Camping is one of the most affordable ways to enjoy the outdoors. But prices can vary widely. The cost depends on many factors. These include location, amenities, and time of year. In this guide, we’ll break down all the costs. You’ll learn what to expect when budgeting for your next trip.
Basic campgrounds often charge 10−30 per night. More developed sites usually cost 30−60. Luxury glamping can run 100−300 nightly. Prices change based on what’s included. We’ll explore all the details below.
Types of Campgrounds and Their Costs
1. Public Campgrounds (Most Affordable)
Public lands offer the cheapest options. These include:
- National Forests: 5−20/night
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM): Often free-$15
- State Parks: 10−35/night
- National Parks: 15−30/night
These sites have basic amenities. You’ll usually find pit toilets and fire rings. Some have drinking water. Hookups are rare.
2. Private Campgrounds (Mid-Range)
Private sites offer more services. Typical prices:
- Basic private campgrounds: 25−50/night
- KOA (Kampgrounds of America): 35−80/night
- RV parks with full hookups: 40−100/night
These often include:
- Showers
- Laundry
- Playgrounds
- Small stores
- Sometimes pools or game rooms
3. Luxury Camping (Glamping)
For those wanting comfort, prices jump:
- Safari tents: 80−200/night
- Yurts: 90−250/night
- Treehouses: 120−400/night
- Airstream rentals: 150−300/night
These include real beds and often electricity. Some have private bathrooms and kitchens.
Factors That Affect Camping Costs
1. Location Matters
Popular areas cost more. Examples:
- Near Yellowstone: 25−60
- Remote Midwest spots: 10−25
- California coast: 35−75
- Florida state parks: 18−30
Urban areas often charge more than rural ones. Waterfront sites usually cost extra.
2. Seasonal Price Changes
Summer is peak season almost everywhere. Prices may double. Shoulder seasons (spring/fall) offer savings. Winter camping is cheapest but coldest.
Examples of seasonal changes:
- Summer in Maine: 35−60
- Winter in Maine: 15−30
- Arizona winter: 40−70
- Arizona summer: 25−45
3. Amenities Impact Price
Each added feature increases cost:
- No hookups: 10−30
- Electric only: 25−45
- Full hookups (water/electric/sewer): 40−100
- Premium sites (lake view, extra space): 10−30
4. Group Sites Cost More
Large areas for groups run:
- Day use: 50−150
- Overnight: 75−300
These hold 10-50 people. Per person, they’re often cheaper than individual sites.
Additional Costs to Consider
1. Reservation Fees
Many places charge extra to book:
- Recreation.gov: $8 per reservation
- State systems: 4−10
- Private sites: Often no fee
2. Extra Person Fees
Base prices usually cover 2-4 people. Additional guests may cost:
- Adults: 5−10 each
- Kids: 2−5 each
3. Vehicle Fees
Some places charge per car:
- Second vehicle: 5−15
- Oversized vehicles: 10−20
4. Activity Fees
Popular add-ons:
- Firewood: 5−10/bundle
- Boat launch: 5−20
- Guided hikes: 10−50/person
- Equipment rental: Varies widely
How to Save Money Camping
1. Camp Off-Season
Prices drop when kids are in school. September and May often have great weather with lower costs.
2. Choose Primitive Sites
Skip the hookups. Basic sites cut costs by 50% or more.
3. Use Discount Programs
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80/year (covers federal site entry fees)
- State park passes: Vary (often 50−100/year)
- Military/Veteran discounts: 10-50% off
- Senior discounts: Often 50% at federal sites
4. Volunteer Hosting
Many campgrounds offer free sites in exchange for work. Duties might include:
- Cleaning bathrooms
- Selling firewood
- Light maintenance
- 20-30 hours/week typically required
International Camping Costs
1. Canada
Similar to U.S. prices:
- Provincial parks: CAD 25−40
- National parks: CAD 30−50
- Private sites: CAD 35−80
2. Europe
More expensive generally:
- Basic sites: €15-€30
- Full-service: €25-€60
- Scandinavia: Often €30-€70
3. Australia
Wide range:
- National parks: AUD 10−30
- Private parks: AUD 30−60
- Remote bush camping: Often free
RV Camping vs Tent Costs
1. Tent Sites
Cheapest option:
- Public lands: 0−25
- Private: 20−50
2. RV Sites
More expensive due to hookups:
- No hookups: 25−40
- Partial: 35−60
- Full: 45−100
3. Cabin Rentals
Middle option:
- Basic: 50−120
- Deluxe: 100−250
Hidden Costs Beginners Miss
1. Gear Upfront Costs
Initial purchases add up:
- Tent: 50−500
- Sleeping bag: 30−300
- Stove: 20−200
2. Travel Expenses
Getting there costs money:
- Gas: Varies by distance
- Park entry fees: 5−35
- Tolls: Possible
3. Food Costs
Camp meals can be cheap but:
- Cooler ice: 2−5/day
- Camp stove fuel: $5/week
- Forgetting items means buying locally (often expensive)
Average Total Trip Costs
1. Budget Weekend (2 people)
- Site: 15/night x2=30
- Food: 20/day x2=40
- Gas: $20
- Total: ~$90
2. Mid-Range Family Week (4 people)
- Site: 35/night x7=245
- Food: 30/day x7=210
- Activities: $50
- Gas: $100
- Total: ~$600
3. Luxury Glamping Weekend
- Site: 200/night x2=400
- Meals: 50/day x2=100
- Spa add-ons: $150
- Total: ~$650
Conclusion
Camping costs range from free to hundreds per night. Most people spend 20−60 nightly for a good site. The type of experience you want determines the price
Remember these key points:
- Public lands offer the best deals
- Weekdays and off-season mean savings
- More amenities = higher costs
- Always check for hidden fees
With proper planning, camping remains one of the most affordable vacations. Even at higher-end sites, you’ll pay less than most hotels. And you get to wake up in nature!
Now that you understand the costs, you can budget wisely. Whether you want a simple tent site or a luxury yurt, there’s an option for every wallet. Happy camping!
Related topics:
How Much Does a Permanent Campsite Cost?
How Much Does It Cost to Rent an RV for a Week?
