Finding your way to campgrounds

Finding your way to campgrounds and parks easier with GPS

Although the news was full of doom and gloom for retailers this Christmas season, it did seem like the GPS was the big electronic item of the season. At least it seemed like it with specials on GPS beginning on Black Friday.

For RVers and campers, the GPS can be quite handy, and I for one and happy to have been the recipient of one such device this Christmas. Having an assistant of sorts, letting me know when to turn is even better than mapping it out on MapQuest.

And for those of you who like to find the park that is tucked away for a weekend visit or longer vacation, the GPS can help you get there without the, “Oops, I missed my turn,” with a 30-plus foot travel trailer following behind your truck.

So, if you were taking off to Crowder Point Family Campground in Crowder, Okla., you could use the GPS and have your directions given to you turn by turn. And if you accidentally missed a turn, some of the GPS units will automatically re-route you, eliminating the need to find the next exit or a large enough turn around.

Even though the park is near Highway 69, sometime even the best navigator forgets or misses a turn. And while you’re at Crowder Point, get ready for some fishing on Lake Eufaula or plan a visit to Arrowhead State Park or some of the other area attractions.

Head further west to Reno, Nev., and you can find Bonanza Terrace RV Park, just a couple of miles from downtown Reno off Highway 395. Although it may sound easy, using today’s technology can get you there, turn by turn.

Bask in the sun and enjoy the area attractions while you’re at Bonanza Terrace. The park offers long-term rates, too.

However you get there, get there. But for those of you who aren’t excited by GPS – as I am – the parks websites offer directions and maps at the click of a mouse. And if you call, they’ll be kind enough to give you directions.

Get the RV on the road and enjoy 2009. Happy New Year and Happy camping!