Avoiding Crowded Campgrounds

No matter what kind of camping you have in mind, the likelihood of experiencing its downside hinges on the time of year you head to the country. This much I can reasonably guarantee: If you plan a trip over a long weekend in the summer (provided you can get reservations), you will experience some kind of gridlock—either on the highway or at the campsite itself.

The Early-in-the-Season and Off-Season Advantage

Like all travel, planning camping trips early and late in the season offers you several advantages to going at peak times. If swimming isn't a high priority, try camping in the spring—when long, hot summer days haven't heated the lakes to optimum temperatures, attracting legions of bathing campers. Be forewarned, though: Spring coincides with the hatching of mosquito larvae in many parts of the country, and these pesky insects can put a real damper on any camping excursion. Take along plenty of insect repellent and consider bug netting for the head.

In fall, visitors to campgrounds can enjoy crisp, cool nights, no insects, few people, and the splendor of colorful foliage (in those parts of the country where it changes). You may be disappointed, however, when you try to make reservations; many campgrounds in the East close down for the season at the end of October.