There can be extreme differences in hunting camp accomodations. Know what you are getting into before you book. Don’t overlook transportation during the hunt either,  hunting from a 4×4 truck is not the same as backpacking into and out of the wilderness.  Here is an overview to help you with your research. When taking a hunting trip, like everything else in life, you get what you pay for.

Hunting Lodges-For hunters who prefer comfort above all else, there are many beautiful lodges that also have great hunting, five star meals and superb accomodations.  Hunting lodges are often located on large private ranches. If the ranch is managed for quality animals hunters can have the best of both worlds, excellent accomodations and lots of trophy game to hunt. Transportation around the ranch is generally by 4×4 trucks. In addition to the big game hunting lodges often have other activities such as fishing and upland game available if you happen to tag out early.

Base Camp- Outfitters commonly set up and equip multiple wall tents ahead of time in predetermined areas. Assuming the outfitter’s equipment is in good working order this can be a comfortable camp for most hunters willing to “rough it” a bit. Food is kept in coolers, cook stoves are propane,  tents are heated with wood burners, a hole is dug nearby for the “toilet”. Many wilderness hunts for Elk and Mule Deer on public land are set up this way. Often times these base camps are many miles from the trail head to get away from the crowds. Access is typically a horseback ride into and out of camp. 

Spike Camp- This is a small tent and freeze dried food, not much else. Outfitters use spike camps to stay on top of migrating game like Caribou, for remote wilderness area hunts or when dropping off hunters by plane. Spike camps are common for DIY backpack hunters on national forest or wilderness areas too. You need to be prepared for the weather conditions and in great physical condition to enjoy this hunt. That said, spike camps can be very successful.

Motels- Many outfitters call these “town hunts” meaning you stay in town in a local motel or bed and breakfast and drive to your hunting location. This is common for western hunts for game like Antelope, Muleys and Whitetails. Your meals are at restaurants or a sack lunch.

Boat hunts-These hunts take place from lakes, rivers and oceans and can be very effective at getting hunters on game. In North America outfitters use large 40-60 foot boats to hunt coastlines for Alaskan Brown Bear, Grizzly Bear, Black Bear, Sitka Blacktail Deer, Mountain Goat and Moose. These boats have all the comforts of home, plus fresh seafood like crabs and fish are caught and served.  Boat hunts can be a good alternative for those who don’t like riding horses or backpacking.

Getting around…

Backpacking-This is the most rugged hunt and should only be considered by those who are in excellent physical condition. Backpacks are heavy, weighing 50-70lbs. and terrain is steep, rugged and remote. Most likely a spike camp awaits you, possibly already set up or you may pack it with you.

Horseback Hunting-Horses can be a super asset for getting into remote country, but hunters may spend a lot of time in the saddle.  It’s common for hunters to leave camp hours before first light and ride to the hunting area in the dark. Be sure to ask the outfitter how much riding to expect before you book with him. To many hunters, including the author horseback riding in God’s country is part of a great hunting adventure. However, if this doesn’t sound like an adventure to you, don’t book this type of hunt. If you book, try to do some riding before you go. Get familiar with horses and basic horsemanship skills. Riding can be dangerous, especially in the mountains.

Vehicles- Outfitters who hunt private ground will often use 4×4 trucks and ATV’s to access hunting areas. Clearly this is physically much easier on hunters. On the other hand, the overall experience is not the same, there is simply less adventure, which can be good or bad depending on the person.