board. Ensure each individual has a properly fitted life jacket and inspect their condition before setting sail.

Take the time to familiarize all passengers with how to wear and use these life-saving devices correctly in case of an emergency.

Fire safety is paramount on a boat. Always have at least one easily accessible fire extinguisher on board and regularly check its maintenance following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

It’s essential that all passengers receive training on how to effectively operate a fire extinguisher should the need arise.

• Include bandages, antiseptic wipes
• Pack seasickness medication
• Customize based on medical needs
• Ensure proper fit
• Check conditions before departure
• Fire Extinguishers

Be sure that you also pack any fishing gear that you want and have dry bags to store your electronics. You’ll also want to make sure that you have a sleeping bag, clean water to drink , and camping gear and safety gear to make the camping area comfortable. 

Provisions Organization

Food storage.

When boat camping, it’s crucial to store perishable items in coolers with ice packs or dry ice. Properly seal food to avoid contamination and odors. Dispose of waste responsibly to prevent attracting pests.

• Store perishable food items in coolers with ice packs
• Keep food properly sealed
• Dispose of food waste responsibly

You can bring food without taking up a ton of storage space, so it’s a good idea to bring the food that oyu’re going to eat. 

Water Supply

For your boat camping trip, ensure you have enough drinking water for the entire journey. Consider installing a water filtration system onboard, and plan stops at marinas or ports for refills.

• Make sure that you have plenty of fresh water
• Install a water filtration system on the boat
• Plan stops at marinas or ports for refilling

Waste Management

Follow regulations for waste disposal in boating areas when boat camping. Use eco-friendly cleaning products and reduce single-use items to minimize waste generation.

Find a place that has public restrooms in good working order so that you can have a place to go to the bathroom. 

Sleeping Onboard

Ensuring a good night’s sleep is essential. Investing in high-quality mattresses or mattress toppers can significantly improve your comfort level onboard.

Opt for breathable bedding materials that suit different temperatures, and don’t forget to pack extra blankets or sleeping bags for added warmth on chilly nights.

To enhance ventilation inside the boat, consider installing fans or vents to keep the air circulating effectively. Window screens are also handy additions as they keep insects out while allowing fresh air in.

When choosing a boat for camping, look for models with good ventilation options like hatches or portholes, providing natural airflow throughout the vessel.

Executing the Trip

Departure checklist.

Before embarking on your boat camping adventure, it’s crucial to have a departure checklist . This list should include all essential items needed for the trip. Check the fuel levels and ensure the engine is in good condition before setting sail.

Inspect other mechanical aspects of the boat to avoid any issues during your journey. Make sure that all safety equipment onboard is functional and easily accessible in case of emergencies.

Daily Routine Setup

Establishing a daily routine can help streamline tasks while onboard. Allocate specific times for cooking, cleaning, navigation, breaks, meals, and leisure activities to maintain order during the trip.

Coordinate duties among passengers to ensure everyone plays a part in keeping things running smoothly onboard your boat camping excursion.

Planning recreational activities like fishing, swimming, or kayaking can add excitement to your boat camping experience. Research local attractions or landmarks along your route to make pit stops more enjoyable and educational.

Don’t forget to take moments throughout each day to relax and soak in the scenic beauty surrounding you on miles of open water.

What are some factors to consider when selecting a boat camping location?

When choosing a boat camping spot, think about accessibility to amenities, weather conditions, water depth for anchoring, and proximity to emergency services. Consider the activities you want to do and ensure the location aligns with your preferences.

How can I optimize space on a boat for camping?

Maximize space by using collapsible or multi-purpose gear like foldable chairs and tables. Utilize storage compartments efficiently by packing items in waterproof bags or containers. Organize belongings strategically so that essential items are easily accessible during the trip.

What safety measures should I take while boat camping?

Prioritize safety by wearing life jackets at all times when on deck or near water. Have an emergency kit onboard with first aid supplies, navigation tools, and communication devices. Familiarize yourself with basic boating rules and regulations for a safe experience.

How can I effectively organize provisions for boat camping?

Categorize food items based on meal plans to simplify cooking onboard. Use sealable containers to store perishables securely and prevent odors from spreading. Create a checklist of necessary provisions before departure to avoid forgetting essentials during the trip.

Is it advisable to sleep onboard while boat camping?

Sleeping onboard offers convenience but requires proper bedding arrangements for comfort. Ensure adequate ventilation inside the cabin and use sleeping bags suitable for maritime conditions. Secure sleeping areas against potential hazards like shifting objects or sudden movements of the vessel.

If you’re not used to the sound of water, you can literally park the boat near the marina or boat ramp and set up camp on land for the night. This is a great way to sleep under the night sky and one of the benefits of boat camping. 

The post Essential Tips and Ideas for Boat Camping appeared first on HodgePodge Hippie .

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Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney (formerly South Bend / Elkhart North KOA Holiday)

Hours above shown for Central Time Zone

April 29th - November 6th

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Based on 117 Reviews

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• Excellent 51

Reviews by RV Type

• Motorhome 47
• Travel Trailer 30
• Fifth Wheel 36
• Tent Trailer 2
• Truck Camper 1

117 Reviews

These reviews are the opinion of RV LIFE's members and not the views of RV LIFE

“Great place to stay near Elkhart”

We went to the Lippert RV owners school and stayed at this campground. It was very convenient. The roads and sites are tight for larger 5th wheels and motor homes. We camped at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney in a Motorhome.

“Don't believe in trimming trees. "If i trim all the trees you'd be able to see Elkhart."”

Roads are not very wide. Low hanging trees. Staff in office nice. We camped at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney in a Fifth Wheel.

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“Convenience, Peace, Service...this place has it all”

I was blessed to have site 7. It's gravel, but as level as any place I have ever been. I didn't need leveling blocks at all. It's also next to the office, store (including ice cream parlor and pizza We camped at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney in a Travel Trailer.

“Nice little campground”

We stayed here for almost 2 weeks while I finished training at RVTI. All sites are full hookup and we had no issues with anything. Nice little nature trail and mature Red Pines. The new ownership and We camped at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney in a Travel Trailer.

Great ice cream at the Chief; close to Lake Michigan and Amish communities....

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“Lots of trees”

Nice shady park. Friendly staff, store, ice cream, laundry, pool. Close to stores and Notre Dame; RV repair/manufacturers in Elkhart, Napanee, etc. Not far from I80. Would stay here again. We camped at Elkhart RV Resort by Rjourney in a Motorhome.

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