Camping in this economy

The older we get, we want to get "away" for a purpose. We live in the country and, as far as 'getting away' for the sake of just 'getting away'.... fact is ... we're already "there

Beautifully put.

We live in the country so our camping is for destination purposes also. I joke that we are a reverse "Fresh Air Fund." We take country kids used to land and privacy into a "suburban/city" setting. My kids scarcely know the thrill of pavement so bike riding is fun. We go to boat and be close enough to enjoy morning coffee or an evening campfire with friends.

We can actually reach our favorite lake within 40 minutes so boating for the day is possible - but somehow not the same. I love being back at the site with family and friends. As the kids grow older there is a certain sweetness in being in a small, set space, sans wireless with your kids.

We may also travel to sport tournaments. Again it's about the destination - not being IN our camper (although we love it). While the gas to get the camper there - and camp fees - do add up, I really think we save enough in not eating out 3x a day with a family of four to make up for that.

We flirted with getting a new rig just last weekend but then economy trumped desire and we realized that for our needs we just don't have any reason to make a payment when Big Tiny provides all our needs (and leaves us more money for boat fuel!)

That doesn't mean I don't drool over newer rigs though. So pretty! :) Our chosen park runs $20/night so when factored into other things we can do - it still feels like a bargain. If it's not, I don't want to know :B