Carly Severn, KQED's Senior Editor for Audience News, offers invaluable tips for reserving California campsites, often as challenging as grabbing concert tickets. She reveals the secrets to mastering competitive reservations and emphasizes the importance of early planning. Carly discusses the surge in camping popularity during the pandemic, sharing strategies to navigate the intricate reservation systems of national and state parks. Her insights include ethical practices, like canceling unused reservations to help fellow campers. Get ready for a summer of successful outdoor adventures!
Planning and securing campsite reservations in advance is crucial, as many spots open six months before the desired date.
The surge in camping popularity, amplified by the pandemic, has led to a significant increase in competition for available sites.
Deep dives
Planning Ahead for Camping Reservations
Making reservations for camping in California requires careful planning well in advance, as many spots open up six months before the desired date. This time frame can seem counterintuitive, especially during winter months when thoughts of summer camping may not be foremost in mind. However, campers who take the time to secure their spots early can benefit from increasing availability before the rush. As the competition among campers intensifies, those who are proactive in their planning often have a better chance of reserving their ideal campsite.
Rising Popularity of Camping
The popularity of camping has surged significantly, with a 68% increase in households identifying as active campers since 2014. Factors contributing to this growth include varied options such as glamping and backpacking, as well as the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many people to seek outdoor experiences. Outdoor retailers have experienced a boost in sales, emphasizing a shift in recreational activities towards camping as a safe alternative during lockdowns. As more individuals discover the joys of camping, the demand for reservations continues to escalate, making it increasingly vital for seekers to understand the reservation systems in place.
Strategies for Securing Campsites
Several strategies can increase a camper's chances of successfully reserving a campsite, including becoming well-acquainted with multiple reservation systems. It’s essential to gather all necessary information beforehand and to be logged in before reservation dates open. Campers can set up alerts for cancellations and take advantage of walk-in spots to capture last-minute availability. Additionally, being flexible with chosen locations can also help, as lesser-known campgrounds may still offer the peace and nature experience sought after by many outdoor enthusiasts.
Reserving camp sites in California can feel sometimes feel as hard as scoring Taylor Swift concert tickets. KQED's Senior Editor for Audience News, Carly Severn, breaks down some tips and tricks so you can score a great spot this summer.
This story was reported by Kelly O'Mara and Carly Severn. Bay Curious is made by Olivia Allen-Price, Amanda Font, Katrina Schwartz and Christopher Beale. Additional support from Jen Chien, Katie Sprenger, Maha Sanad, Holly Kernan and the whole KQED family.
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