There’s something undeniably primal about being outdoors under a full moon.
The landscape glows silver, shadows stretch long, and the night feels alive in a way that daylight never quite captures. While many dark sky campers plan trips around new moons for stargazing, full moons deserve their own spotlight. With the right mindset and the right gear, camping under a full moon becomes an unforgettable adventure.
This 2026 full moon calendar is your guide to planning trips that embrace moonlight, movement, and magic, along with practical full moon camping tips to help you make the most of every luminous night.
Why Camp Under a Full Moon?
Full moons offer natural illumination that turns ordinary campsites into dreamlike terrain. You can hike without a headlamp, cook dinner by moonlight, and sit back to watch clouds drift across a glowing lunar disc. For those who enjoy dark sky camping, a full moon doesn’t end the experience. Stars may fade, but the sky gains texture, depth, and motion that’s just as compelling.
Sky View Tents are uniquely suited for these nights. With the clearest roof mesh on the market, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the moon from the comfort of your sleeping bag. And when it’s finally time to rest, the internally deployable rainfly lets you gently “turn off the moonlight” for deeper, uninterrupted sleep.
The 2026 Full Moon Calendar
Below is our complete 2026 full moon calendar. Along with that, we tuck in some North American lunar lore and full moon camping tips.
January 3 — Wolf Moon
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January’s Wolf Moon is named after the lore of hungry wolves howling through the midwinter woods, a reminder of long nights and survival in the cold. In the U.S., this full moon is perfect for winter camping in snow-scapes like the Sierra Nevada or Minnesota Northwoods—bring insulated gear and embrace moonlit snowshoes.
February 1 — Snow Moon
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The February Snow Moon reflects deep winter’s grip, when heavy snowfall shapes landscapes across the northern States. Snow Moon camping works beautifully in places like Utah’s snowy mountains or Vermont’s Green Mountains, where frozen lakes and bright moonlight make late-night walks magical.
March 3 — Worm Moon
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As ice thaws and earthworms begin to reappear, the Worm Moon celebrates spring’s return. Campgrounds in the Southeast’s pine forests or Texas hill country begin waking up this month—expect muddy trails and gentle lunar light that makes early spring hikes scenic and cool.
April 2 — Pink Moon
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Named for the moss pink wildflower that blooms in early spring, the Pink Moon captures a season of renewal. Ideal for camping in the Ozarks or Great Smokies, where night temperatures are mild and wildflower trails complement moonlit strolls.
May 1 — Flower Moon
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May’s Flower Moon marks abundant bloom and vibrant green landscapes. Moonlit hikes through lush forests or along Appalachian ridges feel especially alive—just be ready for warmer nights and the buzz of spring insects.
May 31 — Blue Moon
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A Blue Moon doesn’t turn blue, but it is rare—being the second full moon in May. It’s a great excuse for extended camping in desert regions like Arizona’s national parks, where wide-open skies and still evenings offer endless moon views.
June 30 — Strawberry Moon
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The Strawberry Moon was once tied to harvesting ripe berries, and in early summer it shines over campsites from the Midwest to New England. This is prime time for festivals, fishing, and relaxed moonlit nights by the water.
July 29 — Buck Moon
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Beneath the July Buck Moon, male deer are growing new antlers—a name rooted in natural cycles. Summer backpacking in mountain ranges like the Tetons or White Mountains pairs perfectly with this bright night; just be sure your campsite is well-stocked with water and bug spray.
August 28 — Sturgeon Moon
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August’s Sturgeon Moon arrives when sturgeon fish were plentiful in northern lakes. Camp on the shores of Glacier or Boundary Waters for moonlit fishing and cooler breezes off the water.
September 26 — Corn/Harvest Moon
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The Harvest Moon lights up crops and trails, rising early to extend twilight into night for late-season hikes. It’s one of the best full moons for camping in the Midwest plains or Appalachians—perfect for backpacking or family trips.
October 26 — Hunter’s Moon
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Named for autumn’s preparation for winter hunts, the Hunter’s Moon is bright and long in the sky. Fall foliage and crisp air make New England and the Ozarks especially picturesque during full moon treks and campfire nights.
November 24 — Beaver Moon
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The Beaver Moon hints at winter’s approach, with cold nights and busy animal activity. Camp in the Pacific Northwest’s old growth forests or upper Midwest for snowy nights and quiet reflection.
December 24 — Cold Moon
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December’s Cold Moon closes out the year with true winter brilliance. Deep cold-weather camping in places like Colorado’s Rockies or Idaho’s Sawtooths offers crisp skies and crystalline moonlight—ideal for hardy adventurers.
Full Moon Camping Tips for Epic Lunar Nights
A few smart strategies can elevate your night-time experience. These full moon camping tips help you lean into the brightness instead of fighting it:
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Skip harsh lanterns and let moonlight guide your camp
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Plan evening hikes when visibility is highest
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Use reflective terrain—sand, snow, rock—for dramatic scenery
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Practice respectful dark sky camping by minimizing artificial light even during bright lunar phases
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Bring eye covers or rely on your tent’s rainfly when it’s time to sleep
Sky View Tents shine here—literally. You can enjoy hours of moon viewing through the crystal-clear mesh, then deploy the rainfly from inside the tent when rest calls.
Why Your Full Moon Camping Tips Start with Sky View Tents
Full moon trips aren’t about replacing stargazing. They’re about expanding how you experience the night. Sky View Tents support that philosophy by blending night sky immersion with comfort, and adventure with rest.
Whether you’re planning one trip or following the entire 2026 full moon calendar, these tents let you enjoy the moon when it’s bright and block it when you’re ready to sleep.
If you love camping, support dark sky preservation, and want to experience the outdoors in every phase of the night sky, full moons are calling.
With the right approach—and the right tent—you won’t want to miss a single one. 🌕⛺
[Photo Credit: Bettymaya Foot]
