You asked:
"I'm also wondering if I should bring some camping equipment and camp part of the way and only staying in hotels 1-2 times a week. Any thoughts?"
It's all up to you and what your style is. Some people camp
every night. I knew one guy who camped three nights and then got a motel room for one night after that. As for me, I stayed in a motel every night, because I hate camping. (I had to have my soft bed and shower!)
-Steve
www.ColoradoGuy.com