Pristine water and beaches, abundant wildlife and vegetation, and terrain ranging from mountainous rain forests to lunar-like deserts - the Caribbean has it all.
However, while posh, air-conditioned suites and all-inclusive amenities offer a relaxing respite, typical resort can actually keep you out of touch with the Eden that surrounds you. In fact, from within the confines of a pricey all-inclusive, travelers often refrain from ever setting foot in the sand and surf, the rainforest and wetlands, and the tropical flora and fauna that brought them to the Caribbean in the first place.
However, there is still hope, for the true adventurer learned long ago that the authentic Caribbean can best be experienced via an activity and accommodations duo - camping in the Caribbean.
So rather than packing the tuxedo and evening gown for dinner at the concrete oasis, why not throw in a sleeping bag and a package of marshmallows for an authentic, once-in-a-lifetime experience?
The following islands and campgrounds are just a taste of what the Caribbean has to offer the "authentic" traveler.
St. John - U.S. Virgin Islands
Covering nearly half of the island of St. John, the Virgin Islands National Park offers a campground and beach, guided hikes, historical tours, snorkeling trips, craft demonstrations, bird watching, old sugar plantations, and 13,000 acres to explore.
Cinnamon Bay Campground (340-776-6330) - Located within the park and a mere four-minute walk from Cinnamon Bay Beach, Cinnamon Bay Campground is a camping oasis. With equipment rental including everything from windsurf boards to sea kayaks, the list of water activities is endless. In addition, trails lead directly from the campground to the park's interior. Accommodations include bare sites, tents, and cottages. Tables, grills, propane stoves, cots, lanterns, coolers, cooking/eating utensils, and bedding are available.
Maho Bay Camps (340-776-6226) - This environmentally passionate camping oasis provides plenty of amenities, fabulous activities, and an Earth-friendly atmosphere all located within the Virgin Island National Park. Amenities include 113 canvas and screen tents, beds, dining tables, kitchenware, lamps, stoves, and coolers as well as a small open-air restaurant. Activities range from hiking and birding to snorkeling and kayaking. All the aforementioned activities are presented in an atmosphere where Mother Nature rules supreme. Boardwalks protect the hillside and beach areas from erosion, recycling is a must, and numerous items made of recycled materials are offered for sale. Mayo Bay is the true nature-lovers' Eden.
Lameshur Bay (340-776-6721) - This unique camp is actually part of the Virgin Islands Environmental Resource Station. Hosting scientists, school groups, and the occasional family visitors, Lameshur Bay offers dormitory-style buildings complete with beds, facilities, drawers, etc. However, the remote location deep in the woods offers countless activities including sun and sand, snorkeling, and hiking.
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