Camping in The Virgin Islands
Camping in the Virgin Islands can be an unforgettable vacation experience. St. John island is the smallest of the three islands and has two campsites from which to choose: Maho Bay and Condordia Eco-Tents. Each of these camp sites offer its own comfort level and a slightly different experience. Each was built on the concept that environmental sensibility and human comfort are compatible and that responsible consumption can enhance a vacation experience.
Maho Bay Camp Sites:
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One of the most highly praised ecotourism destinations in the world is Maho Bay which began in 1976 with 18 tent-cottages on 16 foot square platforms. Using hand construction methods has left the natural environment virtually undisturbed. The platforms were connected by elevated walkways to avoid soil erosion which endangers the beach and fragile coral. This sensitive land use has stimulated and explosion of favorable press which has encouraged Maho growth to 114 units. As a result of this sensitive and sustainable development, Maho is now celebrating 27 years of an improved local environment.
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One of the most highly praised ecotourism destinations in the world is Maho Bay which began in 1976 with 18 tent-cottages on 16 foot square platforms. Using hand construction methods has left the natural environment virtually undisturbed. The platforms were connected by elevated walkways to avoid soil erosion which endangers the beach and fragile coral. This sensitive land use has stimulated and explosion of favorable press which has encouraged Maho growth to 114 units. As a result of this sensitive and sustainable development, Maho is now celebrating 27 years of an improved local environment.
The roomy tent-cottages are covered by lush foliage providing privacy. Translucent fabric on wood frames, screened windows and open air terraces take advantage of the cool Virgin Island trade winds. Their hillside location gives many tent-cottages beautiful views of the clear Caribbean waters and spectacular sunset. Each unit has a separate sleeping area with twin beds and an extra mattress behind the sleeping-couch in the living area. The units are also supplied with bed linens, blankets, towels, cooking and eating utensils, propane stove and ice cooler. Every tent-cottage has its own electrical outlets, lights, fans, and private decks.
The immediate area around Maho Bay Camps have beautiful hiking trails including walks to historic plantation ruins. The town of Cruz Bay offers active night life within half and hour via local taxi service. The outdoor restaurant serves breakfast and dinner everyday with a variety of healthful meals including at least one vegetarian entrée.
Cinnamon Bay Campground:
This small but pretty beach has an outlying coral reef, the campground, and rewarding walks in the vicinity. Despite the name, no cinnamon grows here; the Danish mistook the smell of the bay rum trees for cinnamon.
To camp here, you will find 10 bare campsites, 40 erected tents, and 40 cottages available. Up to six people in two tents may occupy the bare sites at $27.00 per night. Picnic tables and charcoal grills are provided. Canvas tents that measure 10 by 14 feet with a concrete floor have camp cots, two-burner propane gas stoves, and utensils, are $80.00 per night for double occupancy during the high season. Cottages average $140.00 per night during the high season and measure 15 by 15 feet with concrete floors; two screened walls, four twin beds, picnic table and grill. Also, the cottages come with ice chests, propane gas stove, and water container, cooking and eating utensils. The lines are changes weekly and a deposit is required.
When considering the your food, it is best to bring as much of your own as possible. The commissary has a limited and expensive supply of goods so it is better to do your shopping in St. Thomas beforehand. The Tree Lizards Restaurant has a snack bar and on some nights you can enjoy the music of local artists. Sunday nights are host to a cookout and provide a great opportunity to socialize with fellow campers.
