How to Choose the Best Spot for Car Camping

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a multi-day road trip, choosing the right car camping spot can make or break your experience. From safety to scenery, here’s how to find a place that fits your setup and your style of travel.

1. Understand the Types of Car Camping Locations

There are two main types of car camping spots:

• Developed Campgrounds: These include official campgrounds in national or state parks with amenities like toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. Many require reservations and offer clearly marked sites.

• Dispersed Camping: This is free camping on public land—like national forests or BLM areas—outside of designated sites. You get solitude and freedom, but no services, so preparation is key.

For a full explanation of frontcountry options, visit the National Park Service’s page:

Frontcountry Camping – National Park Service

2. Consider Accessibility and Vehicle Requirements

Always check the road type and terrain. Some campsites may only be accessible with a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle, while others are suitable for all cars and EVs.

If you’re using a Teraglide Platform Bed, choose a flat, level surface for maximum comfort and stability.

➡ Want to sleep better inside your car? Get practical tips in our post:

5 Essential Tips for Sleeping Comfortably in Your Car

3. Evaluate Safety and Local Regulations

Check rules around camping, fires, and overnight parking. Not all areas permit overnight stays, especially in urban or protected zones. Look for:

• Well-lit areas if you’re solo camping

• Signs of wildlife or recent bear activity

• Proximity to other vehicles (if that makes you feel safer)

➡ For solo travellers, especially women, we cover this in more depth here:

Why Sleeping in Your Car is the Safest Choice for Solo Female Travelers

4. Look for Functional and Scenic Features

A great spot is more than just flat ground. Look for:

• Shade to help regulate temperature

• Scenic views like lakes, valleys, or mountains

• Natural sound barriers like trees or hills to buffer wind and noise

• Distance from trails or roads to reduce foot and vehicle traffic

➡ And when you’re ready to prep meals surrounded by nature, this post will help:

Compact Camping Kitchen: Saving Space & Cooking with Ease

5. Use Tools to Find the Best Spots

Several tools can help you locate suitable car camping spots:

• AllStays: Offers a comprehensive database of campgrounds.

• Hipcamp: Provides unique camping experiences on private lands.

• The Dyrt: Features user reviews and photos of campsites.

Additionally, the National Park Service’s guide on camping locations is invaluable:

👉 Where Can I Camp? - National Park Service.

6. Plan Ahead and Be Prepared

Popular campgrounds can fill up fast, especially in peak season. Reserve early if needed, and always have a backup option.

Don’t overpack—focus on smart essentials like:

• water, food, and a way to cook

• warm bedding and a comfortable mattress

• power bank, lights, and emergency kit

➡ For a smart, minimalist packing list, don’t miss our guide:

What to Pack for a Weekend of Car Camping: A Minimalist’s Guide.

The right spot can turn an ordinary night into a perfect memory. Whether you’re chasing mountain views, peace and quiet, or just a flat place to rest, Teraglide’s car camping platform makes setup easy so you can focus on the fun.

Explore our full range of car camping conversion kits, kitchen modules, and trunk beds here — and start your next adventure the easy way.