| Sometimes the best places to camp are closer | | | | camping during the spring or the fall, you will need |
| than you think. Researching local state parks, | | | | to look for campgrounds that are open all year |
| campgrounds, and wildlife areas that are no more | | | | long. |
| than two or three days away can result in a | | | | Use the Internet to your advantage when looking |
| great camping vacation. | | | | for campgrounds. Many have web sites that |
| When looking for your next camping destination, | | | | include information about times of operation, |
| you should consider the following six critical | | | | activities, and information about rates and |
| factors: | | | | amenities. |
| - Vacation budget | | | | Another good source of information is an outdoor |
| - Equipment needed | | | | hiking guide or even various outdoor sport |
| - Number of people | | | | reviews. Fishing, boating, bird watching, hunting wild |
| - Time of year | | | | game, or rock climbing activities can give |
| - Weather conditions | | | | suggestions as to where to camp. This could also |
| - Activities for the kids | | | | help to target your selection so it fits more |
| All of these will will help to determine where you | | | | closely to what you will be doing for fun on your |
| will end up camping. | | | | vacation. |
| Camping trips are not only for those who want to | | | | Be sure to find out about cancellation policies and |
| enjoy nature for a few days. There are many | | | | bad weather policies! This is true especially if you |
| campgrounds that offer rafting, canoeing, hiking, | | | | will be required to put a deposit down in order to |
| and rock climbing activities. Discover your | | | | reserve a site. |
| interests and the interests of those who will be | | | | As you learn about your campgrounds, and |
| going on the trip with you! If you have always | | | | evaluate them based on the six critical factors |
| wanted to try rock climbing, then find a park near | | | | discussed above, you and your fellow travelers |
| a campground that offers guided tours and | | | | might just end up experiencing one of the best |
| lessons. | | | | camping trips you have had in many years. |
| The time of year that you decide to go camping | | | | Imagine, the best campground could be only a |
| will also play a large role in your final destination. | | | | couple of days driving distance, set up and ready |
| Some campgrounds are only open during the | | | | for you. |
| summer months, so if you are planning on | | | | |