Whether you’re a full-time RVer or an occasional weekend warrior, your camping experiences don’t need to be defined as “roughing it” to be deemed worthwhile. Here at Parts Via, we’re of the mindset that venturing into the Great Outdoors should be, well, great—and sacrificing all your favorite creature comforts and sources of entertainment doesn’t exactly spell F-U-N.
Thankfully, many of today’s campers seem to agree. Outdoor camping setups get more imaginative by the trip, allowing folks to fully immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the conveniences (and amusements) of home. The key is to think creatively and invest in the right accessories, the kind that can make your campsite feel like a true oasis. So, ditch those flimsy lawn chairs and that sad, underpowered lantern, and check out some of the curated suggestions below.
Entertainment Essentials
If you’re the type who wants their campsite to be the social hub of the season, then think beyond the traditional fire pit and consider adding some fun tech and electronics to create the right vibe.
Outdoor TV: Nothing will crown your campsite as ‘entertainment central’ quite like a state-of-the-art HD TV that’s tailor-made for watching the big game outdoors. Designed to withstand the rigors of life on the road while still delivering a life-like picture and high-quality sound, it’s truly one of the easiest ways to bring your living room outside.
Theater Projector & Screen: Maybe you’re more interested in recreating a night at the movies than an evening on the couch. Consider picking up a mini theater projector. They’re compact, affordable, and can connect to a variety of viewing sources. Grab a large portable screen and sync up to a couple Bluetooth speakers for the full experience.
Lawn Games: Outdoor fun shouldn’t center solely around digital entertainment. Old school lawn games never go out of style—and they create a sense of competition and camaraderie that watching TV just can’t match. Keep it classic with games like cornhole, horseshoes, and bocce ball, or try out something more unique like travel (foam!) axe throwing, freestyle table tennis, and portable shuffleboard.
Portable Fire Pit: Just because we suggested thinking beyond the fire pit doesn’t mean this most essential of outdoor camping setups should be off the list. There are plenty of reasons why this beloved accessory is a gamechanger for any campsite, so really the only question is which one’s right for you? Check out the selection right here on Parts Via and enjoy FREE shipping to a network dealer near you.
The Comfort Zone
Creating the ideal outdoor camping setup isn’t just about fun and games. Recreating the creature comforts of home is another key factor that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Awnings & Enclosures: In addition to providing much needed shade and protection from bugs, bad weather, and even prying eyes of nosy neighbors, a durable awning or complete enclosure can practically double the usable space of your camper. Create an outdoor kitchen or dining room, maximizing the living space, or just portion off a little mudroom for messy campground adventures—the possibilities are endless.
Comfy Camping Chairs: Just as you likely have your favorite recliner or loveseat at home, you won’t regret investing in a comfortable camping chair that will allow you to lounge in luxury for hours on end. While you’ll want to find something built to withstand life outside, that’s about your only limitation. From rocking chairs and folding loveseats, to seats with built-in headrests and beer coolers, manufacturers are taking on-the-go comfort to a whole new level.
Mats, Rugs, & Picnic Blankets: Sometimes it’s the smallest accessories that make the biggest impact. Whether you’re looking for something stylish, kitschy, or simply useful, Parts Via has a wide selection of campsite textiles that will add a clean and homey feel to your outdoor camping setup.
Campsite Cucina
For many folks, the kitchen is the heart of the home and that sentiment carries over when envisioning the perfect outdoor camping setup. Leave the hotdogs on sticks to the kids and take your culinary prowess to new levels with these campsite setup ideas and must-have kitchen accessories.
BBQs & Grills: From tiny tabletop grills to freestanding units with interchangeable cooktops, your outdoor kitchen setup can go as mild or wild as you want. When deciding, be sure to consider the size of your camping crew, the strength of their appetites, and whether you’re on team charcoal or propane.
Dinnerware & Food Storage: Compact kitchens don’t mean you have to eat your gourmet meal on flimsy paper plates. With a wide variety of fun patterns and designs, you can even add entertainment value to your outdoor kitchen with durable and rugged dinnerware options that add a festive touch.
Coolers: Today’s coolers are a far cry from the old-school options we had as kids. Thanks to advances in material technology, many can keep your food and beverages cold for 5 days or more! Opt for something big and sturdy if your cooler often doubles as a spare seat, but if portability is what you’re after, check out the modern options with rubberized wheels and extending tow handles.
Finishing Touches
It’s the details that make a house a home—and the same goes for creating an outdoor camping setup that stands out at the campground. These items may not make much of an impact on their own, but when combined, they help create a cozy, functional, and inviting outdoor space.
Ambient Lighting: From creating a vibe to setting the mood, illumination can really make or break a space. Parts Via has everything you need to ensure yours is comfortable (and cool), with a wide selection of patio and decorative lights, including twinkle lights, awning lights, rope lights, and whimsically-shaped party lights. If camping lanterns are more your speed, Parts Via offers a range of options from battery-powered to kerosene-burning.
Bug Repellents: When it comes to keeping your campsite bug-free, citronella candles and tiki torches offer a double benefit—casting a warm, inviting glow while helping to keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay. However, for those who want to show those bugs they mean business, an electric bug zapper is the ultimate solution.
For more creative campsite ideas and essential products to elevate your outdoor experience, explore the full range of RV & Camping gear at Parts Via. And remember, you can always enjoy the convenience of free ship-to-store at checkout—making it easier than ever to get everything you need for your next adventure.