Have you been itching to take a camping trip? If this sounds like you, then choosing a campsite should be your first step. Whether you’re planning to camp solo, with your partner, family, or friends doesn’t matter. You’ll always need to have a campground in mind before anything can happen.
It might seem appealing to go camping at whichever park is closest to you, but while that might work for some people, it might not for you. There are so many campgrounds in the United States, and you’ll likely find that there are several in and around your city. To make your camping trip as lovely as possible, carefully consider all your options and choose the park best for you.
What to consider when choosing a campsite?
Now, if you’re ready to slow down and consider the many campsites around you, you’re probably wondering what you should look for. The truth is, it simply depends on the specifics of your camping group, such as your budget, preferences, and needs.
With all of these in mind, let’s get into some of the most important things for you to consider when choosing a campsite.
The Cost
One of the most important things to many people considering camping is the cost! You might already know that many campgrounds will have you pay a fee before you’re allowed to enter the park.
The good thing is that this fee is not a flat rate. If you look around, you will likely find a park that fits your budget. Generally, smaller parks charge smaller admission fees, and larger grounds ask for more. Apart from admission fees, some parks might have a camping fee.
Also, keep in mind that camps with many activities on their grounds, like hiking, rock climbing, fishing, boat rides, and so on, may also have higher prices.
Onsite Activities
Not all campgrounds offer the same activities. If you’re a big fan of fishing, it only makes sense to go to a park with large bodies of water in which you’re allowed to fish, whether in a river or a lake. If you like to hike, you should choose a campsite that offers a selection of trails for you to enjoy.
If you’re a more relaxed person and you like to enjoy the scenery or birdwatch, then the camps that you should be looking at are the ones which have great views and sights to see.
Reservation System
One thing that newcomers to camping tend to overlook when planning a trip is how campgrounds handle reserving a camping spot for you and your group.
Depending on the park you go to, you may be automatically allocated a spot to camp. This is where you will set up your tent or your RV. Of course, you can move around the grounds, but when it’s time for bed, this is where you’ll be spending the most time.
However, other camps give you the option to personally select a spot among the ones that are currently available at that time. Most people will prefer this option because it lets them choose a location that’s better suited to them. For instance, you can get a spot with a great water view, select one near the hiking trail you’re bound to be using a lot, or get one near the playground if you have children in the group. Make sure you’re choosing a campsite that fits your needs best.
The People You’re Going With
The composition of the group you’re going camping with is another important consideration when choosing a campsite. The preferences of the others need to be considered. After all, you can’t camp beside the water when someone might be scared of fast-flowing rivers.
In groups that have children, safety is a paramount concern. You probably don’t want any treacherous hiking trails or large water bodies around if you’re going to have little kids moving about. It’d be best to get a neutral location in such instances, and even better if you can get it closer to attractions for children, like a playground.
Camping Park Size
One thing you should never overlook when considering campgrounds is the size of the park and the camping spots.
A bigger camping park is excellent if you want it to feel more like an adventure. There will be more areas to traverse and likely more activities for you and your group to partake in. Then, with larger camping spots, you can accommodate a larger party. This will be necessary if you’re planning to bring RVs and several tents. You don’t want to have everyone cramped onto a small spot.
Take It Slow Before Choosing a Campsite
Understandably, you might be super excited when planning a camping trip for you and your friends. Still, it would be best never to overlook the importance of correctly choosing a campsite.
By carefully considering your group’s wants and needs, you’ll find a campground that works perfectly for everyone. You’re bound to have a good time once you do!
