Hidden in Plain Sight: A Comprehensive Guide to Stealth Camping

What do you do when you can't find a campsite? You have to park somewhere. But where?

Stealth camping is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors without dealing with other campers. It’s a great way to get away from it all and relax in nature.

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about stealth camping, from where to go to what gear you’ll need. You’ll be able to come and go without anyone ever knowing you were there.

Continue reading to learn some of the most fundamental do's and don'ts of preparing for stealth camping.

What is Stealth Camping?

Stealth camping is a type of camping that allows you to set up camp or park for the night without being noticed.

Finding a place to park your van or RV for the night can be difficult. Sometimes the campsites are full. Or you may show up after campsite business hours.

Some stealth campers do so to save money on campsite fees. Whatever the reason, stealth camping is one solution. Here are our stealth camping tips for beginners.

Why Is Stealth Camping Popular?

Why has stealth camping gained traction in recent years? We think it has something to do with the rise of van life and tiny house living.

People are looking for ways to live a simpler life and camping is one way to do that. Plus, with social media, it’s easier than ever to find hidden gems in the wilderness. All you have to do is search hashtags like #vanlife or #stealthcamping on Instagram.

Some people love the challenge of finding a perfect hidden spot to camp for the night. Others do it to save money on campsite fees.

And some people prefer the peace and quiet that comes with camping away from other people.

Whatever the reason, stealth camping has become increasingly popular in recent years.

How to Prepare for Stealth Camping

When planning your route, take time to find potential stealth camping spots. This is especially important if you're traveling in an unfamiliar area.

Power Up With Solar Panels

Your vehicle battery won't be enough to power appliances or devices for very long. Many full-time van dwellers and campers use solar panels to power their devices.

If you're interested in using solar power, do some research on stealth camping gear before your trip. Solar panels can be a great way to power your devices while stealth camping.

We recommend the OUPES 1200 Solar Powered Generator (100W Solar Panel) for vans. It takes 30 seconds to set up and can power 10 devices at the same time.

Bring a Power Station

A power station for stealth camping is a device that allows you to power your devices while camping without being noticed. It has a variety of benefits, including the following:

It's Quiet

A portable power station is quiet, which means you can use it without drawing attention to yourself.

It's Compact

A power station is small and compact, making it easy to store in your car or camper. You can tuck it away somewhere safe when you're not using it.

It's Versatile

A portable power station can be used to power a variety of devices, from phones and laptops to TVs and lights. It can power multiple devices at once.

If you're interested in using a portable power station for your next stealth camping trip, we recommend the OUPES 1200W Solar Generator Home Kit (2 X 2).

It's a great choice for campers and van dwellers who want to be able to power their devices without being noticed. You'll be thankful for a generator and all the stealth camping gear it can power on your next trip.

What Should You Be Concerned About?

Stealth camping is all about being inconspicuous. So, there are a few things you should be concerned about when stealth camping.

Parking

When searching for a stealth camping spot, make sure you're not parked in a no-parking zone. If you are, you risk being towed or ticketed.

Some people like to park near churches or other community buildings. Be sure to respect the property and any posted signs. If you're unsure about a location, it's always best to err on the side of caution and choose somewhere else.

Legal stealth camping aims to find a place to park for the night without alarming locals. There are some truck stops, franchises, and companies that will allow you to park in their parking lot if you speak with them to get permission.

Show Up Late and Leave Early

It's best to wait until after dark or after traffic dies down for the night. You're less likely to be noticed as you're setting up or taking down camp.

It's also a good idea to leave early in the morning before people are up and about. You won't have to explain yourself if someone asks what you're doing there.

Be Respectful of Others

Even if you're stealth camping, you still need to be respectful of other people and their property. That means no trespassing, littering, or making too much noise.

When you're stealth camping, you're borrowing someone's property for the night. Be respectful of your surroundings and their people.

This should go without saying, but you need to leave no trace that you were ever there. That means packing out all your trash and being careful not to damage any vegetation.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you have a successful and respectful stealth camping trip.

Now You Are Prepared For Stealth Camping

There you have it! These are just a few of the most important do's and don'ts of being a stealth camper.

Now that you know how to stealth camp, you can do so with more confidence. Remember to be respectful of your surroundings and always leave no trace. While you're planning your trip, choose a portable power station with the wattage that you need to power all your devices.

Stealth camping can be a fun and adventurous way to camp while still respecting the property of others. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a stealth camping trip that's both enjoyable and safe.