After researching, visiting, and reviewing hundreds of campgrounds over the last 6 years, we strongly believe that there is no perfect campground.
One size definitely does not fit all. One person’s idea of camping nirvana might drive another RV enthusiast batty. Some folks like rustic. Some like amenities. Certain campers crave privacy and isolation. Others look for a great location in the middle of the action.
There is no perfect campground.
However, there is a perfect campground for you…with an individualized set of characteristics that will get your camp mojo humming. The key to finding RV bliss is knowing what look for and how to find it.
Another key to being a happy camper is flexibility. If you are dying to visit a certain location or destination, then you want to find the best campground option in that place. It might not always be your Platonic campground ideal, but if that gets you bent out of shape, then you best stay home because you are going to experience a lot of disappointment.
Resources: Finding the Perfect Campground
- Use your old media tools. We recommend the Good Sam Guide, the Jellystone directory, and the KOA catalogue. We immediately narrow down our options based on campgrounds that have near perfect scores and have won multiple awards.
- General Digital Resources: Google Maps and Reviews and TripAdvisor
- RV Specific Digital Resources: RV Park Reviews, AllStays App, Campendium, Campground Views, KOA App, Good Sam Trip Planner
Suggested Questions: Finding the Perfect Campsite
(Terrible campgrounds have great sites, and great campgrounds have terrible sites)
- What hookups am I looking for? Am I willing to sacrifice full hook ups to be waterfront?
- Do I want a Pull Thru or Back In? A pull thru is more convenient, while a back in site is often more private.
- Do I want to be close or far away from the playground, pool, bathhouses, etc. Look closely at a campground map before booking your site.
- Will certain sites have more road noise?
- What is the traffic pattern through the campground? What sites will be far away from entering/exiting vehicles.
- Do I want shade or sun? Use Google Maps on Satellite views to check out tree coverage.
- Do I want to be waterfront, or will this cause stress with my children?
Now, drumroll please. Our Number One tip for booking the perfect campsite at the perfect campground is to NEVER use online booking unless absolutely necessary. Even in the case of national and state park campgrounds, where online booking may be required, we recommend calling in advance of the reservation window and discussing the campground and campsites with a ranger.
Now it’s your turn! What are your favorite resources to use when making your campground reservations? Share them in the comments below…
