Get Camping!!

By John D. Sutter

(CNN)-With the economy in a slump, camping seems to be grabbing a new foothold in the travel industry. Once considered by many to be an activity for nerdy families, nature geeks and Boy Scouts, sleeping outside in a tent has become chic -- likely because it is so much cheaper than paying for a hotel room.

The activity also strikes a new chord with Americans who want to get back to basics after an era of excess and overspending.

Outdoor camping's popularity jumped 7.4 percent between 2007 and 2008, according to a report from the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association. Overnight backpacking is up 18.5 percent, the report said.

"That's a significant change," said Mike May, the association's spokesman. "One thing about camping is once you buy a tent, you don't need to buy another one for a long time. It can be an inexpensive way to spend some recreational time."

Bloggers Note

I've been camping around San Diego for years with friends and nothing is more mentally repairing than breathing fresh air, seeing all the natural beauty of California and spending time, advertisement and technologically free with your friends. Wouldn't you know it that 45 minutes on the 8 East gets you to Mount Laguna? This gorgeous national forest has pine trees, lakes, wide open meadows and amazing trails all over. We spend about $40 each (3-4 peoeple, less if there is more) for three days up there!! That's how much I spend on drinks in ONE NIGHT if I'm lucky, and that's not even counting the drunk munchies after. Check out the links below to plan your trip. Im heading up to San Clemente State Beach to camp this weekend!!!

Reserve America

Mount Laguna

Lake Cuyamaca

Anza Borrego Desert

California State Parks Site

Baja California