Surfing Into Saturday: Summer camping sites

From Allison Tom
CNN

(CNN) -- Planning a camping adventure this summer? CNN's Surfing into Saturday segment offers some resources to help you make the most of the great outdoors.

The National Park Service Reservation Center

If you plan on visiting any of the hundreds of national parks, Park Net may be a good place to start. This site provides a historical perspective on exploring America's past and it offers some useful tips for the present. You can plan your trip state-by-state. First, select your destination. Then view the brief travel basics guide for each location. You can make online reservations for campgrounds up to six months in advance.

Great Outdoor Recreation Pages

After you've pitched your tent, get ready to explore. GORP offers an activity guide for outdoor enthusiasts. Discover stunning vistas on the coast, enjoy a wilderness hike in the High Sierra or find one of the best spots to view the stars.

Fabulous Foods

Camping cuisine doesn't have to be just hot dogs and toasted marshmallows. This site has a camper's cookbook including Jamaican jerk chicken, grilled potato ratatouille salad and campfire baked apples!

The Outsider Online Magazine

Before you dash out the door, go over a checklist to make you've got what you need. Experienced campers have put a list together on the web, so you won't leave the much needed flashlight behind.