Article for a camping informational guide:
Dispersed Camping: When getting away from it all includes campgrounds.
Depending on your experience, camping can mean anything from a fully furnished house on wheels to carrying a single backpack out into the wilderness. Many of us fall somewhere in between. Dispersed camping is more remote and rough than a designated campground, but will allow for a quieter experience. Being jammed ten feet from a family of five and their dog while they blast Born in the USA on repeat is not my ideal way to get away from it all. (No offense to Springsteen or his fan base, but let's get some variety through those speakers.)
Dispersed camping basically means choosing a spot to camp anywhere in a State or National Park outside a designated campground area. A few things to keep in mind before taking that Subaru off the highway and popping up that tent:
Make sure the area you're considering actually allows camping and be aware of any fire and hiking laws.
Check the weather, and prepare accordingly. Cold, heat, rain, wind, and snow can really ruin your trip if you didn't know about them beforehand. Critters like mosquitoes may also factor in.
Dispersed camping means the comforts a campground may provide will be absent. This includes power and water, trash pickup, lights, road maintenance, shelter, and restrooms. Some more popular dispersed camping locations may have a few of these, but don't plan on them.
The buddy system, while not requisite, is a good idea. Having a few vehicles and some friends to share the gear responsibilities with is a great way to be more comfortable, and safer, on an adventure off-road. This also ensures the only people you have to deal with on your camping trip are the ones you actually want to see.
Don't be a jerk: Pack up and take everything you brought. Make sure your fires (if permitted) are completely extinguished before going to bed or before leaving. Destroying or defacing nature is never OK. Look at the rocks and trees, they don't need your initials.
All that sounded negative, I know. However, if you don't mind the extra considerations, having a unique spot to camp is such a rewarding way to unwind. Hiking, stargazing, wildlife watching, and just sitting back to enjoy peaceful seclusion are all reasons this type of camping is my favorite. Since you don't have to worry about neighbors, there are some definite plusses to dispersed camping. Noise, for example. A group of friends letting loose and having a great time may cause a ruckus, but the coyotes and birds don't seem to mind much. Karen and Jim with their three kids and dog would complain.
It doesn't have to be hard, even if it seems daunting to the newcomer.
Car camping is an easy way to make it happen. My 2017 Toyota Rav4 is quite comfortable to sleep in and has all-wheel drive for the occasional rough patch of dirt road. Most SUVs and station wagons are serviceable for this style of camping. Additionally, the cost of a campground reservation, and the uncertainty of getting a spot, are non-issues.
But you'll need more than just a place to rest your head at night.
Other gear high on the list of needs are flashlights, headlamps, and/or lanterns. Out in the wilds it can get mighty dark!
A lighter of some kind and cooking supplies. This could include a propane camp stove, a compact pot with lid, and cutlery. Used paper cups and plates can be used for kindling in a campfire, just be aware of embers floating away.
Weather-appropriate clothes and personal items. Don't forget medications! Bathing wipes make a great shower alternative for a weekend trip. Bug spray and sunscreen are cheap insurance against some possible annoyances. Tougher sneakers or hiking boots will be your go-to during the day, but having footwear easy to slip on and off for midnight trips to relieve yourself are an oft-overlooked necessity in my opinion. (Remember the TP!)
Firewood will always go faster than you think, so don't be sparing with how much you bring. A variety of sizes will get you going and keep the fire fueled.
Everyone's needs and desires are different, so the list of gear you pack will vary. If you're a gear person, this is the perfect application for your new LED lantern, folding shovel, camp stove, etc. If you're going with a group, splitting up the meals is a great way to distribute everyone's food and supply responsibilities. The same could be said for anything that can be used communally. A signup sheet is always present for my group's pre-trip planning.
A last-minute trip to take advantage of your family or friends' unexpected Friday off can be used to enjoy nature and get out of your regular everyday setting. Maybe you're already into camping but want to take the next step and find your own perfect little slice of a beautiful State or National Park. Perhaps that new 4Runner is begging for some adventure. Dispersed camping is more accessible and less shackled by rules. Be respectful of the land and be smart about it, and you're practically there already!