Tips for Choosing a Campsite Based on Your Group Size

1. Consider the Size of Your Group

When planning a camping trip, one of the most important factors is the size of your group. The number of people in your group will influence your choice of campsite, as larger groups require more space and specific accommodations. For instance, a family of four can comfortably fit into smaller campsites, while a group of 10 or more might need a larger, group-oriented site.

For example, during a recent trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, I traveled with a group of 12 friends. We chose a spacious campsite that could accommodate our tents and allowed room for cooking and group activities. It made our trip more enjoyable, as we had enough room to spread out and relax without feeling cramped.

2. Look for Group-Friendly Campsites

Not all campsites are designed for large groups, so it’s essential to look for those that specifically cater to larger parties. Many national parks, like Yosemite or Glacier, offer group campsites that are designed to provide enough space for everyone to gather. These sites may include larger picnic tables, multiple fire rings, and designated cooking areas to make your experience more comfortable.

When camping with a large group, I once stayed at a group site in Zion National Park. It was perfect for our group of 15, offering plenty of space to set up tents and a large cooking area for preparing meals together. Having a group-friendly campsite truly enhanced our bonding experience and made logistics much easier.

3. Plan for Ample Space

Space is essential, especially for larger groups. In choosing a campsite, make sure there’s enough room for everyone to set up their tents comfortably, with some space left over for group activities. While some campsites might fit multiple tents, they may feel overcrowded if there’s not enough personal space. Planning for extra room allows everyone to enjoy their personal space while still being able to socialize as a group.

When we camped in the Adirondacks with a group of 8, we opted for a campsite with a bit more room, allowing for individual tent setups and communal areas. The extra space made the experience more enjoyable as we could organize group games and share meals without feeling too crowded.

4. Research Amenities for Large Groups

For larger groups, it’s important to ensure the campsite offers adequate amenities. Features such as multiple bathrooms, large cooking areas, picnic tables, and access to water can make a significant difference in your camping experience. Additionally, some campsites may offer special group cabins or shelters that can provide shelter from the elements and serve as a gathering place for your group.

On a camping trip to the Grand Canyon, we were able to secure a group campsite with a large shelter and multiple cooking stations. This allowed our group of 10 to prepare meals together, stay dry during the rain, and have a central gathering spot. Researching the amenities before booking made our stay far more comfortable and enjoyable.

5. Pine Cliff Resort: Perfect for Group Camping

If you’re looking for the ideal place to camp with a large group, Pine Cliff Resort offers an excellent option. The resort is designed to accommodate various group sizes, providing spacious campsites, ample amenities, and a peaceful environment perfect for group activities. Whether you're planning a family reunion or a getaway with friends, Pine Cliff Resort ensures that your group will have all the space and amenities needed for a memorable experience.

During a recent trip with a group of 15, we stayed at Pine Cliff Resort and had an unforgettable experience. The resort offered large, group-friendly campsites, and we had access to shared picnic tables, multiple fire pits, and even private trails to explore. The tranquility of the resort allowed us to relax and enjoy each other's company in a truly beautiful setting.

To learn more about Pine Cliff Resort and book your ideal group campsite, visit Pine Cliff Resort.