Romantic Getaway: Camping

You might think of camping as being something that you do with your family and certainly it is a good way for a family to vacation together while saving money. But camping can also be very romantic while being affordable! The trick is to prepare properly and make sure you bring the romance with you when you pack your gear. Here are some pointers:

Choose a really beautiful location that doesn't offer a pool. Pools are usually for children and families and when you have kids running around yelling and screaming and crying, you're going to have a hard time being romantic. Instead look for sites that are not advertised as being "family friendly."

Remember that outdoor activities can be just as romantic as being in your tent. Hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, or just plain sightseeing can encourage you to relax and bring you closer together. Check for sites that offer these other activities so that you're not just sitting around your campsite getting bored.

Make sure you have the right equipment so that you enjoy being there and are as comfortable as possible. Inflatable mattresses and sturdy camping chairs can go a long way toward helping you to relax physically which will help you feel better and more connected emotionally.

Plan for romance. For example you may be camping but that doesn't mean you only need to eat hamburgers and drink soda. Pack some nice steaks and a few bottles of wine. Do something fun to set the mood - set your picnic table with a nice tablecloth and some candles. Pick wildflowers and set them around the table as well. Pack some nice pajamas to wear, even if you need to put a big flannel shirt on over them!

Camping can be fun and romantic if you decide that's what it's going to be. If you decide that being rustic and rural is unromantic and a waste of time then of course you're going to be miserable, but if you decide that you're going to enjoy being outdoors and some beautiful sunsets and other breathtaking views, then you might find camping to be one of the most romantic excursions you've ever taken.

Finding campgrounds.

To find campgrounds you can of course just begin at the state where you want to visit and search there but you can also check out websites that have campgrounds organized and advertised:

Go Camping America

http://www.gocampingamerica.com/

Camping.com

http://www.camping.com/

Camping World

http://www.campingworld.com/

Reserve America

http://www.reserveamerica.com/