Choosing a campsite: terrain and weather

What you’ll practice

Learn to judge ground shape, soil, and vegetation so you can avoid water pooling, unstable surfaces, and surprise runoff. You’ll also practice reading wind, cloud cues, and microclimates to place your shelter where it performs best.

Each question is multiple-choice with 4 options and no timer, so you can think through the scenario like you would in the field.

Common pitfalls to avoid

Many campers choose the flattest spot without checking drainage, overhead hazards, or wind direction. Another frequent mistake is camping too close to water or in low points where cold air and moisture settle overnight.

• Spotting “bathtub” depressions and subtle channels that funnel rain
• Choosing wind-safe sites without setting up under dead branches (widowmakers)
• Balancing proximity to water with flood risk, bugs, and regulations
• Picking surfaces that protect gear: duff, sand, rock, snow, and fragile vegetation
• Planning for weather shifts: gust fronts, thunderstorms, and temperature drops

Difficulty and settings

Difficulty is mixed: easier items cover core rules of thumb, while tougher ones test judgment calls with competing trade-offs (comfort vs. safety vs. impact). Before you start, choose your preferred question count and difficulty to match a quick refresher or a deeper practice session.