Camping is one of America’s favorite pastimes. It is a great way to see the region you are visiting and is a wonderful way for families to bond and spend time together. There are literally hundreds of camping spots across North America and it can be a daunting task to choose the one that is right for you.

1. Channel Islands National Park in California

When one thinks of California, Hollywood and San Francisco are the first things that come to mind. California is much more than cable cars and glitzy Hollywood premieres. Channel Islands National Park boasts five islands, Santa Barbara, San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz and Anacapa. Because of its unique location you will enjoy wildlife, flora and fauna as well as a wealth of archaeological resources you would be hard pressed to find anywhere else in the world. Camping on one of the Channel Islands will leave the visitor with a unique perspective on what life along the California Coast was like before modern times intruded.

2. Utah’s Dinosaur National Monument

For the family that can’t get enough of everything dinosaurs, a visit to Dinosaur National Monument is a must. If you want to get the best camping spot, you will have to get there early as campsites are given out on a first come, first serve basis. You are typically allowed to camp for up to 14 days and prices at the campgrounds are fairly reasonable. Echo Park Campground doesn’t accept RV longer than 35 feet, and if you are traveling in a camping vehicle, be advised there are no hook-ups. A few of the campgrounds are open all year round, so if you are able, try to visit during the off season to give you a truly unique experience.

3. Find Your Serenity at Warren Island State Park, Maine

This is the type of camping experience many are looking to find. Located in Penobscot Bay, you will need your own boat in order to access the island. There are no phones and you will feel as if you are taking part in a Robinson Crusoe like experience. There are ten campsites from which to choose as well as 2 Adirondack shelters. You will enjoy camping in a mode you have never experienced before, though swimmers should be aware that the waters of Maine are quite chilly.

4. Lower Falls Recreation Area at Mount St. Helen’s in Washington

Whether you are a tenter or plan to stay in an RV, Lower Falls Recreation Area Campground has a site for you. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, trail rides on horseback or on bicycles. They have excellent facilities and the trails are quite accessible. Take the time to hike to observe waterfalls that will leave you breathless as you look down to the calm river below. Those afraid of heights will have their hearts in hands as they stand at the precipice of a dangerous cliff. Most campers come to hike Mount St. Helen’s as it is an excellent spot for rock and mountain climbers to strut their stuff.

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Every summer or spring, it’s always great to go outdoors with your friends or family and enjoy the night outside the comforts of your home. The thrill of being closer to nature, enjoying live music through your friend’s guitar or just enjoying those sweet marshmallows in a campfire is a always a worthy experience to remember. Although it’s way better to be in our home watching TV, the excitement of the forest without being placed in danger always entices us to be in the forest every year.

But that experience is rather difficult to look for if you’re not an experienced camper. If it’s your first time, it’s always a challenge where to go for camping since there are practically hundreds of campsites in each state.

Here are some tips on how you can actually enjoy the night in the woods, even if it’s just your first time.

1. Research – like any other travel plans you’re making, get the most information you can about a specific area you are interested in. Here are the things that you should be looking for: if you’re traveling with an RV, look for parking information. There are camping sites where their RVs can be parked in the campsite while most needs a little bit of hiking which is just a 15 minute walk from the parking area. Access to water is also an important information. If you don’t know, be sure to bring one. Last but not the least, cooking facilities; there are campsites that offer use of the cooking facilities while some let you explore your fire making abilities.

2. Do not go to uncharted areas – hold your sense of adventure and stick to the route provided by the campsite administrators. There is one simple reason why you need to stay away from these areas: bears. All right, if there is no bear, it doesn’t mean the area is not dangerous. Snakes and other dangerous animals and insects are regulars of the forests. You already saw in documentary channels how animals can attack so you have to stay away from these places yourself.

3. State and local parks are your best bet – there are private camping sites that post their information online, which are not bad. However, if it’s your first time and you don’t know what you need to do or where to go, always go for the state or local parks first. These government controlled areas may not have the best facilities compared to privately owned parks, but you can bet that these are safe and convenient enough for a good start in camping experience.

4. The view – no, I’m not talking about the TV show but you have to consider the view when you book something online. Always go for a camping site that offers pictures of the area. Without them, you don’t know what you’re in for. Without the view, your camping experience will be like sitting in the middle of the forest waiting for something really bad to happen.

So be prepared and get lots of information from your intended camping site. Only through preparedness ensures you and your family a great time in the camping site.

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