How to go with the flow but restricted by reservations?

On the other hand, if no CGs had reservations, then we would all be in the same dilemma. You might check a day ahead for cancellations at places you're interested in, or aim for the no-reservation national forest CGs. Seems a lot of folks on this forum have good luck much of the time just showing up & hoping for a space. That said, in major tourist areas during prime tourist season, you may find campsites to require more searching - or reservations. :)