Where Is Your Favorite Place To Camp? Part Two

So in Part One we have figured out that the weather just might be cooperating for our trip. So where are we going? How long will we be gone? Do we have a plan or do we even need one? Sometimes it’s best to just head out and figure it out as we go…but you know the old saying, ” failing to plan is planning to fail”? My thoughts are always to make a plan, even if it’s just a loose one, and then be flexible to adjust those plans as you go. After all, things come up and plans can and will change. BE FLEXIBLE. TAKE A BREATH AND ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE!

Sand/Beaches/Coastal

Usually if we are near sand, a beach or water, the weather will be nice…well most of the time. Coastal camping combines the tranquility of the ocean with the adventure of exploring rugged shorelines. Overlanding along the coast means navigating through sandy beaches, cliffs, and rocky shores. The sound of waves crashing and the scent of salty air are constant companions. The coastal environment presents unique challenges—tides to watch for, wind to account for, and sometimes even remote areas where vehicle access is limited. But it’s also one of the most rewarding environments, with opportunities for beachcombing, fishing, and watching the sunrise and sunset over the horizon.

Always keep in mind the depth of the sand, meaning make sure you can get into where you want to get and make sure you can get back out. Traction boards, airing down your tires and carrying recovery equipment can all help for a successful experience.

The Desert

The desert environment is both harsh and serene. It offers wide, open spaces with little to no vegetation. Temperatures can be extreme—blazing hot during the day and freezing cold at night. Overlanding in the desert requires careful planning, including hydration management, sun protection, and knowing where to find shelter or campgrounds. The vast, endless horizons, towering sand dunes, and stunning sunsets create a surreal, almost otherworldly experience. At night, the stars are often more visible than in any other environment, offering incredible stargazing opportunities.

Watch for desert foliage and wildlife. Always keep the Tread Lightly principles in mind!

Rocks/Mountains

Camping in the rocks can be awesome! As long as you are not needing to pound stakes into the ground to tie things down, a rock surface can be much cleaner to camp on. Mountain camping or overlanding offers a thrilling adventure surrounded by towering peaks, alpine lakes, and lush valleys. The terrain is often rugged and challenging, requiring vehicles equipped for rough, rocky roads or steep inclines. The air is crisp, and the cooler temperatures make this a popular choice during summer months. Whether you’re hiking to a campsite or driving along winding mountain paths, the panoramic views and proximity to wildlife create a sense of awe. Nights are chilly, but the mountain air and quiet make for restful sleep under the towering trees or a starlit sky.

Parks/Maintained Properties/Campgrounds

We’re just going to go ahead and call this “glamping”. For a new adventurer that is hesitant about venturing out into the “wild”, this is a GREAT place to start! Typically these locations have bathrooms, fire pits, picnic tables and other “facilities”. Think of these places kind of like hotels, but you get to sleep outside with your own stuff 🙂 Even for the well experienced “camper”, these places are comfortable and accommodating. I know that as I get older, it’s always a nice experience to spend a day or two in these sites.

Outside the Box/ Special Places

Over the years I’ve realized that some of the best experiences are those that occur with a small group of like minded people. I guarantee that after a few days or nights, with a group that you may not even know, it will turn into an experience that you will remember for a lifetime. It turns out that the terms “Jeep Family” or “off-road family” are very real. From my own experience, I know that getting involved with events, introducing myself to other “like minded” folks, asking questions, and just getting out there and making an effort have had an ENORMOUS impact on my life. Camping just happens to be one of those “things” that brings people together.

It would be a fail on my part if I didn’t mention a few of the manufacturers of the gear that has made our experiences so much better! Maybe in a future article I’ll go over a few of the items that make our trips easier! Please support these folks as they are working hard to make our lives better!

MetalCloak; MileStar Tires; Raceline Wheels; Warn Industries; Dometic; Adventure Rack Systems; Rugged Radios; Roof Space; Zarges; GoMammut; American Adventure Labs; Baja Designs; Bluetti

####