If you're a fan of suspense, mystery, and the great outdoors, this curated list of camping thrillers is just for you. These films blend the serene backdrop of nature with heart-pounding tension, making for an unforgettable cinematic experience. Whether it's a group of friends facing the unknown or a lone adventurer encountering something sinister, these movies will make you think twice about your next camping trip.

Deliverance (1972)
Description: Four city-dwellers decide to canoe down a river in the remote Georgia wilderness, only to encounter hostility from the locals. The film's iconic "dueling banjos" scene and the harrowing survival elements make it a classic camping thriller.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Georgia, and the river scenes were done on the Chattooga River, which was quite dangerous, adding to the film's authenticity.


The Blair Witch Project (1999)
Description: This film redefined the found footage genre, following three student filmmakers who venture into the woods to investigate the legend of the Blair Witch. Their journey turns into a nightmare as they encounter unexplained phenomena, making it a perfect fit for our camping thriller list.
Fact: The film was made on a budget of just $60,000 and went on to gross over $248 million worldwide. The actors were given minimal script and improvised much of their dialogue.


The Descent (2005)
Description: While not strictly about camping, this film involves a group of women on a spelunking trip that goes horribly wrong. The claustrophobic setting and the primal fear of being trapped underground make it a thrilling addition to our list.
Fact: The film has two different endings, one for the UK and one for the US market, with the latter being more optimistic.


The Ruins (2008)
Description: A group of friends on a vacation in Mexico decide to explore an ancient Mayan temple, leading to a horrifying encounter with a deadly plant. The isolation and the eerie setting make this a chilling camping thriller.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Scott Smith, who also wrote the screenplay, ensuring a faithful adaptation of the story's suspense.


Eden Lake (2008)
Description: A couple's romantic getaway to a secluded lake turns into a terrifying ordeal when they clash with a group of violent teenagers. This film captures the essence of isolation and fear that can come with camping in remote areas.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events and urban legends about feral children. It was also banned in some countries due to its graphic violence.


The Dark and the Wicked (2020)
Description: Siblings return to their family farm to care for their dying father, only to be confronted by supernatural forces. The rural setting and the sense of isolation make this a compelling camping thriller.
Fact: The film was praised for its slow-building tension and its use of rural isolation to enhance the horror elements.


The Hike (2011)
Description: A group of friends go on a hike in the Appalachian Trail, only to find themselves hunted by a mysterious figure. The film captures the isolation and vulnerability of being in the wild.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual Appalachian Trail, adding to its authenticity and eerie atmosphere.


Backcountry (2014)
Description: Inspired by true events, this film follows a couple on a camping trip in the Canadian wilderness, where they encounter a menacing bear. The film's realistic portrayal of survival and nature's unpredictability makes it a gripping watch.
Fact: The bear in the film was actually played by a trained animal, ensuring the scenes were as realistic as possible without harming the animal.


The Forest (2016)
Description: While not strictly about camping, this film involves a woman searching for her twin sister in Japan's Aokigahara Forest, known for its dark history. The forest's mystique and the psychological horror elements make it a fitting addition.
Fact: The film was criticized for its portrayal of the forest, but it does capture the eerie and isolated feeling of being lost in nature.


The Ritual (2017)
Description: After the death of a friend, four men go on a hiking trip in Sweden to honor his memory, only to find themselves stalked by a mysterious entity in the forest. This film blends folklore with modern horror, making it a unique entry in our list.
Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Adam Nevill, and it was praised for its atmospheric tension and the use of Swedish folklore.
