Campgrounds can be funny places. Some folks roll in with a whole outdoor kitchen, and others show up with a tent, a bag of chips, and pure optimism.
But no matter how you camp, here’s something I’ve learned the hard way: a lot of campgrounds have some freebies, and you only get them if you actually ask.
Here are 10 things I’ve gotten for free at different campgrounds over the years. Not every place will have every item, obviously, but you’d be surprised how often you can get them.
1. Firewood scraps or kindling
Some campgrounds sell bundles of firewood. But they might also have a leftover pile of smaller pieces, offcuts, or kindling from people who checked out and didn’t want to haul it.
Ask the office or camp host if there’s any “extra kindling around.”
Even a handful of dry bits can save a campfire that’s struggling. Bonus points if it’s been sitting under a covered area and isn’t soaked like a sponge.
2. Matches, a lighter, or a fire starter
If your lighter died at the worst moment, don’t panic. Many camp stores keep cheap lighters, matches, or little fire starter cubes behind the counter, and sometimes they’ll just hand one over.
Especially if you say something like, “I’m set for tonight, I just need something to get it going.”
Most folks working there have seen it a hundred times.
3. Local maps and trail guides
This one is super common. Visitor maps, trail brochures, wildlife safety sheets, little printed what to do nearby lists.
They’re usually sitting on a rack by the office, but not always in plain sight.
Ask if they have any hiking maps or a trail guide.
Worst case, they point you to a board with a bunch of info. Best case, you get the good local stuff that isn’t on Google.
4. Ice (or a top up)
Okay, not every campground does this, because ice is a whole business. But I’ve had a couple places do one of these.
Free ice refill if you bought a bag earlier, a small “top up” for your cooler, or free ice during certain events or hot weekends.
It’s worth asking nicely if they do any ice refills. If they say no, no big deal. If they say yes, you just won.
5. Extra tent stakes or guylines
You know that moment when you realize you’re missing stakes because they’re still at home.
Campgrounds often have a lost and found bin that’s usually full of forgotten gear. And sometimes allow others to use them after a certain period of time.
Ask if they have spare stakes, a bit of paracord, or extra guylines.
They might give you a few for free, or loan them. Either way you’re not trying to anchor your tent with a rock and a prayer.
6. A basic tool loan
This is one of my favorites. Need a hammer for stakes, a screwdriver, a small wrench, pliers, a can opener, even a bike pump.
Some camp offices have a little borrow box or a maintenance person who can help.
Just ask if they have any basic tools you could borrow for a minute. And obviously keep it quick, bring it back, and say thank you. People remember that.
7. Bug spray or sunscreen in a pinch
Not every campground will hand this out, but it happens more than you’d think.
Sometimes it’s a small pump bottle at the office. Sometimes it’s a mini packet.
If the mosquitoes are doing air raids and you forgot spray, ask. If the sun is cooking everyone and you didn’t pack sunscreen, ask.
It’s way less embarrassing than trying to hide under a towel all day.
8. Trash bags or extra recycling bags
This is almost always available, because campgrounds want trash handled properly.
Many places will give you a bag at check in, but if you need another one, just ask.
And if you’re cleaning up a messy campsite (or picking up litter, respect), they’re usually happy to give you a couple extra.
9. Water hookups or fill stations help
If you’re tent camping and need to top up a jug, or you’re in an RV and just want to confirm where to fill safely, ask the staff.
Some campgrounds have a specific potable water spigot that’s not obvious, or they’ll let you use a fill station even if your site doesn’t have water.
Also, sometimes they’ll tell you the one spigot that doesn’t taste like metal. That’s valuable info.
10. A better campsite tip or a quiet spot upgrade
This one is sneaky, because it’s not exactly a thing, but it can feel like a huge free upgrade.
If your site is weirdly sloped, or you’re next to the bathroom door slam zone, or there’s a generator, go to the office early and explain calmly. Ask if anything else is available.
Sometimes the answer is no. Sometimes they move you. Sometimes they suggest a better spot for next time.
A quick “how to ask” so it doesn’t feel awkward
Campground staff deal with way crazier stuff than someone asking for a couple tent stakes, trust me.
Keep it simple. Friendly. Low pressure.
Use a simple “Is there any chance you have spare…” or even “I forgot mine, do you have a lost and found stash for stuff like…”
Also, remember to leave the place clean, follow the rules, and be the kind of camper you’d want as a neighbor. That stuff comes back around.
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