If you have camped in the great outdoors in the past, then you are probably aware that there are an unwritten set of rules you need to follow to keep the land and the people around you happy and in good condition. However, if you are new to the camping experience and don't know the proper etiquette for camping, we have listed a few things that you should take into consideration and be aware of when you are enjoying your trip. Then you can make sure that you and everyone else are happy campers on the trip.

Courtesy is a key word in camping etiquette. Be respectful of your environment and the people around you. Set up your camp in designated areas. Don't place it to close to your neighbor. Most campsites allot two car spaces between areas. You want to have some room around you to provide for some privacy and noise control. Speaking of noise, follow the campground's quiet hours. Voices, radios and other noises tend to carry. Your neighbor may be an early to bed early to rise person, so have consideration for this, and obey the noise curfew. There are playgrounds and recreation areas for rough and loud play. Also, never cut through your neighbor's campsite. Since this is their home for their trip, that could be likened to walking through their house. Instead walk around it.

Never take other area picnic tables even if nobody is using the area. Campers could very well set up their site there shortly. Be prepared and bring your own extra table or just improvise. You will have neighbors as you do at home, so be mindful that these people are also on a vacation and want their own peace and privacy. Treat them, as you would want them to treat you.

When you enter the campground, you should familiarize yourself with the campground rules. These are established to protect you, your neighbor and the environment. Many campgrounds sell firewood for your use. You should never cut living trees for this purpose. The rules of the campground will relay how you can buy firewood or where you can obtain it. So, if you don't bring your own, follow the guidelines. Often the camp will allow the collection of dead wood off the ground. When your fire does get ignited, don't throw anything in it that will not burn. Glass, metal and wire do not belong here. Only paper and firewood should be allowed. If you happen to be a smoker, this is the place for your cigarette butts. Never discard of them on the land.

You should never clean fish, wash dishes or dump wastewater in any lakes or streams. Wastewater should be disposed of 100 feet from any water source. Biodegradable soap is recommended for use and by all means; make use of the designated bathroom facilities and not the woods. Recycling containers will be available throughout the camp, as recycling is highly encouraged. Also never nail or place wire around a tree, as it will cause damage.

If you bring pets, you should keep them contained. They should not run loose or be left tied to a pole to bark incessantly. Make sure you clean up after them and keep them occupied.

Always clean up after yourself and take home everything that you brought with you. You will be using camp facilities, so it only makes sense for you to help clean them also. It is in everyone's interest to have a clean campground. Clean food and scraps from picnic tables to keep from attracting unwanted pests. Basically, a rule of thumb would be to leave the campsite even cleaner than how you found it.

Camping is work. You must clean up your own mess and establish a good relationship with your neighbors. Follow the camp's rules as you would the rules of your town. Respect your surroundings. By addressing these three areas, you, your fellow campers and your environment will have a pleasant cohabitation experience.