5 Reasons Why You Absolutely Must Try Spring Camping

There are so many reasons you have to try spring camping! We absolutely love getting out in spring, just as the snow is starting to leave the lower elevations. That odd time of year when winter activities are almost done and yet summer activities have not yet started. Spring is a magical time to be in the mountains.

Winter is long in the Canadian Rockies and although spring conditions make an appearance at a different time each year, it’s absolutely worth getting out to try Spring camping during these more marginal conditions and getting a jump start on your camping season.

When it comes to Winter camping in the Rockies, it requires a lot of planning and quite often different and more expensive gear than what you may have for summer camping. However your summer set up can easily be used in spring, an extra blanket, set of thermals and a toque can work wonders to help you get out and try spring camping.

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Five Reasons You Have To Try Spring Camping

1) It Is Quiet

Prime camping spots are often available in Spring while you wouldn’t even get near them during summer. Those knockout campsite views are almost guaranteed, as is just a spot in general. No forward planning needed like in the busy summer months when you need to reserve your spot months in advance to guarantee your site.

Spring camping also means the campground as a whole is quiet, think peaceful nights, very few neighbours and plenty of space. Isn’t that the big draw of camping in the first place?

2) There Are Very Few Bugs

Come June the bugs, specifically the mosquitos can be horrific. This is a huge reason why you have to try spring camping, you’ll never look back! Bring bug spray, just in case, but the likelihood of needing it is slim!

We’ve all been there, wearing all the clothes, covering ourselves in bug spray or hiding inside the net tent just for some relief from the bugs. This simply isn’t such a huge issue while spring camping and I for one, am all about it.

3) Campfires

Most summers see fire bans to protect local areas during dry and hot spells, sometimes these can last for months. In spring, with the typical rain and melting snow, there are rarely fire bans, meaning you can cozy up beside a lovely campfire.

You’ll also find, you may need the campfire to keep you warm at night, since even during warmer spring days, once the sun sets the temperatures typically drop significantly.

Note that every year is different, always check for fire bans before heading out on a trip.

4) Cool Nights Mean Great Sleep

I don’t know about you but I always sleep better on cooler nights. Nothing beats a nice, cool night, sleeping in a tent and spring camping offers plenty of these type of nights! Breathe easy and cozy up in your sleeping bag for a great night’s sleep when you try spring camping.

Don’t forget to pack a set of thermal layers in case it’s more than just a cool night. A cold night without the right layers will lead to an awful night’s sleep!

5) Green Grass

After that first rain of spring, the world starts to turn green. It doesn’t stay this way for the whole summer so getting out to try spring camping means you can really embrace the greenness, the refresh to the environment after a long winter under snow.

The colours pop and with it wildlife can be spotted in abundance. Spring makes a great time for bird watching as well as offering plenty of opportunities to spot deer, elk and sheep. Bears also start to appear from hibernation.

Tips For Spring Camping

Be Prepared For All Weather

If you are heading out to try spring camping, always pack for any and all weather, regardless of the forecast. Weather can change quickly when spring camping. For an enjoyable experience it is best to be prepared.

Expect Lingering Snow Or Mud

Long into May some years, snow can linger in shaded areas of campgrounds. The melt can cause large puddles in low lying areas of the campground too. A pair of waterproof shoes will go a long way, I find waterproof hiking boots typically work wonders for keeping my feet warm and dry.

Plan Day Hikes Carefully

Often in Spring, avalanche risk can be high, make sure to plan any day hikes accordingly. Check the avalanche forecast for your area before heading out and make sure you are aware of any hazards on the trail.

Bring Bear Spray

Spring means the bears are waking up! Make sure to always pack bear spray when spring camping! When they wake up they are hungry, make sure you are prepared for an encounter.