From the OP: Camping would solve some of my problems, but I've never done it and have been advised - by people who know what a bug-magnet my Italian skin can be - that I wouldn't like it.
I don't have time for long trips these days, so most of what I'm calling "tours" are 40-50 miles or so each way. Others are closer to 25-30. Last summer, I did a couple of these as day trips, in and out, but it wasn't the same. I'm half about the ride and half about the destination and the experience once I get there.