Natural Ways To Keep Bugs Away When Camping Or Kayaking (2025)

By: Dave Samuel

Updated On: July 31, 2025

Last summer on Lake Travis, I made a rookie mistake. Forgot my bug spray and spent the entire sunset paddle slapping mosquitoes instead of enjoying the view. That night at camp? Let's just say the bugs threw a party, and I was the buffet.

Never again.

Since then, I've become obsessed with finding natural ways to keep bugs away that actually work - no harsh chemicals needed. After testing dozens of methods over countless camping trips and early morning paddles, I've discovered what really keeps those bloodsuckers at bay.

Whether you're dealing with no-see-ums in the Everglades or black flies on northern rivers, this guide covers the natural bug repellents that'll save your sanity (and your skin).

Why Natural Bug Repellents Matter for Paddlers?

Before diving into solutions, let's talk about why natural methods make sense for kayakers and campers:

Chemical-Free Waters: DEET and other synthetic repellents wash off in water, potentially harming aquatic life. When you're paddling pristine waters, natural alternatives protect both you and the ecosystem.

Sensitive Skin: Hours in the sun already stress your skin. Adding harsh chemicals can cause reactions, especially when mixed with sunscreen and sweat.

Gear Protection: Chemical repellents can damage synthetic materials like neoprene, PFD fabrics, and paddle grips. Natural options won't eat through your expensive kayaking gear.

Multi-Purpose: Many natural repellents serve double duty - citronella candles provide ambiance, herbs enhance camp cooking, and essential oils can soothe existing bites.

Essential Oils That Actually Repel Bugs

Not all essential oils are created equal when it comes to bug defense. Here's what science and experience prove works:

Lemon Eucalyptus Oil - The DEET Alternative

The CDC actually recommends oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) as an effective alternative to DEET. In my testing, it's kept mosquitoes away for 3-4 hours per application - impressive for a natural option.

How to use it:

Mix 10 drops with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil (coconut or jojoba)
Apply to exposed skin every 3-4 hours
Safe for kids over 3 years old

Citronella - The Classic Choice

While citronella candles get all the attention, the oil itself packs more punch when applied correctly.

Best applications:

Add 15 drops to unscented lotion for easy application
Mix with water in spray bottles for gear and tent protection
Combine with other oils for enhanced effectiveness

Lavender - The Gentle Giant

Lavender not only repels bugs but soothes existing bites. Perfect for sensitive skin or kids.

Triple-duty uses:

Natural bug deterrent
Calming scent for better sleep
Anti-inflammatory for bite relief

Other Effective Essential Oils:

Peppermint: Repels ants, spiders, and mosquitoes
Tea Tree: Antimicrobial properties plus bug defense
Rosemary: Excellent for burning in campfires
Thyme: Surprisingly effective against mosquitoes
Cedar: Repels moths, fleas, and mosquitoes

DIY Natural Bug Spray Recipes

The Ultimate Paddler's Bug Spray

After tweaking this recipe over dozens of trips, here's my go-to formula:

Ingredients:

1/2 cup witch hazel
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
40 drops essential oils (mix of lemon eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender)
1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin (helps it stick to skin)

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle
Shake well before each use
Spray on exposed skin and clothing
Reapply every 2-3 hours or after swimming

This batch costs about $3 to make and lasts a full weekend trip.

Quick & Dirty Camp Spray

When you need protection fast:

1 cup water
1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
20 drops any bug-repelling essential oil

Mix, spray, done. Not as long-lasting but works in a pinch.

Solid Bug Balm (No Spills!)

Perfect for kayakers worried about leaky bottles:

Ingredients:

1/4 cup coconut oil
2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
30 drops essential oils
Small tin containers

Melt coconut oil and beeswax together, add oils, pour into tins. Solid at room temperature, melts on skin contact.

Campsite Strategies That Really Work

Site Selection Matters

Where you set up camp dramatically impacts bug pressure:

Choose sites with:

Steady breeze (bugs struggle in wind over 5mph)
Distance from standing water (at least 100 yards)
Open areas rather than dense vegetation
Higher elevation when possible

Avoid:

Marshy areas or wetlands
Tall grass
Areas with livestock (attracts biting flies)
Shaded, humid spots

Create Natural Barriers

Smoke Screen: A proper campfire remains your best defense. Add these to boost effectiveness:

Sage bundles (tie fresh sage with string, toss on coals)
Rosemary branches
Lavender stems
Cedar chips

Plant Power: If car camping, bring potted plants:

Marigolds (mosquitoes hate them)
Mint (crush leaves to release oils)
Basil (doubles as cooking herb)
Lemongrass (contains natural citronella)

The Citronella Perimeter

Forget one sad candle - create a fortress:

Place citronella candles every 6-8 feet around camp
Use mason jars with tea lights for wind protection
Add citronella torches at camp entrance points
Consider battery-powered diffusers for inside tents

Kayak-Specific Bug Defense

Bugs on the water present unique challenges. Here's what works:

Pre-Launch Protection

Morning Paddle Prep:

Apply natural repellent 30 minutes before launching
Treat paddle grips with peppermint oil (bugs hate the smell)
Spray PFD with diluted essential oil mix
Tuck dryer sheets in pockets (seriously, it works)

On-Water Strategies

Moving Target: Maintain steady paddling pace - bugs struggle to land on moving targets. When I stop to fish, I immediately light a citronella candle in a weighted holder.

Wind Positioning: Position yourself upwind of marshy areas when possible. Let nature's breeze be your bug shield.

Time It Right:

Dawn: Avoid first 2 hours after sunrise (peak mosquito time)
Dusk: Get off water 1 hour before sunset
Midday: Fewest bugs but watch for biting flies

Anchored Defense

When fishing or taking breaks:

Thermacell Alternative: Make a natural version using a small camp stove and pan of water with essential oils
Bug Net Hat: Dorky but effective - especially in blackfly country
Ankle Protection: Tuck pants into socks, spray sock tops with repellent

Natural Solutions for Common Camping Bugs

Mosquitoes

Prime Time: Dawn and dusk
Best Defense: Lemon eucalyptus oil, moving air, proper clothing
Secret Weapon: Vanilla extract (mixed 1:1 with water)

No-See-Ums

Challenge: Can fit through regular mosquito netting
Solution: Ultra-fine mesh (less than 0.6mm gaps)
Best Oil: Cedar oil seems most effective

Black Flies

Season: Spring and early summer
Target Areas: Hairline, ankles, wrists
Defense: Wear light colors, apply oils to hat brim

Ticks

Prevention: Tuck everything, check often
Natural Deterrent: Rose geranium oil (specifically for dog ticks)
Post-Trip: Full body check within 2 hours

Horse Flies & Deer Flies

Attracted To: Movement, dark colors, carbon dioxide
Defense: Light clothing, stay in shaded areas
Trap: Blue solo cups coated with tanglefoot (they're attracted to blue)

Regional Bug Challenges & Solutions

Southeast (Everglades, Coastal Georgia)

Main Threats: No-see-ums, mosquitoes, sand fleas Best Defense: Extra-fine mesh, tea tree oil, avoid dawn/dusk

Northeast (Adirondacks, Maine)

Main Threats: Black flies (May-June), mosquitoes Best Defense: Head nets, light clothing, peppermint oil

Pacific Northwest

Main Threats: Mosquitoes in alpine lakes, minimal coastal bugs Best Defense: Standard repellents work, focus on evening protection

Southwest (desert areas)

Main Threats: Fewer bugs but watch for scorpions Best Defense: Shake out gear, cedar oil barriers

Foods That Naturally Repel Bugs

What you eat affects how attractive you are to bugs:

Eat More:

Garlic: Changes your scent (eat it, don't rub it on)
Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon in water daily
Vitamin B1: Some swear by 100mg daily starting 2 weeks before trips

Avoid:

Bananas: Seriously, mosquitoes love banana-eaters
Beer: Increases attraction (save it for bug-free zones)
Sugary foods: Makes you smell sweeter to bugs
Salty snacks: Increases lactic acid production

Gear Solutions for Bug-Free Camping

Clothing Choices

Bug-Resistant Wardrobe:

Light-colored, loose-fitting clothes
Long sleeves and pants (lightweight, breathable fabrics)
Socks pulled over pant cuffs
Wide-brim hat with bug net attachment

Treatment Option: Soak clothes in permethrin solution (lasts 6 washes) - technically not "natural" but plant-derived and highly effective.

Shelter Strategies

Tent Selection: Look for camping tents with:

No-see-um proof mesh
Full coverage rain fly
Minimal gaps at zippers

Hammock Camping: Add a bug net designed for hammocks - game changer for buggy areas.

Natural First Aid for Bug Bites

When prevention fails (and it will), natural remedies provide relief:

Immediate Relief:

Ice: Numbs itch and reduces swelling
Heat: Hot spoon trick - heat metal spoon in hot water, apply to bite (breaks down itch proteins)
Tea Tree Oil: Antimicrobial and anti-itch
Aloe Vera: Fresh from plant works best

Overnight Treatment:

Baking Soda Paste: Mix with water, apply before bed
Apple Cider Vinegar: Dab on bites with cotton ball
Honey: Natural antibiotic properties
Lavender Oil: Reduces inflammation and itching

Advanced Natural Techniques

The Bat House Strategy

If you have a regular camping spot, install a bat house nearby. One bat eats 1,000+ mosquitoes nightly.

CO2 Traps (DIY Version)

Mosquitoes track CO2. Create decoy traps:

Mix sugar, water, and yeast in 2-liter bottle
Cut bottle in half, invert top portion
Place 20+ feet from camp
Bugs investigate trap instead of you

Natural Predator Encouragement

Leave spider webs intact around camp perimeter
Attract dragonflies with water features
Welcome birds with appropriate feeders

Essential Gear for Natural Bug Defense

Must-Have Items:

Coghlan's Mosquito Head Net Weighs nothing, works everywhere. Essential for black fly season.

Repel Citronella Candles (Triple Wick) Burns 20 hours, perfect for basecamp.

Sawyer Permethrin Spray For treating gear and clothing (plant-derived pyrethroid).

Sea to Summit Wilderness Wash with Citronella Biodegradable camp soap that doubles as bug deterrent.

Timing Your Adventures

Understanding bug patterns helps you plan better trips:

Daily Patterns:

4-6 AM: Maximum mosquito activity
6-10 AM: Black flies join the party
10 AM-4 PM: Lowest bug activity (except horse flies)
4-8 PM: Evening mosquito surge
8 PM-4 AM: Varies by species and region

Seasonal Considerations:

Spring: Black flies, early mosquitoes
Early Summer: Peak bug season everywhere
Late Summer: Declining mosquitoes, persistent deer flies
Fall: Best bug-free camping (after first frost)

FAQ Section

Can I really avoid DEET completely?

Yes, but it requires more diligence. Natural repellents need more frequent reapplication and work best as part of a comprehensive strategy (proper clothing, site selection, timing). For high-risk areas or disease concerns, DEET might be worth considering.

What's the best natural repellent for kids?

Lavender and citronella are gentlest for young skin. Always dilute essential oils properly - use half the adult concentration for kids 3-12. For toddlers, focus on physical barriers like fine mesh and proper clothing.

Do ultrasonic repellers work?

Save your money. Despite marketing claims, scientific studies consistently show ultrasonic devices don't repel mosquitoes or other bugs. Stick with proven methods.

How do I keep bugs out of my kayak while camping?

Spray the inside with diluted peppermint oil before storing overnight. Place dryer sheets in hatches. If possible, store kayak upside down or cover cockpit with mesh.

Why do bugs seem worse some years?

Bug populations fluctuate based on winter temperatures, spring rainfall, and predator populations. After mild winters and wet springs, expect more bugs. Plan accordingly with extra protection.

Can I use natural repellents on my dog?

Some essential oils are toxic to dogs. Safe options include cedarwood, lemongrass (diluted), and lavender. Always check with your vet first. Never use tea tree oil on dogs.

What about those bug-repelling bracelets?

Most provide protection only within 3-4 inches of the bracelet. Better than nothing for your wrists, but don't rely on them for full-body protection. Make your own by soaking fabric bracelets in essential oils.

Do mosquito-repelling plants really work?

Yes, but only within a few feet and when leaves are crushed to release oils. They're helpful additions to camp but not standalone solutions. Marigolds, citronella grass, and lavender work best.

What's the deal with banana and beer attracting bugs?

Research confirms both increase mosquito attraction. Bananas increase lactic acid production; alcohol dilates blood vessels and increases CO2 output. Save both for bug-free times.

How can I sleep better in buggy conditions?

Run a battery-powered fan in your tent (bugs can't fly in moving air). Apply lavender oil to pulse points. Ensure tent is completely sealed. Consider taking Vitamin B1 supplements starting two weeks before your trip.

The Bottom Line

Natural bug defense while camping and kayaking isn't about finding one magic solution - it's about layering strategies that work together. Start with smart site selection, add natural repellents, time your activities wisely, and dress appropriately.

After years of testing every natural method I could find, here's my routine: lemon eucalyptus oil on exposed skin, treated clothing for serious bug zones, citronella perimeter at camp, and always - ALWAYS - respect the dawn and dusk bug rush.

The best part? Once you dial in your natural bug defense system, you'll spend less time swatting and more time enjoying those perfect moments on the water. Because nothing ruins a sunset paddle faster than becoming a mosquito buffet.

Now get out there and enjoy bug-free adventures - nature's waiting, and you've got the tools to keep the bloodsuckers at bay. See you on the water!