Three hours wasted trying to set up a tent in the dark

Got to my campsite near Lake Tahoe last Friday at 8pm and thought I could pitch my tent by headlamp. Took forever because the poles didn't line up and I kept stepping on the rain fly. By the time I was done at 11pm, I was too tired to even cook dinner. Anyone else learn the hard way to always set up camp before sunset?

3 comments

3 Comments

josephmartin4d ago

joel_martinez, that 5pm rule sounds risky too though... what happens when you're on a long hike that doesn't end until 6? How do you balance covering miles versus getting camp set up early?

joel_martinez4d ago

Oh man, that is rough! I did the exact same thing once in Yosemite and it was a disaster. Setting up a tent in the dark is just asking for trouble, especially when you are tired and hungry already. Those poles always seem to fight you more when you cannot see straight. I learned my lesson the hard way too and now I always aim to be pitched by like 5pm at the latest. It makes the whole camping trip way more fun when you can just relax and enjoy the fire.

the_christopher4d ago

Got to disagree a little bit on the timing. In my experience, 5pm is actually cutting it too close in a lot of places. Sun sets way earlier than you think once you factor in shade from trees or being in a valley. I aim for 3pm or even 2pm if I can. That way you have plenty of time to find a flat spot, clear any rocks or pinecones, and get the tent up while the light is still good. Plus then you can actually take a breather and enjoy the late afternoon without rushing. Your mileage may vary depending on where you camp, but I've been burned by that 5pm rule more than once.