If you are new to the outdoors, this guide is perfect for you as it will assist you in avoiding bugs, bears, and wet tents. With these tips, you can concentrate on creating wonderful memories.
Exploring remote areas of the country with your family is achievable even if you aren’t an experienced outdoorsman. This activity allows you to de-stress, escape urban angst, elevate your mood, and reconnect with nature.
There is a campsite available for every level of camping in today’s modern world. Rather than feeling anxious about planning an outdoor adventure, consider trying one of these beginner campsites. These American campsites, ranging from Nebraska to Florida, provide modern amenities, stunning scenery, and an opportunity to appreciate nature in a enjoyable and secure setting.
Types of camping
Some individuals believe that the only suitable way to appreciate the outdoors is by indulging in luxurious camping, where they can sleep in a spacious tent with a comfortable bed. Conversely, there are others who argue that such an experience cannot be considered genuine camping and instead favor a basic tent and a backpack filled with necessary items.
To assist you in determining which one suits you best, presented below is a glossary of the most prevalent camping styles.
Tent camping
The reasons why tent camping is the most popular form of camping are a few. Firstly, it is usually the cheapest and most flexible option as you can easily pack up and leave once you have the required equipment. Tents come in various sizes ranging from a simple one-person style that can be set up and taken down quickly to a larger setup that can accommodate an entire family. However, there are drawbacks to tent camping. It can be uncomfortable during cold and wet weather, access to a bathroom may not be readily available, and booking peak-season reservations at popular campsites, especially in national parks, may require weeks to months in advance.
Glamping
Glamping, also known as “glamorous camping,” involves comfortable camping in unique structures such as canvas tents, teepees, yurts, domes, or other similar accommodations. Typically, glamping sites provide beds, linens, pillows, as well as on-site bathrooms, kitchens, and firepits. It is an excellent way to introduce hesitant individuals to the concept of sleeping under the stars, and it allows experienced summer campers to try their hand at winter camping, which can be more challenging. While glamping provides everything necessary and pre-arranged, it may not offer an authentic camping experience, although this can be a positive aspect for some. However, one drawback is that certain glamping sites can be as expensive as, or even more costly than, a night spent at a hotel.
Car camping
Car camping involves packing your car or van with supplies and arriving at your chosen camping location. If your car is spacious enough, you can sleep in it instead of setting up a tent (just make sure to check the local laws beforehand). Car camping is a convenient camping method that doesn’t necessitate extensive preparation or the need to carry all your essentials in a backpack. However, since you’ll be in close proximity to your vehicle, you might find yourself next to noisy campers who share the same camping approach.
Backcountry camping
If you want to avoid crowds and truly escape from it all, then consider hiking out to the backcountry. In the backcountry, there are no vehicles or paved roads, offering a serene and undisturbed experience with nature that cannot be found at crowded campsites. To ensure a successful trip, it is important to carefully plan your route, determine camping locations in advance, and pack appropriately. It is crucial to include essential items such as food, first aid equipment, a tent, camp cookware, and other supplies on your packing list, all of which must be carried on your back during the trip. It is worth noting that backcountry camping should only be undertaken by experienced campers.
RV camping
RV camping is a convenient option as it provides a bed, kitchen, and toilet, making it ideal for extended road trips. However, it is also the most costly choice. When considering purchasing or renting an RV, one must also factor in the fuel expenses associated with operating a large RV. Additionally, there are challenges in driving and parking such a vehicle. While RV parks often provide water and electricity hookups, it is also possible to engage in dry-camping or boondocking, which involves camping outside of traditional RV parks without access to those essential amenities.
Great Camping Spots
Lake McConaughy
If you’re looking for a cost-effective and less crowded option to enjoy the water with your family, this lakefront campground is an ideal choice. Activities such as fishing, boating, water skiing, and leisurely sunbathing on white sandy beaches are among the attractions available by the water. Additionally, you can easily access the nearby Nebraska Sandhills with your family to experience riding a dune buggy or ATV.
Yogi Bear Jellystone Camp Resorts
This resort-style campground, spanning 125 acres, is open year-round and offers a variety of attractions for children. Alongside fishing, ATV trails, and gem mining, visitors can enjoy the park’s water features, such as a water slide, lazy river, and splash pad. Folding tent campers are permitted, but families also have the option of renting a cabin or cottage for a more comfortable sleeping arrangement.
Adirondack Gateway Campground
You can choose between grass or dirt sites at this RV resort, which offers amenities such as restrooms, WiFi, showers, and laundry facilities. It is an ideal choice for those who are planning to stay for several days. In addition to swimming and boating in the lake, there are opportunities for water rafting on the Hudson River or horseback riding in the nearby mountains. If you prefer, there are also options for tent or cabin rentals.
The Vineyards Campground & Cabins
With its ample space, this campground offers convenient pull-thru sites and a highly serene environment, unparalleled by any other location. Alongside picturesque views of the lake, the accommodating staff and well-equipped, comfortable cabins are among the distinct attractions to relish, aside from engaging in fishing, swimming, or hiking on the neighboring trail. Furthermore, due to its urban setting, you can easily venture to a winery or attend a festival whenever you desire.
Catherine’s Landing at Hot Springs
During the summer, water enthusiasts will find this campsite ideal due to its boat ramp and availability of canoe and kayak rentals. Moreover, those seeking an alternative to tent camping would enjoy the luxury campsite’s yurt and teepee rentals. Additionally, the campsite offers a disc golf course and a brand new zip line to keep the family entertained when not engaged in water activities.
Sugarloaf 2 Campground
For anyone looking for a rustic and secluded environment far from RV sites, this site is an excellent option. The grounds offer spacious areas with beautiful views of the nearby White Mountains. Apart from the untouched forests and crystal-clear mountain streams, the campground is conveniently located a short distance away from hiking, mountain biking, and the Cog Railway. With the latter, you can take a train and ascend Mount Washington’s western side. For gas, a general store, and dining options, you can visit the town of Twin Mountain, which is nearby.
Chehalis RV & Camping Resort
If you desire a combination of nature and modern convenience, this location is ideal. Located on the original Thousand Trails preserve, the Puget Sound campground spans 300 acres and provides private sites nestled amidst maple and Douglas fir trees. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Mount Rainier. In terms of amenities, the resort features a swimming pool, hot tub, picnic BBQ area, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoes, a game room, and numerous picturesque hiking trails nearby.
Elk Creek Campground
Although this Idaho campground may not offer as many glamping options as others on this list, we appreciate its tranquility and convenience. The adjacent Smokey Mountains are considered one of America’s well-preserved wonders, and we are enthralled by the refreshing summer temperatures, lush scenery, and blooming wildflowers. When you are not admiring the picturesque views, engaging in trout fishing in the Salmon River and mountain biking on the extensive 750-mile trail network spanning the valley are excellent activities to keep yourself occupied.
