camp out

1. Sleep outdoors; also, stay somewhere for an unusually long time. For example, “We camped out in a field this night” (George Washington, Journal, March 18, 1748). In the early 1900s, the expression was extended to figurative uses, meaning simply “to stay somewhere for an unusually long time,” as in She camped out at the stage door, hoping for an autograph.

Example Sentences

And so, year after year, through stifling hot summers and snow-dusted winters, people have been camping out in Berry Creek.

From Los Angeles Times

Crying and shouting can be heard from the rubble, authorities said, while anxious relatives have camped out at the school overnight awaiting news of their loved ones.

From BBC

Tens of thousands of people queued for hours outside the stadium before the event, with some even camping out the night before to secure their spot.

From BBC

Some 80,000 people were expected to watch rock-crawling competitions and races, camp out and hear vendors pitch the latest in automotive technology.

From Los Angeles Times

They tried American hot dogs and spicy Mexican food, showed off their dance moves and camped out in tents.

From Los Angeles Times