Since the campground that had the no refund policy was not directly affected by the wildfire, I don't think the act of god excuse is valid.
Granted, the reason he had the reservation was because he was stopping overnight on the way and now did not have a reason to keep his reservation. I don't see that as the campgrounds issue.
I have made reservations with a no refund policy. Knew it up front, decided the risk was worth it, and I have had to cancel before. Usually, the campground will let you change for a date in the future. At least the one in Florida that I had to cancel at the last minute allowed me to transfer reservation to same time the next year. Suppose you could try that route.
What's the negative review going to say? Campground has a no refund policy and they wouldn't give me my money back when I canceled? If I read a review like that, I'd chalk it up to sour grapes and it wouldn't affect my decision one bit.
It would be nice if they made an exception, but since their policy is pretty clear, and you knew it, I guess it is what it is.
Mike
