How to Choose the Best Campsites for Your Pop-Up Camper

Pop-up campers are a surefire way to experience the great outdoors in style and comfort, but the key to a successful camping trip lies in the elusive art of choosing the perfect campsite. But don’t be fooled, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Here are some tips that will help you avoid the perils of picking a problematic perch for your pop-up.

Choose Your Adventure

Start by determining your needs and preferences. But don’t just think about the basics like a quiet spot or a campground with amenities. Really dig deep and ask yourself what you want out of this experience. Do you crave a secluded retreat or a bustling campsite with lively activities? Are you eager to trek along hiking trails or splash around in water? The more complex your desires, the more perplexing your search.

Next, check the campsite’s amenities, but beware, things can get quite unpredictable. You might find electrical hookups, water and sewer connections, dump stations, and showers, or you might end up roughing it in the wild with no such amenities. Some campsites offer all the creature comforts of home, even things like Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, while others leave you with no such luxuries. If you crave a more rustic experience, make sure to avoid those spots. If you need to get some work done on the road, though, make sure to target places that offer Wi-Fi and other conveniences.

Don’t forget to check for nearby attractions, because the more options the better, right? But again, it’s not always straightforward. Look for campsites that are close to hiking trails, lakes, rivers, or other activities you enjoy, but also be prepared for unexpected surprises. Maybe the nearby hiking trail is closed, or the lake is overcrowded. Overplanning can ruin the fun of a quick jaunt in your pop-up, but it’s important to have options at the ready.

What Are You Working With?

Consider the size of your pop-up camper, because when it comes to camping, size matters. But don’t just stop at measuring your camper: make sure to check the campsite’s specifications before booking. Some sites have size restrictions or might not have enough room for larger pop-up campers. It’s like a puzzle, fitting the perfect camper into the perfect spot. It isn’t quite the game of Tetris that travel trailer owners have to play, but you don’t want to get your camper jammed between inconveniently placed trees.

Word of Mouth is the Most Reliable Source

Now let’s talk reviews, but be warned, things can get really perplexing here. You might find valuable insights into the quality of a campsite, amenities, and its surroundings on online resources such as Campendium, Tripadvisor, or Facebook groups, or you might find contradicting opinions that leave you more confused than ever. Reviews from other pop-up camper owners can be helpful, but can also lead to conflicting advice. The amount of information can be dizzying, but you’ll avoid troublesome campgrounds and identify the best spots if you stick to it.

Lastly, make sure to book in advance, but again, there’s no guarantee. Popular campsites can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking in advance ensures that you’ll have a spot, but it also means committing to a plan that might change unexpectedly. The burstiness is nerve-wracking.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect campsite for your pop-up camper is a complex and unpredictable process. By considering your needs and preferences, checking campsite amenities and reviews, checking the size of your pop-up camper, and looking for nearby attractions, you can increase your chances of success. But let’s be honest, it’s about the journey just as much as the destination when you’re living the tiny camper life.