• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

CampingEssentialsAndMore.com

The Best Of Camping... Made Easy!

How to Shower While Camping

April 16, 2025 by Mike Leave a Comment

This page may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through my affiliate links, then I may earn a commission (which helps support this blog).

Staying clean while camping is easier than you think—if you know the right methods and gear. Whether you’re deep in the wilderness or relaxing at a developed campsite, there are practical, environmentally friendly ways to shower and keep fresh.

This guide covers the best camping shower options, essential hygiene gear, Leave No Trace practices, and expert tips for a comfortable, responsible outdoor experience.

Table of Contents

Toggle
    • Key Takeaways
  • Types of Camping Showers
    • Campground and Facility Showers
    • Portable Showers
    • Sponge Baths and Wipes
    • Bathing in Natural Water Sources
  • Essential Gear for Camping Showers
  • Eco-Friendly Showering: Leave No Trace Principles
  • Pro Tips and Recent Innovations
  • Frequently Asked Questions
    • What’s the best way to shower while backpacking?
    • Can I use regular soap while camping?
    • How do I stay clean on multi-day trips without a shower?
    • Are there any quick hacks for feeling fresh without water?
  • Conclusion

Key Takeaways

  • Use portable showers, sponge baths, or wipes for effective camping hygiene.
  • Always shower at least 200 feet from water sources using biodegradable soap.
  • Solar shower bags provide warm water and are easy to use for most campers.
  • Conserve water by using the “navy shower” method: wet, lather, rinse quickly.
  • Dispose of gray water responsibly—never directly into streams or lakes.

Types of Camping Showers

There are several ways to shower while camping, each suited to different environments and comfort levels. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular methods and when to use them.

Campground and Facility Showers

  • Many developed campgrounds offer coin-operated or token showers.
  • Bring your own toiletries, towel, and shower shoes for hygiene and comfort.
  • Facilities may be crowded during peak times, so plan accordingly.

Related: How to Make a Toilet for Camping

Portable Showers

This is a great
portable shower
for camping.
Get it at Amazon.

Portable showers are a versatile solution for campers who want a bit more comfort and privacy. These range from simple gravity-fed bags to advanced pressurized or heated systems.

Solar Shower Bags

  • Fill with water and leave in the sun for a few hours.
  • Hang from a tree or car rack; most heat up to 100–105°F.
  • Provide 3–10 minutes of shower time, depending on size.

Pressurized Showers

  • Use foot-pump or battery-powered models for higher water pressure.
  • Great for rinsing off after sandy or muddy activities.
  • Heavier and bulkier, best for car camping.

Heated Showers

  • Some models use propane or batteries for hot water on demand.
  • Ideal for longer trips or overlanding.
  • More expensive and require power/fuel.
SaleBestseller No. 1 Spopal Portable Shower for Camping, [Long-Lasting] 6000mAh Rechargeable Camping Shower with Intelligent LED Display, 4 Spray Modes, IPX7 Waterproof Outdoor Camp Pump for Hiking, Travel, Car, Pet Spopal Portable Shower for Camping, [Long-Lasting]… $39.98
SaleBestseller No. 2 Pop Up Pod - Privacy Shower Tent, Dressing Room, or Portable Toilet Stall with Carry Bag for Camping, Beach, or Tailgate by Wakeman Outdoors (Black) Pop Up Pod – Privacy Shower Tent, Dressing Room,… $32.99
SaleBestseller No. 3 DkOvn 1/2/4 Pack Solar Shower Bag, 5 Gallons/20L Camping Shower Bag, Portable Shower Bag with Removable Hose and On-Off Switchable Shower Head for Camping Beach Swimming Outdoor Traveling(2 Pack) DkOvn 1/2/4 Pack Solar Shower Bag, 5 Gallons/20L… $11.99
SaleBestseller No. 4 KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag | 5 Gal/20L Solar Heating Camping Shower Bag | Removable Hose | On-Off Switchable Shower Head | Ducha Portatil | Traveling Shower | Portable Shower for Beach Swimming, Hiking KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag | 5 Gal/20L Solar Heating… $13.48
Bestseller No. 5 Advanced Elements 5 Gallon Summer Shower / Solar Shower,Silver/Black Advanced Elements 5 Gallon Summer Shower / Solar… $35.99
SaleBestseller No. 6 innhom Portable Shower Camping Shower Outdoor Camp Shower Pump, Electric Rechargeable Portable Camping Shower, Powered by Rechargeable Battery innhom Portable Shower Camping Shower Outdoor Camp… $39.96
Bestseller No. 7 RV Shower Head with Hose, High Pressure 5 Mode Shower head Replacement, Shower Head for RV/Campers, Travel Trailer, Motorhome for Water Saving, Handheld Shower Head Holder and Hose, On Off Switch RV Shower Head with Hose, High Pressure 5 Mode… $26.99

Sponge Baths and Wipes

When water is scarce or you’re backpacking, sponge baths and wipes offer a fast, efficient way to stay clean without a full shower.

  • Use a damp cloth or biodegradable wipes for a quick clean.
  • Focus on face, underarms, and groin for best results.
  • Warm water adds comfort; use a small amount of soap on a sponge for a more thorough wash.

Bathing in Natural Water Sources

Bathing in lakes or streams can be refreshing, but it must be done responsibly to protect the environment.

  • Never use soap (even biodegradable) directly in lakes or streams.
  • Carry water at least 200 feet away from the source before washing.
  • Scatter gray water over a wide area to filter through soil.

Essential Gear for Camping Showers

Having the right gear can make showering while camping much easier and more comfortable. Here are the essentials to pack for your next trip:

  • Biodegradable Soap: Choose unscented, concentrated options (e.g., Dr. Bronner’s, Sea to Summit Wilderness Wash).
  • Microfiber Towel: Quick-drying and compact.
  • Portable Shower System: Solar, pressurized, or battery-powered, depending on your trip.
  • Biodegradable Wipes: For no-water cleanups.
  • Flip-flops: For public showers and foot protection.
  • Privacy Shelter: Optional, but helpful for modesty at open campsites.

Related: What Clothes To Pack For Camping

Eco-Friendly Showering: Leave No Trace Principles

Highly recommended
camping soap
Get it at Amazon.

Practicing eco-friendly hygiene is crucial to protecting natural spaces. Follow these Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact while staying clean outdoors:

  • Distance: Always shower and dispose of gray water at least 200 feet from water sources.
  • Soap Use: Use small amounts of biodegradable soap; even these can harm aquatic life if introduced directly to water.
  • Gray Water Disposal: Scatter soapy water or pour into a 6–8 inch cathole to allow soil bacteria to break down soap.
  • Avoid Scented Products: Unscented soaps and shampoos deter wildlife and insects.

Related: Eco-Friendly Dispersed Camping (The Ultimate Guide)

Pro Tips and Recent Innovations

Want to make your camping shower even more efficient and enjoyable? Try these expert tips and check out the latest gear innovations for outdoor hygiene.

  • Navy Shower Technique: Wet your body, turn off water, lather up, then rinse quickly to conserve water.
  • Shower Timing: Bathe during the warmest part of the day for comfort, especially with cold water.
  • Clothing: Wear synthetic, moisture-wicking fabrics to stay fresher longer.
  • Hair Care: Use unscented dry shampoo or baby powder for greasy hair when water is limited.
  • Expert Hack: Try the Nemo Helio Pressure Shower for hands-free, high-pressure rinsing—recently praised by overlanders for its efficiency and packability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about showering while camping, so you can plan your trip with confidence:

What’s the best way to shower while backpacking?

Use a small, collapsible container to carry water away from streams, then sponge bathe with a little biodegradable soap. Biodegradable wipes are a lightweight alternative.

Can I use regular soap while camping?

No. Only use biodegradable soap, and never directly in natural water sources.

Related: Do I Need Biodegradable Soap for Camping?

How do I stay clean on multi-day trips without a shower?

Focus on daily sponge baths, change into clean clothes, and use wipes for essential areas. Prioritize hand and face washing.

Are there any quick hacks for feeling fresh without water?

Yes! Use unscented baby wipes, dry shampoo, and change your socks and underwear daily.

Conclusion

Showering while camping is simple and sustainable with the right techniques and gear. Whether you use a portable shower, sponge bath, or wipes, you can stay clean and comfortable without harming the environment.

Always follow Leave No Trace guidelines, use biodegradable products, and respect water sources. With these tips, you’ll enjoy your outdoor adventure—and your fellow campers will appreciate it too!

Related: How to Wash Dishes Camping

Filed Under: Camping Tips Tagged With: biodegradable soap camping, camping hygiene gear, camping shower solutions, camping tips, eco-friendly camping hygiene, How to Shower While Camping, leave no trace showering, navy shower method, portable camping showers, solar shower bag tips

Related Articles

Canine First Aid for Camping Trips

Canine First Aid for Camping Trips

Taking your furry friend camping requires careful preparation, especially … [Read More...] about Canine First Aid for Camping Trips

Best Camping Gear for Families

Camping trips offer the perfect opportunity for families to bond and create … [Read More...] about Best Camping Gear for Families

Camping with Cats: How to Make It Enjoyable for Your Feline Friend

Camping with cats can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering both … [Read More...] about Camping with Cats: How to Make It Enjoyable for Your Feline Friend

Camping Essentials

Bestseller No. 1 Retractable Portable Clothesline for Travel,Clothing line with 12 Clothes Clips, for Indoor Laundry Drying line,Outdoor Camping Accessories Retractable Portable Clothesline for... $9.99
SaleBestseller No. 2 MEKER Fire Color Changing Packets - Fire Pit, Campfires, Outdoor Fireplaces, Bonfire - Magic Colorful Changing Fire - Perfect Fire Camping Accessories for Kids & Adults (12 Pack) MEKER Fire Color Changing Packets - Fire Pit,... $8.97
SaleBestseller No. 3 Benadryl Anti Itch Gel, Relief of Outdoor Itches Associated with Poison Ivy, Topical Analgesic, Cooling Relief, Diphenhydramine, 3.5 oz Benadryl Anti Itch Gel, Relief of Outdoor Itches... $5.28
SaleBestseller No. 4 MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long - Marshmallow Roasting Sticks Smores Kit - Smore Skewers Hot Dog Fork Campfire Cooking Equipment, Camping Essentials S'mores Gear Outdoor Accessories 32' 5 Pack MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long -... $9.99
SaleBestseller No. 5 Collapsible Wagon with Wheels, 220 lbs Wagons Carts Foldable Wagon Cart with Flexible Handle, Lightweight Portable Folding Utility Grocery Shopping Cart for Grocery Sports Garden Camping Collapsible Wagon with Wheels, 220 lbs Wagons... $44.99

About Mike

I spent my Summer's growing up in Michigan RV camping with my Grandparents and tent camping with my family. My Dad loved to race Hobie Cat sailboats, so I've pretty much seen every major inland lake and camping ground in Michigan.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Camping Gear

SaleBestseller No. 1 MEKER Fire Color Changing Packets - Fire Pit, Campfires, Outdoor Fireplaces, Bonfire - Magic Colorful Changing Fire - Perfect Fire Camping Accessories for Kids & Adults (12 Pack) MEKER Fire Color Changing Packets - Fire Pit,... $8.97
SaleBestseller No. 2 MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long - Marshmallow Roasting Sticks Smores Kit - Smore Skewers Hot Dog Fork Campfire Cooking Equipment, Camping Essentials S'mores Gear Outdoor Accessories 32' 5 Pack MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long -... $9.99
Bestseller No. 3 TOPJUM Camp Kitchen Organizer, Cooking Tools Storage Caddy Bag, Multi-Pockets, Paper Towel Holder, Portable Hanging Kitchen Caddy for Camping Utensils, Cookware & BBQ Essentials, Bag Only TOPJUM Camp Kitchen Organizer, Cooking Tools... $49.98

Search

Recent Posts

  • Do I Need Biodegradable Soap for Camping?
  • Camping Essentials For Women (Don’t Forget The Wine)
  • What Is A Camping Vault Toilet?
  • How To Use CPAP While Camping
  • What Clothes To Pack For Camping
  • Backpacking 101: Essential Backpacking Tips for Beginners
  • Choosing The Best Suv Air Mattress
  • How To Choose The Best Back Seat Air Mattress
  • Quick and Easy Hot Dog Sauce: Classic Coney Island Chili Recipe
  • How to Shower While Camping
  • How to Wash Dishes Camping
  • How to Pack Eggs for Camping

Categories

  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Camping Gear
  • Camping Meals
  • Camping Tips
  • Camping With Cats
  • Camping With Dogs
  • Car Camping
  • Dispersed Camping
  • Glamping
  • National Parks
  • Sleeping Bags
  • Summer Camping
  • Tent Camping
  • Winter Camping
  • Yurts

Camping Equipment

Bestseller No. 1 Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern XTAUTO Lightweight Waterproof Solar USB Rechargeable LED Flashlight Survival Kits for Indoor Outdoor Home Emergency Light Power Outages Hiking Hurricane 4-Pack Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern XTAUTO... $29.99
SaleBestseller No. 2 Survival Kit and First Aid Kit, 142Pcs Professional Survival Gear and Equipment with Molle Pouch, for Men Dad Husband Who Likes Camping Outdoor Adventure (Black) Survival Kit and First Aid Kit, 142Pcs... $40.99
SaleBestseller No. 3 MACKENZIE-CHILDS Ceramic Tray, Unique Tray for Decor, White Rabbit Trinket MACKENZIE-CHILDS Ceramic Tray, Unique Tray for... $45.99
SaleBestseller No. 4 LHKNL Headlamp Flashlight, 1200 Lumen Ultra-Light Bright LED Rechargeable Headlight with White Red Light,2-Pack Waterproof Motion Sensor Head Lamp,8 Modes for Outdoor Camping Running Hiking Fishing LHKNL Headlamp Flashlight, 1200 Lumen Ultra-Light... $19.99
SaleBestseller No. 5 MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long - Marshmallow Roasting Sticks Smores Kit - Smore Skewers Hot Dog Fork Campfire Cooking Equipment, Camping Essentials S'mores Gear Outdoor Accessories 32' 5 Pack MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long -... $9.99

Disclaimer:

The content provided on this blog, including articles, visuals, and other materials, is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as professional advice of any kind, including medical, legal, or safety-related advice. We encourage you to consult with qualified professionals before making decisions based on the information provided here. The authors and administrators of this blog are not responsible for inaccuracies, errors, or omissions in the content nor for any actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.

Footer

  • Contact Us
  • Opt-out Preferences
  • Terms of Use and Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Notice of Security
  • Comments Disclaimer
  • General Disclaimer
  • Copyright DMCA Violations Procedure
  • Disclaimer & Legal Rights
  • Business Address
  • Sitemap
  • As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

© 2025 Profitable Results Marketing, LLC All Rights Reserved.

Manage Cookie Consent
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Manage options Manage services Manage {vendor_count} vendors Read more about these purposes
View preferences
{title} {title} {title}