Turned off by campgrounds

Dream_Chaser! wrote:
Each year, I start looking for new campgrounds either short trips or extended stays and I turn immediately to the internet.

First, I do a search for campgrounds in the area I want to visit. Click on their website for basic info, check for reviews of the park, do a Google earth look at the park and finally try to visit the park.

That is exactly what I do.

I like to see photos of the campground. Not a bunch of pictures of last year's Christmas party or a bunch of people playing shuffleboard -- I want to see the sites.

Totally agree with you.

I don't know who does the Good Sam ratings but I don't put a lot of faith in them. One park I stayed in had a 10-10-10 rating by Good Sam but in reality it was more 2-2-2.

I believe that some of the ratings are outdated, probably were rated a few years ago.

A look at the park using Google Earth always gives a good indication of the park.

I do a Google Map satellite view of the CG and I seen some places are next to dumps or basically just a parking lot with hardly any trees or grass!

Finally, I drive to the campground for a final inspection and evaluation. I like to be able to drive around the park and if possible, chat with 1 or 2 residents.

Nope I have never done that, once I reserve I live with it, my mistake, my decision, just grin and bare it! So far I haven't really had any bad experience.

Sorry for the long rant. I don't think my expectations are extremely high but if campgrounds want my business, the first thing they better do is make sure their website is current and has the information I need.