Free guide to California camping takes guesswork out of planning

It’s spring, the perfect time to plan an outdoors vacation, with or without the kids. California campers who want more options than what’s offered in state and national parks should grab a copy of the free “2014 Camp-California” guide that’s available in digital or print form.

The deal: “Camp-California!: The Camper’s Guide to California” is published by the California Assn. of RV Parks & Campgrounds. As such, commercial sites like KOAs and private RV parks dominate the profiles of almost 700 campgrounds that often come with Wi-Fi, playgrounds, laundry facilities and other family-pleasing extras.

The guide could really come in handy for finding quick alternatives when you arrive at your favorite “first come, first served” public campground and find it full up. It breaks up the state into 12 regions, from the North Coast to San Diego and eastern deserts.

Regional and individual park maps, events and highlights in the area, and details (important things like price, number of electrical hookups, whether tents are allowed, etc.) also are included. There are three ways to get the guide: download it from the website, download it from iTunes or Google Play on your mobile device, or request or pick up a print copy.

When: The 2014 guide is available indefinitely.

Tested: I downloaded the online version and found the guide to contain solid planning information in an easy-to-use format (loved the click-through maps that take you to the campground’s website). Because it’s skimpy on public campgrounds, I would use it in addition to California State Parks’ downloads and other camping sources.

Info: “Camp-California!” guide

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