12 Tips for Taking Your ATV/UTV on an Off-Road Camping Trip
Make adventure happen during National Camping Month this June and plan an outdoor trip with your ATV or UTV. Whether you’re exploring, going hunting and fishing, or hitting high speeds on the trails, camping is a great way to have extended fun with your off-road vehicle. Before you set out, plan your camping trip and make sure you have the right gear for the great outdoors.
We’ve taken the liberty of assembling 12 tips for taking your ATV/UTV on an off-road camping trip:
1. Find a Camping Spot That Allows ATVs or UTVs
First, find out if the park, campground, and/or trails you want to visit actually allow you to ride your ATV or UTV. If your camping location requires reservations, reserve your spot well in advance, and make sure you have space for your vehicle.
2. Know the Riding Route for ATVs/UTVs
Do research ahead of time and familiarize yourself with the riding route, conditions of the terrain, and campsite location. This will help you get an idea of how tough of a ride it will be, and ways you can have fun on your off-roader or side-by-side. With mountains, forests, rivers, dunes, and more, there are plenty of landscapes to explore on a camping trip.
3. Know the Campsite
Find out what amenities your campsite will have to offer. Will you have access to electricity or a power source? That’s especially important if you’re riding an electric off-roader. How about water or public restrooms? Does your campsite have a grill or a safe place that permits you to start a fire for cooking? Also be aware of any fire bans in the area.
4. Bring a GPS or Map to Navigate with Your ATV or UTV
When you’re out riding in a remote location, you may not have cellphone reception or internet access to help you get around. Instead, you can navigate with a GPS specifically made for your vehicle, with a park and trail map as a backup.
5. Prepare for the Weather on Your ATV/UTV
Keep an eye on the weather forecast and whether there will be rain, lightning, mud, snow, ice, wind, hot or cold temperatures, or severe storms. This will help you get your vehicle ready, and give you a better idea of what gear you should pack for riding and camping out.
6. Share Your Camping Plans
For your safety, communicate with friends and family and share your ATV/UTV camping plans. Let them know where you’ll be taking your vehicle and the location of your campsite. Keep emergency contact information on hand, and share your itinerary if you plan to go hunting, fishing, or riding trails on your vehicle.
7. Pack the Right Gear for Your ATV/UTV Camping Trip
Prepare for different riding and camping conditions and pack according to the weather conditions. Use ratchet straps to tie things down, and consider using a towing trailer to carry camping supplies. When you’re packing up for your camping trip, pack light so it’s easier to move around on your ATV or UTV. Here are some things to pack for your trip:
- Helmet with eye protection
- Gloves
- Boots and socks
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Layered clothing for cold weather
- Tent with rain-fly or tarp
- Sleeping bag
- Camping lights
- Chairs
- Cooking supplies
- Cutting tools
- Canned or packaged meals and snacks
- First-aid kit
- Medications
- Toiletries
- Phone charger/plug-ins for portable devices
Get Your Vehicle Ready for Your ATV or UTV Camping Trip
Right before you take your trip, make sure your ATV or UTV is ready for riding and camping. Here are a few things to take care of before you set out.
8. Inspect Your ATV/UTV for Campground Riding
From tires and wheels to lights and oil, there are a number of things you want to double check before your trip. Conduct a pre-ride inspection to make sure your ATV or UTV is ready for the trails.
9. Make ATV or UTV Repairs Before Your Camping Trip
Check for any damaged or worn down parts on your ATV or UTV, and devote some time to maintenance in your home garage. Know the common reasons your ATV or UTV won’t start prior to your camping trip, so you can make repairs or replace parts before they become a problem.
10. Bring ATV/UTV Tools and Fuel Up for Riding
Bring a toolkit for your ATV or UTV in case you need to make repairs on the run, including a tire repair kit. Make sure your tank of gas is full and bring extra gasoline if you plan on riding far during your camping excursion.
Camping Out with Your ATV or UTV
When you’ve made it to your campsite and are ready to pitch your tent, make sure your ATV or UTV is situated for the night. Here are a couple things to keep in mind.
11. Park Your ATV/UTV at the Campsite
Find a spot away from your tent and park your ATV or UTV on a flat, even ground. As an extra safety measure, put wheel chocks behind your tires and keep them out of the mud. Always keep your vehicle away from an open fire.
12. Protect Your ATV/UTV While You Camp
Protect your off-roader from exposure to the elements. Cover your vehicle with a cover or tarp to protect it from rain, dew condensation, fallen branches, or other debris. Remove your keys from the ignition to keep your vehicle secure against theft.
Camping is one more great activity you can enjoy with your ATV or UTV. Remember to plan ahead, make sure your vehicle is ready, pack light, and take care of your off-roader while you spend time in the great outdoors. Make sure to pick up after yourself and leave no trace behind so that the area can be enjoyed again.
Ryan Miller
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