Adult only campgrounds

adult only campgroundsAdult only campgrounds and RV Parks

Adult only campgrounds are campgrounds for adults only (usually defined as individuals over 18 or 21 and up). Many of these adult campsites don’t allow anyone under 18 – not even as guests. Adult only campgrounds are popular in the UK, Europe, and the U.S. and are appealing to adults who want to get away for some peace and quiet and to socialize with other adults who like to camp or who enjoy an RV lifestyle. Some also cater to those over 50 and senior citizens.

Amenities at adult only campgrounds vary from campground to campground, but many offer RV hookups in addition to conventional tent camping camp sites.  Some adult only campgrounds also offer lounges, golf courses or easy access to golf courses, game rooms, and more.

In the UK, there are many adult only campgrounds in England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

In the U.S., a growing trend is for conventional campgrounds to also include adult only campsite areas.

List of Adult Only Campgrounds in the US


In the U.S., adult only campgrounds include the following.

The Bluffs adult RV Resort at Danforth Bay (Freedom, NH)

The place to be for active adults 50 and older!  This extended-stay campground features a large clubhouse with fitness room, game room, tennis courts, and 2 salt water heated pools.  Many adult only campgrounds offer so many amenities it doesn’t even feel like camping; at The Bluffs, the modern laundry and shower facilities, and  water, sewer, electric, WiFi and cable at every site make your stay more than comfortable.  Hike Mt. Washington, shop at North Conway, or play one of a dozen nearby golf courses when you’re not enjoying the free kayak and canoe rentals at The Bluffs. Seasonal rental $3,375 per season-includes everything except electric. Extended stay (1 week+) rates are $45/night in spring and $50/night in summer (electric included).

CampNCN (Black River Falls, WI)

As adult only campgrounds go, this is truly an adult campground, and campers under the age of 18 are strictly prohibited.  Nudity is permitted anywhere on the 60+ acre campground that features sandy beaches, a private pond and a nightclub (Party Central) where anything goes!  Weekday and weekend rates range from $15/person (day rate) to $40/night for weekends with full hookups.   Cabin and trailer rentals available.

Champlain Adult Campground (Grand Isle, VT)

Located on Lake Champlain, every campsite boasts a maintained grassy area, and many include views of the lake.  Choice of partial or full hookup.  Rates from $34-$46, and a 1 bedroom lakefront cottage is also available.  Picnic tables and fireplaces at all sites.  When not relaxing at this peaceful and quiet adult only campground, explore nearby Grand Isle, Burlington, VT and even Montreal, Quebec.

Country Oaks RV Park (Zephyrhills, FL)

This adult retirement community also offers daily and weekly rates for adult campers.  Each camp site features full hookup, picnic tables and concrete pads.  Relax in the park-like atmosphere and enjoy activities like bingo, dancing, art classes, golf outings, and much more in the park’s rec hall.  Pet friendly (under 40 lbs.).  $30/day or $165/week

Edge O’Dells Campground (Wisconsin Dells, WI)

21 and over.  Campsite rates vary from $25/night (group tenting, weekday) to $55/night (premium site). Weekly/monthly rates available; no club discounts. Cabin rentals also available.  3 bars on site (DJs and karaoke), including a Tiki Bar at the heated pool and hot tub.  Sand volleyball courts and horse shoe pits on site.  Pet and motorcycle friendly.  2 shower facilities, laundry and free Wi-Fi at bar.  Shuttle  to downtown Wisconsin Dells.  Also nearby are numerous indoor and outdoor water parks in this “water park capital of the world”, Tanger Outlets, casino, and the Wisconsin River for boating enthusiasts.

Fortuna de Oro RV Park (Yuma, AZ)

In the foothills of the Gila Mountains, you’ll find that this RV resort is one of the most picturesque of all adult only campgrounds.  Featuring its own golf course, swimming pools, exercise room and restaurant, there will be no need to even leave the premises, although there is plenty of nature to experience in the local wildlife refuges and sand dunes.  Whether it’s Bible studies or happy hour, craft time or jam sessions, there’s something for everyone at Fortuna de Oro.   $35/day or $238/week.  Monthly and annual rates also available.

Hickorynut Cove  (Hiawassee, GA)

Catering to retirees and and the semi-retired, this 88 site annual-rental-only RV campground is situated on 84 beautiful and quiet acres in mountainous Northeast Georgia that feature a private 5 acre lake for fishing and paddle boating.  Hiking trails abound in the shadow of Eagle Mountain.  Nearby wine tasting, hiking and whitewater rafting.  Hickorynut Cove is one of the few adult only campgrounds we’ve found that allows no pets and no smoking.  Leases are annual only, with the exception of one fully furnished cabin available for daily rentals.  Rates from $1,290 to $1,600 annually, plus cable, electric and water and power deposits.

Kelly’s RV Park (White Springs, FL)

Adult only campgrounds apparently also welcome endangered species!  Take, for instance, the gopher tortoises that have taken up residence at Kelly’s RV Park.  They are in good company with the hummingbirds and butterflies that have been attracted to the many plants that have been planted on the premises specifically to attract them.  Club discounts are accepted at this adult-oriented RV park in North Central Florida, and children are invited to visit.  Amenities include a 24 hour club house with satellite TV, fireplace and free pool, 24 hour laundry facility, and FREE wireless internet throughout the entire park.   The Suwannee Valley is a beautiful place to visit; the state parks, White Springs, golf, hiking, biking, bird watching and shopping are sure to keep you completely entertained.   Rates include tax and are $30.27/day or $163.50/week.

Mesa Verde RV Resort (Yuma, AZ)

Adult only campgrounds practically ensure a quiet and peaceful vacation, whether it is a week-long trip or all winter long.  Mesa Verde RV Resort is the perfect place for both types of vacationers.  This pet-free campground boasts loads of social events, 2 pools, 2 hot tubs, rec hall, cable TV, laundry, and much more.  Close to attractions like sand dunes, casinos, shopping, museums, the Colorado River, and the Mexican border.  $33/day or $210/week.  Monthly and annual rates also available.

River’s Edge Resort (Dewy Rose, GA)

Your options for accommodations in this 21 and over clothing-optional campground geared to adult men vary from campsites without electricity to fully furnished luxury cabins.  An annual membership is required ($20 for new members).  Beautiful and modern facilities include a swimming pool, workout room and Club House.  The Cafe on site is open on the weekends.  Pet friendly, but no cameras or photographic equipment of any kind.

Swan Lake Village and RV Resort (North Fort Myers, FL)

Located in Southwest Florida, if you are a Boston Red Sox or Minnesota Twins fan, you’ll be sure to enjoy the annual spring training camps located nearby, in addition to many other activities like beaches, golfing, and a ferry to Key West.  At the resort, you will be treated to top-notch facilities that include 30 amp hookups at all sites (some 50), 2 clubhouses, a heated swimming pool, laundry facilities, and planned activities.  Many adult only campgrounds welcome your pets and Swan Lake is no exception; pets under 20 pounds are permitted.     Some folks live in the adjacent 55+ manufactured home community year-round, but Swan Lake also offers daily rates at $35 and weekly rates at $235.

Wild Duck Campground (Scarborough, ME)

Have you been looking for adult only campgrounds with the perfect location for both relaxation and recreation?  You’ve found the perfect place!  Located between Old Orchard Beach and Portland, Maine, this campground is just minutes from the best Maine beaches and offers many amenities.  Full hookups, cable, and phone at every campsite.  Wireless internet available for a small fee.  Modern restroom and laundry facilities, and a limited grocery.  Pet friendly.  Kayak and canoe rentals allow you to explore the state’s largest salt water marsh.  Close to Portland and the Old Port, Old Orchard Beach, Cabela’s, Scarborough Downs, Freeport Outlets, Funtown Splashtown and Aquaboggan (water parks).  In season rates vary from $34 – $57/night.  All rates include 7th night free for 6 paid nights. Club discounts available.

Potter’s Place Campground (Lebanon, ME)

If adult only campgrounds that offer endless opportunities to commune with nature are your thing, look no further.  Potter’s Place Campground is a virtual haven for adults of all ages who enjoy hiking, bird watching, photography, or simply just relaxing and taking in the scenery on the grounds of this beautiful resort that once was an early New England Homestead. Perennial gardens, a 7 acre pond, an arborteum, and many hiking trails are just some of the activities you will enjoy at this campground that is part of a 150 acre operating tree farm.  All 100 campsites have water and 30 amp electric, fireplaces and picnic tables.  Modern bathrooms, a rec hall with game room, and a heated swimming pool will all help make your stay comfortable.  Located just 20 miles from the best Maine beaches, and 30 miles from New Hampshire’s beautiful mountains.  Rates at this pet-friendly campground are $23.50/night or $600/month.

Spring Creek Campground & Nudist Resort (Geneva, AL)

This clothing optional campground catering to the gay community is described as “a little slice of heaven in the southern Alabama woods”.  Whether camping by tent, deluxe travel trailer or rental cabin, you are sure to find your perfect campsite in this peaceful and picturesque resort. Like most hosts of adult only campgrounds, the folks at Spring Creek are not opposed to hosting festive parties, but the emphasis at this getaway is on communing with nature and nurturing friendships. There’s lots to do in the nearby Florida Panhandle, but you might not want to leave the premises once you experience the heated pool and on-site Cabana Grill.  An annual $15 membership fee is required, and rates vary from $25/day for a primitive tent site to $95/day for a deluxe cabin weekend rental.  Day rates also nizagara available.  A $10 pet fee applies to pets that accompany cabin rental guests.

Beacon Hill Camping (Ronks, PA)

If you are looking for quiet adult only campgrounds in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Beacon Hill Camping fits the bill.  At this rural campground, adults are considered to be anyone 16 and older, and cabins or cottages are available.  Your leashed friendly pets are welcomed.  Full hookups and free WiFi at every site.  Laundry facilities, clean showers, and metered propane available.  This serene campground offers no recreation or entertainment on site, but there’s lots to see in neighboring Amish country, Hershey, or Reading.  Rates vary from $39/night to $110/night for a cottage with a kitchen and bath.  Discounts apply the longer you stay, and the hosts have a gracious and lenient cancellation policy.

Palm Gardens (Harlington, TX)

Located in the beautiful Texas Rio Grande Valley along the Texas Gulf Coast, this 55+ resort is perfect for entertainment and nature enthusiasts alike.  The park itself offers many recreational opportunities like dancing, swimming in the heated pool/spa, cards, and planned activities.  Opportunities abound nearby for bird-watching, fishing, boating, and golfing.  Not all adult only campgrounds are pet friendly, but this one sure viagra is–Palm Gardens even has a dog park on site!  Nearby attractions include the Iwo Jima Memorial, South Padre Island, and Mexico is just 16 miles away.  Daily rates are $18/day for off-season and $32/day for standard season.  Electricity is an extra charge.  Weekly, monthly and extended stay rates available.  Also check out their sister park — VIP La Feria RV Park in La Feria, TX.

Paradise on the River (Estes Park, CO)

Rocky Mountain National Park serves as the backdrop for this peaceful river camping resort.  Located along the Big Thompson River, if fishing, hiking or bird watching is your thing, you’ll love Paradise on the River!  All sites feature 30 amp hookups, free WiFi and cable TV (extra fee).  Clean restrooms and laundry facilities will make your stay comfortable.  RV Sites start at $43/day.  Cottage, Cabin and RVs also available for rent. Pets welcomed on RV sites.  32 foot RV limit.

Apple River Hideaway (Somerset, WI)

While there’s no hard and fast rule saying Apple River Hideaway’s camping facilities should be on the official list of adult only campgrounds, this resort is definitely geared more toward adults.   In particular, adults who like tubing and partying.  Located in the middle of the area’s most popular river tubing route, Apple River Hideaway provides endless fun for adventure seekers.  Tubing/camping weekend packages are available, and Somerset concert goers will find a fun place to stay if attending a summer show.  Daily campsite rates range from $5 off-peak weekday to $20 peak season weekend.   Vehicle charge and garbage/recycling fees apply.

Rancho Verde RV Park (Camp Verde, AZ)

Adult only campgrounds located in a prime vacation spot give you the most value for your money if you want to actively vacation.  Northern Arizona is one of the most beautiful destinations in all of North America.  The Grand Canyon, Sedona, Flagstaff, the Barringer Crater, Montezuma Castle, Wupatki National Monument, Alcantara Vineyard & Winery, and parts of the Navajo and Zuni Reservations are just some of the tourist attractions you can enjoy while staying at Rancho Verde RV Park.  50 amp sites, WiFI, laundry and restroom facilities.  Rates from $26 – $32/night.

Sunny Acres Adult RV Park (Las Cruces, NM)

Large campsites are the highlight of this beautiful and peaceful RV park located in the heart of the Sunbelt.  Walk to local restaurants and antique shops, drive an hour or two to White Sands National Park or the War Eagles Air Museum, or simply relax at Sunny Acres and enjoy some planned activities at the beautiful clubhouse.  Full hookups, 30 or 50 amp service, phone, Cable TV, high speed internet, laundry and bathroom facilities are all available at this resort that is deserving to be on our list of the Top 20 Adult Only Campgrounds.  Rates from $38.54/night.  Club discounts available.

 

Sarah Palin Camping with Obama?

During an unaired interview for Fox’s Justice with Judge Jeanine, Sarah Palin invited President Barack Obama to go camping.  The episode was not shown due to the tragic shootings in Arizona.

It’s not as much of a stretch as you might think. President Obama and his family made headlines not too long ago when they spent a few days camping at Yosemite National Park.

With rumors flying that her reality show “Sarah Palin’s Alaska” has been canceled due to sinking ratings, we can’t help but wonder: Could this be a last ditch effort on Palin’s part to get TLC to renew the show?

Come on now, TLC.  What could possibly top camping with the president?

Source: Examiner.com, thedailyvoice.com

What is overlanding?

overlanding

Thought to be a term of Australian origin, overlanding refers to extended travel by land, often with elements of adventure, discovery, or self-reliance.

Overlanding can also refer to an extended excursion taking the “road less traveled” – finding  a path away from tourist spots and population centers.

Overlanding can take place on foot, bicycle, motorcycle, car, truck, or RV. Some overlanding involves vehicles such as buses, RVs, or safari trucks that have been outfitted specifically for living long periods of time in a self-reliant fashion.

Individuals can be overlanders, and one can also travel as part of  a group, or as part of a guided tour.  An overland tour may involve backpacking and hiking, a combination of stays in hostels or hotels, onboard an RV, and in remote wilderness camp sites.

Some view overlanding as a way to “get off the grid” or “unplug” from everyday society and see the world in a new way.  As overlanding can involve travel to multiple countries, the opportunities for learning, relaxation, and escape are plentiful.

Extended travel by train can also be referred to as overlanding, such as travel via the Trans-Siberian railway in Russia, or the Indian Pacific Railway in Australia.

Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa are common places for overlanding. Safari-oriented overlanding is common in Africa among those seeking adventure and first hand experiences in the wild.  In the Americas, a popular overland route is from San Diego, CA to Baja California, and down through Central America.

The 13th-century Italian explorer Marco Polo, known for his epic journey by land through Asia to China, is often thought of as the archetypal overlander.

The term has been adopted by campers and RVers who spend extended periods of time traveling over land, lodging mainly in their tents and RVs.  The Internet has given rise to sites containing information supporting this kind of adventure.

Overlanding is a common theme in film. For example, the 2008 movie Transiberian starring Emily Mortimer, Woddy Harrelson, Kate Mara, Ben Kingsley, and Eduardo Noriega is the story of an American couple who take an overland adventure from Bejing to Moscow via the Trans-Siberian Railroad.

(Image courtesy freeimages.co.uk)

What is boondocking?

While there is some disagreement over the definition, the term boondocking usually refers to free camping.

The term boondock was first used by U.S. servicemen serving in the Philipines. It is from a Tagalog word “bundog” meaning mountain. U.S. servicemen used it to refer to a rural, remote, or bushy area. The slang term “boonies” evolved from this word.

In today’s parlance the term boondocking is usually associated with the RV community. RVers are said to be boondocking if they stay in a location (such as on public lands) that does not provide utility hookups such as water, electric, and sewer for their trailer or motorhome.  This is also sometimes refered to as “dry camping.”

The term boondocking may apply when campers are vacationing in their RV. However, some who live in their RVs may also engage in boondocking as a way to save the expense of staying in an RV park.

There are many boondocking guides available on the Internet, some even listing GPS coordinates of sites where boondocking occurs.  In North America, there are many boondocking sites throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

In the U.S., Walmart stores allow RVs to park in their parking lots overnight, free of charge. Some refer to this as boondocking, while others do not.

In rare cases, one may find free RV camp sites that offer electrical hookup, minimizing the need for a generator and the fuel needed to power it.

Boondocking, especially for extended periods of time, requires considerable preparation, including planning a source of electricity such as an RV generator, cooking facilities, potable water source, and more.

Many boondockers are becoming more interested in alternative energy sources and going “green,” such as via solar panel generators that provide gas-free, turn-key electricity to help run appliances such as TVs and microwaves on board an RV.

Buy The Complete Book of Boondock RVing: Camping Off the Beaten Path on Amazon.com

4 Camping Blogs We Read

Here are a few camping blogs I follow. Thought you might like to take a look.
FamilyCampMan –  “Camping checklist and camping blog” focusing on family camping, learning, photos, and gear. “By a regular dad who wants to get his family involved into the outdoors.” Cool.
Go Camping America Blog – Focuses on cooking, RV cooking, camping, family camping, and hiking. Features recipe ideas for the grill and campfire.
Joy of Camping – Family camping, gear, recipes, tips and ideas, campground finder. Practical, sensible, step-by-step advice. I like the emphasis on keeping it simple. Includes pictures and videos.
Love In a Tent – From the author of “Sex in a Tent: A Wild Couple’s Guide to Getting Naughty in Nature” comes this blog that’s about much more than sex.  Gear, photos, reviews, recipes and more. And yes, underwear, lingerie, swimwear, and bathing.

What is boat camping?

Boat camping or boat-in camping comes in many forms, but at it’s most basic, it combines boating with camping. Rather than driving to a campground in your car or SUV, load up your boat with a tent, food, sleeping bags, and other accessories you need to spend the night.  Here is a brief intro to boat camping.

Where can I do boat-in camping?

A few parks and campground support boat-in camping. Two Harbors in Santa Catalina Island, CA, and Devils Fort State Park, in South Carolina, are two examples. However, much of the time boat camping is not done at formal campsites. If you aren’t camping at a formal campground, be sure to watch for No Trespassing signs, and carefully observe conditions of any uninhabited areas. No matter where you camp, always observe “carry-in, carry-out” rules, and remove any trash upon your departure.

What gear do I need for boat camping, and what should I plan for?

Boat camping does not always take place at formal campgrounds. So, prepare accordingly. Make sure you’ve thought about water supply, water purification, cooking, camp stove, tent, blankets, flashlight, and food for all meals.

Boat camping should not be planned at the last minute. Take time to think through your list of camping and boating accessories.  Jot what you need on a piece of paper. Have a backup plan, and a backup plan for the backup plan. Remember that many remote areas do not get good cellular phone reception.  Make sure you inform someone back home about your plans. Be as specific as you can. Include check-in times and a float plan, and let that person know where you plan to camp, and when you expect to return home.  Some additional items you may want to consider:

  • Lantern
  • Tarp
  • Firewood/matches/lighter
  • First aid kit
  • Rope
  • Flares/flare gun
  • Radio/radio with weather band

What should I watch out for?

Keep an eye out for No Trespassing signs.  Be aware of any dangers relating to wildlife, weather, and natural conditions such as waterways, tides, and flooding patterns. Be sure you check and double check the weather conditions, and avoid boat camping if the conditions are dangerous or potentially harmful.

What kind of boat do I need for boat-in camping?

You can use virtually any kind of boat that is large enough to hold you, your boating and camping gear, and those who you’ll be traveling with. If you’re boat camping by yourself, a canoe or kayak may be sufficient.  If you’re camping with your family or friends, you will need a larger vessel.

3 Great Places to Camp in Texas

In the Texas hill country, near Blanco, TX, on the Blanco River, The Blanco Settlement uniquely offers RV and cabin camping only (tent camping is not available), with all sites enjoying a river view. All cabins include continental breakfast and private bath with Jacuzzi tub.

Bethy Creek Resort, in Lake Livingston, TX, features both 30 and 50 amp TV sites that include all utilities, picnic tables, grills, and Wi-fi. They also rent fully equipped wakeboard boats. Also available are swimming, fishing, waterfront lodging, picnic areas, and boat launch.

Crockett Family Resort, located between Houston and Dallas, offers vacationers a host of summer activities, including boating, volleyball, horseshoes, shuffleboard, miniature golf, marina, and pool and lake swimming.  Also has dorms, cabins, laundry, tent sites, 90 pull through sites, plus showers, groceries, and RV supplies.

Texas Camping books on Amazon.com

3 Great Places to Camp in British Columbia

For outdoor lovers, British Columbia is one of the most enchanting places in North America.  Whether you’re there for hiking, fishing, sight seeing in Vancouver, the famed skiing at Whistler, or just looking for a campsite where you can hang out, there are plenty of campgrounds and a wide variety of options available.

Located in metro Vancouver, Brae Island Regional Park is open all year ’round and offers camping, cycling, canoeing, and hiking. Featuring more than 150 sites, it’s open to tent camping and RVs, and also has cabins for rent, plus 1 group tent camp site that accommodates 30 people. It also offers canoe, kayak, and bike rentals.

Pacific Playgrounds, on Vancouver Island, has rental cabins, a marina, and and RV park. The marina can accommodate power and sail boats up to 40′ in length. It also offers heated pool, tot pool as well as river and ocean swimming. From the mainland, you’ll have to take one of 4 ferries from Vancouver to reach the island.

If you’re looking for a spot further north on the mainland, there’s Blue Lake Resort, located 15km north of Boston Bar. Accommodations include lakeside cabins, rustic cabins, RV and 5th wheel hookups, and wooded and lakeside campsites for tent camping. Activities on the premises include boat rental, swimming, fishing, and hiking.  Nearby, there’s river rafting on the Fraser River.

3 Great Places to Camp in California

In San Diego on the Bay, there’s the positively resort-like Campland, with its posh amenities, waterfront location, RV hookups, sandy beach, and activities galore for children and adults.  It features pool and Jacuzzi, Marina, Market, Game Room, and Hungry Wolf Cafe.  You can even follow them on facebook and Twitter.

A drive up the coast, 25 miles south of Carmel in Big Sur, is the much more primitive Big Sur Campground. Minimal amenities – camp store, playground, and laundry, and sparse activities – basketball, volleyball, and kids’ playground signal an opportunity to relax and unwind. A few cabins nestled among the giant redwoods feature private baths and up to 2 bedrooms each.  RV sites accommodate trailers and motorhomes up to 40 feet in length.

For those heading even further north, check out Casini Ranch, which lies along the Russian River in Sonoma County, CA.  Special activities include beach bonfires, outdoor movie nights, and hay rides. Enjoy the hills, the river, camping, and of course, Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley wineries while you’re at it.

4 Great Places to Camp in Maine

My husband grew up on a lake in Maine, and we enjoy going back and camping in Maine every chance we get. Maine offers a variety of campground settings and a wide range of amenities and activities for those who enjoy the outdoors.

Just 25 miles from South Portland, Sebago Lake Family Campground is a smaller family oriented campground. With its access to Sebago and Long Lakes, it is especially appealing for those who enjoy the water and water sports, including swimming and boating. RV hookups, cable TV, pontoon boat rentals, and laundry facilities are all available here.  It is located less than an hour from the L.L. Bean store and outlets in Freeport, ME, as well as lighthouses, marinas, and whale watching along the Maine coast of the Atlantic Ocean.  It is also just an hour’s drive of the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

For those who enjoy the mountains, there’s Grafton Notch Campground near Bear River in Newry. Grafton Loop Trail, the Appalachian Trail, and Grafton Notch State Park are all just minutes away. It features a bath house with hot showers, and 14 wooded sites that each include fire ring and picnic table.  Note: no RV hookups are available.

There’s nothing like ocean camping in the summer time, and Maine is a great place for it.  Gray Homestead Oceanfront Campground, located in the Boothbay Harbor region, has 40 RV and tent sites, a private beach, lobsters, ocean kayaking, and other amenities.

In the far north of Maine in Island Falls, ME, there’s Birch Point Campground, located on Pleasant Lake. Here you can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, golf, horseshoes, and, in the wintertime, snowmobiling on more than 100 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Maine camping books on Amazon.com

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