The weather

Autumn marks the height of the nation's tourism season. In September, the average air temperature in southern states can get as high as 77 °F (25 °C). Typically, the temperature decreases to 50 °F (10 °C) by the end of November. There is often the least amount of precipitation in the fall. The beach season is still in full swing in California at the same time that the northern section of the country is enjoying its first snowfall.

In the fall, temperatures begin to cool down around the country. This is a welcome season in northern regions, where leaves change to beautiful shades of red, yellow, and orange. But don’t let the beautiful changing colors of the leaves fool you into thinking everything is calm and always ok. Fall is fickle. You might find yourself falling asleep on a warm dry night only to wake up cold and wet. This sudden change in weather is normal during fall so it’s better to be prepared for anything that may come.

The campsite

Depending on where you live and where you camp, the number of reservations on campsites declines steadily over the fall months. Because there are fewer campers, you’ll be able to book your preferred campsite that is typically unavailable in the summer. 

Autumn camping is more enticing for those of you who love a quiet, relaxing pace of life. It’s the time when peace and tranquility arrive on campgrounds around the nation and the summer's hustle and bustle has departed.

Fall camping also offers cheaper rates, giving you more chances to enjoy an exciting adventure, experience something new, and have a great time.

Advantages

Besides the amazingly cool weather and fewer crowds, there are other advantages to camping in Fall.

• Fewer bugs - Even though bugs are largely unavoidable when camping in the summer, there are much fewer in Fall. You'll have a bug-free holiday thanks to cooler temps and reduced humidity.
• Scenic roads going to camp - Take advantage of the breathtaking Fall foliage scenic drives while on your way to the campsite. It will give you a taste of what's yet to come once you get to camp.  Here is our list of the most scenic roads you can take this Fall.
• Cozier campfires - In many campsites, campfires are prohibited in the sweltering summer months. However, as fall arrives, these restrictions are typically lifted, allowing you to cuddle up with your campmates and truly enjoy the heat on chilly fall nights.
• Great hiking weather - Fall is a welcome relief to many hikers after an extremely hot and humid summer. The cooler air makes it less likely for you to overheat. But even though the air is cooler, wearing the right gear, warming up properly, and preparing both mentally and physically are still important.

Disadvantages

• It can be very wet - Fall weather is unpredictable and you may find yourself sleeping dry but waking up wet. The sudden change in weather is normal but it can be quite annoying especially when you’re looking forward to a great hike the next day.

• It's cold. Maybe too cold - The cool weather may be a welcome change but it’s not when it gets too cold to do anything fun. Depending on where you camp, you might not want to include swimming in the cold lake in your itinerary.
• Water activities might be on hold till next summer - You might be out of luck if you enjoy camping simply because it gives you access to water sports. Autumn is definitely too cold for swimming as you did on your summer camping trips.

What to bring

The sudden change in weather is normal during fall so it’s better to be prepared for anything that may come. 

Clothing

When you're outdoors, layering is something you must know how to do. This tried-and-tested strategy lets you regulate temperature comfortably by slipping layers on and off as your activity level increase or however the weather changes. 

Make sure you bring the right footwear, gloves, and a beanie to keep the heat on your head.

Gear

The gear you’ll bring will depend on where you’re going, the weather on where you’re going, and for how long you’ll be staying. 

A first aid kit should be the first thing on your list. Though this may be a given, accidents do happen and shouldn’t be taken lightly. It wouldn’t hurt to be reminded and to be prepared.

Though the weather might be a bit cold, it’s still not cold enough to bring a 4-season tent. It’s best to prepare for both sunny and cold (or wet) weather so a 3-season tent will be the perfect choice for your trip.

Food

Cold weather makes us want to enjoy warm comfort food cooked over the campfire. When you plan your camping menu, choose simple recipes with a lot of carbs and good fats to keep you fueled and energized. Simpler meals will take less effort to cook and will require fewer ingredients. You also won’t need to use a lot of utensils that you’ll have to carry towards camp.

Make sure you plan your meals and prepare them before your trip. Shorter hours of sunlight mean having less time to prepare your meals, and food may take a little longer to cook due to the cold weather.

If you need a deeper dive into what to bring, check out our other on what gear to bring for your next Fall trip.

Should you do it?

The simple answer is yes. If you want to experience camping fully, you have to try doing it in the Fall. You’ll experience a wide variety of weather and you get to enjoy the warmth of the campfire at night. Which is what camping is about right? The hot campfire drink, crisp cozy mornings, and the peace and quiet during fall camping are unlike any other.

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