Full-Stack Web Application

Camping Resource Platform

Role

Developer

Role

Developer

Role

Developer

Industry

Outdoor Recreation / Travel

Industry

Outdoor Recreation / Travel

Industry

Outdoor Recreation / Travel

Duration

4 months

Duration

4 months

Duration

4 months

Stage 1. Problem Definition & Requirements Gathering

Identified a lack of centralized, reliable information for free camping spots across U.S. public lands. Conducted informal user research with fellow campers to define key needs: interactive maps, filtering by state, and easy community contributions. Developed user stories and planned the feature set based on these insights.

Stage 2. Backend Architecture & API Integration

Built the backend using Flask, SQLAlchemy, and SQLite, establishing a database for user accounts and camping spot entries. Integrated the US Forest Service (USFS) API to provide real-time forest boundaries and roads. Implemented authentication and session management for secure user interactions.

Stage 3. Front-End Design & Development

Responsive Design: Built mobile-friendly templates with HTML, CSS, and Jinja2, using glass morphism effects for a modern UI.
Filtering & Search: Enabled state-based filtering for all 49 states (including Alaska) and dual input methods (form + map click).
Interactive Map: Leveraged Leaflet.js with OpenStreetMap tiles to allow users to browse camping locations and add new spots directly on the map.

Stage 1. Problem Definition & Requirements Gathering

Stage 2. Backend Architecture & API Integration

Stage 3. Front-End Design & Development

Responsive Design: Built mobile-friendly templates with HTML, CSS, and Jinja2, using glass morphism effects for a modern UI.
Filtering & Search: Enabled state-based filtering for all 49 states (including Alaska) and dual input methods (form + map click).
Interactive Map: Leveraged Leaflet.js with OpenStreetMap tiles to allow users to browse camping locations and add new spots directly on the map.

FreeCampFinder Backend Architecture – Visual Concept

Stage 4. Feature Enhancement & Iteration

Tested the application with peers and Hackbright mentors to refine usability, map interactions, and spot-entry workflow. Iteratively improved UI elements, error handling, and map responsiveness based on feedback.Stage 5. Deployment & Documentation

Stage 5. Deployment & Documentation

Deployed the project to a live environment and documented the full stack setup, API integrations, and feature instructions. Created README and GitHub documentation to allow others to replicate or contribute.

Reflections

This project strengthened my skills in full-stack development, API integration, and responsive UI design. By combining backend logic with interactive front-end mapping, I created a tool that simplifies discovery of free camping spots for outdoor enthusiasts. FreeCampFinder demonstrates how thoughtful design and technical implementation can solve real-world problems while engaging a community of users.