Camp Site Terminology

There is no standard definition other than some improvement was done to designate it a camp site.

coolmom42 wrote:
"Developed" generally means a site that is designated, with some sort of numbering system, usually in a group with other sites. Usually the site is cleared and graded with some gravel or pavement. There may be a tent pad, picnic table, or lantern post (or not).

The opposite of developed is dispersed, which means that there are no designated sites, no amenities, and no preparation of the site.

This is how I look at it too. I have even read a description of "semi-developed". I guess that would be a developed site - but not quite as much. :)

In some states, there are developed and primitive sites. They are both located in campgrounds but developed sites have access to running water (bathrooms) and primitive sites don't (port-a-potties).

I don't think there is a formal definition as we've never heard of the term. More likely a marketing term so your guess is as good as ours.

That said designated spots possibly with the parking spot not just grass is a good guess.

Then of course there is the terminology of what will be at the campsite. Developed camping may be dry camping with no electric, water, etc. at your site, although there often is a water source somewhere and a sanitary dump station.

Full hookups means water, electric, and sewer (your very own capped hole in the ground at the site versus a dump station shared by all.) Electric comes in various amps or combos (15, 30, 50) so you need to know your requirements and carry adapters.

Just to keep things interesting, you could find full hookups anywhere - even at a state or provincial park - or completely dry camping, so you can never assume. Not unusual to find various options in the same campground, with price varying by what your site contains.

RVing in Canada has different terms like Fully Serviced, 2-way, etc.

Coolmom42 gave a good description. Also, a developed campground doesn't necessarily mean it will have hookups. Many national forest campgrounds are considered developed.

"Developed" generally means a site that is designated, with some sort of numbering system, usually in a group with other sites. Usually the site is cleared and graded with some gravel or pavement. There may be a tent pad, picnic table, or lantern post (or not).

The opposite of developed is dispersed, which means that there are no designated sites, no amenities, and no preparation of the site.