Planning a camping trip, but not sure about the average cost of tent camping? Understanding the costs involved in camping can make or break your trip. From gear to campground fees, this article breaks down the average expenses and gives you money-saving tips for a successful – and affordable – camping experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Go Camping?
The average cost of tent camping over a weekend ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the location, gear, and travel expenses. Campground fees are $15 to $50 per night at most locations. Basic gear like a tent, sleeping bag, and stove typically costs between $200 and $400 for beginners, while more advanced gear can push costs to over $1,000. Meals and supplies add another $10 to $30 per person per day, and firewood or other extras may cost $5 to $15.
What is the Average Cost of Tent Camping in the US?
Cost of Camping Gear
Camping Gear is your upfront cost for tent camping. Here’s a quick breakdown by budget range:
| Gear | Budget | Mid-range | High-end |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tents | $50 – $150 | $150 – $300 | $300 – $500+ |
| Sleeping Bags | $20 – $50 | $50 – $200 | $200 – $500+ |
| Camping Stoves | $20 – $50 | $50 – $100 | $100 – $200+ |
| Sleeping Pads | $20 – $50 | $50 – $200 | $150 – $300+ |
| Camping Chairs | $25 – $50 | $50 – $100 | 200+ |
| Coolers | $10 – $50 | $100 – $300 | $400+ |
| Headlamps/Flashlights | $10 – $30 | $50 – $100 | – |
Campground Fees
Campground fees are required to setup your campsite, and will vary based on the region and the type of amenities offered at the site. Here’s a look at typical costs across different U.S. states:
| Region | Basic Tent Campsite | RV Campsite |
|---|---|---|
| California | $30 – $50 per night | $40 – $80 per night |
| New York | $20 – $40 per night | $40 – $75 per night |
| Texas | $15 – $30 per night | $25 – $60 per night |
| Montana | $10 – $30 per night | $20 – $50 per night |
| Washington | $20 – $40 per night | $35 – $70 per night |
Cost of Food and Supplies
Food supply costs depends on the length of your trip and personal preferences. Here’s a basic daily breakdown:
| Item | Estimated Cost (per person per day) |
|---|---|
| Meals | $10 – $30 |
| Snacks | $5 – $15 |
| Drinks (non-alcoholic) | $5 – $20 |
| Firewood | $5 – $10 per bundle |
| Fuel camp stoves (propane or isobutane) | $10 – $15 per canister |
| Ice for coolers | $2 – $5 per bag |
Want to estimate your own camping trip expenses? Use the calculator below to get a personalized estimate based on your specific gear, location, and trip duration.
Camping Cost Calculator
1. Gear Costs
2. Campground Fees
3. Food and Supplies
Total Estimated Cost
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Travel Expenses
Travel Expenses are the cost of how you plan to get to your destination–plane, train, automobile or some combination of all three.
| Mode of Transportation | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Car (gas) | $0.10 – $0.20 per mile |
| Plane | $200 – $500+ per person (round trip) |
| Train | $100 – $300+ per person (round trip) |
| Bus | $50 – $150+ per person (round trip) |
Optional Extras
Optional Extras are the cherry on top of your entire trip like guided tours, fishing licenses, or equipment rentals.
| Activity/Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Guided Tours | $50 – $200+ per person |
| Fishing License | $15 – $50 (varies by state and duration) |
| Kayak Rental | $30 – $70 per day |
| Bike Rental | $20 – $50 per day |
| National Park Pass | $80 annual pass, $30 – $35 per vehicle for 7 days |
| Camping Hammock Rental | $10 – $30 per day |
| Bear Canister Rental | $5 – $10 per day |
Cost of Camping Gear for Sleeping
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Tent | $50 – $600 (based on quality and size) |
| Sleeping Bag | $40 – $300 |
| Sleeping Pad | $20 – $150 |
Camp Kitchen Equipment
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Camping Stove | $40 – $150 |
| Cookware | $20 – $100 |
| Other Essentials | $10 – $50 (e.g., knives, cutting boards) |
Lighting and Power Cost
- Headlamps, lanterns, and flashlights: $10 – $50
- Solar chargers/power banks: $30 – $100
Personal Care and Safety Gear
- First aid kit: $15 – $50
- Bear-proof storage containers: $50 – $100
- Water filtration/purification: $20 – $100
Average Per Night Camping Cost in the US
| State | Average Per Night Camping Cost |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $25 |
| Alaska | $20 |
| Arizona | $16 |
| Arkansas | $25 |
| California | $35 |
| Colorado | $30 |
| Connecticut | $22 |
| Delaware | $50 |
| Florida | $25 |
| Georgia | $25 |
| Hawaii | $15 |
| Idaho | $20 |
| Illinois | $22 |
| Indiana | $26 |
| Iowa | $14 |
| Kansas | $18 |
| Kentucky | $17 |
| Louisiana | $20 |
| Maine | $23 |
| Maryland | $20 |
| Massachusetts | $22 |
| Michigan | $19 |
| Minnesota | $21 |
| Mississippi | $19 |
| Missouri | $20 |
| Montana | $20 |
| Nebraska | $22 |
| Nevada | $23 |
| New Hampshire | $27 |
| New Jersey | $23 |
| New Mexico | $12 |
| New York | $25 |
| North Carolina | $20 |
| North Dakota | $15 |
| Ohio | $23 |
| Oklahoma | $18 |
| Oregon | $20 |
| Pennsylvania | $25 |
| Rhode Island | $20 |
| South Carolina | $25 |
| South Dakota | $20 |
| Tennessee | $20 |
| Texas | $20 |
| Utah | $20 |
| Vermont | $23 |
| Virginia | $20 |
| Washington | $20 |
| West Virginia | $20 |
| Wisconsin | $25 |
| Wyoming | $20 |
What is the Average Cost of Campsites in Different Types of Campgrounds?
| Type of Campground | Average Cost per Night | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Park Campgrounds | $15 – $60 | Varies by park and amenities |
| Private Campgrounds | $40 – $60 | Higher costs due to more amenities |
| Tent Camping (General) | $20 – $50 | May have additional charges for electricity |
| Tent Camping (National Parks) | $15 – $25 | For basic tent sites |
| Tent Camping (California) | $20 – $50 | Generally pricier than other states |
| Backcountry Camping | $10 | Most affordable, may have extra fees |
| RV Resorts (Off-season) | $40 – $50 | Fall through spring |
| RV Resorts (Peak season) | $60 – $100 | Summer months |
| Luxury RV Resorts | Up to $200 | With amenities like pools and spas |
How Can You Make Your Camping Trip Cheaper?
- Look for discounted camping gear either online or from resale shops. You may be able to find gently used items like tents, sleeping bags and footwear at the fraction of retail price.
- Consider camping in national parks rather than private campgrounds, as these are typically cheaper alternatives.
- Buy food in bulk beforehand, such as buying canned foods that do not require refrigeration. Also consider utilizing reusable containers to reduce waste and save money on packaging costs.
- Research campsite options ahead of time to compare prices and determine which one is most affordable according to your budget needs.
- Keep an eye out for special discounts or specials offered by campgrounds, hotels or restaurants when you plan your route ahead of time – some offer lower rates if you book multiple nights at once.
- Use discount codes when signing up for online services related to camping, such as airfare searches or membership programs with hotel chains .
- Consider investing in a multiuse outdoor item instead of purchasing limited use single items – this can help reduce cost significantly over time (e.g., hammocks).
Helpful Camping Resources
- Campendium: This website provides campground reviews and photos from campers, for campers. It’s a great resource for finding the best places to camp, including free camping sites.
- Reserve America: This is a comprehensive resource for reserving campgrounds in the United States. It includes information on federal, state, and private campgrounds.
- National Park Service: The official website for the U.S. National Park Service. It provides information on camping in national parks, including costs and reservation details.
- Recreation.gov: This is a one-stop resource for making reservations on federal lands, including national parks and forests.
- KOA (Kampgrounds of America): KOA offers a wide variety of campgrounds across the U.S. with different amenities and services.
- Hipcamp: This website is like Airbnb for camping. It allows you to book unique camping experiences on ranches, farms, vineyards, and public parks across the U.S.
- The Dyrt: A comprehensive resource with reviews, photos, and details for more than 44,000 campgrounds and RV parks in the U.S.
- AllStays: This site provides information on a variety of lodging options, including campgrounds, RV parks, truck stops, rest areas, and more.
FAQ: Tent Camping Costs and Budgeting
How much does it cost to go tent camping?
The average cost for tent camping is between $25 and $50 per night for most campgrounds, with additional costs for gear, food, and travel. A basic weekend trip can cost around $100 to $300, depending on location and gear needs.
How can I save money on camping gear?
You can save by buying used camping gear or renting from outdoor stores. Look for quality second-hand tents, sleeping bags, and stoves, which can cut your initial setup costs by half.
What is the average price of a tent for camping?
A quality tent for camping can cost between $100 and $600, depending on the size and features. Lower-end tents are good for beginners, but investing in a durable tent can save you money in the long run.
How much does firewood cost at campsites?
Firewood typically costs between $7 and $15 per bundle, depending on the location and whether the campground provides firewood for purchase.
Are there free campsites in the U.S.?
Yes, there are many free or low-cost campsites available, especially in public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Always check local regulations before camping.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the cost of tent camping can range from $300 for a basic setup to over $1,500 for premium gear and campsites. Your total will depend on the gear you choose, your location, and any extras like activities or permits. Adjusting for your region can help you better plan and manage costs.