What to Look for in a Campground

‍Factors to Consider Before Picking a Campground

Knowing what to look for in a campground means mindfully examining several factors, including the purpose of your trip, the amenities the site offers, the time of year you choose to visit and its proximity to other attractions, like amusement parks.

Purpose of Your Trip

Those attempting a thru-hike of the Appalachian trail seek shelters or designated campsites along the route or disperse camp using leave-no-trace principles.

Couples on a romantic honeymoon might want to get close to nature while enjoying a few luxurious amenities, like an upgraded glamping tent complete with climate control and champagne.

Families camping with young children seek sites safe for little ones, while hunters go deeper into the wild.

Weather Conditions

Weather is always a consideration when camping. Heartier souls might appreciate the quiet of the winter woods in Glacier National Park, using tools like vapor barriers for their sleeping bags to stay snug despite frigid temperatures. Others head south to sites like Red Rock Canyon, which features 19 trails for hikers of all abilities, to make the most of temperate outdoor activities all winter long.

Time of Year

Timing also matters when booking reservations at popular attractions. For example, the Grand Canyon’s quieter and arguably more scenic North Rim is only open from May through October, and reservations for campsites fill up quickly. Yosemite and Yellowstone may require reservations up to a year in advance during peak periods. Book early and get on cancellation lists.

Style of Camping

Paid campsites offer the advantage of reserving your spot, so you know you’ll have a place to pitch your tent once you arrive. Additionally, many such locations have amenities. Some are sparse, consisting of little more than showers and a small supply shop selling water and wood. Others pull out all the stops, with dog parks, swimming pools and luxurious glamping accommodations like fully outfitted yurts and refurbished Airstreams.

Boondocking refers to primitive camping without access to services, although some may provide basic trash receptacles and bear boxes. It’s free as long as you abide by the rules. You must provide all your supplies and know the basics, such as how to manage a campfire and use a compass. Although many of today’s navigation apps offer both online and offline functionality, phones die — and have a nasty habit of doing so right around the time you get lost.

Top Things to Look for in a Campground

Your top considerations for a campground will largely depend on the purpose of your trip and who’s in your party.

If You Are a Hunter

Hunters often flock to boondocking-style campsites deep in the wild. Every jurisdiction has laws governing licensing and firearms use, including designated hunting areas, so your first order of business is discovering where you can go. Your ideal campsite is:

• Usually rugged, requiring 4WD to reach. Depending on your quarry, you may also need a quad or other ATV for meat transport — adult elk can reach 500 pounds or more.
• Often primitive, featuring no amenities.
• Located within a designated area and far enough away from other recreational activities to decrease the risk of accidental injury.
• Close enough to a butcher or rendering facility to avoid wasting any of the meat.

If You Are a Family With Small Children

Families with small children often prefer paid campsites. Many facilities have fenced play areas where parents can let their children run and skip freely without fear of them disappearing down an interesting trail. Such locations often include other amenities, including those for older kids and their chorus of “I’m bored.” Your perfect campsite:

• Offers basic amenities, such as running water, useful for washing up after meals.
• Includes fenced areas where toddlers can play while their parents sip coffee and relax.
• Features attractions such as a swimming pool or sports court, clearly marked nearby hiking trails and even perks like ziplines or obstacle courses.

If You Have a Large or Mixed Group

Large or mixed groups have a bigger challenge, but it’s easier than you might think to find a spot to accommodate everyone’s needs. For example, those reunioning on a budget can find some boondocking locations on public land that aren’t too far into the wild and offer plenty of space to make a Conestoga wagon circle with your tents or RVs.

Paid campgrounds often welcome group events, although you may need to reserve early to ensure adequate space for everyone. Your ideal campsite:

• Has plenty of space.
• Is suitable for a range of uses, from hiking, bouldering and mountain biking to entertaining your pups in a dog park.
• Offers at least basic amenities like running water and restroom facilities.

If Seeking Solitude

Sometimes, you just have to get away. If you seek solitude, consider a campground that offers the following:

• Distance from the crowds to provide peace, but proximity to civilization for comfort. For example, you might prefer a paid site that doubles as a quiet retreat with no Wi-Fi or find solace on public land without getting too far from the nearest freeway.
• The essentials you need to heal your soul, be that a rugged challenge, such as sleeping in a bivvy bag under the stars, or a serene spot by a lake where you practice yoga by moonlight.

Enjoy Your Perfect Camping Getaway

The ideal campground for you depends on several factors. Start by identifying the purpose of your trip and determining the preferences of your group, and you’ll be well on your way to planning the perfect outdoor getaway.

Author Bio

Jack Shaw is the senior writer for Modded, a men’s lifestyle publication. An avid outdoorsman, he’ll often find himself taking retreats out into nature to explore his environment and encourages others to do the same. His writings have been published by Duluth Pack, Trekaroo, Lehman’s and more.

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