Have you booked your summer vacation yet? So many choices of things to see and do, all within a few months of school’s summer break. One of the favorites in my family is to go camping. I love what a campground can offer a family. From activities, to nature, and plenty of pool time, I think it can’t be beat. I whole heartedly encourage you to consider putting camping on the top of your ‘to do’ list for this year’s summer fun!
Here are a few of my family’s tips on what to look for when choosing a campground:
Ratings. Woodalls, Good Sam, and other sites rate campgrounds nationally. Their ratings are certainly worth some merit when deciding on a park to camp in.
Supplies available at the campground store. This can be very important, especially if you are camping in a remote area. Camp stores vary greatly, with most carrying bare essentials, and others having everything from microwaveable meals, fresh fruit and vegetables, and pool toys.
Price. Of course, price! But don’t think that the cheapest is always the best. As with everything, sometimes you simply get what you pay for.
Amenities. A pool? A lake? Mini Golf? Whatever your pleasure, there is a chance your campground of choice may offer it. Utilizing the campground for your family fun can save money, gas, and the aggravation of getting children in and out of the car.
Bathhouses. Are they available? Are they clean? Some have quarter showers with hot water, bright efficient lighting, and are freshly scrubbed down nightly. Make sure that the ones you plan to use are too!
Planned activities. Some campgrounds have full time or part time staff that plan weekday and weekend activities that campers can participate in. Some have fees, some are free, and they can vary greatly in quality. If you plan on spending a lot of time in the campground instead of out and about, planned activities could become very important.
Water safety. Don’t be afraid to ask about the upkeep of the park's pool or lake, and always ask about lifeguards. Not all pools require one by state regulation, but certain campgrounds have lifeguards and proper equipment available no matter what regulation calls for, so their campers are as safe as possible.
If you are considering camping and haven't booked your spot yet, there is no time like the present. Campgrounds can become booked even earlier than hotels and resorts. Good luck and happy camping!
