Customer Reviews

Woodall's Tenting Directory, 2002

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I purchased a copy of this book along with a copy of "The Best in Tent Camping - The Ozarks". Well....to say the least I was VERY disappointed and had I been able to view the book in advance I would NEVER have bought it. It seems that even though this is a "tenting" guide and not an RV Guide, Woodalls has chosen to list only private campgrounds or park camping areas that charge a fee and provide amenities. What happened to all of the FREE primitive and semi-primitive campsites available all over the USA in our National Forests & Parks?? I don't know. I suspect that since they don't pay for advertising in Woodalls....they are of no interest to those of us who camp.

If what you want is a list of KOA's and other "homogenized" camping sites with showers, snack bars and pay-phones, located conveniently near highways and major attractions, you may like this guide. If on the other hand you are looking for free camping alternatives, sites off the beaten path or that secluded tenting experience away from the glare of the lights and screechings of Britney Spears from car radios....avoid this book! Get one of "The Best in Tent Camping" guides.

These line of books give you the basic idea of info on each of the "private" campgrounds. Most are family oriented w/playgrounds and are near civilization. The phone numbers are listed for each park and you are encouraged to call if something seems unclear or if you need directions. Everyone I've camped with keep neat, clean grounds that are serviced regularly and usually have permanent friendly residents. When called the staff are friendly and very helpful. If your not the "hard core camper", these are good for simple, fast getaways that usually are not too far from home. Since these are the "private" campgrounds it is recommended to get a different directory for National Parks if you want to be a little more rustic. Just keep in mind, most National Parks DO NOT allow pets! You can research online resources thru a generic search engine, but these books, I feel are indispensable!! The books display more info and you always know where you found it. I've been camping my whole life when my parents decided to go on a trip when I was 3 weeks old, I do speak w/experience. There's nothing wrong w/Woodall's or their listings. It just depends on your needs and tastes. Highly recommended. They've been print for years and years!!!!