Government Run but Still Fun

By Carole Buia

The kids are back in school, but you can all still sneak away for a quick, cheap vacation on weekends at a national, federal or state camping ground. And many camps have activities tailored to kids. To reserve a spot in one of up to 2,000 state parks, log on to reserveamerica.com For a site at a national park, try reservations.nps.gov Here are some fall-friendly options.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, Colo.

Cost: $18 a night

Kid activities: Horseback riding, night hike, rock climbing

Ranger tip: "Though the peak season is June to August, September through October is elk mating season--a real wildlife spectacle."

St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, near Tallahassee, Fla. Cost: $17 a night

Kid activities: Kayak, pontoon-boat and bike rentals; Birding Festival, Oct. 10-13

Ranger tip: "Late fall through early winter is the best time because there are few bugs and the water is still warm enough for swimming. Hawks and monarch butterflies migrate inthe fall."

Big Bend National Park, near Marathon, Texas

Cost: $8 a night

Kid activities: Canoeing, rafting, junior ranger program, hiking the Chisos Mountains

Ranger tip: "This is the least visited national park. The Rio Grande Village is a popular campsite for families because it offers the most amenities."

Twin Knobs Recreation Area, near Morehead, Ky.

Cost: $14 a night

Kid activities: Horseback riding; deer and turkey hunting in adjacent forest; Cave Run Lake Storytelling Festival, Sept. 27-28

Ranger tip: "Lakeside campsites on the lower F and I loops are the most popular, and easy to book at this time."