Which Is Better In General: National/state Vs. Private Campgrounds? Options

[New Daddy]

Which is better in general: national/state vs. private campgrounds? Or does it really depend on the individual campground?

[joez]

Which is better in general: national/state vs. private campgrounds? Or does it really depend on the individual campground?

Depends on what you are looking for. In general, public campgrounds offer larger sites, more shade, and, in general, a more "woodsy" experience - more like camping. In many cases, however, public campgrounds do not offer the hook ups that commercial parks do, especially sewer, and can be harder to maneuver in with a larger rv due to narrow roadways and trees. Public campgrounds tend to be less expensive than commercial parks.

For us, commercial sites are more suitable. Since we are not camping, we prefer full hook ups, paved roads, and the generally more sedate atmosphere (some would call it geezer city) found in most commercial sites. We also tend to park for a month or more in one spot. Most public cgs limit stays to 14 days or less. We tend to stay in commercial parks and day trip to state/federal wilderness areas and parks.

The short answer is it depends on you - what are you looking for when you park?

[New Daddy]

The short answer is it depends on you - what are you looking for when you park?

We definitely prefer "woodsy" experience.

One remark of yours was a little surprising. "more sedate atmosphere" of commercial sites? I'm only starting to get my feet wet in camping, but I'd have though public sites would be more sedate, with park rangers having the force of law to enforce park regulations, like quite time.