CHOOSING A CAMPGROUND
The past couple of years have seen a boom in participation in outdoor activities. Among these, camping has grown in popularity. If you’re new to this experience and wanting to join the fun, here’s a quick 6 tip guide to researching a campground that’s right for you.
How many people are you going with and who are they?
The very first step to planning a camping trip is to determine who is going and how many will be in your group. This will help you decipher how much space you will need at your chosen camping site and determine if the places you are considering are appropriate and accessible for everyone. Families camping with small children may have different needs than solo travelers or adult groups.
What type of camping do you want to do?
How do you want to sleep at night? Unfortunately, “under the stars” is too general of an answer unless you decide you want to “rough it” with no shelter. Tents, cabins, RVs, and campers are all common and great options. Tents provide flexibility in where you set up and give the ambiance of sleeping outdoors while still sheltered. The latter three provide a more sturdy structure and more protection from the elements. It is also possible to sleep on a mattress in these three opposed to the ground or a mat in the tent. A cabin is going to be more accessible and user friendly than an RV or camper you have to most likely purchase and drive to the campsite. The latter two, however, may be worth the investment if you are no longer a “beginner” when it comes to camping and enjoy regularly taking trips throughout the season.
Do you want accommodations at your campsite?
These include parking, RV or Camper slips and hookups, water, electricity, showers, and bathrooms. It truly comes down to the type of experience you want. The seasoned and dedicated backpackers often opt for no luxuries which extend to no or minimal electronic use. They choose to submerge themselves in nature and experience everything without using modern-day tools. If this sounds like you, you may not need any of these accommodations. For everyone else, many family-friendly sites have bathrooms at the bare minimum. There is often a choice of amenities provided for different types of sites in a campground to accommodate all the different travelers. Tent sites can be reserved with or without electricity, and RV sites often have the choice of water and electric hookups as well.
Do you want to Hike or Drive in?
Are you looking for a nature-filled weekend where you plan to leave your car at a trailhead and hike into your campsite? Or do you want the flexibility of having a mode of transportation to easily get to nearby activities and attractions. Not to mention, cars give the ability to pack and carry more things into the site, like firewood, bigger bedding, and coolers. Hiking and driving both offer fun, yet very different experiences. It is important to know if your site has space and the capability for a vehicle if you plan on using one.
Do you want extracurricular activities nearby?
What kind of trip are you trying to have once you arrive and settle in? Are you enjoying a more traditional experience by setting up and experiencing the space you are in. Or are you using this campsite as a convenience point located to a bunch of activities you want to do. Most spots have great hiking trails leaving straight from camp. Sometimes there are swimming, climbing, or beautiful viewpoints nearby. Others also use the campsite just as a place to sleep. Are you planning on doing some sightseeing or tours around the nearby town? Do you want a restaurant or two located close for breakfast or dinner? It’s important to research campsites which can provide you with access to the activities you are looking for.
How long are you staying?
Sometimes campsites have a minimum required night stay. This is especially true on weekends and during peak season or holidays. It is important to know the dates of your trip and find a place right for you. Most campgrounds offer this information on their websites or when you call.
Summer weather is coming around the corner, so start planning your trip now!