Are you tired of finding your camping chairs, RV, or picnic table speckled with unwelcome bird poop? You’re not alone! Many of us struggle to keep our gear clean while enjoying the great outdoors.
Here are some effective, non-harmful ways to deter birds from making a mess at your campsite.
Why birds target your campsite
Birds are naturally attracted to campsites for several reasons. Food crumbs can draw hungry birds eager for a quick and easy snack. Your camping chairs, picnic tables, and even your RV roof provide perfect spots for birds to perch and survey the area. While I love to hear birds sing, I don’t love their droppings, especially when they land on our outdoor camp chairs, picnic table, our awning, or our vehicles!
Here are some bird-safe deterrents that actually work. (You’re welcome!)
Reflective objects
Reflective tape or old CDs: Birds dislike sudden flashes of light. Hang strips of reflective tape or old CDs from your awning, nearby trees, or even on the backs of your chairs. The movement and glinting sunlight make birds think twice about landing.
Aluminum foil strips: Lightweight and easy to pack, foil strips flutter in the breeze and can be taped to picnic table edges or chair backs for a similar effect.
Decoys
Fake owls or snakes: Birds are naturally wary of predators. A small plastic owl or snake, available at most garden centers, can be set on your table or next to your chairs. Move the decoy daily to maintain its effectiveness.
DIY decoys: Paint an old section of garden hose to look like a snake. Place it where birds like to gather.
Cover up when not in use
Chair and table covers: Lightweight, packable covers help keep your gear clean even if birds visit. Choose waterproof, easy-to-clean fabric that fits your chairs and tables.
Car covers: If you’re especially concerned about your vehicle, consider a compact car cover. Many fold down small and are worth it for the peace of mind.
Hang wind chimes or mobiles
The movement and gentle noise from wind chimes or spinning mobiles can discourage birds from landing nearby. Plus, they add a fun touch to your campsite décor.
These small hanging “rods” are specifically meant to keep birds away.
Keep your campsite clean and food sealed
Birds are attracted to food scraps and open containers. Always pick up crumbs, wipe down surfaces, and store snacks in sealed bins. This goes a long way in reducing bird visits.
Bonus tips
• Opt for collapsible or multi-use deterrents, like foldable mobiles, to save space.
• Block access to places where birds can make a nest in and around your RV.
• Bring a small spray bottle with diluted vinegar or mild soap to quickly clean surfaces if droppings occur.
• Rotate the deterrents you use. Birds can become accustomed to a single method if it never changes.
What NOT to do
Avoid sticky substances, strong chemicals, or traps, as these can harm birds and disrupt local ecosystems.
Never feed the birds. It’s tempting, but feeding them will only encourage more visits and more mess.
Can you add to the list of tips? Use the comments to do so.
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RVT1219
The CD tip works. We had major problem with Grackles flying into our small vegetable garden and pulling the young plants out. Not for food, but just to be destructive.
I strung some CD’s across the top of the garden and no more vandalism.
I removed them when the plants got larger.
Just as an FYI, they were after the insects that lay eggs around the roots of young plants. There are certain grubs that feed on young shoots as well. So not willfully being destructive, just accessing food.
We do use a bird (and squirrel) feeder at our seasonal RV location. We get to see a number of species heading north. Our trick is to place the feeder as far from our (and neighboring) RVs as the site allows. The birds go there and we have found we get far fewer bombing runs over the RV and outdoor accessories.
Please not wind chimes, your neighbors may not want to hear them either!
Thank you for the suggestions, Gail! We are always willing to try more ways of dissuading birds from pooping on our stuff. Have a great week and safe travels!
I can’t say I’ve had bird problems to speak of. I figure they were there first, and I like to see and hear them. Steller’s jays are food thieves, but oh well.