When you hear the call of the wild, camping is the perfect way to get back to nature. You may have fond memories from camping trips from your childhood or excursions with the scouts. In the past, pitching a tent would have been your go-to option when you were ready to head into the woods. While you can still purchase tents in various sizes and styles, you’re ready to think outside the box. Alternatives to traditional camping can make it feel like the first time every time you venture out.

1. Invest in a Hammock

If you don’t feel like lying on the cold, hard ground while you are sleeping in the great outdoors, a hammock could be the way to go. You will be able to enjoy the open air while you stare up at the stars. It will also be much more comfortable when you don’t have any rocks digging into your back. A tent will conform to your body without forcing you to sleep on a hard surface. Swaying gently back and forth will be like a lullaby, helping you to drift off to sleep at the end of a long day.

2. Take to the Roof

Camping in a tent may still be appealing when you want to feel like you are going old-school. The best Tacoma rooftop tents allow you to mount a tent on the roof of your vehicle. Rooftop tents are designed with comfort as a priority. You’ll also distance yourself from any wild animals on the ground that might become too curious in the night. It’s much easier to keep the interior of a rooftop tent clean as opposed to tracking in dirt from a tent that is on the ground. They are easy to set up, sparing you the need for tent stakes or rope to tie down a traditional tent.

3. Discover the Wonder of a Yurt

Yurts are gaining in popularity, providing guests with a form of shelter that is sturdier due to its wooden frame. Yurts are set aside as established camping accommodations, sparing you the effort of setting up a tent. You’ll have more protection from the elements while enjoying the fresh air and the wilderness right outside your door. Leave the door open when you want to enjoy the view of your surroundings. Other luxuries may be in place, including a deck, fire pit, a table, and seating area. You’ll be able to bring less with you on your trip while your campsite offers you more.

4. Feel Like a Pioneer in a Cabin

Many public and private campgrounds offer cabins as another alternative to sites for campers or tents. A cabin gives you the amenities of home while you still feel like you are roughing it. You decide if you want a utilitarian cabin with only the basics or luxuries such as air conditioning and heat. You can choose a small cabin that provides you with a cozy arrangement for two or request a cabin that is large enough for a larger party. A cabin may be your first choice when it’s time to camp with the extended family or a large gathering of friends.

5. Have the Ultimate Adventure in a Treehouse

Many campgrounds and private landowners are offering guests a treehouse to help them live out their childhood fantasies. Whether you were lucky enough to have a treehouse or only dreamed of owning one, you can experience a camping trip from new heights. Feel like you are truly one with the wilderness as you are surrounded by the leaves fluttering in the wind. Bird song will announce the dawn and the chirping of the crickets will send you off for sweet dreams at night.

The next time you feel like forging your way into the forest, think about leaving your old tent behind. Explore your options. Give unconventional camping alternatives a try before you settle on your favorite. You can always rent an RV as well when you feel like taking your camping accommodations with you anywhere you want to go. You have the flexibility of planning ahead to discover the wonders of nature on your terms.