Campsite Security…
It’s not just for things that go bump in the night!
These are indeed strange times we live in. Discussing “campsite security,” may seem an odd thing to be writing about when one of the reasons we choose to camp in the first place, is for the overall peace of mind it provides us. However, while campgrounds show no measurable increase in violent crimes…minor crimes such as property theft have increased in certain regions.
Part of the reason there is an uncertainty about criminal activity in campgrounds is due to a lack of tracking of those statistics. The federal government and law enforcement do not maintain a specific database for crimes occurring inside recreational campgrounds or RV parks. Having said that, there is a consensus that violent crime or theft in traditional and transient campgrounds remains overall rare and comparable to surrounding residential areas, heavily depending on the surrounding locations.
Opinions on groups like Reddit Camping show mixed experiences; while major crimes are uncommon, minor opportunistic thefts (such as unsecured gear, grills, or bicycles left out unattended) do happen, particularly in campgrounds close to urban areas. Additionally, more structured and closely supervised campgrounds like KOA Campgrounds (as an example) see markedly less opportunistic crime than less controlled and monitored campgrounds such as State and National parks.
To address these concerns, we have developed some campsite security suggestions that will help discourage property crimes from being visited on your campsite…and may protect you from the possibility of even worse criminal activity.
It is important to realize that tent or soft-side campers are obviously far less secure than traditional travel trailers and motor homes that can be locked up. If you are camping in a tent or soft-sided camper…your options to secure valuables are limited. Perimeter security of the campsite is even more important for that reason.
Today there are multiple digital camera options that can help to secure your campsite. Since Wi-Fi is not aways available at campgrounds, cellular supported trail cameras are a better option. You can find a wide variety of durable, outdoor rated trail cameras that can be temporarily attached to a nearby tree for under $75.00. They will come with a cellular service plan that will cost under $20.00 a month…and they can be suspended during the months you are not camping.
These reliable trail cameras can be set to alert day or night if anything (or anyone) enters your campsite. They will actually record video that is then uploaded and transmitted with seconds to your mobile phone in real time. Most of them have new generation infrared capabilities which means they don’t use a visible “flash” to illuminate the scene when they are videoing. They are secured by a cut-proof, locking cable and they are in a tamper proof housing.
Security experts believe that an integral piece of the deterrence factor when using cameras is to post a sign (or a few signs) where they can be seen by anyone entering your campsite that lets them know they have already been filmed. The sign doesn’t have to be menacing in nature; it just has to get the point across. A popular one shows a camera with the slogan, “…Smile, you are on camera!” Again, your goal is not just to catch the perpetrator for prosecution after they steal or damage something, but it is to discourage them from even attempting to follow through on their initial intent.
Another item that can enhance your campsite security is motion activated lights and chimes. These are battery operated lights that can be attached to trees surrounding the campsite, attached to support poles, the side of a travel trailer or motorhome…or even simply set on a picnic table. They usually activate at dark and will trigger through infrared beams that can be adjusted for distance and zone coverage. If someone enters your campsite at night and lights trigger to illuminate the campsite, this accomplishes several goals.
- It has a startle effect on the person entering the site and erases their advantage of stealth.
- If multiple lights are set up pointing in different directions, it immediately lets the camper know where the “threat,” is entering the site from.
- The person entering the site cannot see the camper but knows the camper can see them, which is never good for the perpetrator.
- If the camper is returning to the campsite after dark, it is a welcome addition to their comfort and security when they can see the campsite illuminated for them.
- If a chime or sound alert is used, it can have the same effect on an unwanted visitor as it lets them know that the camper knows they are there.
Finally, it is important to remember that most property crimes are crimes of opportunity at a campground. This means that items of value if they are visible are a greater temptation that those that are not. Put grills, TV’s, Speakers or other items away before you take off exploring. Carry several cut-proof bicycle cable locks so you can secure bicycles, grills, or other equipment to trees or the frame of your RV. Again, having stickers or signage posted that reminds the unwanted visitor they are being recorded can have great effect…even if cameras are not in use.
Upgrading your campsite security doesn’t mean you are paranoid or should be nervous about getting out and exploring the great outdoors. By and large, you will likely never have something bad happen at your campsite. However, if you travel with a flashlight, first aid kit or a fire extinguisher…it simply means you are prepared for the unexpected. Upgrading your campsite security is literally no different. Remember, camping is about peace of mind. Campsite security is just another part of that mindset.
Safe Travels and Muddy Boots!