To ensure a safe and enjoyable ATV camping experience I have put together a list of the top ten camping gear needed before heading off into the back country for your ATV camping adventure.

Lightweight Camping Tent – Your tent need to be able to easy to setup and stand up to the elements of nature. For most people a 3-season tent will work fine but for those extreme winter ATV campers a 4-season tent will fit the bill. As for size always select a tent one person larger than the anticipated occupancy. For example if two people are planning to use the tent then select a 3-person tent, this way you will have room for your gear also.

Sleeping Bag – Select a sleeping bag for the coldest temperature you expect to encounter during your camping season. For the warmer nights sleep with the bag open like a blanket. A mummy bag will typically have a smaller pack size than a rectangular bag which is important for ATV camping.

Sleeping Mat/Pad – A sleeping mat/pad will help your sleeping bag preform by insulating you from the cold ground. For the most comfort I recommend a self-inflating mat as they still pack small and really help with sleeping comfortably in the back country.

Flashlight/Headlamp – For finding items after dark a good flashlight or headlamp is a must. Headlamps have become very popular due to their lightweight and hands-free operation. I carry both in case one stops working. Make sure you have extra batteries for all of your camping lights.

Lightweight Camping Stove – Nothing like a nice hot meal after a long days ride. Selection of a camp stove depends on the size of your camping party. If you camp with a group of 4 – 8 people then a multiple burner stove works great. For smaller groups you can still use a multiple burner stove or a small backpacking stove.

Camping Cookware – A good set of camping cookware and utensils that are easy to clean makes cooking those gourmet camp meals much easier. Don’t forget the coffee pot, gotta have coffee on those cool back country mornings.

Camping Tools – Tools necessary on every camp out:

  • Lightweight Shovel – For leveling out an area for your tent and for properly drowning out the camp fire, a lightweight shovel is a must. Also they are very helpful for digging out a stuck ATV. I try to always carry a lightweight shovel on my ATV.
  • Lightweight Saw – A good lightweight saw for cutting firewood and clearing fallen trees and branches from the trail is priceless. For a great lightweight saw checkout the Pocket ChainSaw, a very durable saw that is great for ATV camping.
  • Multi-Tool – As the name states the multi tool has multiple uses around the campsite and on the trail. I keep one on my ATV and one in my camping gear. I am amazed at how often I use both.

First-Aid Kit – This should be a no-brainer for most people but often some people feel they are impervious to injury. Always check your kit to ensure it is properly stocked before packing it

Insect Repellant – The back country is home to several biting insects and without insect repellant they can make your camping experience miserable.

Matches/Fire Starter – A pack of water-proof matches and/or fire starter with some kindling (dryer lint, paper, cotton balls) kept in a ziplock bag ensures you can get the campfire started.

Using the Top Ten Camping Gear for ATV Camping will help you properly prepare for your adventure. For a more complete, printable list checkout our ATV camping checklists. Have fun and enjoy the ATV camping experience but remember to leave your campsite the way you found it, preferably better.

Related posts:

  1. Camping Preparedness – Camping Gear & Supplies
  2. Lightweight Camping Tents
  3. Properly Storing Camping Gear
  4. Outdoor Sleeping Gear