10 Reasons You Should Try Camping in Spring

If you’re anything like us, you’re itching to dig out the camping gear and head outdoors.

Sure, we get out occasionally to enjoy the peaceful tranquillity that winter offers. But as the sun emerges and the temperatures start to rise, we can’t help but think about officially starting the new camping season.

This year, why not plan to start the season a little early? There are many notable benefits to going camping in spring.

Not sold? We’re here to encourage you to step outside your comfort level and try something new – even if it just means enjoying a loved activity at a different time of the year.

Here are 10 reasons that we believe you should try camping in spring!

Spring Flowers

If you are the type of camper that enjoys picturesque views while camping, spring camping is for you! After all, this is the time of year when spring flowers are emerging everywhere.

Spring flowers generally appear as early as the last week of April, possibly earlier, depending on the year. Some flowers are even known for emerging and showing their colours as early as mid-March.

Outdoor lovers that want to take stunning pictures and embrace the beauty of nature should consider embracing the spring season.

Amazing Birdwatching Opportunities

For those that love birdwatching, this is the perfect time of year. Many people talk about the fall migration when birds move south, but what about the spring when they make their way back north?

The spring migration is a great opportunity to see your favourite birds on the move.

Some birds you can expect to see arriving in the early spring, including birds of prey, song sparrows, waterfowl, and shorebirds. But there are so many more!

It’s the perfect time to take in the many birds native to our area. You can also take this opportunity to connect with other bird enthusiasts by joining an organized event or sharing your findings with an online community.

Enjoy Nature’s Fresh Start

If your favourite part of outdoor travel is witnessing the local wildlife in their natural habitat, this is a special time of year.

The spring season is the perfect time to spot those “spring babies” exploring their surroundings.

Of course, camping in spring with babies around also has some added risks to consider. Always keep your distance and keep all pets safely contained or on a leash to prevent accidents or dangerous situations.

Fewer Campers Trying to Book Prime Sites

Have you been struggling to book a campsite at your favourite parks?

The popularity of camping has been on the rise, increasing the demand for prime sites, including those with electrical hook-ups or waterfront views. This is especially true during the peak summer season.

Luckily, there is a simple solution. The “shoulder seasons” of spring and fall are often quieter, making it easier to snag that perfect campsite.

While it’s generally too cool during the spring for us to enjoy the waterfront access, our pups still enjoy a quick swim on many of our off-season adventures.

This is also a great time to try booking a dog-friendly roofed accommodation. They are often in higher demand in the winter and summer seasons, making spring the perfect opportunity.

Peace and Quiet

Another massive benefit to camping in the shoulder seasons is the camping experience. Fewer campers mean less noise.

This is an excellent opportunity for those that enjoy connecting with and immersing themselves in nature.

Often during the spring season, a basic car camping site can feel like you’re in the backcountry with no one around to disturb the silence.

Campfire Time is Any Time

If your idea of the perfect camping trip involves sitting around the campfire all day long, you’re in luck!

Hot summer temperatures can prevent us from enjoying the campfire as we focus instead on finding ways to cool off and keep our pets cool, preventing heat stroke and other problems.

But the cooler temperatures of spring present a unique opportunity. You can comfortably relax by the fire mid-day without getting overheated.

Mosquito Season Hasn’t Hit

We love everything about outdoor travel and camping… Okay, ALMOST everything. If we had to pick one thing we could happily do without, it would be the mosquitoes and black flies.

Like any other living being, mosquitoes and black flies go through a life cycle. They haven’t yet emerged during the spring season to put a damper on your plans.

This is arguably one of the best reasons to embrace camping in spring, if you ask us!

Of course, there is still a risk of unwanted hitchhikers like ticks. Make sure that you are using a reliable tick preventative before heading outdoors.

Comfortable Temperatures

While the hot summer temperatures are great for swimming, they can make hiking with your pet(s) a challenge. There are many risks to consider, including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration.

On the hottest days, this can prevent you from being able to get out and explore beyond your campsite.

During the spring, the temperatures are generally cooler and more tolerable. This makes it the ideal weather for hiking with cats and dogs, especially those that are more vulnerable (like younger pets and seniors).  

You will still need to pack your pet-friendly first aid kit and plenty of fresh water. But the temperatures are much more comfortable for outdoor adventuring.  

Save Money

It’s the basic rules of supply and demand – when most people travel during the summer seasons, the prices are often inflated.

Gas prices are higher during the summer travel boom. Local attractions may increase their entry fees.

If you are searching to enjoy your next outdoor adventure on a budget, camping in spring is a great way to make that a reality!

Extend Your Camping Season

Of course, kicking off your camping season a couple of months early means that there will be more opportunities for you to get out and explore during the 2023 camping season.

When planning our season, we reserve campgrounds with great dog beaches for the summer season while booking our hiking destinations for spring and summer. This allows us to take full advantage of the weather.

Before you run out and Google “spring camping near me” or another similar phrase in search of your ideal campsite, take a moment to investigate which parks are the most pet-friendly.

There are many great Ontario Parks with designated pet exercise areas that are perfect for some springtime fun!

Do you enjoy spring camping with your pets? If so, what is your favourite part about camping during this season?