Camping

Camping is an outdoor recreational activity involving the spending of one or more nights in a tent, primitive structure, a travel trailer or recreational vehicle at a campsite with the purpose of getting away from civilization and enjoying nature. Camping describes a whole range of activities, from survivalist campers who set off with little more than their boots to those who arrive in large recreational vehicles equipped with their own electricity, heat, and patio furniture.

Camping as a recreational activity did not become popular until the early 20th century. It continues to be a response to the increasing urbanization and isolation of Western society. Camping is often associated with a sense of nostalgia or of romanticism for 'the times of our fathers'. It simultaneously evokes images of 'oneness with nature' and 'man against nature' - independence and self-sufficiency. Camping may be referred to colloquially as roughing it.

Camping may be an end unto itself, but often it is done in conjunction with other activities, such as hiking, swimming or fishing. It may be combined with hiking either as backpacking or as a series of day hikes from a central location. National parks and other publicly owned natural areas are popular venues for camping. Camping is often restricted by law to designated sites in order to prevent campers from damaging the environment.

FROM http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camping

Links

Camping with Backtrack: Tips, tricks, suggestions and personal experiences. Users can print a camp inventory list and read and submit camp stories .
The Camping Source: Campground listings for US and Canada, recipes, classified ads, and links to camping related sites.
CampingList.net: Generates a printable list of items to take camping depending on location, activities, and number of people.
Public Lands Information Center: Not-for-profit organization affiliated with USDA Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. Offers resources for maps, guides, passes, permits, and recreation information for state and federal lands.
BetterCamper.Com: Backpacking and camping tips, recipes, book sales and advice. Offers a cookbook download, newsletter and gear reviews.
Family Camping Gear: Articles, advice, checklists and gear tips for family camping enthusiasts.
UK Camp Site: Message board, camping tips, rally and events calendar, and free ads. Also offers searchable database of caravan and campsites throughout the United Kingdom, some with reviews by users.
KOA Kampgrounds: Trip planner, fuel calculator, directory of Kampground of America Kampgrounds in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Japan, and information on other KOA services.
African American Campers: A camping resource site for people of color promoting safe and worry-free adventures in the great outdoors.
Pete's Family Camping Page: A guide to family camping, travel and outdoor living.
Outdoor Action Guide to Winter Camping: Article by Rick Curtis provides information on trip planning, clothing, winter travel, and winter back-country skills.
Family Camping Advice and Tips: About.com guide to family camping suggestions, tips, and advice to prepare parents and kids for outdoor adventures.