Getting camping reservations in popular state and national parks can be challenging, especially during peak season. Here are a few tips how to get camping reservations at popular State and National Campgrounds.
How to get camping reservations at popular State and National Campgrounds – Plan ahead:
Camping is very popular and gone are the days when you could just up and go and find a campsite for the weekend. Start planning your camping trip well in advance and make your reservations as early as possible. Many National parks and State parks begin taking reservations months in advance, and popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. Be sure to know the campground’s peak season, which can vary in the East and West Coast. For example, because of the nice temperatures, Florida and Arizona campgrounds get crowded in the Winter, but are sometimes empty in the summer. Just do your research and know the temperature ranges – and if you can stand the heat then maybe summer will be best for you.
Be flexible:
If your first choice of campground is full, consider alternative campgrounds or different dates. Many parks have multiple campgrounds with different types of sites, such as tent-only or RV-only, and different amenities. Just be open-minded.
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Check availability regularly:
Availability can change frequently, so check back regularly. Some campsites may become available due to cancellations or changes in reservations.
Reserve a campsite during the week:
Many people tend to camp on weekends, so reserving a campsite during the week may increase your chances of getting a spot. Personally, we do this all the time. Not only is it easier to find a campsite, but it is less crowded. So if you want to avoid crowds – camp during the week.
Use online reservation systems to make campground reservations
Many national parks and state parks have online reservation systems that allow you to book your campsite in advance. These online reservations systems vary but are fairly simply to use. Some parks also have a lottery system for campsites, where you can enter to win a spot.
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Use third-party websites:
Some third-party websites may have campsites available that are not listed on the park’s website. These websites may also have more last-minute availability.
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Be prepared for cancellations:
Sometimes, even if you have a reservation, it may be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. Be prepared to have backup plans and alternatives in case this happens. Weather is unpredictable and roads can be washed out during a storm. When you make your reservation, make sure you know alternative places nearby where you can stay or camp in case the campground has to close due to an emergency.
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Be prepared to pay:
Some parks may require a non-refundable reservation fee at the time of booking, so be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before making your reservation. Many campgrounds have switched to non-refundable reservations, due to the fact that so many people booked a campsite in advance and never showed up or cancelled their reservation.
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How to get camping reservations at popular State and National Campgrounds – show up early:
Some parks may have first-come, first-served campsites, meaning that the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. So set your alarm and get up early to try to score that campsite.
Check the rules and regulations of the campsite:
Each campsite may have different rules and regulations, so be sure to check those before making your reservation. There’s nothing worse that securing a reservation only to learn that your RV is too big, too old, or the campground doesn’t allow pets. All the rules are written on the campgrounds website – just be sure to read all the rules and regulations.
It’s important to remember that camping in popular state and national parks can be highly competitive, so being prepared and flexible will increase your chances of securing a reservation. Of course, book early if you can. In January, I booked two campgrounds in NJ State Parks in April and May. These are coveted lakefront spots that go quickly, so I booked early.
Click here to see how to book reservations for NJ State Campgrounds.
