40+ Camping Words and Terms Every Outdoor Enthusiast Should Know

Key takeaways:

• Camping is the act of sleeping outdoors in nature under a tent or shelter.
• Learning camping words and terms can help you feel more confident and prepared, whether you’re pitching a tent, cooking over a fire, or exploring a national park.
• Camping terms cover everything from gear and setup to safety and camping etiquette. 
• Using the words in real-life scenarios or practicing on Promova is the best way to commit them to memory.

Heading into the wilderness? Setting up at a campsite? Or maybe just spending the night under the stars in your own backyard? Wherever your adventure takes you, if it involves sleeping outside in a basic shelter, it’s camping.

Whether you’re gearing up for a trip or just dreaming about one, understanding camping words in English can help everything go a lot smoother.

In this article, we’ve got all the camping terms you need to know, so you can spend less time guessing and more time packing. Now grab your backpack… and don’t forget the bug spray!

What Are Camping Words and Terms

Camping words and terms are the lingo used by campers to describe gear, locations, activities, and situations you might encounter outdoors. If you’re traveling in an English-speaking country, then learning English travel phrases and camping slang is essential. From “guy lines” to “trailhead,” these phrases help you communicate clearly, stay safe, and sound like a pro around the campfire, even if it’s your first time pitching a tent.

40 Camping Terms for Your Next Outdoor Trip

Camping words and slang terms might seem like a whole new language at first. But don’t worry, by the end of this list, you’ll be talking like a seasoned camper.

Camping equipment terms 

Before you can set up camp, you need the right gear. This section covers the essential items you’ll hear about when preparing for any outdoor adventure.

1. Tent

A portable shelter for sleeping, made of fabric and poles. Many different shapes and sizes are available depending on your needs. Be sure to check how waterproof and windproof it is. 

Example: “For this trip, we’re taking our two-person tent that’s super easy to set up.”

2. Recreational vehicle (RV)

A motorized or towable vehicle with a living space, beds, a kitchen, and a bathroom.

Example: “We took an RV road trip through the national parks, it was like staying in a tiny home!”

3. Cabin

A small, often rustic wooden shelter. Usually found at campgrounds or in the woods. A cabin usually contains a basic kitchen and a place to sleep.

Example: “We rented a cabin with a fireplace, it was so cozy.”

4. Trailer

A towable camper that attaches to a vehicle. They usually have sleeping and living spaces, but are smaller than an RV.

Example: “We’re taking our trailer and parking it at the campsite for the summer.”

5. Sleeping bag

Insulated bedding that you sleep in. Different ones are suitable for different temperatures.

Example: “My sleeping bag is suitable down to 0 °C, so I was warm all night.”

6. Backpack

A large bag carried on your back. They come in different sizes and can be used for anything from short hikes to backpacking around countries.

Example: “I loaded my backpack with snacks, water, and spare clothes for our hike today.”

7. Headlamp

A small flashlight worn on your head to keep your hands free.

Example: “I used my headlamp to find the bathroom in the middle of the night.”

8. Hammock

A swinging couch or bed made out of fabric and strung between two trees or poles.

Example: “My favorite thing about camping is relaxing in the hammock reading a book.”

9. Cooler

An insulated container that keeps food or drink cool, usually for up to 12 hours.

Example: “Don’t forget to pack the burgers and sodas in the cooler.”

10. Compass: 

A small handheld navigation tool that shows North, East, South, and West. Especially helpful when hiking or exploring off-grid.

Example: “We had to use the compass to stay on the trail as there’s no phone signal out there.”

11. Bug spray

Also called “insect repellent,” this is a staple for most camping trips. It repels insects like mosquitoes and ticks to stop you from getting bitten.

Example: “Don’t forget the bug spray, the mosquitoes come out as soon as the sun goes down.”

Pitching a tent slang and technical terms

Setting up your tent usually involves a little more than just pulling it out of the bag. Here are the key terms and phrases to help you understand how to pitch a tent like a pro.

12. Pitch a tent

To set up or erect a tent.

Example: “Let’s pitch the tent before it gets dark.”

13. Tent pole

Most tents use tent poles to construct the shape of the tent.

Example: “Be careful with the tent poles, we don’t want to snap one.”

14. A pitch

On a campsite, you’re often designated a pitch. That’s your area to set up your tent and other camping equipment.

Example: “We got a great pitch, it’s flat and not too close to the toilet block.”

1

15. Guy line

The cords attached to the tent that you stake into the ground to secure the tent. 

Example: “Tighten up the guy lines, the tent is flapping in the wind.”

16. Footprint

This is the protective tarp or ground sheet that is placed under the tent to prevent the bottom from getting damp or water seeping in.

Example: “Using a footprint helps keep the bottom of your tent dry and clean.”

17. Rain fly

A waterproof cover that goes over the top of your tent for rain protection. 

Example: “Good thing we used the rain fly, it poured last night.”

18. Stake it down

Slang for anchoring the tent to the ground using metal or plastic stakes.

Example: “The wind’s picking up, make sure to stake it down tight.”

Campfire and cooking words

Whether you’re cooking a Michelin-starred meal or eating beans out of a can, you’ll need to know the camping words and slang for campfires and cooking.

19. Camp stove

A portable stove for cooking meals outdoors.

Example: “We used a camp stove to boil water for coffee in the mornings.”

20. Propane

This fuel is often used to power a camping stove or BBQ.

Example: “The brochure says the campsite shop sells propane for camp stoves.”

21. Campfire

An open fire built at a campsite, often used for cooking, warmth, or just creating a nice atmosphere.

Example: “We spent the evening around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and telling stories.”

22. Fire ring/pit

A designated circle of rocks used to contain a campfire safely.

Example: “Only build your fire inside the fire ring to prevent the flames from spreading.”

23. S’mores

A sweet camping treat made from roasting marshmallows over a fire and then layering a piece of chocolate on top and squishing it all between two graham crackers (or cookies). 

Example: “No camping trip is complete without making s’mores!”

24. Dutch oven

A heavy pot used to cook food over a campfire.

Example: “We made the best chili in the Dutch oven.”

25. Picnic table

A table with attached seats that usually folds down and can be used during camping trips.

Example: “Make sure you set the picnic table up somewhere flat.”

26. Kindling

Small twigs and sticks used to start a fire before adding larger logs.

Example: “Let’s gather some kindling so we can light the campfire.”

Weather and nature camping terms

Out in nature, the elements play a big role in your camping experience. Here are some camping words and terms to help you talk about the weather, wildlife, terrain, and natural surroundings.

27. Trailhead

The starting point of a hiking trail.

Example: “Let’s meet at the trailhead just after sunrise.”

28. Wind chill

The drop in temperature, caused by the wind.

Example: “It’s 20 °C but the wind is making it feel like 10 °C, so pack a jacket.”

29. Backcountry

A remote area where you can go camping in the wild (not at a campsite). 

Example: “Now we’re expert campers, next time we should go camping in the backcountry.”

30. Flora and fauna

Flora are the native plants, and fauna is the wildlife found in the area.

Example: “Wow, the flora and fauna here are so different from back home.”

31. Bear bag

If you’re camping in a part of the world where there are bears, special measures need to be taken. This is a food bag that you hang from a tree to avoid attracting bears to your pitch.

Example: “We tied up the bear bag before we went to sleep.”

32. Leave No Trace

A set of principles for minimizing your impact on the environment when camping.

Example: “We followed 'Leave No Trace' and packed up all our trash so we could get rid of it at home.”

33. National park

Also referred to as just a “park,” this is a designated, protected area of natural beauty and cultural significance. Often managed by the government for public enjoyment and conservation, many of them have campgrounds.

Example: “We’re planning a weekend trip to the national park to hike and camp near the lake.”

Safety and survival camp words

Knowing how to stay safe in the wild is just as important as having fun. Here’s some first aid lingo and survival basics, that we hope you won’t use but should know just in case.

34. First aid kit

A collection of supplies to treat minor injuries. You should make sure you always take a first aid kit camping.

Example: “Thank goodness we had our first aid kit after that fall.”

35. Bear spray

A special type of pepper spray used to deter aggressive bears.

Examples: “There are bears in the area we’re hiking, make sure you bring the bear spray just in case.”

36. Hypothermia

A dangerous drop in body temperature caused by exposure to cold.

Example: “Wearing wet clothes in cold weather can lead to hypothermia.”

37. Navigation

The skill of finding your way around the wilderness using a map, a compass, or GPS.

Example: “Being able to navigate is key if you’re hiking off-trail.”

38. Forest fire

A large uncontrolled fire that spreads through woodland or forest areas. Often occurs when the weather is hot and dry and can be sparked by campfires. 

Example: “The park was closed due to a nearby forest fire, so we had to change our camping plans.”

39. Ranger

A trained staff member who manages and protects parks, forests, and some campgrounds. They can provide information, enforce rules, assist in emergencies, and help with safety.

Example: “We checked in with the ranger when we arrived. She gave us a map and some safety advice.”

40. Altitude sickness

A potentially serious medical condition that can occur at high altitudes. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

Example: “I suffered from altitude sickness after we did the climb too fast.”

41. Allergies (not food related)

Reactions your body has to substances like pollen or insect bites that can commonly occur while camping in nature.

Example: “I always pack antihistamines because the pine trees trigger my allergies.”

42. Exposure to the elements

This is a phrase to describe prolonged contact with outdoor conditions like wind, rain, cold, or sun. It can lead to dehydration, sunburn, or hypothermia.

Example: “If you don’t have the right equipment, exposure to the elements can get really dangerous, very quickly.” 

43. Heat exhaustion

An illness caused by overheating, often from doing vigorous physical activity, like hiking, in hot weather. Symptoms include heavy sweating, nausea, dizziness, and weakness.

Example: “It’s hot today, we should hike early in the morning to prevent heat exhaustion.”

Tips for Remembering Camping Slang Terms

If camping lingo still feels like an entirely new language, don’t worry. Here are some easy tricks to help you remember the terms and use them naturally.

• Connect terms to real experiences: The best way to remember a word like “guy line” or “footprint” is to actually use it while setting up your tent. 
• Use flashcards: Digital or paper, flashcards with the term on one side and a picture or definition on the other side are a fun and simple way to practice vocabulary. Pocket-sized flashcards are especially good for maximizing those moments you’re on the move but have some free time.
• Practice using them in conversation: Sit with a friend or a partner and try having a conversation about camping. Go through what you need to pack, how you’ll set it up, and what you might see on your trip.  
• Write them down: Sit down and write a list of all the camping terms you need to learn, complete with a short description of each one. Just the process of writing can help your brain to memorize the terms.
• Use it or lose it: Go camping! Get out there, enjoy nature, and use all the words and phrases you’ve been learning.
• Download a translator: No matter how good you are at languages, no one can remember everything. If English isn’t your first language and you’re traveling in an English-speaking country, then make sure you’ve downloaded a reliable translator app for travel.  

Learn English for Travel & Camping with Promova

If you’re learning English for travel or adventure, you’re in the right place. Promova is a one-stop language learning platform that offers a variety of flexible options to suit every budget and learning style. Here’s what you can access with Promova:

• Bite-sized lessons with a personalized learning plan.
• Specialist courses including English for travel.
• AI role-play with over 100 role-play scenarios.
• Video lessons for English vocabulary and grammar.
• Private 1-on-1 or small group classes with an experienced, qualified teacher.
• Free English Conversational Club to practice what you’ve learned among like-minded individuals.

Conclusion

Learning camping words and terms is a great first step to planning any outdoor trip. Now you’ve got the lingo down, it’s time to get out there and enjoy nature at its best. Be sure to use the words you’ve learned while packing, setting up, or cooking over the fire — practice makes it stick.

And before you go, don’t forget the essentials: plan ahead, stay safe, and always follow Leave No Trace principles. Have a great trip!