Best Camping Tent Lighting Ideas (24 Ideas)

Published October 4th, 2022 by Allen Campbell

camping tent lighting ideas

If you’ve ever gone camping, you know that one of the challenges is lighting up your campsite after the sun goes down. You can buy a lantern, sure. But why settle for ordinary when you can go extraordinary? 

You can convert your campground into a wonderland of light with just a little imagination with these best camping tent lighting ideas!

Have you ever come across dreamy photos of campsites adorned with string lights? It’s a stunning effect, and it’s actually pretty easy to achieve. It is one of many great camping tent lighting ideas. Read on to see more vibrant ways to light up your tent and make your campsite the envy of everyone on the campground:

Best Camping Tent Lighting Ideas: Summary

1. Camping Tealights

If you are camping with your children or pets, you don’t have to worry about fires. These tealights will give your campsite that magical candlelit feeling without any of the hazards. Also, if you are forgetful like me, you will never have to worry about blowing them out before you go to bed. 

You can use these tealights inside your tent with no worries about smoke or fumes. If you want your tent to look nice from the outside as well, I would highly recommend placing them outside as well. 

Around the boundaries of your tent, they will keep animals away and also help you find your way back after a night out in the woods. You can be more creative by making patterns with the lights or even writing your name on the lights. The possibilities are endless, so let your mind run free.

2. Light up your tent with this Philips Hue Go

I appreciate that these lights illuminate a wide area without being excessively bright. You can also dim them, which is perfect for when you’re trying to sleep. They have a soft light that won’t disrupt anyone else in bed, and they’re also great for providing outdoor lighting when it gets dark outside. 

Set this light according to your mood and needs, and it will help to make any event more special. The portability at its best, this light is a great way to set the mood no matter where you are. Place it on a table or the ground, and enjoy the warm lighting it provides. 

I personally recommend the Philips Hue Go. No cords are needed- just turn on the light with a single button on the back and place it where you need some extra light. Additionally, you can control the lighting from your mobile device.

3. Solar Yard Lights

If you love pole-mounted lights but worry about the hassle of keeping them lit, then solar yard lights are the perfect solution! These sleek lights rely on solar power to keep them lit, so you’ll never have to worry about replacing batteries or charging them. 

Plus, you’ll get the added bonus of an elegant tiki-style accent in your yard without all the hassle of a fire. All you have to do is find a sunny spot for solar yard lights, and they’ll take care of the rest. After the sun goes down, you’ll have a beautiful display of light to help guide your way.

4. Camping Fan with LED Lights

You know how essential it is to get a good night’s sleep while on a camping trip. But what’s more important is to make sure you don’t wake up soaked in your own sweat. No one wants to be that person. 

Introducing the Hanging Fan Light! With this small fan, you can stay cool throughout the night without having to worry about cords getting in your way. 

The light inside the fan is a plus too, so you can find your way around in the dark without having to fumble for a flashlight. You can easily hang this fan in your tent, and it has three different settings for brightness. 

5. Glowing Party Sticks

Glow sticks are quite a cool and interesting way to create light. You can use them for all sorts of different things like making bracelets, and necklaces, and even carrying them around as a fun way to light up the dark. These sticks are waterproof so you can use them in a jar full of water and create a lantern. 

You can buy them in packs of different colors too so that you are never surprised with the same color twice. You can choose from 7 different varieties of colors. You can make your own light show by waving them around in the air or even using them to line your pathway so you never trip in the dark. 

Glow sticks have a wide range of applications, and they are lots of fun for people of all ages. Attach them to your tent, tables, and trees to help guide your way back after a long night of stargazing. Due to its lightweight and small size, it is ideal for backpackers who want to add some fun and light to their camping trip without adding extra weight to their backpacks.

6. LED Dog Collar

If you’re going on a camping trip with your pet, consider purchasing them a light-up collar! With this accessory, you and your furry friend can enjoy each other’s company in style. Recharge it before your trip, and let your dog rock a different color each night of the camping trip. 

These also come in handy if you’re out on evening walks and want to be sure your pet is visible. No matter what size dog you have, there’s a light-up collar perfect for them – even puppies can find one to fit. These LED dog collars are also a great way to keep an eye on your pet while they’re playing in the yard at night. 

With these new leashes, you can rest assured knowing your dog is always by your side. So, go ahead and purchase a light-up dog collar today – your furry friend will thank you for it.

7. Lightweight Reading Lamp

If you’re someone who loves reading books before going to bed but you don’t want to bother your sleeping partner with a light, then what you need is a book light. These nifty little lights can be clipped to your book or clothes, and they provide a warm light that makes reading in the dark easy and comfortable. 

There are 2 most common book lights available in the market, which are clip-on lights and necklaces. Clip on light has a classic design with an LED light point that can be attached to any object with its clip. 

On the other hand, if you don’t want something attached to your book or cloth, then you may opt for the necklace style which requires you to wear it around your neck. Both styles offer different features that make them suitable for different needs, so make sure you know which one is best suited for your needs before making a purchase.

8. Hanging Disk Light

This 360-degree rotatable hanging disk light is a great way to add some light and decoration to your tent. You can hang them inside and they’re perfect for those who want an intimate atmosphere in their tents. Adding this lamp to your reading nook is the perfect way to get some extra light for your books. 

Just simply attach these mini lights to your cloth and you have a great reading light. You can select from a different variety of colors to match your mood. Just press the button on the light’s back side to change colors. 

I would highly recommend it if you are backpacking and looking for a way to add light to your tent. This is because of its small and lightweight design. You don’t have to worry about hanging these lights as they come with a small hook.

9. Luminary Bags

The Luminary Bags are decorative bags that are safe to use around open flames. They are a great way to add some extra flair to your campsite and can be used as path markers or around the fire pit. The material looks like a paper bag but is actually flame retardant, so you can feel confident using them to brighten up your campsite. 

You can make a perfect match of Luminaries and Battery Operated Tealight to make your own unique decoration. Other than Tealight, you can use the actual candle to light up these luminaries. This will give a beautiful Campfire look to your decoration.

10. Hurricane Oil Lamps

The Hurricane Oil Lamps are kind of traditional, yet still unique in their design. They are red, which gives them a bit of an edge and use kerosene and matches or lighters to create flames. The major benefit of using citronella oil is that it wards off bugs, so you can enjoy your time outside without being bitten. 

But after some time, the color of the lantern may start to discolor because of the black powder that is produced when the fuel is burned, so be sure to clean it regularly. I would suggest you do not use these lamps in a tent, because they can be a fire hazard.

11. Solar-Powered String Lights

Add some fun and flair to your yard with these Solar String Lights. With their cute designs and easy-to-use features, they’ll make any summer gathering a hit. These lights are powered by solar energy, so you’ll never have to worry about replacing batteries. 

Just place them in a sunny spot and let the sun do its work. Attach these lights to trees, tents, or anywhere else you want to add a little bit of light. Simply unroll the strings from the included spool and start decorating. Whether you’re using these lights indoors or outdoors, you don’t have to worry about water damage. 

With 100 lights on 18 feet of string lights, you’ll have lots of options. These Solar String Lights will help you create the correct atmosphere for your next party.

12. LED Rope Lights

The rope lights look like string light, but the main advantage of having this is that it doesn’t get tangled easily and has a covering of plastic pipe which makes them more durable. 

The rope lights come in a variety of colors and sizes. If you are more concerned about the bugs and want to keep your outdoor area lit, then choosing red color rope lights can be a great idea as they don’t attract insects. Otherwise, you can go for white ones that emit more light and brighten up the area more. 

You can also use them indoors to create a cozy and romantic ambiance. All you need to do is wrap them around tree trunks, staircase rails, or any other structures in your home. You can even spell out words using these lights to create a unique look.

13. Rechargeable Lanterns: The Safer Option

If you are looking for a more modern way to light up your campsite and don’t want to use gas or oil like the Hurricane Oil Lamps, then a rechargeable lantern is the way to go. These lanterns are powered by batteries, so you can simply recharge them when they run out of power. 

Don’t worry about the batteries running out, as you can use your generator, portable power bank, or even your car’s battery to recharge them. Once it’s charged, you’ll have enough battery life to last you throughout the night. These lanterns are also great for emergencies, as they can provide enough light to last you through the night. 

If you are camping with your children, then you should avoid using gas or oil lanterns, as they can be a fire hazard. A rechargeable lantern is the safer option and will give you peace of mind while you are camping with your family. I would highly recommend you to opt. for waterproof and multi-function lanterns, as they are very versatile and come in handy in a variety of situations.

14. Bug-Shaped LED

I came across the Nite Ize BugLit while doing some research and I have to say that I was really impressed with this little flashlight. This flashlight is so small and versatile that it can easily be attached to just about anything. 

The legs are also bendable, so you can wrap them around tent poles or anywhere else you need extra light. The best part about the Nite Ize BugLit is that its rechargeable. No more buying batteries all the time. This bug-shaped LED is quite interesting and very handy to have around, I would definitely recommend it. 

Let me tell you that these little bug lights are not suitable for illuminating your entire campsite but with a small LED like this you can light up a book, your tent, or anything else you need without disturbing others.

15. Tiki Torches

If you are looking to add some bright and calm ambiance to your campsite without all the hassle, then look no further than Tiki Torches. Not only are these lights simple to use, but they will also enhance the look of any outdoor area. 

Keep these lights away from combustible materials, the most essential thing to note when utilizing them. Make sure you place them in a safe location where they won’t be knocked over. Also, be sure to keep a fire extinguisher close by just in case. 

Additionally, if you have children on your camping trip, it is best to avoid using these lights. They are great for adult-only camping trips. I would highly recommend you match the Tiki Torches with some string lights to add more light to your campsite. You can also add another suitable light with Tiki Torches to create a more inviting atmosphere.

16. Standard String Lights (Solar-Powered)

Solar Powered String Lights are an excellent way to brighten up your campsite while using less power. These lights are powered by solar energy, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power. 

If you place this outside in direct sunlight for a few hours, it will stay lit all night. You can hang them around your tent or campsite to add some extra light.

17. Candle Holders

Candles are one of the most popular and common ways to produce light. Not only are they easy to transport, but they also create a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for any camping trip. Using centerpiece candles is an easy and safe way to create beautiful light arrangements on your camping trip. 

It is best to keep it away from any areas where kids are running around to avoid any accidents. To create a more inviting atmosphere, try using scented candles to fill the air with pleasant smells. They come in a variety of sizes and forms, so you’ll be able to discover one that is ideal for your needs. 

It is best to use candles where there is enough headroom and ventilation to avoid any fire hazards. This is most suitable for larger tents or cabins. Don’t use candles in smaller tents as they could easily start a fire.

18. Campfire

One of the traditional methods of providing light is by using a campfire. Aside from providing warmth and light, it also fosters a sense of togetherness. It’s ideal to set up your campfire in an open area that isn’t close to any trees or shrubs. 

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you’ll need, including matches, firewood, and a fire extinguisher. After you have acquired all the necessary materials, you can begin working. 

There is some campsite where fires are not allowed so make sure you check in advance. Before lighting up the campfire, make sure you have a clear and safe path to the fire.

19. Fire pit

If you can’t get a fire going on your own, or don’t want to deal with too much smoke, you can try using a portable propane gas fire pit. This idea is very easy and hassle-free, and it will provide you with all the heat and light that you need. 

Just make sure that you check if this is allowed on your campsite before buying one, as portable campfires may also be banned in some areas. One of the main reasons to choose this product is its portability; you can bring it along on any trip and set it up quickly. 

It runs on propane gas, which is readily accessible and inexpensive. Another great thing about this product is that it doesn’t produce too much smoke, so you won’t have to worry about bothering your campers.

20. Egg Shape LED Light

If you are like me and love to camp but don’t want to deal with the hassle of setting up a fire, then you will love Egg shaped LED. The main benefit of using these lights is that they produce a very soft and calming light. The light is also not too bright, so it won’t disturb your sleep if you are using them in your tent. 

Once fully charged, they will last you for hours and can provide a sense of security in the dark. The compact design makes it easy to take on any adventure, making this the perfect camping partner. 

It also has a dimming function, so you can control the level of light that it emits. 7 different colors are available, so you can choose the one that suits your mood.

21. Outdoor Solar Lanterns

Solar Lanterns are well-known for their capacity to provide illumination in the event of a power outage or other emergency. It is very easy to use solar lanterns at your campsite. You can string them up inside your tents or carry them around with you so they are always within reach. 

You need to charge these devices under the sun for a few hours and it is best not to forget about them when you are out during the day. The lightweight and compact design make them easy to transport, so you can take them with you when you go hiking, camping, or backpacking.

22. Lightweight Hanging Bulbs

Hanging bulbs are a great way to add a touch of class to your camping experience. With its high-quality battery power, this product can be placed anywhere in your tent for extra illumination. 

Whether you’re looking to spruce up your reading nook or add a touch of light to your sleeping area, hanging bulbs are perfect for any campsite. You can easily hang these bulbs by simply attaching them to any existing object in your tent. 

With a small button present, it’s easy to switch on and off as needed. But, I would not suggest these little bulbs if you want to go hiking at night. The light just isn’t powerful enough for that.

23. Multi-Color Strip Lights

Nowadays, LED strip lights are the most popular type of lighting. Not only are these lamps stylish, but they also give off a lot of light when necessary. You can easily install these strips in your tent or any other setting – they are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. 

LED strip lights are a fashionable addition to campgrounds and provide ample lighting for any activity. The most pleasing and beneficial aspect of these lights is that you can change the color with given remote control. 

This is fantastic for those who love to have themed parties or gatherings, as the colors can be changed according to the mood. Make sure to get an extension cable to plug them in, as they don’t work without power.

24. Homemade Lantern

Nowadays, LED strip lights are the most popular type of lighting. Not only are these lamps stylish, but they also give off a lot of light when necessary. You can easily install these strips in your tent or any other setting – they are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. 

LED strip lights are a fashionable addition to campgrounds and provide ample lighting for any activity. The most pleasing and beneficial aspect of these lights is that you can change the color with given remote control. 

This is fantastic for those who love to have themed parties or gatherings, as the colors can be changed according to the mood. Make sure to get an extension cable to plug them in, as they don’t work without power.

Best Camping Tent Lighting Ideas: Bottom Line

As you can see, there are plenty of different ways to light up your camping tent at night so you can enjoy all that nature has to offer — even after sundown! So next time you find yourself packing for a camping trip, be sure to throw one (or more!) of these ideas into your bag. 

Whether it’s a classic lantern, a string of lights, or a homemade creation, you’ll be glad you did when you’re relaxing in your well-lit tent at the end of a long day of hiking.

Allen Campbell with Master Canopies

Allen Campbell

Allen is a full time writer at Mastercanopies.com and enjoys traveling around the United States and exploring nature. He enjoys writing about canopies as he believes they are extremely crucial in having a successful camping trip whether it be a trip to the beach, mountains, or the open plains.

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