Is camping gear safe???

[homersbest]

As a younger man, I did a lot of true backpacking in remote areas.  Now, my wife and I are planning a much different summer trip from NC to the Grand Canyon and back where we will be doing a lot of car tent camping in the campgrounds of state and national parks.  I'd like the opinion, please, of some of you veterans of this type of camping;  if we're off on some activity, do you find that campsites are safe?  Or do you actually break camp and pack up only to reset in the same spot when you return?  Is this necessary to prevent theft???  Thanks.  Have fun all.

[RJD]

I'm sure you can leave your campsite set up when you go to town for supplies or take a scenic ride. I've never had anyone mess with my stuff. Most people around are decent people out enjoying their vacations. But, then theres always that one idiot no matter where you go that you have to keep an eye on. I wouldn't leave anything to valuable lying around, like a tv or boombox. You can usualy get a good read on the other campers  are around your campsite on the first night, especialy who the rowdy partiers are. I dont trust that type of camper. Good Luck and enjoy yourself.

[dionbremner]

I pretty much agree with everything that RJD said - except boombox and tv? You're camping... But that's pretty much how we work - keep all the wallets etc on us or in the car when we leave a site but all the tents, sleeping gear etc set up. We've never lost anything so far but I'm sure there will be a first time.

[tplife]

Yes, the crime is back home where you left.  Even so, I have $300 in parts alone invested in my 200W sound system, I unhook the quick disconnects and put the head unit, Ipod and 160 CDs  in a locked trunk.  Everything else stays put.  The danger is from cougars and roming "tamed" bears, but that's a different piece of camping equipment...

[westernkansas]

I have never been robbed while camping, you will find the most friendliest people at campgrounds, I have always kept camp set up, but then again i don't leave things spread around, most things i will put in the tent or car. what route are you planning on taking i bet we all can suggest where to camp and not to camp along your way to make your trip more enjoyable.

[OutdoorDad]

In over 30 years of camping, at least once in every one of the 50 United States and every Canadian Province - We've never been robbed camping... but we don't invite it either.  Zip the tent windows closed and put away things that may be tempting for young kids.

Anything you are worried about leave at home or put in your vehicle's trunk.  It is safe in the tent but you will have more peice of mind with it locked in the car.