When camping, there comes a time when you just need to get in a good shower. You can only do so many quick sponge baths in your tent. When you need a decent shower while camping, what do you do?
There are a few ways to go about showering when camping. You can find places where you can shower, like a KOA, truck stop, rest area, public pool, or local gym. You can also purchase an outdoor shower for your campsite, including a privacy tent to surround it.
For more ideas on how to get squeaky clean during a camping trip, read on.
Find a Campsite with Amenities
When you need a good shower while camping, your best bet is to go to a place that has a shower you can use or buy, right?
KOA campgrounds are known for having great amenities, including showers. If you’re interested in what they have to offer and how it works, just check out their website and make a reservation.
If you’re a member of a camping club or organization or have friends who are members at a campground that has showers on site, this is an easy way to get your shower fix.
Purchase an Outdoor Camping Shower
If you’re not on a tight budget and want to feel like you’re at home while camping, no matter how far away from civilization you are, purchase an outdoor shower.
It’s also possible to buy a portable camping shower that can strap onto your backpack and deliver water via hose. This might be helpful if you’re hiking into an area where there aren’t any showers available at all. You can hang it from a tree and have a quick rinse!
Purchase an Outdoor Shower Tent
The most luxurious of camping shower setups is the outdoor shower tent. This is a small tent which you can set up in your campsite and use like an indoor shower at home.
These look great and feel luxurious because they create the impression of being indoors, but there are some issues with them too. First off, they’re not cheap! They also have mesh sides so that water doesn’t collect inside the tent
Go to a Rest Area
If you’re near any type of population center, rest areas are usually pretty good places for showers. You can get in there and take your time without anyone rushing you along. Plus, if they have vending machines with food or a quick mart, it’s also possible that they might even have some supplies you can pick up while there.
Go to a Truck Stop
Another option is to go to truck stops. Many truckers will need showers before driving long distances because they don’t get breaks often enough to stop at home or in campgrounds.
Many truck stops have showers that cost around $15, and if you’re driving long distances, it can be worth the money spent for a good shower!
Be sure not to leave anything valuable in your car while you take a shower, and park your car in a well-lit area.
Check a Nearby Gym or Park District
If you’re near civilization and it’s pool season, you may be able to grab a shower at the local public pool. You’ll probably have to pay for admission to the pool, but it’s worth it, depending on how much road grime you have to scrub off. And hey, maybe you’ll even make time for a dip in the pool!
Some gyms will also welcome campers for a shower, but check first before you go out of your way to drive to one, in case the one you’re near has a members-only policy.
Make Friends with RVers!
If you are in a camping spot with friendly RVers nearby, you may think about asking them for a quick shower. Offer to pay them or cook them dinner, whatever it takes to swap for some cleansing time.
Hop in the River with Eco-Friendly Soap
If you are near a natural waterway, take advantage! Just make sure you have an environmentally-friendly soap on hand, so you aren’t polluting the place that is kind enough to clean you!
Camping, Campgrounds, and Showers
While it might be tough to find a shower when you’re camping at campgrounds or public areas that don’t have showers, there are some options available. Depending on where you are and what’s around you, you are bound to find a place you can pay for the use of a shower. And, if you’re not sure where your trip will take you, pack a camping shower just in case!