A few simple decorations can turn an ordinary campsite into a welcoming outdoor living room. Whether you camp in a tent, a pop-up or an RV, campsite decor makes evenings more fun, helps you find your site in the dark and gives the kids something to look forward to. Here are easy ideas, from everyday basics to fall and holiday touches.
Start with lighting
Lighting does more for a campsite’s atmosphere than anything else.
- String lights along an awning, between two poles or around a canopy frame.
- Lanterns on the picnic table and at the tent door.
- Solar stake lights to outline paths and guy lines so no one trips.
- LED candles in jars for a warm glow without an open flame.
Our guide to choosing camping lights covers the practical side.
Set the table
- Cover the picnic table with a fitted vinyl or fabric tablecloth.
- Use a small centerpiece: a lantern, a jar of pinecones or a pot of herbs.
- Bring reusable plates, cups and napkins in a matching color.
- Add a small folding side table for drinks and serving dishes.
Make an outdoor living room
- An outdoor rug or mat at the tent or RV door keeps dirt out and defines the space.
- Camp chairs with cushions and throw blankets make the fire ring feel like a living room.
- A welcome sign or a family flag helps friends and kids find your site.
- A clothesline with clips can hold towels by day and lights by night.
Fall decor ideas
- Small pumpkins or gourds on the table
- A plaid blanket over each chair
- Pinecones and dried leaves in a basket
- Warm-toned string lights
- A cocoa and cider station with a camping mug for everyone
Halloween and holiday ideas
- Jack-o’-lanterns lit with LED candles
- A mini tree or wreath on the picnic table
- Battery or solar string lights in holiday colors
- Garland on the awning or canopy
- A holiday-themed tablecloth and mugs
Many campgrounds hold decorating contests and trick-or-treat weekends in the fall. Check your campground’s event calendar.
DIY decor on a budget
- Fill mason jars with LED fairy lights.
- Paint rocks to mark your site number (take them home when you leave).
- Make a banner from fabric scraps or old bandanas.
- Collect fallen leaves and pinecones at home and bring them along, rather than gathering at the campground.
Campground rules and Leave No Trace
- Don’t nail, screw or staple anything into trees. Use tree-friendly straps or freestanding poles.
- Bring firewood from local sources or buy it near the campground, to avoid spreading forest pests.
- Keep lights low and turn them off during quiet hours so neighbors and wildlife aren’t disturbed.
- Use flameless candles inside tents and near fabric.
- Pack everything out, including confetti, tape and decorations.
Read more in our guide to the Leave No Trace principles.
Storage tips
Keep a dedicated “decor bin” with lights, a tablecloth, clips and signs so packing for the next trip takes seconds. Wind lights around a piece of cardboard to stop tangles, and check batteries before you go.
Decor ideas for RV and pop-up campers
- Hang string lights from the awning using awning hooks or clips rather than tape.
- Use an outdoor rug under the awning to create a patio area.
- Add a small battery lantern to the step or entry handle so the door is easy to find at night.
- Set out a pair of matching chairs and a side table for a simple outdoor seating area.
- Keep decorations off the roof and away from slide-outs so nothing gets damaged when you pack up.
Decorating with kids
Give each child a small job, such as hanging lights, setting the table or making a welcome sign. Let them choose a theme for the trip, such as fall leaves, spooky Halloween or a winter holiday. A simple scavenger hunt for pinecones and interesting rocks (left where they are found after looking) keeps kids busy while adults set up camp.
FAQ
How can I decorate my campsite without damaging trees?
Use freestanding poles, tree-friendly straps and clips instead of nails, staples or tape.
What lights are best for campsite decor?
Battery, rechargeable or solar LED lights are safe, efficient and don’t need a power hookup.
Can I decorate a campsite for Christmas?
Yes, if your campground allows it. Use LED lights, keep things simple and take everything home when you leave.
Top image: “DSC 0187” by Virginia State Parks staff, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
We run the NicheStuff store; some links in this post go to products we sell.