When the term “family vacation” comes to mind, people usually think of a tourist destination such as Myrtle Beach, SC, or an amusement park such as Dollywood. What people don’t realize is that there is a less expensive and overall more enjoyable alternative literally right next door – The Outdoors.

A family vacation is a time for relaxation and spending quality times with loved ones. It’s a break from the norm and a change of pace from work and everyday routines. Taking the family to the beach is great, but when you factor in rising gas prices, hotel accommodations, food and activities, the once seemingly relaxing experience can quickly turn into and expensive endeavor.

For example, a family of four will pay an average of $130 per night via hotel accommodations at Myrtle Beach. The same family can camp for $19 a night at Beartree campground in VA. Tickets to an amusement park, such as Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, will run a family of four a whopping $178.40 per day. Experiencing the outdoors and what nature has to offer in the mountains costs a little less – it’s free of charge.

The best thing about camping is that it’s stress free. There are no lines, no traffic jams, no tourist traps, and the freedom to go on a hike, take a swim or even take a nap whenever you want – all without having to make a single reservation.

When you think about it, one of the best investments one can make is camping equipment. For the price of 3 or 4 nights at a hotel at a popular vacation spot, a family of 4 can be completely outfitted with camping gear, with everything from a tent to sleeping bags to a camp stove! And the best part – it’s a one-time purchase. Why would anyone pay hundreds of dollars for a 2 or 3 day vacation at someplace such as the beach when they could camp in a national park for a week at a fraction of the cost?

There are countless reasons why camping is better than your run-of-the mill vacation. It’s cheaper, less demanding, and more relaxing; it’s fun for the kids; and it’s one of the healthiest activities one can do. So the next time you’re thinking about taking a vacation, remember that while there are a lot of options and places to go, when it comes to the outdoors the possibilities are endless.