Over Half Of Campers Agree This Is The Most Important Campsite Amenity

Nature's call is louder than ever, with more people flocking to the outdoors to soak up its peace and vitality. Camping offers a perfect escape, whether pitching a tent under towering pines or parking an RV by a serene alpine lake. But a successful trip can depend on bringing the right gear: tents, sleeping pads, headlamps, lanterns, chairs, portable stoves, propane, coolers, and organizers for odds and ends. If you have the right tools, easy hacks can transform your basic campsite into a luxurious glamping experience. But certain essentials are non-negotiable, and sometimes it comes down to the amenities at your campsite that make all the difference.

Hipcamp (a company that connects campers with tent, RV, glamping, and private land campsites across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the U.K.) surveyed over 1,000 users to pinpoint what people consider the top campground amenities. Their findings crowned one feature as indispensable: a fire ring or grill. This tool is at the heart of any enjoyable camping experience, blending safety, utility, and the timeless draw of a flickering fire.

Fire rings and grills, prized by 62% of Hipcamp survey respondents, are the backbone of a memorable camping trip. Fire rings keep the flames contained and curb the risk of wildfires. However, the National Parks Service estimates that nearly 85% of U.S. wildfires stem from human error. So even if you have a good fire ring, never leave the campfire unattended! By keeping fires controlled, campers can safeguard forests, wildlife, and our outdoor landscapes by preserving the natural areas we all cherish. 

Beyond safety, a campfire's glow fosters a serenity and calmness, and can knit people together as they share stories or roast the perfect marshmallow. Imagine a cool night, stars blazing overhead, the fire crackling as laughter echoes and logs glow red. Fire rings also make extinguishing flames straightforward: douse with water, stir the ashes, repeat until it is fully cold with zero lingering embers.

Many fire rings include grill grates which are perfect for searing steaks or veggies, and can elevate meals into communal events. If there is a grate, campers often don't need a stove, and your friend that forgot theirs is in luck! It's important to comply with local fire rules and restrictions. Check with the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management, as permits for fires might be needed in some areas.

Hipcamp's survey also spotlighted other amenities campers crave for a fulfilling trip. Potable water, valued by 59% of respondents, is a lifeline, especially in remote sites and areas where a general store is miles away. Available via taps, water spigots, or nearby streams that can be boiled for sanitation, it's an absolutely essential item while adventuring outdoors. We need it for existing, drinking, cooking and cleaning, and a sturdy water jug is a must.

Toilets and showers, noted by 30% of campers, bring comfort and hygiene to an outdoor adventure. Sanitation stations spare campers from digging latrines, while showers can revive campers after a dusty hike, and sinks allow them to wash their dishes for the next meal, making campsites feel a bit like home. Pet-friendly sites were important to 29% of respondents. Who doesn't want to bring their furry friend on the road with them? Clear signage was the final key amenity to Hipcampers, as they're essential guides to trials, parking, and restrooms, that reduce confusion so they can focus on relaxing into nature's bounty. These amenities complement the fire ring's centrality and ensure a seamless and enjoyable camping experience, and allow you to focus on other things like finding the best campsite or hitting the best scenic trails in the National Parks.