Lighting Etiquette at Shared Campgrounds
Bright lights are one of the most common complaints at busy campgrounds. Many people camp to see stars and enjoy the dark, and a single floodlight can light up several sites. Considerate lighting keeps neighbors happy without leaving you in the dark.
Aim and dim
Point light down where you need it rather than outward. Lanterns with shades or downward reflectors light a table without shining into neighboring tents. Use the lowest setting that works for the task.
Warm-colored light is generally less harsh than bright blue-white light.
Headlamp manners
Avoid shining a headlamp into people's faces when talking; tilt it down or switch to a low or red mode. Walking through other sites with a bright beam disturbs people already in their tents.
Red light also helps your own eyes stay adjusted to the dark.
When arriving late at a campground, keep vehicle headlights off once parked, set up with a dim headlamp and keep voices low. Neighbors who are already asleep will notice a bright, noisy arrival more than anything else. If you need to find your way to the toilets, a low beam pointed at the path in front of your feet is enough.
Quiet hours and string lights
Turn off decorative lights and lanterns when quiet hours begin and when you go to bed. Do not leave lights running all night in an empty site.
Check campground rules; some sites near observatories or dark-sky parks restrict outdoor lighting.