Fall Camping Essentials: What to Wear, What to Bring

Think camping ends when summer does? Think again.

The fall season in Ontario is one of the best camping times of the year as it’s when nature reveals its most enchanting beauty.

Fall camping in Ontario might just be the best-kept secret for outdoor lovers. Picture it: crisp mornings with coffee in hand, hikes without a single mosquito buzzing in your ear, golden forests glowing at sunset, and cozy nights bundled around the fire.

This is camping without the chaos - less crowded parks, fewer bugs, and landscapes so stunning you’ll want to put your phone on airplane mode just to soak it all in.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or brand-new to the outdoors, here’s your ultimate guide to fall camping in 2025 - what to pack, what to wear, and how to make the most of this magical season.

Photo credit: Steve Dunsford

Why Fall camping is Well Worth Your Time

The fall is undeniably one of the best times to go camping in Ontario, and there are several compelling reasons for this:

🍂 The scenery is unreal. September and October turn Ontario into a living painting -- think fiery reds, glowing golds, and endless shades of amber.

🦌 Wildlife is on the move. Cooler temps bring more activity. From curious deer to busy squirrels, fall is one of the best times to quietly spot animals.

🦟 No bugs, no problem. Forget the citronella candles and bug spray -- mosquito season is officially over.

🌌 The nights are perfect for stargazing. Clear skies and early sunsets make for jaw-dropping views of the stars (download a stargazing app before you go).

Also read: Watching the leaves change colour

Photo credit: Steve Dunsford

Fall camping essentials

You know the drill – when you're heading out into the wild, you've got to be prepared for what nature sends your way.

But here's the thing: you shouldn’t have a single camping essentials checklist. Nope, your checklist changes with the seasons. And guess what? Fall has its own set of checklists.

Whether you're a fall camping pro or a newbie looking for some guidance, you're in the right place to find out all about fall camping essentials.

Also read: Fall in Algonquin Park: Best Places to See the Colours

Top 5 Fall Camping Essentials

1) Warm clothing and layering:

The unpredictable weather and temperature swings of fall call for a strategic approach to clothing. Layering is key to staying warm and regulating body temperature.

Think thick wool socks, warm long-sleeve shirts and even a good old Canadian toque. More on this below.

2) Rain gear

While thinking of fall camping essentials, remember that the fall weather can be unpredictable, and it may rain (or even snow) at any time.

You can check the fall weather forecast here to plan your day in Algonquin Park.

Buy a good pair of waterproof pants and a jacket to keep you dry if the skies open up.

Pro-tip: Consider wearing waterproof hiking boots that will keep your feet comfortable during wet conditions.

3) Blankets and throws:

Bring multiple blankets and throws so that you can cozy up around the campfire and add more blankets at night if the temperature really drops.

4) Sleeping gear:

Stay warm during chilly nights with a high-quality sleeping bag designed for colder temperatures.

Choose a sleeping bag with the appropriate temperature rating so that you stay warm even during some of the unexpected low temperatures that can happen during the fall season.

A sleeping pad with insulation will not only enhance comfort but also prevent cold air from seeping through the ground.

5) Sunscreen & lip balm:

You might not think of sunscreen as a fall camping essential, but trust me, it's crucial.

Even though the temperatures are cooler and the sun doesn't feel as intense, your skin is still at risk.

Bonus Tip: Here at Four Corners Algonquin we love using Hot Hands to warm our hands up at night or in the morning, and even to add some extra warmth while we sleep at night. Watch this reel to learn more about these little warmers.

Also Read: Camping Vs Glamping: What’s the Difference?

What to wear fall camping ?

So, you are all prepared for fall camping. But hold on a second – have you planned how to layer your clothes?

Fall weather can be tricky, but fear not! We are here to break it down for you in simple tips.

1) Layer up like a pro:

Fall weather can go from chilly mornings to warmer afternoons in a heartbeat. The trick is to layer your clothing for fall camping.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer – something to keep the sweat away from your skin.

Add a cozy mid-layer like a fleece or a sweater to trap warmth, and add a water-resistant or waterproof outer layer to shield you from unexpected rain showers during fall camping.

2) Comfy bottoms:

A good pair of hiking pants that can repel light rain or dew is a best choice for fall camping essentials.

3) All About accessories:

A warm beanie or a hat to keep your head cozy, gloves to protect your hands from the cold, and a scarf for that extra layer around your neck can do wonders in keeping you comfortable during fall camping.

4) Be ready for night-time

Temperatures can drop significantly at night, so be ready. A warm and comfy pair of pyjamas or thermal underwear can make a huge difference in how well you sleep.

✨ Bonus tip: Bring along a compact solar charger for your phone or lanterns. Power goes fast when the sun sets early.

Also Read: Camping in Canada: The Ultimate Guide

Ready to Book Your Fall Glamping Trip in Algonquin?

At Four Corners Algonquin, we believe everyone deserves a chance to experience the magic of the outdoors -- no matter your age, experience, or ability. Whether you’re worried about gear, accessibility, or just getting started, we’ve got options to make camping barrier-free.

Fall is the season that rewards you for stepping off the beaten path. So trade in your flip-flops for hiking boots, pack your warmest socks, and come discover Ontario’s best camping secret.

👉 Book your fall camping getaway while spaces last.