dozerz

I know this had been asked alot, but I'm getting confused reading all the posts. We've never camped. We are a family of 5, and I want the first time we go to be a good one so we won't be discouraged from ever going again!! This is what we are looking for:
A nice campsite, with good tent spots. We want water and electricity. A nice area for the kids to play in the water, and a playground would be good. I prefer a river I think, but not sure. I like water that moves and isn't too stagnant.

The California in me wants to go to the beach, but I've heard the beaches here are not like the West coast at all. Am I right?

Sorry to be picky, just wanted some opinions. Thanks!