Camping may be a national pastime in the U.S., but it can also be daunting for those who are brand new to it. Whether you’re interested in a trip roughing it in the outdoors or spending time in a cozy cabin, there’s plenty to consider before you take some vacation time and book a trip. One of the most important considerations you’ll need to make, however, is finding the right campsite.

Need advice on finding a good campsite? Check out these four essential tips here:

1. Determine when you want to go camping. Many people don’t realize this, but it’s actually possible to go camping all four seasons of the year. Where summer camping is preferred by most of the 40 million-plus Americans who camp each year, fall and spring camping trips are also popular because they don’t usually involve oppressive heat. With the right supplies and clothing, winter camping can also be a popular pastime for those who enjoy the outdoors. Take stock of your supplies or what you have available to you before you choose a seasonal camping site.
2. Think about which activities you want to participate in when you go camping. Are you a backpacker who wants to climb up a mountainside? Do you like to go hiking, which is the most popular camping activity overall? Or are you more interested in relaxing outdoor activities, like boating or fishing? If you’re bringing friends with you, then your trip may be more casual than it would be with children in tow. Choose a camping site that will allow you and your companions, whether they be friends or family, to make the most of the trip.
3. Remember to take care when choosing a campsite. According to The Outdoor Foundation, 67% of campers prefer public campgrounds most of time when they go camping. If you’re not sure how to find public or private campgrounds in the wild, you may want to take someone with you who knows about appropriate camping spots. However, you can also do some research on finding the best places for camping outside. If you’re off a trail, for instance, make sure to pick a bare spot of land, so you don’t disrupt local ecosystems. Also, be sure to arrive to your campsite with plenty of time to set up since you don’t want to be scrambling to build your tent when it gets dark.
4. Consider renting a cabin. While cabin camping isn’t exactly “roughing it” in the wild, it is a great alternative for parents taking kid friendly vacations. These types of vacation rentals have plenty of amenities to keep the whole family comfortable any time of the year. Considering that over a quarter (25.7%) of campers are 17 or younger, and almost 15% are between six and 12 years old, it’s important to keep these family friendly options in mind. Ask about our family campgrounds if you plan on camping in South Dakota.

Thinking of heading to one of our camping sites? Be sure to contact us for more information.