Saturday 30 April 2011

The Best Camping Spots on Long Island NY

Long Island New York is well known for its beautiful beaches and its close proximity to New York City. What many people don't know is that there are some great places to go camping as well. If you are the type that enjoys the outdoors and the beautiful scenery that can be found in nature, you will really love what the island has to offer.

Most of the campgrounds are either state or county owned and run which means they are well kept up and very safe for the whole family. If you are planning a trip to New York this summer you will probably want to check out a few of these spots. There are a few in particular that I personally recommend.

A really nice campground can be found at Hecksher State Park which is located right on The Great South Bay in western Suffolk. There are some beautiful water views and miles of park to explore. There are nature trails as well as bike trails for those that enjoy getting a little exercise out in the sun. The campground section is kept nice and tidy by a small staff that remains on duty 24 hours a day.

Its facilities include restrooms with showers. Water spickets and built in BBQ grills can be found located near each individual camp space. RVs are welcome so if tents are not your thing that's ok too. Camping is around $16 a night during the week and $20 on weekends. Discounts are available to local residents. This is one of the better campgrounds on Long Island.

My absolute favorite spot to hike or camp on Long Island is Wildwood State Park. Wildwood is located on the North Shore of Eastern Long Island. It is quite a different scene than Hecksher as the North Shore has much higher elevations and a more mountain like landscape. The campground is huge and boasts all of the same amenities as Hecksher. It is easily 4 times the size though.

My favorite thing about Wildwood is the scenery. You can take a short hike through the woods and come out on top of a huge bluff overlooking The Long Island Sound. The views are breath taking and there are plenty of trails to hike up on the bluffs. If you're not into hiking you can also spend time catching some sun on the beach. Swimming and fishing are allowed as well. If you only check out one park on Long Island, this is the one to see.

There are about a dozen other great places you can camp on Long island as well, including some private campgrounds. There are a couple more nice State Parks as well including William Floyde State Park which is located right on the Atlantic ocean over on Fire Island, the barrier to Long Island. Most of the State run facilities will have brochures available listing the rest of the parks and campgrounds on the island. So if you get a chance stop in and grab one if you want to check a few of them out. You will be glad you did.

I am a native Long Island resident and when I am not enjoying the beautiful scenery that Long Island has to offer, I am probably writing for Ezine or my Long Island SEO blog. I also do freelance web design and consulting, but writing is what I enjoy the most.

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Thursday 28 April 2011

Bear Grylls Survival Kit - Any Good?

Author: David Slovenecf

The new Bear Grylls survival kit was just pre-released at Amazon for the much anticipated February 2011 full release date. This is an item that I will definitely be picking up. The compact Survival kit goes under the full name of the "Gerber Bear Grylls Survivor Series Ulitmate Kit" and is a fantastic kit to carry with you at all times in a backpack or your car. Personally I am considering buying two of them so that I can carry one in my Jeep and another in my pack.

Even if you are not likely to be stranded anywhere that you will need to make fire, fish for your food or signal for help, you just never know. Plus you don't have to be caught in a life or death situation to make use of the Bear Grylls Survival kit.

The kit includes the following:


  • Mini multi-tool
  • Signaling mirror and lanyard whistle
  • Metal match and water proof matches
  • Fishing equipment and sewing equipment
  • Cordage
  • A wire saw
  • Plus many other survival necessities
I like this survival kit because it is small yet has all the necessities outside of a 12 gauge and a steak dinner. You can literally stash this kit just about anywhere, forget about it and hope to never need it. You may however dip into this kit in the not-so-life-threatening situations because the mini multi tool is fantastic. I have one these from Gerber that I received as a gift. I never thought I would use it but that sucker comes in so handy at so many different times.

For a full review of the Bear Grylls Survival Kit, and other Bear Grylls survival tools complete with detailed pictures check out: Bear Grylls Survivla Kit

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/camping-articles/bear-grylls-survival-kit-any-good-4062912.html

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Wednesday 27 April 2011

Ideas for camping in the Pacific Northwest

Author: randy bettis

Growing up in the Seattle area, we were constantly reminded of the magnificent beauty that surrounded us. A look to the west offered stunning views of the Puget Sound and the snow covered peaks of the Olympic mountain range in the distance. While a glance to the east offered unobstructed views of our beautiful chain of dormant volcanoes including Mt. Ranier, Mt. Baker and of course Mt. St Helens is no longer visible from the greater Seattle area. The skyline is a bit different downtown Seattle these days, but we are still surrounded by all the beauty mother nature has to offer.

This particular part of the country seems to offer every activity imaginable for those of us who truly enjoy the great outdoors. With more boats per capita than anywhere in the world, the Puget Sound area is a mecca for boaters, scuba divers, fishermen and other water sports enthusiasts. A short drive east or west brings you to some of the worlds best hiking and mountain climbing, in the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. If skiing and snow mobiling are some of your hobbies, the foothills of Mt Rainier and Mt Baker offer top venues for both. Just make sure your camping gear includes a good camera to capture all that stunning scenery..

A short 3 hour drive bring you to Eastern Washington. This is the sunbelt of uor great state and is quickly becoming well known for its wide variety of fine wines. With the Yakima River maendering through, this is a fly fishermans paradise, thats famous for its rainbow, cutthroat and brook trout. If its lake fishing you like, drive an hour north to the Sun Lakes area where the fish are absolutely HUGE. As this area is the summer playground of our state make sure to bring the jet skis or boat with you. When camping in this area, make sure to secure your tent well, for this area is known for its strong winds. In fact its not uncommon to see a tent flying across Banks Lake during one of these windstorms. About 45 minutes north brings you to Grand Coulee Dam, one of the largest concrete structures in the world. Also surrounded by great camping spots and water sports, this ia a favorite destination for summer travelers. Visit the dam on any given Saturday during the summertime, and get treated to a spectacular lazer show on the face of the dam from the comfort of your vehicle.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/camping-articles/ideas-for-camping-in-the-pacific-northwest-4230980.html

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Tuesday 26 April 2011

Types of Tents

Author: Amanda Kiefer

Pyramid tents - These were actually the very first tent design. They use one straight pole in the middle of the tent to create a pyramid shaped tent. In actual practice they are often designed to use trekking poles, having no tent poles of their own. This design permits your trekking poles to function as dual purpose items, cutting down your total weight. If you don't hike with trekking poles, you can always construct your own poles from any material you like. These tents often offer a lightweight benefit, butare relatively inefficient in terms of usable space.

Avian tents - These are essentially a tarp tent, having two or more vertical poles. They make a slightly more rectangular shape than a pyramid tent. They also often work with trekking poles, however both the avian and the pyramid tent set ups are generally only intended for light weather conditions, they have no floor and not much structure.

A-frame tents - Like those ancient army tents that grandpa had, they have two poles at each end of the tent forming an A shape, which are attached to the ground via stakes, making a long triangular shelter, these can be very tough structures, but they are often heavy because of their inefficient use of poles and the need for high tensile strength material, since it forms the top edge of the tent's structure.

Modified A frames - These tents make use of a third pole, sometimes a hoop to open up the center area more, sometimes a cross pole, connecting A frames, making the tent freestanding. These are noteworthy improvements in strength, but still often heavier than other options.

Hoop or Waypoint tents - These often have two hoop shaped poles that hold the body of the tent up, and using stakes they keep the structure taught and standing. The disadvantage of these tents is their non-freestanding nature makes them difficult to pitch occasionally. It also gives up some stability in behalf of weight savings

Wedge tents - Utilizing two hoop shaped poles that connect at the top, they form a wedge shape, with a near point at the top. These tents are a good balance of strength and weight savings. They are free standing, making them easy to move and pitch. They will also function without stakes.

Dome tents - These tents have crossing poles, or a hubed pole system to create a dome shape. They offer the best use of space and the most resilient design. They are most commonly four season tents and can protect you from the harshest conditions, however they are also often the heaviest, they use lots of poles and take lots of time to set up.

If you are looking to choose a tent, you must decide just what you are going to use it for. Choosing between the trade offs of each design is the art of deciding about your gear.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/camping-articles/types-of-tents-1242538.html

About the Author

Brian is a lover of the outdoors and has great experience hiking, camping and more. He also loves http://www.moosejaw.com/

Monday 25 April 2011

Florida Camping - The Ultimate Holiday

Author: Toe Jam

Camping in Florida is the best way to spend your annual vacation! Because of the constant tepid climate and low cost, which can be as little as $10 per night, Florida camping has a year round appeal that appeals to large numbers of people both young and old. For families or couples, camping grounds in Florida are able to offer everyone a different experience. In fact, one of the most popular groups of Florida campers are senior citizens, who are known as 'Snow Birds'! With such a diversified geography, Florida campgrounds can take many different forms;

  • Evergreen camping amongst some of the most beautiful wetland eco systems in the world on chickees, ground sites or beach sites
  • Wilderness camping in Florida's national parks amongst the cypress domes and pine flatwoods following thousands of on and off road tracks
  • Coastal camping where there are crystal clear waters, beaches and varied reefs to explore
  • It is even possible to camp at Walt Disney World or Universal Studios!

And it is not just the locations that are varied, Florida camping offers you many different types of camping to suit all tastes and budgets;

  • Recreation Vehicle (RV) campgrounds
  • Traditional campsites for tents and sleeping bags
  • Hammock camping outside underneath the stars
  • Towed camping trailers
  • Pre-built cabins

To support the ever growing Florida camping community, campsites have had to offer better and more extensive facilities. Today you will find many of the campsites offer;

  • Gift/grocery shops
  • Electricity hookups
  • Water
  • Men's and women's showers
  • Bathrooms
  • Bike hire
  • Canoe and kayak hire
  • Dump stations
  • Fire rings

Whilst many are pet friendly and some even offer wi-fi! With so many superb camping grounds and RV campsites in Florida, you will often have too much choice and be unable to decide where to stay. If deciding on the location and type of camping is not enough, you have the choice of the many activities whilst camping in Florida;

  • Scuba diving
  • Snorkeling
  • Walking
  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Canoeing
  • Bird watching

But if the thought of physical activity is too much for you, then camping in Florida can also offer something for the photographers and wildlife enthusiasts amongst you. Florida is a great haven for many animals not found elsewhere in the United States including;

  • Marsh rabbits
  • Manatees
  • Bobcats
  • River otters
  • Birds such as herons and bald eagles
  • Alligators
  • Florida panther

Remember though that with so many different locations, activities and types of camping on offer, Florida camping can be extremely popular. Therefore, it is always recommended that you make reservations well in advance for each site wishing to be stayed at. The best sites always book up quickly! Many campsites and RV sites in Florida, especially those run by the State, have web sites that allow you to book ahead of arrival to ensure you are not disappointed. However, be sure to check as some camp sites don't accept reservations and camping is purely on a first-come, first-served basis! So whatever you decide, Florida camping is the perfect holiday for everybody!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/camping-articles/florida-camping-the-ultimate-holiday-4630555.html

About the Author

If you want the best web resources for camping in Florida or if you simply want all the information you need to make your holiday to Florida the most memorable ever, go to this site right now: http://www.holidays-to-florida.com

Sunday 24 April 2011

Best Camping Spots in the United States

Camping is something everyone can enjoy from a very young age to a ripe old age. There is just nothing in the world like finding the perfect spot, communing with nature, taking in the breathtaking sights, breathing fresh air, roasting marshmallows over an open fire, and waking up feeling truly rested after a peaceful sleep under the stars. Before enjoying all that nature has to offer, it is important to find the perfect spot. Consider what season, what region the trip will take place in and whether or not children will be present.

North and South Carolina offer some of the most beautiful camping spots in the world. South Carolina has Huntington Beach State Park, which is perfect for children, with it's swimming, fishing and bird watching. Prices vary so it's important to check with them before traveling. In North Carolina is South Mountains State Park, which is more suited for childless families, with it's miles of hiking trails and fishing spots. Prices start at nine dollars a night.

Most people don't think of camping trips when they think of Florida, but for sixteen dollars a night, campers can enjoy a unique trip they will never forget. Manatee Springs State Park offers fishing, boat tours and manatee watching.

In Minnesota, Bear Head Lake Camp offers fishing, hiking trails and bear, moose and eagle watching. This site will run you eighteen dollars a night.

In Wisconsin's Big Bay Lake offers a quiet beach with swimming for only seventeen dollars a night. This one would be perfect for families with children.

In Michigan, Brimley State Park cabins run sixty-five dollars a night, or fifteen to twenty to camp outside, and once a year they offer a free fishing weekend.

In Kentucky, National Bridge Park offers a quiet retreat next to a babbling brook. Kids and Adults alike will enjoy fishing, hiking and exploring the Red River Gorge. It even has wi-fi access. Prices range from twelve to twenty-six dollars a night.

In Nebraska is the Two Rivers State Recreation Center. This one is a favorite among children because of the retired Union Pacific train cabooses that now serve as lodging. There are only ten cabooses available, so it's important to call ahead of time for pricing and availability.

Illinois Beach State Park is located along Lake Michigan and offers swimming, fishing, hiking and many other kid friendly activities.

Camping can be a wonderful way to to bond with nature and family. The most important thing to remember is to just relax and enjoy!

Author is a freelance writer. For more information on skyland trail please visit http://www.facebook.com/pages/Skyland-Trail/102070506421.

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Wednesday 20 April 2011

10 Reasons to Camp in New Jersey

There are literally hundreds of reasons to go camping in New Jersey, but there is one large, and I mean really large, reason:

Where else in the country can you drive less then 3 hours and go from the mountains, to the shore, to the marshlands, to 3 different major metropolitan areas to several major lakes and everywhere in between? Camping in New Jersey is literally the best of all worlds. There is just about nothing you cannot do while you camp in New Jersey. You have your choice of over 120 campgrounds and State Park facilities to choose from not to mention thousands of acres of public land to explore.

Just about every one of the privates campgrounds in the state have craft activities, pools, fishing ponds, sports activities and so many other amenities I can't even count. Most of them are clean, modern and well suited to just about any type of camping. They are all within a decent driving distance of dozens of cultural, sports, historical, recreational and children related attractions. Having said that let me give you the all time Top 10 Reasons to camp in New Jersey:

1. Atlantic City and its world-famous beach and boardwalk, luxurious casino, non-stop gaming action, the hottest entertainers, the best in dining, and quality sporting events.

2. Revel in bay heritage along a scenic waterfront in Somers Point or visit the landmark mansion of original harbormaster Richard Somers, the oldest home in all of Atlantic County, it remains a museum today. Marvel at the world's only 63-foot pachyderm with a visit to Lucy the Margate Elephant. Or have your children experience their favorite nursery rhythm characters in life size at Storybook Land.

3. There's the 760,000-gallon open-ocean tank at the New Jersey Academy for Aquatic Sciences At Adventure Aquarium in Camden, just one of the fascinating exhibits depicting sea life from around the state. Or Trenton, the nations second-largest state capital in continuous use and the site of one of George Washington's greatest Revolutionary victories. Today, you can visit the spot where he crossed the Delaware and tour the Old Barracks, used by soldiers in the French and Indian War. Or, stroll through the New Jersey State Museum and its impressive art galleries.

4. The Delaware Region is home to most of New Jersey's Pine Barrens, a million acres of preserved forests and waterways. It is, in fact, the largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi.

5. Visit Thomas A. Edison's home and laboratories, where you will see some of his greatest inventions. Stop by a museum solely dedicated to the history of flight. Known as one of the cultural capitals of the United States, the Gateway Region is the home of people from all over the world, whose cultures mingle to produce a rich fabric of life. Here, you'll find theater, dance and the best in classical music. Included is New Jersey's state theater, the Paper Mill Playhouse.

6. Diversity characterizes the many playtime activities you'll find in the Gateway Region, plus being just minutes away from New York City. It houses the Meadowland Complex with its colorful tapestry of sports and entertainment. Restaurants of all types for all tastes, extensive shopping centers with the best of everything, and activities for children of all ages round out a vivid, exciting region. This is truly a gateway to many vacation alternatives. That's why when people experience all the Gateway has to offer they keep coming back again and again.

7. Mention the Shore Region, and certain images immediately pop into your head: over 60 miles of pristine beaches from Sandy Hook to Holgate; surf fishing off Seaside Park; perhaps some bodysurfing off Bay Head; or maybe a moonlit walk in Surf City.

8. On the northern fringe of the Gateway National Recreation Area at Sandy Hook stands the nation's oldest operating beacon, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse. Several miles to the south are the Twin Lights of Navesink, the site of Marconi's first ship-to-shore broadcast. Further south is Barnegat Light; affectionately know locally as "Old Barney," built by Civil War hero George Gordon Meade in 1857. And now the newly reconstructed Tuckers Island Lighthouse in the Tuckerton Seaport.

9. Gentle mountains, Skiing, Rock climbing, and Horseback riding. Can you really do all this stuff in New Jersey? Yes you can - and more can be found less than an hour's drive from New York City. The opportunities of the Skylands Region have always been one of New Jersey Camping's best-kept secrets.

10. If its amusement park that make you happy, check out Mountain Creek in Vernon. Somewhat more genteel diversions can be found during the region's numerous winery festivals or at the Sussex Farm and Horse Show in August.

11. Walk along 30 miles of wide sandy beaches, experience the warmth of a Victorian inn, take a stroll through history and enjoy the fresh bounty of the sea at a gourmet restaurant.

12. All along the ocean, the beachfront towns of the Southern Shore Region offer great fishing, boating, beaches and whale-watching cruises, plus fine restaurants and accommodations - not to mention the wonderful campgrounds in the area, to pitch your tent or set up your RV. Cape May County boasts itself as one of the premium camping areas of the country. It all adds up to marvelous fun.

Okay, so I lied.

I couldn't stop at 10 things, I had to give you 12!

In this article I just barely scratched the surface of what New Jersey has to offer and it can all be done from the back of your RV or the middle of your tent!

About The Author

Eric Stephenson is an avid camper and publisher of http://www.NJCampingInfo.com. Get all the information you will ever need about camping in New Jersey as well as information about camping and the latest technologies and products related to camping. This article is copyrighted. It may be reproduced only if the hyperlinks here are left intact.

Tuesday 19 April 2011

5 Great Camping Spots In Minnesota

If you are looking to get away from it all and rest and relax amidst outdoor pursuits, then camping in the state of Minnesota in the northwoods of the United States, may be the ideal vacation destination for you and your family.

1.Ann Lake Campground

For those looking to combine a great camping experience with horseback riding or snowmobiling, then Ann Lake Campground will be perfect for your getaway. You can combine these activities along with premier camping and hiking in a state forest, rather than a state park setting. You can find Ann Lake Campground located in Zimmerman, Minnesota.

2.Crescent Lake Campground

If you are looking for a unique camping experience, then visiting Crescent Lake Campground in Duluth, Minnesota should be a top priority. You can find the campground right outside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and lying east of the Sawbill Trail. Crescent Lake is suitable for motorboats, so it may be a drawback for those who really want to get back to nature. No two campsites are alike and it is perfect for those driving or walking in.

3.Hok-Si-La Campground

Hok-Si-La Campground can be found in Lake City, Minnesota near the banks of Lake Superior. There is a unique policy in effect here. You have just fifteen minutes to unload your gear from your car when you reach your camping area and get it out. You will have to park your car outside of the security gate and can only bring it back in again when you are ready to depart. The extra hike is well worth it as you can enjoy such activities as boating, birding, rock hounding and swimming. There is also a playground for the little ones on site. You may also want to hike along the nature trails and visit the interpretive center to learn more about this beautiful area.

4.Birch Lake Campground

Birch Lake Campground in Ely, Minnesota will appeal to fisherman for its ideal habitat for panfish, crappie, smallmouth bass, northern pike and walleye. Motorboats are allowed on the lake and noise could be a factor on the weekends for campers as many of the campsites are located right near the water with direct access.

5. Devil's Track Lake Campground

If you are looking for roomy and private campgrounds then Devil's Track Lake Campground in Grand Marais, Minnesota is the place for you. The sites are amazingly large on a huge expanse of grass. The large size of the sites allow for a true feeling of camping in the northwoods. The lake is also home to many sail boats and motor boats, but the campground is located on the western part of the lake so you can remove yourself from most of the activity found on the lake near Grand Marais.
Author Resource:- Check out our outdoors blog for more Minnesota camping spots.
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Wednesday 13 April 2011

Top Five Places To Go Camping In Washington State

Washington State is one of the most beautiful areas in North America. It's filled with natural beaty everywhere you look. The variety you'll find in Washington is simply astounding. You'll find rivers, mountains, rainforests, lakes, and more. Washington has nearly every outdoors feature that you can ind in North America. Of course, all this makes Washington a tempting place to go camping. The good news is that there are lots of great spots, too!

Deception Pass

Deception Pass State Park, a 4134-acre marine and camping park is outstanding for its spectacular views, abundant wildlife and old-growth forests. The park offers an astounding 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline around three lakes and 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline. 167 camp sites, fabulous hiking trails and plenty of opportunities for saltwater and freshwater boating, fishing, white-water kayaking, sail boarding and bird watching are what attract 3.5 million campers to this park every year.

Mount Pilchuck

The 1,893-acre Mount Pilchuck State Park features mountainous alpine terrain with spectacular scenic attractions. The park's main recreational attraction is the 3 mile strenuous hike to the summit of Mount Pilchuck, which offers spectacular views of the Olympics, Cascades and Puget Sound. Other activities offered at this park include show shoeing, mountain climbing, rock climbing, wild life viewing and bird watching.

Flaming Geyser

The most unique feature of the Flaming Geyser State Park, a 480-acre day-use park, is its geysers, which are fueled by the park's underlying coals seams. Over 3 miles of freshwater shoreline along the Green River provide plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, tubing and white-water kayaking. Other features of the park include an exclusive area for remote-control, model-airplane flying, a 25-acre open field for equestrian use and several rugged hiking, biking and horse trails.

Steamboat Rock

A gigantic columnar basaltic rock, with a 600-acre surface area dominates the landscape at the 3,522-acre Steamboat Rock State Park. Summer activities at this park include water skiing, fishing, swimming, boating, rock climbing, mountain biking and bird watching as well hiking. Winter brings exciting opportunities for Nordic skiing.

Wallace Falls

The Wallace Falls State Park Management Area, a 4,735-acre camping park, features a magnificent 265-foot waterfall, fast-moving streams and rivers and dense old-growth coniferous forests. The park offers opportunities for kayaking, rafting, swimming and fishing as well as plenty of mountain biking and hiking trails with the possibility of cougar and peregrine falcon sighting.

No matter where you choose to go camping, Washington state offers amazing beauty and is a great place for camping.
Author Resource:- Get your camping and outdoor sports gear at http://www.thompsonoutdoors.com/
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Sunday 10 April 2011

Top 5 Places To Go Camping In North Carolina

Going Camping? Have you decided where to go? Let me give you a good idea of some fantastic places to go in North Carolina. That's right, North Carolina. What better state to go camping in? With the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in the west and the Atlantic Ocean in the east, all of it steeped in American history, there just isn't a better state to choose.

But where in North Carolina? A difficult question to answer because there are so many options open to you. I will help you narrow it down by giving you some information on the top 5 places to go camping in North Carolina. Because these are all such great places, they are not listed in any particular order.

Merchants Millpond State Park (Sunbury, NC)

Located in the northeastern part of the state, this camping spot often gets overlooked simply because it is neither in the mountains nor on the beach. This is very unfortunate because it has so much to offer. The Merchants Millpond itself has been called a mini Okefenokee Swamp because it has a wetland ecosystem.
This makes it an excellent place for fishing and canoeing. The high ground around the pond offers many hiking trails. The campground is well maintained and very appealing. With only 20 campsites available, it isn't overcrowded, but you do want to be sure to get there early to get a site.

Lake James State Park (Morganton, NC)

Lake James hold the distinction of being one of the clearest, cleanest lakes in the Carolinas. This is one of the newer camping spots and as such, has contemporary facilities. However, there is no Rv camping here, but it is great for tent campers. The views are absolutely breathtaking. The high mountains of the Pisgah National Forest can be seen across the water. This campground has 2 campsites that are disabled accessible. There is so much to do here - swimming, fishing, canoeing and hiking. What more could you ask for!

Big Creek Campground (Cove Creek, NC)

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is a great place but can be a bit overcrowded unless you know where to go. Big Creek Campground is just such a place. It is the smallest campground in the Park with only 12 campsites and is tent only, which explains why it is often not overcrowded. It is also a walk-in campground from the parking lot, so you are transported to a simpler life when you camp here. The campground is at the head of the Big Creek Trail that traces the old logging era railroad grade. If you want to cool off, you can do so in one of the swimming hole in Big Creek that pool between the white rapids. With Big Creek Campground as your base, you can enjoy all the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Hanging Rock State Park (Danbury, NC)

With the barren rock faces of the Sauratown Mountains rising from the Piedmont, overlooking the countryside, it is no wonder that dramatic setting of the Hanging Rock State Park is so popular! The campground is a perfect base from which to explore the park and see all it's wonders. The 73 campsites are in two loops. The first loop has 42 campsites and is open all week, while the second loop has 31 campsites that are open only on weekends. It is best to get there by 1pm on Friday for a weekend camping trip. But why not get there during the week and stay longer. You will be glad you did.

Balsam Mountain Campground (Cherokee, NC)

Experience something rare - red spruce and Fraser fir forest in the highest reaches of the great Smoky Mountains. Balsam Mountain Campground offers the highest tent camping in the Smokies in the type of forest usually found in Canada. Originally established in 1934, Balsam Mountain Campground was set up for tent camping, as there really wasn't much in the way of RV camping at the time. Today, it is still for tent camping in the best tradition. Because the campsites are too small for RVs, it is never over crowded. This makes it ideal for a wonderful mountain get-away. Get away from the rat race and spend some quiet solitude in Balsam Mountain Campground, exploring the great Smoky Mountains to your heart's delight.

A couple of other places that merit a mention are Ocracoke Island Campground, which is only accessible by ferry, and Frisco Campground, which is in the Cape Hatteras Seashore. Both are wonderful places to camp on or near the beach.

Tough choice, I know. You may want to go camping in North Carolina every chance you get just so you can experience them all. With always pleasing scenery, North Carolina is a camper's paradise. So, pack up your tent and sleeping bags and get ready for the best camping experience you've ever had.
Author Resource:- Get your sleeping bags, fixed blade knives and other camping gear from Thompson Outdoor Supply:
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Sunday 3 April 2011

Book Review - Tiny Campsites (Cool Camping) - Dixe Wills

Guardian travel writer and fervent camper Dixe Wills offers his personal selection of 75 of the very best tiny campsites in Britain every one of them an acre or smaller, and each guaranteed to take you far from the madding crowd. Across England, Scotland and Wales discover stunning little places to pitch: on farms, cliff-tops and islands; in woodlands, quarries, orchards and back gardens; and beside pubs, lochs, rivers and museums. Each featured site comes with a quick reference guide and full run-down on facilities, nearby pubs, shops and local attractions, as well as an Ordnance Survey map to guide you in. With extra features for cyclists, walkers and those using public transport, this book has all the essential info you need to discover and enjoy your own small slice of paradise. Tiny Campsites because big isn't clever.

Get a copy of Tiny Campsites, there is a link in the right hand column, get a tent and get out there!