Showering while camping is a necessity, but how do you find and take a shower in the wilderness? Finding places where you can shower is the most important thing to consider, especially if you need to take your time and not have to hurry.
Stay at a Campsite With a Shower
A camp shower is a shower that is permanently part of the campsite. Some campsites offer shower buildings, so if you are in the planning stage of your trip, look for a place to camp that offers these amenities. Some campsites that offer showers include KOAs and some national parks. Showers may be free, coin-operated, or available by paid coupons.
Get a Portable Shower for Camping – Here Is Why
A portable shower is the best solution for the times when you are in the middle of nowhere and want to take a shower. Using a portable shower can save money and time. Benefits include:
- Convenience – You don’t have to drive around looking for a shower.
- Availability – You don’t have to wait your turn to use it (outside of your own family)
- Great for kids – It’s easy to keep an eye on your kids when it’s their turn to shower.
- Budget-friendly – They are available at many price points
Having your own personal shower is a lifesaver when you are camping for all of the reasons above. If you find yourself in a campground with amenities, you may not use your portable shower all of the time, but it comes in handy in other situations, too. If you are camping at the beach, it’s a great way to get everyone clean, so your tent doesn’t get sandy.
Solar-Powered Showers
Solar-powered showers heat the water while you are off having fun. Just hang it in a tree and or somewhere it can grab the sun’s rays and look forward to warm water when your return.
Battery or USB-Powered Showers
Some showers use a battery-operated pump that can be recharged off of a USB. Many of these have gotten quite advanced, with a showerhead that looks like home. They can pump warm water from a bucket, lake, or any other water source.
Privacy Tent with Shower
A privacy tent is a priceless addition to your portable shower setup when camping. Having a dedicated, private spot for showering makes all the difference. Some tents come with a shower bag. Others are just a tent and require you to buy your own shower.
You can also get an oversized shower tent, which is perfect for families. When you want to help your little ones shower or dry off, there is plenty of room for you, too!
Electric Pressure Shower
An electric pressure shower is another option that includes the 5-gallon bucket. It has an electric pump and can be plugged into any 12V outlet. The pressure can get pretty strong, so make sure you adjust it to the right strength for whatever you are using for showering, washing the tent, or giving the dog a bath!
Showering at a Truck Stop While Camping
A truck stop is usually a pretty good place to go to get some hot water because people are traveling. The gas station is going to have a shower for a few bucks. As well, a truck stop might have a fitness facility or a pool.
If you are near a truck stop, this might be a good option. Some of the larger chains have nice facilities and are family-friendly. However, this setting isn’t ideal for everyone.
Buy a Daily Public Pool Pass
If you are near a city or town, check out the public pool. You will have to pay for entrance, but you can also get in a nice swim! Then, use the shower facilities to clean up, dry off and get a fresh start back up on the road!
Many Fitness Centers Welcome Campers
Some fitness centers, especially in camper-friendly locations, will allow campers to shower at their gym for a small fee. The additional benefit of this is that you may also be able to use the other facilities at the gym if you feel like it. Want to pump some iron or take a yoga class? Get that in, and then take a shower before getting back to camping.
Make Friends with RVers
If you’re in the same campsite for a while, you may become friendly with other campers – including those with an RV and a shower. You can always offer to pay for the shower because the water and power are a precious resource for them, too.
Visit Family or Friends
If you have people you are planning to visit; maybe you can plan your showering schedule appropriately! Showering in a real bathroom in the home of someone familiar is great. Sure, it may take away from the “roughing it” part of the trip, but getting squeaky clean and probably getting a hot meal while you’re at it? That’s worth it!
Showering While Camping Isn’t Difficult
As you can see, there are plenty of options for showering while you are camping. The very best way to ensure you have ways to get clean is to plan ahead, whatever method you choose. And, remember to use eco-friendly soap and shampoo no matter where you are!