There are many different types of camp beds that make the grade for being more than just a place to sleep at camp. A great number of these beds are for children and they incorporate play time, study time and sleep time into a functional, fun-filled place that children find themselves wanting to spend more than just their naps and bed time.

Camp beds are not just for children, however. Many camp beds were first used in military operations and still serve a great purpose for military locations where a traditional bed will not serve the purpose. The various divisions of the military may have some of the best camp beds around although they are not typically available for sale to the general public.

The basic camp bed used by the military as well as the government is often made of a lightweight aluminum frame with folding legs. Some of the older camp beds were constructed the same but of a heavier wood. These camp beds were not as easy to move but provided an excellent support system for sleeping.

Today, there are many different types of camp beds on the market. The design concept is the same but the materials vary greatly. Sporting goods stores have camp beds available for every camping scenario imaginable. Nylon, canvas and linen are the main materials that cover the frame. Frames are made from wood, aluminum and in some cases sturdy plastic for Green initiatives.

Sometimes referred to as a cot, camp beds are a great alternative to other types of bedding that is simply too cumbersome to move around for portable sleeping options. Camp beds make good sense for travel since they fold easily and store into small spaces. Camp beds also put little resistance on a tent floor but provide an elevated sleep space that is not right on the ground like an air mattress that must be inflated.

Of the various camp beds available on the market today, some of the deluxe models are highly functional. They not only serve as camp beds but have storage areas inside them for transporting camping goods such as binoculars and cameras and bottles. They also function as a flat bed to place inside a station wagon or boat and as an exercise mat.

For the true camping enthusiast, some sporting goods stores offer the ultimate camp bed with features to make every camping trip a pleasurable one. Camp bed night stands, camp bed trees with mosquito bars and nets, and camp chairs that attach to the bed.

Some of the heavy duty camp beds available today are reasonably price, weigh less than 20 pounds, come with a fashionable carrying case that is dust free and keeps the camp bed safe from the elements. Every person in the family can have their own bed in a standard size or larger double size camp beds are available.

There are many accessories available to go with camp beds which include pads of various thicknesses. Heavy duty camp beds can also support up to 500 pounds in weight.