With so many options of campgrounds and campsites out there, it can be hard to know how to choose the right one for you. We are here to help.
Determining where to camp can be a time consuming and overwhelming process. With these tips, the process should become easier for you. From location to routes to reviews, we will guide you on you campground reservations adventure!
Tip #1 - Review. Review. Review.
The most important tip we have for choosing a place to camp is to read reviews. Reading the reviews from past campers can be the best way to learn the true ins and outs of a campground. Keep in mind to read multiple reviews. People have different expectations of campgrounds, it is important to get the perspective from a variety of people. While I will generally just skip 1 or 2 star reviewed campgrounds, I think it is important to take a moment to see why a campground is rated low, especially if there aren't many options for the area you want to stay in. Take everything with a grain of salt. We use Campendium and RV Life to check and leave reviews.
Tip #2 - Check and double check that your rig will fit.
Even the best, most highly rated campground may not work for you. Not only is it absolutely necessary to make sure your camper will fit in the campsite, along with any vehicles, but that your camper will make it to the campsite. Some campgrounds or roads leading to a campground are not designed for large rigs. It is important to check that you'll be able to navigate the campground and safely drive on the roads in and out. Often reviews will mention if they could navigate the roads easily. We also use a satellite image map like google or even our geocaching app to get a good look at the roads leading to and within a campground. Its a good idea to call and ask the campground directly.
Tip #3 - Does it fit your needs?
Questions to ask yourself as you choose a campground:
Does it have the hook ups I need/am I equipped to not have hook ups?
Is this for a week or two or just overnight? We have different requirements for a campground that we will stay at for an extended amount of time at vs a quick stop
Does the place offer amenities that I need or want? (Laundry, dog park, playground, pool, etc.)
Is it close enough to the attraction/place I want to see?
Will I need fuel or food, and are they close by?
What type of camp experience do I want? A resort? A wooded camping feel? Boondocking in the middle of nowhere?
Is it in my budget?
Does the campground allow kids and/or pets?
Again: Will my rig fit?
Is the route to and from there safe for my size rig?
Tip #4 - Is it part of my membership?
If you have purchased a campground membership like Thousand Trails, Passport America, Resort Parks International (RPI), etc.; this is great place to start. If I know the area we want to go, I always check to see if there are campgrounds that I can either stay for free or at a discounted rate. Keep in mind that even if you can stay at a park that is free or discounted with a membership, it is absolutely necessary to still check reviews, that you fit, and if it meets your needs.
Tip #5 - Trust Your Gut
Sometimes no matter how much due diligence we do a place can be different that we expected. If anything, absolutely anything feels off, don't stay there. Trust your intuition. Never, ever stay somewhere that feels unsafe, or gives you bad vibes. You can drive further or sleep in a parking lot.
Planning a trip, big or small can feel overwhelming. If even after all of this, you'd rather have someone plan your trip and do the background work for you, we offer those services too. Contact us today runningfromnormal@gmail.com or check out our travel planning page here.
Happy Travels!
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