DuxDeluxe
LIFE MEMBER
I always take a medium view of reviews. Ignore the once raving about the place and those slagging it off.
Reviews are really helpful and if there are areas of concern at least we are forewarned.
Yes to both above. They are an aid to making a decision and often the read between the lines gives a huge amount of useful backgroundOnline reviews, not just for campsites, fall into two main categories. Those who have an axe to grind, and those who were extremely happy. Those who are miffed about something tend to be the more vocal. The average person probably isn't motivated to do any review at all.
I do read reviews, to try and get some idea of whether something is suitable. You have to learn to read between the lines, and look for a theme or pattern forming amongst any positives and negatives. I'm usually looking for any foibles with the physical site that would ruin my enjoyment, whereas regular complaints about staff being miserable can often be interpreted that they run a tight ship and don't take kindly to those who might run amok shattering the peace.