Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer camping season

By Brandon Butler | Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial arrival of summer. Campgrounds fill up, boat
ramps are crowded, and families dust off coolers and lawn chairs that have been sitting in
the garage since the leaves dropped last fall. Across the Midwest, we are ready to be
outdoors enjoying the splendor and excitement of nature.

For a lot of us, some of our best memories come from a campground. I still remember
family camping trips from my youth like they were yesterday — riding bicycles from
dawn to dusk through air mixed with the smells of campfires and sizzling bacon cooking
in cast-iron skillets. The beach, fishing, slushies at the general store, and exploring nature
centers were all part of the experience.

There is something timeless about sitting around a fire after dark, listening to the critters
that come alive at night while somebody stirs the coals with a stick and prepares the next
s’more. Camping slows life down in a way we don’t experience enough these days. But
on Memorial Day weekend, you may also run into some challenges. It’s one of the
busiest outdoor weekends of the year, so preparation can make the difference between a
relaxing getaway and a frustrating experience.

Many parks and campgrounds offer a mix of reservation-only campsites and first-come,
first-served opportunities. If you’re planning to camp this summer, spend some time
online before loading the truck. Be sure to reserve or identify likely available campsites,
explore park amenities, and search for activities like fishing, hiking, paddling, or wildlife
viewing before you arrive.

Once camp is set up, a few simple habits help keep the experience enjoyable for
everyone. One of the biggest concerns for campers is fire safety. Ongoing drought
conditions across parts of the country have created concerns about wildfires, and some
parks may have temporary campfire bans in place. Be sure to check park advisories and
closures online because conditions can change quickly.

Where campfires are allowed, common sense goes a long way. Keep fires inside
designated fire rings, never leave them unattended, and always have water nearby. Make
sure the fire is completely extinguished before heading to bed or leaving camp.

Another important reminder is to leave firewood at home. Transporting firewood spreads
invasive insects and tree diseases, including the emerald ash borer. Buying local firewood
near the campground helps protect forests and natural resources. It’s a small step that
makes a big difference over time.

Holiday weekends can also test people’s patience. Campgrounds are crowded. Boat
ramps get hectic. Somebody’s kid will ride a bicycle through your campsite at some
point. Somebody else will probably fire up a generator to really offset the natural
experience. It happens every time. A little grace goes a long way outdoors.

Most campers are there for the same reason you are. They want to relax, spend time with
family, and enjoy the outdoors. Park employees are working long hours during busy
weekends, too. Patience and courtesy help create a better atmosphere for everybody
sharing the campground.

One campground rule that deserves more respect is quiet hours. In many state park
campgrounds, quiet hours run from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. Not everybody wants to hear
your music at midnight. Some folks actually came to hear owls and tree frogs. Camping
etiquette still matters.

Camping also provides a perfect excuse to introduce kids to fishing. Some of my best
memories as a kid include watching bobbers disappear from a campground shoreline.
Most states allow youth 16 and under to fish without a permit, but be sure to check local
regulations.

If you’re heading to the lake, wear a life jacket. Every summer brings tragic stories that
could have been prevented with a simple flotation device. Whether boating, kayaking,
paddleboarding, or even swimming, life jackets save lives. Kids should always wear them
near the water, and honestly, adults should too.

Keep an eye on the weather. Spring and early summer storms can develop quickly. Many
state parks have restroom facilities that double as storm shelters. There’s no shame in
packing up early if severe weather threatens. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of another summer camping season and
another season of outdoor memories waiting to happen. Plan ahead, be patient with
others, respect the resource, and enjoy the simple moments that make camping special.

See you down the trail…

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