Costa Rica Camping

Costa Rica’s extensive national park system provides good hiking and camping opportunities, but not all parks offer camping facilities. Many parks have short, looping trails that can be easily completed as daytrips. To experience some of the most impressive parks to their fullest, consider camping. There are restrictions on how many people can be in a given park at the same time, and camping outside of official camping areas is not permitted. The Ministerio del Ambiente y Energia (Ministry of Atmosphere and Energy), commonly known as MINAE, is a government organization devoted to encouraging sustainable development in Costa Rica. MINAE has a strong presence in many of the natural sights of Costa Rica. In some cases it is required that you be accompanied by a guide; inquire at the local MINAE offices in advance to get the most out of your trip.

Outside national parks and a few private campsites, camping on beaches or on private property (usually for a small fee) is possible, but always check with locals beforehand. Some hostels allow travelers to camp outside and use their indoor facilities. Always agree upon a price before setting up camp. Camping should be avoided in populated areas; hotels are almost as cheap and safer.

The Great Outdoor Recreation Pages (www.gorp.com) provides excellent general information for travelers planning on camping or spending time outdoors.

Leave No Trace. Let’s Go encourages travelers to embrace the “Leave No Trace” ethic, minimizing their impact on natural environments and protecting them for future generations. A camp stove is a safer way to cook than using vegetation, but if you must make a fire, keep it small and use only dead branches or brush rather than cutting vegetation. Make sure your campsite is at least 50m (150 ft.) from water supplies or bodies of water. If there are no toilet facilities, bury human waste (but not paper) at least 10cm (4 in.) deep and above the high-water line, and 50m (150 ft.) or more from any water supplies and campsites. Always pack your trash in a plastic bag and carry it with you until you reach the next trash receptacle. For more detailed information, contact the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, P.O. Box 997, Boulder, CO 80306, USA (☎1-800-332-4100 or 303-442-8222; www.lnt.org).