As the leaves begin to turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, and a crispness fills the air, some RV’ers start to put their campers away for winter.  NOT ME!   While summer camping certainly has its charms, fall is my favorite time to camp. Here are some of my reasons why fall camping is fun and why you should consider an autumn adventure.

Breathtaking Scenery

Fall is a season of transformation in the great outdoors. The landscape undergoes a dramatic makeover, with trees shedding their leaves, creating a kaleidoscope of colors. The scenery is nothing short of awe-inspiring, making every hike, campfire, and morning coffee all the more enchanting. I love seeing the aspens leaves change to yellow and the sumac to red.

Perfect Weather

Say goodbye to scorching summer heat and pesky insects. Fall offers a comfortable, moderate climate for camping. The days are pleasantly warm, while the nights bring a refreshing chill, ideal for cozying up by the campfire or snuggling under the blankets in your RV. I love the chill in the air that fall brings.

Crowd-Free Camping

As the summer crowds disperse, fall camping provides a quieter and more serene experience. Campgrounds and trails are less crowded, allowing you to connect more intimately with nature and enjoy some well-deserved solitude. And while many campgrounds close in the fall, some do stay open, knowing there are campers out there who aren’t quite ready to winterize. Fall is also a perfect time to look for sites to boondock on as those sites almost never close.

Starry Nights

Longer nights in fall mean more time for stargazing. With fewer city lights to contend with, you can witness an awe-inspiring celestial display. Don’t forget to bring along a telescope or binoculars to enhance your starry experience. It may be just a coincidence, but we were fortunate to see the Northern Lights this week from our campsite at Red Rock RV Park near Island Park, Idaho.

Delicious Fall Flavors

Fall camping invites you to indulge in hearty meals and cozy beverages. Think campfire-roasted marshmallows, hot apple cider, and hearty stews. Cooking and sharing meals around the campfire take on a special charm in the autumn. Break out that Dutch oven and try something new.

Wildlife Encounters

Many animals become more active during the fall as they prepare for winter (or mating). Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, moose, bear, squirrels, and various bird species going about their seasonal routines. It’s an opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers to capture some memorable moments. Just remember to stay a safe distance away.

Adventurous Hiking

Fall offers excellent hiking conditions. The cooler weather allows for more comfortable and extended hikes, and the colorful backdrop adds an extra layer of beauty to your outdoor explorations. Be sure to dress in layers and consider wool instead of cotton.

Cozy Campfires

There’s something uniquely comforting about gathering around a campfire when the air turns chilly. It’s the perfect opportunity to share stories, roast marshmallows, and simply enjoy the warmth of the flames. If you haven’t tried the salted caramel stuffed marshmallows from Stuffed Puffed, they are amazing.

So just because the calendar says it’s fall, doesn’t mean it’s time to start packing the camper up for winter storage.  Fall camping is a delightful experience that brings together the best of nature’s beauty, comfortable weather, and fewer crowds. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a novice camper, the autumn season provides an ideal backdrop for unforgettable adventures in the great outdoors. Grab your gear, pack your warmest clothes, hook up the camper and immerse yourself in the splendor of fall camping.  In the comments, let me know where you like to go fall camping and share some photos.

About Lesa McDermott & Girl Camper

Lesa McDermott is the Vice President of Operations for Girl Camper. In addition to running the day to day operations of Girl Camper, she also writes for Girl Camper and plans events. She is a member of the Outdoor Writers Association of America and lives in Custer, South Dakota with her husband Karl and several fur monsters that often camp with her. She and her husband own a construction company and she is an attorney. She is also very active with Casting For Recovery, whose mission is to enhance the lives of women with breast cancer by connecting them to each other and nature through the therapeutic sport of fly fishing.

Girl Camper is a women’s lifestyle and media brand focusing on camping, outdoor activities, camaraderie, and travel. It produces the Girl Camper Magazine, has a website with informative and fun blog posts, hosts events, and maintains national and local social network communities on Facebook. Search for Girl Camper on Facebook and find your local chapter.