'High dose of nostalgia': A few camping trends to enjoy during the summer
AUSTIN (KXAN) — If you’re looking for a way to get out and enjoy nature this summer, Texas is home to 85 state parks with a wide array of landscapes — from canyons to mountains, lakes and more.
According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, the Hill Country area saw more than 725,000 people on average visit state parks over the past five summers.
Some of the more popular spots are Cedar Hill State Park, McKinney Falls State Park and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
Diane Eichler, with Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA), spoke with KXAN’s Will DuPree and Avery Travis to talk about some of the summer camping trends.
“Campers this year really want comfort, convenience and a high dose of nostalgia in their camping trips,” she said.
Eichler said the KOA heard from campers that they want to disconnect from digital devices in order to reconnect by the campfire.
For any Texans wanting that camping experience, they should look into the accommodations camping sites offer ahead of time, like if people want to bring their pets.
“We have a bunch of people who come out to camp and want to do traditional tent camping. And then there has been the rise of glamping in camping. And so at KOAs, we have Deluxe cabins that come complete with kitchenettes and linens and bathrooms and multiple bedrooms that anybody can come out and camp,” Eichler said.
As far as costs, especially for any family considering a getaway, Eichler said a way to save on budgeting includes having a meal plan. So, anyone who brings their meals with them and camps over a campfire will save money, as opposed to going out to a restaurant or a hotel. Another component is to look at the amenities offered at KOA campgrounds.
“We’ve got all sorts of entertainment that is included with your camping fee. So pools, playgrounds, putt-putt golf, scavenger hunts, events — all of that can be contained in a very cost-efficient, budget-friendly way to travel out camping this season,” she said.
