Skip to main content
Governor JB Pritzker Illinois.gov Contact IDNR DNR A to Z

Camping tips

Camping should be fun and easy. Follow these tips to Camp Like a Pro.

5 steps to camping success

  1. Stay on trails to protect wildlife habitat and reduce erosion.

  2. Respect wildlife by observing from a distance. Never feed wild animals.

  3. Leave it be: Don’t take natural souvenirs like rocks, shells or flowers.

  4. Pack smart and bring reuseable water bottles, plates and cutlery. 

  5. Pick up litter. Leave no trace to keep state parks clean and safe for all.

Plan ahead and pack smart

Know where bathrooms and shelters are located. Wear sturdy shoes to hike. Check the weather and dress accordingly.

Some of the items campers should plan to bring with them include:

  • Refillable bottles
  • Reusable tableware
  • Compostable plates
  • Biodegradable soap

New to camping?

If you’re an inexperienced camper, there’s no need to worry. Follow these tips to camp smart and protect the outdoors.

  • Use non-toxic bug spray.

  • Use a reusable cooler.

  • Keep food sealed.

  • Leave no trace

  • Bring refillable bottles.

  • Bring a map.

  • Dress for the weather.

  • Use solar energy.

Helpful tips to camp like a pro

Camping or hiking can feel exciting yet overwhelming for beginners. You may ask yourself, “How do I know what to pack or bring with me for my trip? Is what I bring safe and practical?”

Outdoors, nothing is holding you back from nature. But that also means that mishandled food/drink storage, or the wrong type of bug spray, can be harmful to wild animals that can easily come across these items. 

With the right tools, supplies, and mindset, you can make your first time outdoors feel like you’ve been doing this for years! Here are some quick, easy tips to camp smart while also protecting the outdoors!

  • Use non-toxic bug spray: Avoid sprays with large quantities of chemicals such as DEET, which can be harmful in generous dosages. Consider using bug sprays made from natural ingredients like lavender, which have less risk of adverse effects.

  • Use a reusable cooler: Avoid single-use polystyrene coolers or cooler bags in favor of reusable ones, which are sturdier and can last for a lifetime with proper maintenance.

  • Keep food sealed: Always seal up the leftovers from meals in closed containers or bags. Keep watch for any spilled food or drink, which can attract wild animals.

  • Leave no trace: Always leave nature the way you find it – or in even better condition if possible. Always pack out what you brought in and clean up any litter discovered in campgrounds or on trails.

  • Bring refillable 

    bottles: Avoid bringing plastic water bottles, which are single-use and wasteful and can contain microplastics in the water. Reusable bottles are durable, easier to pack and can be cleaned. 

  • Bring a map: Download a map from the state park’s website before you go or grab a map from the visitor center. Study the trails, shelters and emergency numbers.

  • Dress for the weather: Bring multiple layers of clothing and pack spares if camping for an extended period. Prioritize durable shoes, hats, sunglasses and umbrellas.

  • Use solar energy: Consider bringing a portable solar charger to conveniently charge your smartphone for daily use while camping. No need to ration battery life!