In my opinion, October is actually one of the best months to get outside, hike, and camp.
Just because fall is arriving, that doesn’t mean that your outdoor fun has to stop.
Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and gorgeous fall colors means it’s the ideal time to pitch a tent and enjoy nature.
Whether it’s cozy campfires or peaceful trails you’re looking for, October camping has a little something special for everyone!
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Perfect Weather for Outdoor Adventure
Comfortable weather is what makes October perfect for camping.
The summer heat has faded, the bugs are almost gone, and you can finally enjoy your time outside without sweating through your shirt.
It’s great.
The cool, crisp fall air makes hiking, fishing, and exploring much more enjoyable, and the lower humidity levels will help keep your gear dry.
It’s the perfect balance.
Beautiful October Scenery
October camping means peak fall foliage in most parts of the country.
The reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves will leave you feeling like your campsite is straight out of a postcard, so you can get the coolest photos for your Instagram.
The views will be incredible, and moments like that are what fall camping is all about.
Cozy Campfires and Yummy Foods
Cooler nights and earlier sunsets can only mean one thing—it’s campfire season.
October is the best time to grab your friends, gather around the campfire, and make some meals the old-fashioned way.
I’m thinking hotdogs, fire-roasted chili, and aluminum foil grilled cheeses.
Yum.
There’s nothing that beats the smell of burning wood mixing with autumn air.
If your friends tell you they don’t do bonfires, find new friends.
Fewer Crowds, Quieter Campgrounds
By October, most summer campers have already packed up their tents and thrown them in the garage.
How sad for them.
Fortunately, this means that you’ll be greeted with emptier campgrounds–and more space to yourself.
This is a huge perk for someone who likes quiet mornings and nights of solitude.
You’ll find that there is better campsite availability in most places. No more spending hours searching around for the last open spot.
Due to the lowered traffic, many campgrounds offer discounted rates during fall and winter, meaning you’ll keep more money in your pocket.
Overall things just tend to be a little bit slower and a little bit more relaxed.
October is a Great Time to Test Your Gear
October camping is a great way for you to start transitioning into winter.
When it’s cold you have to pack smarter, you have to pack better.
The only way to get better at camping in the cold is by doing it.
You’ll learn what works, and you’ll learn what doesn’t, but in the end you’ll be a stronger, more seasoned camper.
Test your cold weather sleeping bag, your layering abilities, and your tent’s insulation levels. You’ll realize pretty quickly if you need to make a major upgrade to your equipment.
Many outdoor retailers run fall sales on camping gear, so use this time to stock up on supplies for next year’s season. It’s a great way to save money on camping gear!
Final Thoughts: Yes to October Camping
My final thoughts are highly in favor of a ‘yes’.
From gorgeous scenery to relaxing nights by the fire, October is an under-appreciated month for camping.
Campgrounds and National Parks are less crowded, the weather is more comfortable, and all in all it just feels a little more enjoyable.
It’s quiet. Peaceful.
Fall brings out natures best, and it seems a waste to spend that time sitting around on the couch.
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