A story on CNN.com yesterday reported that there is a renewed interest in camping as families look at lower cost vacation options.
I guess all my posts on camping as an affordable vacation has gotten the word out! Seriously, last year gas prices forced many families to skip a vacation and I admit we were a little disappointed that Virginia State Parks camping suffered a little bit. But with gas at more reasonable levels the pressure to find some way to still vacation this summer is pointing people more to camping.
According to the CNN.com article, Rick Meade from REI (a major outdoor equipment company) says that tent and sleeping bag sales are up this season, particularly when it comes to larger tents designed for three- and four-person families. So far this spring, family tent sales are up 14 percent over last year. For March, sales are up 28 percent over the same month in 2008.
Phil McKnelly, Executive Director of the National Association of State Park Directors said, “Whether you’re talking about wanting to go to the ocean or the mountains, those are kinds of activities that can be done in a state park at a relatively low cost. For the cost of one of two nights in a hotel, you can spend a week in a state park.
In Virginia State Parks you can find a park in the mountains or near the ocean, on a tranquil lake, or near major tourist attractions in Virginia. A camping or cabin stay is not only more affordable, but one that the family will remember for years to come.
Make a reservation now on the web, or call our Reservation and Information line at 800-933-7275.