First-time camping tips often come from trial and error—and our rainy weekend at Sierra Grove last April 2nd was no exception. We packed a full checklist, prepped our gear, and still had to turn back for our pillows. It was also our dog’s first outdoor trip. Between sudden rainstorms, unexpected mud, and missed gear, we picked up lessons the hard way.
Here’s what helped us survive our first camping experience—and what we’ll do differently next time.
First-Time Camping Tips Start With Research
Choosing Sierra Grove, a beautiful, well-reviewed campsite with forest trails and elevated viewpoints, seemed like a safe bet. On photos, it looked serene. On arrival, it was surprisingly tricky to find.
That’s when we learned the importance of route planning, not just reviews.
Lesson: Research doesn’t stop at choosing a spot. Look into road access, sun direction, water flow, parking setup, and seasonal changes. These small details can make or break your weekend.
Learn Tent Setup and Practice Your Knots
Before the trip, we pitched the tent at home a few times. However, we didn’t think to simulate mud, wind, or surprise insect attacks.
That became very clear when we started scrambling for extra knots and canopy covers under light rain.
A basic taut-line hitch or two can do wonders. Familiarizing yourself with a few knots makes a big difference—especially in poor weather.
Tip: Learn a few reliable knots. Practice them before your trip, especially if you’ll be using a canopy or tarp.
Make a Checklist—and Actually Check It Before You Leave
Yes, we had a checklist. Unfortunately, we didn’t review it before leaving. That tiny slip-up meant driving back to get our pillows—not ideal.
Tip: Double-check everything at home. A single forgotten item can affect your rest, your setup, and your overall mood.
Pack Extra Clothes and Towelettes
Rain or shine, you’ll want backups. We only packed the basics—and regretted it once we had to reset everything soaked in sweat or drizzle.
Thankfully, biodegradable towelettes saved the day more than once. They’re lighter than towels and far more useful during messy setups.
Use a Compass and Plan for the Sun
Initially, we set everything up based on vibes. We didn’t realize where the sun would hit until we were sweating by the time we have set up camp.
In hindsight, checking orientation could’ve helped us choose a cooler, shaded area for our tent and seating.
Tip: Even in overcast weather, mapping the sun’s position ensures better comfort throughout the day.
Don’t Skimp on Beginner Camping Gear
We packed better and smarter after doing research on what actually works for first-time campers. For example, our Naturehike 2-person tent held up beautifully even with rain and wind.
Beyond the tent, we brought foldable chairs, a mini canopy, cooking gear, and battery packs. Even with those, we still found ourselves saying, “Next time, let’s test this before the trip.”
Take Time to Enjoy the Moment
Eventually, we relaxed. I watched my wife and our dog sniff out the trails while I sipped coffee and admired the trees.
Despite the bugs and puddles, we slowed down and took it all in. We brought too much food, yes—but that was one of our best decisions.
Prepare for Rain and Wet Weather Pack-Ups
It started raining late at night. Not surprisingly, our gear wasn’t fully protected. I had to go out mid-storm to adjust the canopy, with mud pooling near the tent’s entrance.
Thankfully, we had sealed some items in dry bags. However, our cookware wasn’t one of them.
Next time, we’ll waterproof everything. Even if the forecast says it’ll be clear.
The Uphill Exit Was No Joke
After rain, the uphill road out of Sierra Grove became a slick challenge. We got stuck and had to try twice before making it out.
That part was stressful. But looking back, it capped off the trip in the most dramatic way possible.
Would We Go Again? Absolutely!
In spite of the hiccups, we’d do it again. Our dog loved the ride. We learned more than we expected. And the slow pace was just what we needed.
Hopefully, our first-time camping tips give you a better head start than we had. With a little prep and flexibility, camping becomes less stressful—and way more enjoyable.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I personally use or trust based on solid research.
About Me
I’m JP B. Bantigue, a multidisciplinary digital professional with a background in UI/UX design, front-end development, and project strategy. This post marks my first camping trip—rain, dogs, and gear fails included. I share reflections like these to help others embrace new experiences with a bit more prep and a lot more curiosity.
