Solo Camping Trip: Cost Breakdown

Steamboat Springs, CO

I Disclaimer: I am aware that I already had the vehicle and camping set up before funding this trip and that most do not have this privilege.

I decided to take a solo camping trip over Labor Day this year. I was originally planning on driving 5 hours north to South Dakota to visit the Badlands NP and Black Hills NF, but decided to find somewhere closer. I knew that a trip to the Badlands would cost me $150 at the minimum (for gas and a national parks pass), and I didn’t want to spend that much this weekend. After contemplating between Vail, Steamboat Springs, and Crested Butte (all places that I’ve been wanting to visit), I opted for Steamboat Springs. It was a great choice because I fell in love with it immediately.

As I mentioned, saving money was a priority on this trip, so here is everything I paid for. Most of it is self-explanatory, but I hope that it inspires you to take a trip even if you are on a budget. Camping is a great way to see new places for cheap. You do not need a van, or extravagant camping gear to do so. In fact, 90% of my camping gear is from Walmart, including my camp tent.

Gas: $60

I drove about 400 miles this weekend so gas was my biggest expense by far. Going solo is also a huge factor in this expense as I didn’t have anyone to split it with. If you are traveling solo and looking to spend less money on gas, try and look for cool sites closer to home. I’m a firm believer that there is something new to see no matter where you’re located.

Campsites: $0!

I didn’t have a set camping location in mind when I left for this trip, but I knew there was a National Forest nearby. Most National Forests have dispersed camping options, typically for a maximum of 14 nights. I researched the regulations of Routt National Forest and saw that they did allow this. I also used the app iOverlander to find specific sites within the National Forest.

My first site was not very enjoyable as it was close to the highway and very loud, but I gave myself more time to find a site the second night and had much better luck. This isn’t usually a problem, but with it being a holiday weekend more people were out camping.

For more information on National Forests, iOverlander, and finding campsites, see my post Finding Places to Stay While on the Road

Groceries: $15

I prioritized convenience and price over taste this weekend. As you can see, I lived off of some boring meals- PB&Js, quesadillas, oatmeal, and toast.

Generally, I would go out to eat for at least one meal as I use it as a way to meet people (I tend to sit at the counter or bar when I’m solo traveling), but decided to cut that expense for this excursion.

Outings: $5

All but one activity I did this weekend was free. Steamboat Springs does have a lot of shopping, but I avoided that at all costs (except for the souvenir mentioned below). Instead, I spent a lot of time in an art gallery, talking with the gallerist about the watercolor pieces. I also spent a lot of time reading and hanging out at my campsite or walking along the river.

The only activity that I spent money on was this hike at Fish Creek Falls because it had a $5 entry/parking fee.