More Campers Head to Woods Permanently Amid Recession

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The recession is helping create a new lifestyle in Alabama: Permanent camping.

Campgrounds across Alabama are filling with permanent residents seeking less-stressful, less-expensive lifestyle. Campground operators say it's an enticing option for both retired people and younger adults who have fallen on hard times.

Alabama's state parks didn't allow full-time residents in its campgrounds for decades. But it now allows full-time residents at Lake Guntersville State Park and Wind Creek State Park near Alexander City.

State Parks Director Mark Easterwood said pressure from campers created the change.