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Grace Crowley·
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Pay Camping

So dispersed camping isn’t for you… or maybe it’s just time to sit on a toilet and take a shower. Whatever you are looking for, there are loads of options. Campgrounds vary in quality and amenities so much that you can pretty much get anything you are looking for with a quick internet search. Many campgrounds include a pool, Wi-Fi, a rec room, a basic store, showers and toilets, and a playground. You will also usually get a picnic table, fire pit, and at least one flat tent spot per site if not more. There are usually water and electric hookups as well.

Tent prayer flags

Until we get our network of safe and enjoyable campsites, there are a few ways to go about finding a campground. Staying at a State Park is a great option if there are any around. This way, you are somewhere close to a State or National Forest, which means hours of hiking and entertainment, and you are supporting the state in which you are traveling.  If you are driving on the highway, there will be signs along the way for local and chain campgrounds. This is kind of a crapshoot since you only really know what they put on the sign, but at least you know it’s there. You can also stop at gas stations or rest stops and ask the person working. Sometimes they are a wealth of knowledge, sometimes you get a blank stare. If you talk to the right person though, there’s a pretty strong chance that you will be directed to the best campground on your trip. Lastly, there’s always the internet.

National Parks:

  • $10 – $35/night depending on season
  • Supporting National Park system
  • Great hiking trails
  • Clean facilities
  • Bathrooms
  • Generally have
    • Store
    • Information Center
    • Showers

State Parks:

  • $10/night at the cheapest (no hookups, bathrooms, running water) to $225/night for large groups (with bathrooms and hookups). Average around $15-35/night
  • Supporting the State Park and local government
  • Supporting the local economy
  • Generally have
    • Bathrooms
    • Hiking trails

Chain Campgrounds (We used KOA):

  • $20/night for a bare bones (no hookups) tent site to $115/night for a 6-person cabin with a bathroom
  • Bathrooms
  • Know what you are getting
  • Usually relatively clean
  • Generally have
    • Swimming pool
    • Playground
    • Store
    • Showers

Local Campgrounds:

  • $8 – $115/night depending on location
  • Supporting local economy

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