I think I've stayed at all the campgrounds over the years, except the "quiet family" one, so let me make a suggestion or two.
First, you're going to want to bring LOTS of stuff on the bus if you plan on staying all day/all night. That means lots of clothing options. Seems like during the heat of the day, you can't take off enough clothing, but when the sun goes down, you can't put enough on. That's especially true if you don't slather up with sun screen! So plan on bringing your winter attire with you, UNLESS you decide to take a break and ride the bus back to your outer campground. I tried that a few times until I realized that a trip back ti Illium meant missing one entire act. The music is so good that it's hard to leave.
My biggest busing suggestion is to go lightly on the chairs. Those school buses have really small seats and when you add in a folding chair for every rider, it gets really tough. Use a blanket instead. Not only will it take up less room, but you can use it to stay warm waiting for the illusive un-filled bus at the end of the night.
Another bus suggestion is to not wait for the bus home by Town Park. Walk up the street to Elk's Park and grab it before it gets to TP, where there is always a line.
Having a friend in Town Park or Warner Field will also help. They can take your stuff at night so it's there for you the next day. That will make your bus travel much easier, and lets you go to Nightgrass shows without worrying about stashing all your stuff in a corner. Don't have a friend there? Make one! (A beer does wonders!)
But the best suggestion is to do whatever you can to get a TP or WF ticket. It's really difficult - you have to be the first one to grab an available ticket from the forum - but it can be done. Times to be alert for extras are Feb 7th (when the refunded tix go on line), the day of the Nightgrass sale (trades will be available), and especially right before the fest.
I hope that helps!
Listening to:
Emmitt Nershi Band live at the Sheraton last year - GREAT CD
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