Reading descriptions of places and amenities

Learn how to read descriptions and photos well to avoid disappointments and better prepare for your trip.

Why it's worth reading carefully

Good descriptions can protect you from problems - from damaged equipment, through difficult access, to lack of water. Look for details and pay attention to what's missing from the description.

Location and access

Before you set off, check:

Are there GPS coordinates and how accurate are they?
What are the roads like and will your vehicle handle them?
How many km separate you from the nearest store or station?
Are there landmarks and easy navigation?
Is the place available year-round or only seasonally?

Amenities on site

Check what's actually available:

Water sources (and whether you need to filter it).
Type of toilets and their condition.
Whether you can light a fire and where.
Whether there are level and comfortable spots for tent/camper.
Shade, privacy and natural surroundings.

What to watch out for

The description may also hide warnings:

Presence of wild animals and safety measures.
Weather risks - floods, storms, snow.
No phone signal.
Necessary permits or additional fees.
Seasonal hazards (e.g., high river levels).

How to recognize good and bad descriptions

Red flags

No update date.
Unclear instructions, zero details.
Zero info about roads or toilets.
Contradictory reviews and no photos.

Green flags

Fresh updates and accurate coordinates.
Clear information about the road and requirements.
Honest description of amenities (both pros and cons).
Photos matching the description.
Reviews consistent with what was stated.

Examples

Good description: Place 3.7 km from forest road no. 142 (last 1 km SUV/4x4 only). GPS: 40.1234, -105.5678. Clearing for 2-3 tents, water source 50 m (filter recommended), vault toilet nearby. Fire pit available, no signal. Last update: September 2024.

Bad description: Nice place by the road. Great views and stream nearby. Good for camping. Has fire pit. Easy access.

How to check photos

Worth paying attention to:

Whether the road is actually passable.
Whether the camping area is level.
How far are the toilets and water.
Whether seasonal conditions are visible.
Privacy and distance between spots.

Red flags in photos:

Old or very poor quality photos.
No photos of roads and amenities.
Only views, zero practicality.
Contradiction with photos in reviews.

Reading between the lines

"Rustic", "primitive" - no amenities, difficult access, self-sufficiency needed.
"Adventure access" - difficult roads, car risk, hard navigation.
"Seasonal amenities" - have a plan B, as water or toilets may not work.

Become a description expert!

Every description is a treasure map that leads you to the perfect place. Use this knowledge to avoid disappointments and find a place that meets all your expectations.

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