Following the implementation of the São Miguel Island Forest Roadmap, the Azorean Government is creating a camping ground at the Água Retorta Forest Recreational Reserve in the municipality of Povoação.
 
With an area of about 13 hectares, this Forest Reserve has a central area which is regularly used by people and two outlying areas, where a camping ground with guidelines similar to those of the Natural or Ecological camping grounds will be built, with very specific characteristics, within the concept of environmental sustainability.

Through this Camping Natural, tourists will have the opportunity of camping and being in harmony with nature, without any artifact that may interfere with the surrounding environment; therefore, they will be able to enjoy the tranquility of the Água Retorta Forest Recreational Reserve and the proximity of a large network of Pedestrian Trails.

In order to assess the feasibility of the camping ground, a pilot project where two 400 m2 areas were reclassified, with a platform for tents, tables and wooden benches, a fireplace and a barbecue, is being undertaken. The support infrastructures in this Reserve are also available to campers.

In addition, campers will have the opportunity to test the existing minimum conditions throughout the summer, and then provide their opinion, through an enquiry about what can be improved, and what they would like to have in the future Natural Camping Ground.
This pilot project has started with the camping of a group of scouts from Pedreira do Nordeste and will be held until September 30, 2009.

All people who are interested in taking part in this experience should contact the Nordeste Forest Service, through the phone number 296 480 570 or the following email: [email protected].