After a long day of hiking, swimming, or exploring, a refreshing rinse can feel like a luxury. The right outdoor shower head transforms your campsite, backyard, or beach house into a personal oasis, washing away sweat and sand with ease. This roundup covers a spectrum of solutions, from permanent stainless steel fixtures to portable, battery-powered units, ensuring you find the perfect match for your outdoor living style and adventure needs.
Selecting the best model depends on your setup. Permanent installations offer a spa-like experience, while portable showers provide ultimate flexibility for remote camping. Key considerations include material durability, water pressure, ease of installation, and whether you need hot water capabilities. We’ve evaluated options across these categories to help you make an informed decision.
Our Top Picks for Outdoor Showers
- Aolemi Outdoor Shower Faucet Matte Black Stainless Steel Set
- Artiwell Outdoor Shower Fixture System with Rustproof Riser
- MOSSON Matte Black Outdoor Shower Fixtures with 8″ Rain Head
- gotonovo Outdoor Shower Fixtures Brushed Nickel Stainless Steel
- Gmusre Outdoor Shower Fixtures Oil Rubbed Bronze Three Functions
- Nemo Equipment Helio LX Portable Pressure Shower – 22L
- Advanced Elements 5 Gallon Summer Solar Shower
- Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower, Battery Powered
- Sea to Summit Pocket Shower
Aolemi Outdoor Shower Faucet Matte Black Stainless Steel Set
This all-metal shower set is built for longevity and style. Constructed from premium 304 stainless steel with a matte black finish, it resists oxidation, scratches, and discoloration, making it a durable choice for outdoor elements. The single-handle design allows for straightforward control of water flow and temperature.
The kit offers dual functionality, letting you easily switch between a relaxing 8-inch rainfall showerhead and a convenient handheld spray using the integrated diverter valve. It comes with all necessary mounting hardware for a two-hole installation and includes multiple connector options for compatibility.
Artiwell Outdoor Shower Fixture System with Rustproof Riser
Featuring a unique industrial design with a two-handle configuration, this system provides precise control over water temperature. The polished chrome body is corrosion-resistant and suits a variety of outdoor settings, from pool decks to beach houses. Its standout feature is the rustproof stainless steel riser with a chrome plated finish, designed to withstand impact and harsh conditions.
It includes a California CEC approved high-performance showerhead that delivers a consistent 1.8 GPM flow. This technology ensures strong spray performance even under lower water pressure, so you get an effective rinse while meeting water efficiency standards. The set also comes with a handy soap dish for added convenience.
MOSSON Matte Black Outdoor Shower Fixtures with 8″ Rain Head
Built from durable 304 stainless steel with a matte black finish, this shower system resists tarnish and corrosion. The single handle mixer allows for easy management of water flow and temperature. Its dual-function design includes both an 8-inch rainfall showerhead and a handheld sprayer connected by a 1.5-meter hose.
A significant benefit is the adjustable height slide bar, which can be set between approximately 33.5 and 47 inches. This flexibility makes it suitable for users of different heights, ensuring a comfortable shower experience for everyone. It’s a versatile kit that works well as a permanent outdoor fixture.
gotonovo Outdoor Shower Fixtures Brushed Nickel Stainless Steel
This shower kit features a brushed nickel frosted finish over a SUS304 stainless steel body. The multi-thickness nano electronic coating helps prevent discoloration, rust, and paint peeling, ensuring it maintains its look over time. Like other permanent options, it offers two functions: a top rainfall shower and a handheld spray, switched via a diverter.
The design includes an adjustable height slide bar for customization and a generous 59-inch hose for the handheld sprayer. With a water flow rate of 1.24 GPM, it provides a steady, efficient rinse. The single handle offers straightforward control for mixing hot and cold water.
Gmusre Outdoor Shower Fixtures Oil Rubbed Bronze Three Functions
For those seeking multiple water sources, this oil rubbed bronze set provides three functions. It includes an 8-inch rainfall showerhead, a handheld shower with a 59-inch hose, and a waterfall tub spout. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor shower stalls that may also be used to fill a tub or bucket.
Constructed from premium brass with an oil rubbed bronze finish, it is built to resist corrosion in humid, outdoor environments. The shower height is adjustable from 35.5 to 53.5 inches, and the hand shower bracket can also be positioned for user comfort, offering a highly customizable setup.
Nemo Equipment Helio LX Portable Pressure Shower – 22L
This is a high-capacity, portable pressure shower designed for serious campers. Its 5.8-gallon (22-liter) capacity provides ample water for multiple rinses. The system pressurizes manually with a foot pump, creating a steady stream without the need for gravity or batteries.
It features a 7-foot neoprene hose with a two-stage spray nozzle that can be used as a manual trigger or set to a continuous spray mode. The robust construction and reliable pressure make it feel closer to a traditional shower experience, ideal for group camping or longer trips where a good rinse is a priority.
Advanced Elements 5 Gallon Summer Solar Shower
A classic and effective solar shower, this model uses the sun’s energy to heat water. Its 4-ply construction includes a reflector panel and an insulator panel to optimize heat retention and performance. The 5-gallon capacity is sufficient for a thorough shower.
An easy-to-read temperature gauge on the side lets you know when the water is warm enough, which can be in under three hours of direct sunlight, heating up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a simple, reliable, and affordable solution for campers who have a place to hang the bag and want warm water without any mechanical parts.
Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower, Battery Powered
This battery-powered pump shower offers great convenience by creating its own water pressure. Simply place the intake hose into a bucket or sink of water, and the unit pumps it through the showerhead at a gentle, steady flow rate. It’s water-resistant and operates with a one-touch on/off switch.
It includes both a suction cup for attaching to a flat surface and an S-style hook for overhead hanging, providing flexible setup options. The gentle pressure is suitable for all ages, making it a good choice for families with seniors, babies, or for washing pets during outdoor adventures.
Sea to Summit Pocket Shower
The Sea to Summit Pocket Shower is the ultimate compact and lightweight solution for backpackers. This shower stores down to a very small size, making it easy to pack. It works on a simple gravity-fed principle: you fill the included bag with water, hang it from a tree or pole, and use the attached on/off valve to control the flow.
Its simplicity is its greatest strength, with no batteries or pumps required. The durable bag has a large fill opening and a capacity of up to 10 liters. It’s an efficient way to have a controlled rinse or wash dishes while minimizing pack weight and bulk on the trail.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Outdoor Shower Head for Camping
Picking the right outdoor shower head can make the difference between a refreshing rinse and a frustrating, dribbly mess. I’ve tested my fair share, and I can tell you it’s not just about grabbing the cheapest option. The best outdoor shower heads for camping balance water pressure, portability, and ease of use. Let’s break down what actually matters when you’re shopping.
First, think about your water source. This is the biggest factor. Are you connecting to a pressurized system at an RV site, or are you pumping from a bag or portable tank? For gravity-fed systems (like bags hung in a tree), you need a shower head designed to work with low pressure. These often have a simple on/off valve and a basic spray pattern. If you have a pressurized source, like an RV pump or a campsite hookup, you can use a more traditional shower head with different spray settings. Getting this wrong means you’ll either have a trickle or blow your shower bag apart.
Portability is king. You’re not installing this in a bathroom. Look for lightweight models that are compact. Many great options collapse down or are made from flexible silicone. Material matters too – ABS plastic is common and durable, while stainless steel is tougher but heavier. Check the fittings. A standard garden hose thread (GHT) is the most versatile and will connect to most hoses and adapters. I always pack a couple of different-sized washers and a quick-connect adapter; it saves headaches.
Features can be simple or fancy. The most basic is a simple on/off push-button. It’s reliable. From there, you might find models with a pause switch, which is fantastic for conserving water when you’re lathering up. Some have multiple spray patterns, like a mist or a jet, which can be nice for different tasks. Consider the hose length if it’s included. A longer hose gives you more flexibility in setting up your shower space. Finally, don’t forget about mounting. Does it have a hook, a suction cup, or a strap? Being able to hands-free mount it to a tree, your vehicle, or a pole is a game-changer.
My final piece of advice? Read reviews from other campers. They’ll give you the real-world scoop on durability, pressure performance, and whether that “universal” fitting is actually universal. Investing a little time in choosing the right gear means you’ll get a reliable, satisfying shower after a long day on the trail. Getting the right one from a list of the 9 best outdoor shower heads for camping will make your whole experience better.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I heat water for an outdoor camping shower?
The simplest method is a solar shower bag. You fill it, leave it in the sun for a few hours, and the black material absorbs heat. For more control, I’ll sometimes heat a few pots of water on my camp stove and mix them with cold water in a larger container with a spigot. There are also portable propane water heaters, but they’re a bigger investment and piece of gear to carry. Always test the temperature with your hand before you shower!
Can I use my regular garden shower head for camping?
You can, but it might not be ideal. Most home garden sprayers are designed for high, constant pressure from a house spigot. They often won’t work well with the low pressure from a gravity-fed bag. They’re also usually bulkier and heavier than camping-specific models. If you’re at an RV site with full hookups, then a standard head might work fine. But for backpacking or car camping with a bag, a purpose-built camping shower head is a much better bet.
How much water do I need for a camping shower?
It depends on how thorough you want to be! A “navy shower” (wet down, turn off water, lather, rinse) can be done with about 1.5 to 2 gallons per person. For a more relaxed rinse, plan for 3 to 5 gallons. I always err on the side of bringing more, especially if I’m sharing with family. A 5-gallon solar bag is a very common and practical size for one or two people.
What’s the best way to have a private outdoor shower?
Privacy pop-up tents are the easiest solution. They’re lightweight, pack down small, and set up in minutes. You can also use a tarp and some paracord to rig a simple enclosure, or even hang a shower curtain from a portable hula-hoop frame. In remote areas, a very quick look around for natural windbreaks or using your vehicle as a block can work. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and use biodegradable soap far from water sources.
Are portable shower pumps worth it?
If you shower frequently while camping or dislike hanging a bag, yes, they can be. A good 12V pump submerged in a bucket of water can provide consistent pressure and is more convenient than gravity. Battery-operated rechargeable pumps are also popular. They’re an extra item to charge and carry, but the improved shower experience is worth it for many people. When looking at the 9 best outdoor shower heads for camping, you’ll often see them paired with compatible pumps.