Saturday, March 15, 2008

Diversity in Camping

by Ben Watson

Camping to some is a tent, coleman stove and sleeping bags and to others a motorhome with all the modern amenities of home - even requiring special facilities and hook-ups like cable TV and WiFi connections. Many camping families fall somewhere in between the two. No matter how you like to camp, there are campgrounds that offer what you need and desire. These vary from tiny, remote and even primitive campsites, to moderate sized campgrounds and RV Parks, to large resorts offering everything imaginable.

Campgrounds also vary widely in location and accessibility. This is important because of trip-planning in general, along with handiness to things you want to see and do. Consider what the campground offers as well as what is in the area. And finally, what amenities are offered to accommodate your camping equipment. Campgrounds are as varied as the campers themselves.

It is a good idea to be as careful about your campground choice as you are about your travel destination. What requirements do you have for a campground or RV Park? Do you want to be able to stay at the campground most of the time – are you planning to relax by the pool or enjoy its recreational programs - or are you looking more for a convenient base of operations to launch day-trips, sightseeing, and area attractions? Is the campground geared toward hosting your equipment? Do they have tenting sites, RV hook-ups, level sites are important for motorhomes, can they accommodate your RV's length and width with slideouts – What about Internet and Cable TV.

As you consider your vacation, weekend or travel plans, be sure to utilize the information provided in the many available camping directories. Today copious amounts of information are available for many campgrounds online at the many available online camping guides. Many campgrounds have brochures and their own websites.

It is fun to just pack up and go, but sometimes reservations need to be well thought-out. Typically peak season includes late June into the beginning of September. Nationwide regions vary somewhat. Reservations are generally recommended during peak season and for holiday periods - especially for the more popular vacation destinations.

Season variances are also evident nationwide. Again, typically Late June and through Labor Day are most popular vacation times, but in southern regions winter is often busier. Regardless of the area Campgrounds generally offer lower off season rates, although some services and recreational features may not be offered during those periods.

Another consideration is the availability of seasonal offerings in specific areas. If planning to travel in early or late season, it is recommended you inquire about your specific destination area. Many areas have lots to offer in the off season while others close up tight. A few areas gear very heavily toward Memorial Day to Labor Day only.

Some campgrounds do stay open all year enabling guests to enjoy sporting, sight-seeing, shopping and other activities, but in northern regions, most campgrounds close down during off peak periods. Between types of camping equipment and experiences, destinations, and seasonal offerings - America has it all!

Ben Watson can usually be found camping or writing for Outdoor Recreation Articles

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