If you love camping and outdoor adventures, you’ve probably heard of Thousand Steps. It’s a popular membership program for campers. But what exactly does it include? Let me break it down for you in simple terms.
Thousand Steps offers different levels of membership. Each level gives you access to special benefits. These benefits are designed to make your camping trips easier, safer, and more fun. I’ve been a member for years, and I can tell you it’s worth every penny.
Basic Membership Benefits
Access to Private Campgrounds
The main reason people join Thousand Steps is for access to their private campgrounds. These aren’t your average public campsites. They’re carefully selected locations with great views and clean facilities.
I’ve camped at several of their private sites. They’re less crowded than public campgrounds. You’ll often find them in beautiful, hard-to-reach places. Some even have special features like natural hot springs or private lakes.
Discounts on Camping Gear
As a member, you get discounts at partner outdoor stores. These aren’t small discounts either – we’re talking 10-30% off major brands. I’ve saved hundreds of dollars on tents, sleeping bags, and other equipment over the years.
The membership pays for itself if you buy gear regularly. They also have member-only sales throughout the year. I always check these before making big purchases.
Free Online Resources
Thousand Steps provides excellent educational materials. These include:
- Detailed camping guides
- Video tutorials
- Printable checklists
- Meal planning templates
I especially like their “Camping 101” series. It’s perfect for beginners. Even experienced campers can learn new tricks from their advanced guides.
Mid-Level Membership Perks
Advanced Reservation Privileges
Public campgrounds can be hard to book, especially in peak season. Thousand Steps members get early access to reservations. This means you can secure the best spots before they open to the public.
Last summer, I got a prime lakeside spot because of this benefit. Non-members couldn’t book until two weeks later. By then, all the good sites were gone.
Free Night Certificates
Mid-level members get free night certificates each year. You can use these at any Thousand Steps campground. It’s like getting a free vacation!
I usually save mine for expensive locations. Some premium sites cost $50-75 per night. Using a free certificate there gives you the most value.
Equipment Rental Discounts
Forgot your tent? Need an extra stove? Thousand Steps partners with rental companies to give members better rates. The discounts apply both online and at physical locations near popular camping areas.
This has saved me multiple times when traveling light. Instead of buying expensive gear for one trip, I can rent it cheaply.
Premium Membership Features
Guided Adventure Trips
The top membership level includes access to guided trips. These aren’t your average group outings. We’re talking expert-led adventures to amazing locations.
I went on a wilderness survival course last year. It was incredible. We learned real survival skills while exploring remote areas. The guides were knowledgeable and safety-conscious.
Emergency Assistance Services
Premium members get 24/7 emergency assistance. This includes:
- Emergency evacuation coordination
- Medical consultation services
- Lost equipment replacement help
While I’ve never needed the evacuation service, it’s comforting to know it’s there. The medical consultation has been useful when I’ve had minor injuries in remote areas.
VIP Event Access
Thousand Steps hosts special events for premium members. These include:
- Camping expos
- Outdoor skills workshops
- Member-only camping festivals
The annual Thousand Steps Gathering is my favorite. It’s like a big family reunion with fellow camping enthusiasts. You meet interesting people and learn new skills.
Additional Benefits All Members Enjoy
Community Forum Access
All members can join the Thousand Steps online community. It’s a great place to:
- Ask questions
- Share tips
- Find camping buddies
- Swap gear
I’ve made several camping friends through this forum. The collective knowledge there is amazing. Whatever your question, someone usually has an answer.
Monthly Newsletter
The membership includes a monthly digital newsletter. It’s packed with:
- Camping spot recommendations
- Seasonal tips
- Member stories
- Exclusive deals
I always read mine cover to cover. It’s how I learned about several hidden gem campgrounds I now love.
Loyalty Rewards Program
Every dollar you spend with Thousand Steps or their partners earns points. You can redeem these for:
- Free camping nights
- Gear upgrades
- Special experiences
I saved my points for two years and got a free premium tent! The program really rewards frequent campers.
How to Choose the Right Membership Level
Not sure which level is right for you? Here’s my advice based on experience:
Basic Membership is perfect for:
- Occasional campers
- Beginners
- People who want to try before committing more
Mid-Level Membership works best for:
- Regular campers (5+ trips per year)
- Families
- Those who want better reservation options
Premium Membership makes sense for:
- Serious outdoor enthusiasts
- People who camp monthly
- Those wanting guided experiences
- Adventurers going to remote locations
I started with basic and upgraded over time as my camping increased. There’s no wrong choice – just what fits your needs and budget.
Conclusion
After years of membership, I can honestly say Thousand Steps has enhanced my camping experiences. The benefits go beyond just saving money. They provide peace of mind, exclusive opportunities, and a supportive community.
Whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned pro, there’s a membership level that can improve your outdoor adventures. The private campgrounds alone are worth it, but the other perks make it even better.
If you’re considering joining, I say go for it. Start with the basic level if you’re unsure. You can always upgrade later as you discover the value. Happy camping!
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