The location and the way you set up your tent can have a huge impact on your outdoor camping experience. Below are some basic tips in finding a good camp site:

Finding a good camp site is essential, especially in difficult conditions. Here are some guidelines in finding a good spot and orienting your tent:

• Find a spot that is safe and protected. Stay away from mountain and hill tops as those are the places that will offer the least protection from hard winds and lightning. At the same time, do not pitch your camp on the lowest ground in the area. In case of rains, the water will flow to the lowest ground.
• Find a place that is surrounded by natural obstacles which will provide shade in hot conditions, wind breakers in windy conditions, and rain stoppers in rainy conditions. Concentrations of trees and rocks are ideal natural barriers.
• If possible, camp near a stream, river, or other source of water that you can use for your dishes and cleaning up. However, make sure that you are on higher grounds and that there are no chances of flash floods.

There are four areas that should form your camp site:

1. Tent Area
   • In general, you will want to set up your tent on an even surface of smooth soil or grass that allows you to easily secure your pegs.
   • Make sure that your tent is the highest area in its direct vicinity to keep water from entering your tent.
   • Set up your tent firmly and evenly so that it can withstand possible strong winds that may develop overnight.
2. Cooking Area
   • Your cooking area should be at least 30 feet away from your tent.
   • It should be located in a way that the prevailing winds will blow possible ashes and sparks away from the tent.
   • Keep all food in containers and wash your utensils to prevent attracting wildlife.
3. Washing Area
   • Having your washing area near a stream or other water source will save your time and effort.
   • If you use soaps, make sure they are biodegradable.
   • Do not leave any trace — clean up empty soap bottles and other containers.
4. Toilet Area
   • Set up your toilet area at least a few hundred feet from your tent and other camping areas.
   • This area should be out of sight of your camping mates and other campers.
   • Make sure you are at least 300 feet away from a possible water source.
   • Find a place with soft soil that allows you to dig a hole at least 10 inches deep to bury your "contributions."
   • Cover up your toilet area well before breaking up camp. Use stones and or branches to prevent other campers from digging your toilet area.