The real cost of camping vs not

We are now doing what I call "Hybrid camping" - if it's too hot, too cold, too tired, too stormy, etc, we stay at LaQuintas. Our 2 dogs are welcomed there, the rooms are clean and nice. But when we get to areas that are scenic, or we wish to explore more closely - camping is the way to go! The one thing that most hotels can't offer: you step out the door into the forest (or desert or seashore, etc). Our last epic sightseing trip was the Pacific NW, and we used a pop-up truck camper that I have $1000 invested in. Getting the better mpg (compared to our old Class C) and minimal investment levels that "which is cheaper" playing field real fast. But in our case, camping allows us to experience the best places, firsthand.