CAMP

  • CAMP, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    Unique Family-Friendly Camping with Hipcamp

    It’s almost summer, which means it’s officially camping season! This summer millions of weary souls will head into the wilderness to refresh, recharge and connect by spending time in nature. We hope that you’ll be one of them! Camping is such an amazing way to bond with your kids, disconnect from your screens, and get a serious dose of Vitamin N (nature). Camping certainly isn’t easy, but it’s always worth it. The first step in curating an amazing camping experience is picking the right campsite for your family. Today, we’re going to tell you all about Hipcamp, one of our favorite little secrets for finding the most unique and top-notch campsites for families.

    What is Hipcamp

    At its core, Hipcamp is an online platform for finding and booking campsites, but, it is unique in a myriad of ways. Not only does it list traditional campgrounds in those big well-known (and often booked months in advance) national and state parks, but it offers a variety of options for camping on private land as well. It’s been referred to as “AirBnB for campsites,” and gives campers something a little different! 

    Private landowners can list their property on Hipcamp and welcome campers to camp there! The minimum land requirement for a Hipcamp site is generally just two acres, but many Hipcamps have hundreds of acres to explore. Some listings feature simple plots of land with a single campsite, while others offer multiple campsites, spread out over the property like a traditional campground, albeit way less crowded. No matter how small or large, every Hipcamp offers direct access to nature. These campsites vary from primitive sites for tents only, to RV sites with hookups, to Airstreams, yurts, ski huts, farmhouses, tepees, tiny homes, tree houses, cabins, and cottages. Many listings have electricity and plumbing.

    Why Hipcamp’s great for families

    While camping anywhere is great for families, Hipcamp makes finding the right campsite for your family so much easier. Camping with kids brings on a whole set of concerns for parents, from privacy to crowds to safety concerns. Hipcamp has so many different options for camping, there’s sure to be something that works well for your particular family and concerns. Here are a few reasons why we recommend Hipcamp for families:

    1. Easy to search – Hipcamp’s website and app both make it easy to find a campsite that’s perfect for your family. You can search campsites by price, area (nearby location, park, state), what amenities you want (showers, electricity, hot tubs), nearby activities (hiking, biking, swimming), glamping experiences, pet-friendly options, and terrain (mountain, lake, woods, etc.).
    2. Variety of campsite options – Hipcamp has a ton of regular traditional campgrounds, but there are also lots of fun unique options for taking your camping experience to the next level. Hipcamp’s the perfect place to find a yurt, hammock pod, teepee, treehouse, cabin, rehabbed school bus, retro RV, tiny home, or cottage to rent. You might be surprised by how many options are available in your area!
    3. Availability – In the last few years, the popularity of camping (and the need for disconnecting and spending time outside) has multiplied exponentially. It’s harder now than ever to find and book a campsite in particular areas. Some state and national park campgrounds book months and months in advance. That can be really hard for families to plan around. We’ve found that the availability of campsites on Hipcamp is much better. You can usually find campsites available in your area just days (or even hours) in advance of your trip. If you’re looking for a more spontaneous trip, you can use the “Instant Book” within your search.

    How to book a campsite using Hipcamp

    The Hipcamp platform is incredibly easy to use and very well-done. To get started with booking a campsite, you’ll just need to create a free account. Take a few minutes to fill out your profile so that the people who own the campsites can get to know a little about you and your family (optional). 

    Next, start searching for campsites using the dates you want to camp, the number of campers, and the location. If you have flexibility on any of these criteria, you can leave the field blank to see even more results. Then, you can add filters to narrow your results or scroll through the options available on the map. Save your favorites to folders for easy access later. Once you find a campsite that looks intriguing, check out the listing and read through all the details carefully. Campsite details include things like type of lodging, capacity, accessibility, amenities, essentials, check-in/out times, nearby activities, terrain, availability, price, photos, and other camper reviews. 

    When you’re ready to book, click the green “Request To Book” or “Instant Book” button and use the discount code CAMPLIKEACHAMP10 to get $10 off your booking. Wait for your confirmation and get excited about your upcoming camping trip! Leading up to your trip, your Host will send you all the information you’ll need to get to the campsite and you can even message the Host directly on the Hipcamp website or app.

    Here’s a helpful step by step guide from Hipcamp on how to book your trip.

    Our Hipcamp experience

    My kids and I recently booked a little weekend camping getaway through Hipcamp and we had a blast! I wanted to stay somewhere a little different than a traditional campground, away from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of busy state park campgrounds in our area. Hipcamp delivered with tons of options for private campgrounds near creeks, in the woods, on farms, or vineyards. There were treehouses, barns, school buses, cabins, and yurts. I had no idea there were so many options within a 2-hour drive of my city.

    We chose to stay in a yurt on an animal rehabilitation farm. It was the perfect combination of rustic and secluded, yet comfortable and nice. The yurt was separate from the barn, house and other traditional campsites, so we had a sense of privacy, but easy access to others (just in case we needed help, if necessary). This gave me a lot of peace of mind when camping solo with my kids. The amenities and campsite were well-described in the listing and it was super easy to chat with the landowner via text through the Hipcamp app when we had questions. The whole booking process was a breeze.

    I loved the beautiful yurt we stayed in and the amenities available for campers. The yurt was well-appointed with beds, linens, furniture, cooking equipment, fans, and more. We had access to a firepit, our own private outhouse and shower, a nearby creek, and a whole farm full of animals! The animals were by far, the biggest hit of the entire experience for my children. They had the opportunity to love on horses, donkeys, goats, sheep, potbellied pigs, chickens, and dogs. They couldn’t get enough of them and would spend hours petting them and visiting with them. It was an amazing experience. 

    Check out some of America’s best Hipcamps to visit in 2022

    Book your next camping adventure with Hipcamp

    If you’re looking for a unique camping experience for your family, we highly recommend giving Hipcamp a try! You never know what kind of camping adventure you’ll find in your area. Be sure to use the code CAMPLIKEACHAMP10 to get $10 off your next booking. 

    More family camping resources

    If you’re looking for even more info on how to camp with kids, we’ve got you covered. Check out these great camping resources below:

    family camping gear packing checklist

    Printable camping gear lists for families

    To make it easier for you to get started on your next family camping trip, we put our ultimate camping packing list for your family in a free printable 2-page PDF for you! Use this as the perfect start to create your own master packing list. You’ll also be signed up to receive our  AMAZING weekly newsletter, filled with fun outdoor activities and inspiration for getting your kids and family outside! You can opt-out anytime (although we’d hate to see you go). 

    [maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://mailchi.mp/6ad1ea8208c2/fw0osm9qnr” text=”PRINTABLE CAMPING GEAR LIST” ]

    Have you tried Hipcamp yet?

  • CAMP, INFORMATION, LESSONS, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, TEENS

    Wilderness Survival Skills for Teens and Tweens

    Getting kids outside to experience the wonders of nature isn’t limited to the early childhood years. In a world infused with technology and fast-paced demands, our teens and tweens need the great outdoors more than ever. However, by the time they’ve reached their teen years, our kids are often past the days of playing at the park for hours on end. So, how do we encourage them to continue to love nature, to explore its beauty, and appreciate its allure? Today, Leslie Alvis, Ohio homeschooling mom of four, shares some ideas for engaging your teens (and pre-teens) in the outdoors through the challenge of learning wilderness survival skills.

    Hero Image

    Survival skills are important

    Anyone who spends much time out in nature knows that your situation can change in an instant. A storm can blow in, an injury can occur, an insect can sting, or an animal could attack. What started out as a simple hike can quickly become dangerous.

    I’m not saying any of this to scare you or deter you from spending time outside. None of us really expect our kids (or ourselves) to be thrust into life-threatening situations in the wild–and maybe they never will be! But, as we raise our kids to love being outside, we should also be giving them the tools to face an emergency that could happen outside.

    A level head, an emergency kit, and some basic wilderness survival skills will help them be prepared for the unexpected, both now and throughout their lives. And in the meantime, bushcraft skills are just a lot of fun. Sure, they’re useful in a survival situation. But they’re also a fun challenge for you and your teen to enjoy!

    Wilderness Survival

    The need for survival skills

    Many years ago, wilderness survival skills were necessary for life. It’s hard for us to wrap our 21st-century brains around, but children from past centuries had to acquire survival skills early. They needed to know how to build a fire, to create a shelter, to forage for food—and many of them survived because of those skills.

    Today, although wilderness survival skills aren’t necessarily essential for everyday life, they are still good to know for emergency situations. In an emergency, previously acquired skills can mean the difference between life and death. Many of these skills can be useful in everyday situations as well. And wilderness survival skills provide an outdoors-based challenge for the developing minds and skills of our young adults. Plus, many of them are just fun to learn!

    KnifeSkills

    Building outdoors skills

    My husband’s younger brother was still in his late teens when our two oldest kids were small. Too old to go outside and just play, this favorite uncle still enjoyed gathering up his little sisters and my kids to “play scouts.” They would pack up some supplies and tromp around in the woods, studying nature, playing survival games, and building forts. They all loved and benefited from the hours they spent doing this.

    As kids get older, the way they “play” and spend time outside changes. Our son is thirteen now, and I’ve watched him make this same type of transition from purely imaginative nature play to constructive skill-building outside. Wilderness survival skills have given nature time a purpose and challenge as he’s grown up. It’s given him a reason to spend more time outside (and isn’t that what we all want for our kids, no matter what the age?).

    Survival Skills

    Developing outdoor survival skills is a gradual process

    For our kids, the development of these skills has happened gradually. As they aged and matured, they’d get access to an emergency kit and a pocketknife; they learned fort-building skills and fire safety. As our children express interest in these new challenges, we carefully and gradually introduce the tools and concepts for wilderness survival. There’s no magic age for this. In our family, it continues to vary based on interest and maturity. You know your kids best and can judge whether they’re ready or not. 

    At thirteen, our son is capable and independent with many of these skills. But, he’s not just picking them up right now. His training and experience started very early, working in the woods with his dad and grandpa, and playing with his uncle. He frequently reads woodsman and bushcraft books, and loves to head out to the woods to practice these skills.

    As he and I have collaborated on the material for this article, I’ve honestly been amazed at his knowledge of and passion for all things bushcraft. He’s become very proficient in these skills due to practice, persistence,  and merely spending time outside getting to know, understand and appreciate nature. 

    SurvivalShelter

    Growing maturity with wilderness survival skills

    Each of the wilderness survival skills here will require some level of adult supervision and responsibility, at least initially. Again, as the parent, you know your own children, with their unique abilities and maturity levels. Only you can decide how these skills should look for them. You get to determine what they can handle (and how) based on your own comfort level. 

    For instance, in the beginning, our children are only allowed to use pocketknives with our permission and supervision. When they have demonstrated capability and maturity with a knife, they may be allowed to carry and use it as they see fit. If we find that they ever use this tool unwisely, we put it away until they grow up a little more. We learn from our mistakes, just as they do.

    As parents, our children’s safety is our responsibility. But we also want to see them grow in wisdom and maturity. As they do, it’s amazing to see how a challenge like learning wilderness survival can help them develop and grow.

    KnifeSkills

    Wilderness survival skills for teens and tweens

    If you’re interested in encouraging your teens (or pre-teen) to spend more time outside and learn some valuable lifelong skills in the process, we’re here to help. Here are some wilderness survival skills that perfect for teens and tweens. 

    Make a survival kit

    Making a survival pack is a fun and simple way to begin developing wilderness survival skills. Even a younger child can create a survival kit for a family hike or for a solo adventure like building a fort in your own backyard. It’s a great way to help kids begin to be prepared for the unexpected in nature. A survival pack doesn’t have to be fancy—just a backpack or little pouch with some basic tools and provisions.

    Items you can include in a survival kit:

    • First aid kit (our kids have created their own)
    • Non-perishable snacks
    • Water
    • Flashlight
    • Emergency blanket or rain poncho
    • Rope
    • Compass
    • Knife or multi-tool (depending on age and maturity)
    • Fire-starting tool (also depending on age and maturity)

    I’ve been amazed at what my older kids pull out of their packs sometimes. They’re better than I am about carrying first aid supplies on outings and hikes. I can’t count the times our son has used his survival kit to supply or create something useful when we’re outdoors. When we’re working at our homestead property, I often find him unloading a small cast iron skillet and canned goods from his pack, building a fire, and heating a snack for himself and his sisters. Our girls haven’t reached that stage of independence yet, but I love how thinking ahead helps them be helpful and prepared for different circumstances on our nature adventures.

    Wilderness Survival Kit

    Teaching survival skills to teens (and learning yourself)

    Before we cover some key elements of wilderness survival, I’d like to mention that some bushcraft skills may sound intimidating. In particular, handling sharp tools and starting fires might be scary, especially if they are out of your own comfort zone! They sound even scarier when you consider your child doing them. I am in no way advocating turning your child loose with anything. All of these skills require a learning period, patient instruction, and some maturity. With time and practice, he or she can gain safety and competence. 

    If you’re not comfortable or knowledgeable about these skills, don’t let that stop you. You and your teen can learn together. Letting them see you learn something new is encouraging and shows them that learning a new skill can happen at any age. If you don’t know where (or how) to get started, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance! For instance, if your teen or tween is interested in learning more about safe knife handling, but you’re not comfortable teaching it, consider reaching out to a trusted adult for help. Somewhere in your circle of family and friends, you probably know someone who is a fisherman, a hunter, or a dedicated hiker.

    People with hobbies like these often have a keen interest in wilderness survival skills. Many of them also love to share this knowledge, especially with the next generation. So, if you feel insufficient to teach/supervise any of these skills, look around for someone you trust to help you. And try learning right alongside your teen! You will never regret the time you spend together, discovering new skills and spending time in nature.

    Knife SkillsSurvivalFire

    The Five C’s of wilderness survival

    In Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival, author Dave Canterbury identifies the key elements of survival skills as the Five C’s. Here are the Five C’s of wilderness survival:

    1. cutting tools
    2. combustion
    3. cover
    4. containers
    5. cordage

    Other guides label them in different ways, but we think the Five C’s make a helpful and memorable presentation of these skills. So, with due credit to the author for his outline, we would like to share with you the first three key elements of wilderness survival.

    Wilderness Survival Fire Stick

    1. Cutting tools

    The first C of wilderness survival is a cutting tool. Once again, this is something that may initially require your supervision and participation with your child. But, a sturdy pocketknife, multi-tool, or hatchet is one of the top tools necessary in a wilderness survival situation.

    A knife should be attached to you, worn on a belt, or in a secure pocket. This is the one thing you never want to be without in an emergency. With a knife or other cutting tool, you can create a fire starter, cut materials for fire and for shelter, and recreate almost any other tool you will need to survive. A knife can also be vital in emergency medical situations (cutting bandaging, removing clothing) and rescues (cutting away obstructions or creating other tools to work with).

    In the meantime, gaining skill and competence with a pocketknife or hatchet is a fun challenge for any teen.

    WildernessSurvival Hatchet

    Cutting tool options

    Because a knife is essential for so many areas of wilderness survival, it’s important to own a good one. The Field and Stream Total Knife Manual is a complete guide to any and every kind of knife, its pros and cons, with every style and brand known to this modern world. On our shortlist of most useful knives, though, are these suggestions:

    • Pocketknife: Sturdy, simple, and compact, this knife has a strong blade that locks open, preventing it from accidentally closing on your hand. As a basic survival tool, this knife is adequate and effective for a number of tasks.
    • Multi-tool: A step up from a basic pocketknife, the multi-tool provides a number of useful features in one tool. Although this brand is pricey, the quality and durability of their tools is proven. In our experience, they last forever and work for everything.

    KnifeSkills

    Learning knife safety early

    We live in a rural area where many of our friends and family members carry a pocketknife or multi-tool at all times. A cutting tool is useful for so many tasks in our lifestyle. With that kind of mindset, our kids have asked for pocket knives pretty young.

    When we think they can handle a knife without being a danger to themselves, we let them start using one for some basic whittling or cutting. They’ve had to learn basic safety rules:

    • do not ever cut toward your body,
    • do not move around with an open blade, and
    • no using a knife with other kids close to you.

    Only after we see them demonstrating responsibility and maturity with those guidelines do we consider letting them carry the knife or using it on their own.

    Wilderness Survival Knife Skills

    2. Combustion: tools and skills to make a fire

    Another key element of wilderness survival is fire. Although it might sound a little scary, the skills and tools to create fire are essential in emergency situations. They also come in handy in many everyday situations throughout life. With proper instruction and supervision, your teen or preteen can learn these skills safely and gain efficiency in fire starting.

    Wilderness Survival Fire

    Start with fire safety

    Since we heat our home with wood, as well as burn a lot of outdoor fires, our kids have been exposed to fires and learned safety rules from toddlerhood. Early on, we teach them never to get near a fire, and never to mess with matches or lighters. But, as our son approached his preteen years, he was demonstrating carefulness, capability, and a lot of interest in fire starting. We’ve continued to emphasize fire safety, but allowed him greater responsibility in building and maintaining fires.

    For him, the rules of fire safety are now more focused on choosing a smart location when building a fire, helping his little sisters be careful around the fire, and making sure it is properly contained. It’s also important to know and follow local burning regulations wherever you are. Wilderness survival skills always include being aware, smart, and ethical about your choices.

    Wilderness Survival Fire

    Fire starting skills

    Building a fire in a sheltered area with dry kindling is a great way to start. But wilderness survival takes fire building much farther. If you’re ever in an emergency situation and need a fire, you might not have ideal conditions for starting it. Bushcraft skills teach you how to use the materials you have on hand to create fire for heat, protection, and cooking. It takes practice to learn to build fires with wet materials or without a lighter, but it can be done. And it’s a fun outdoor challenge for a teen to learn!

    Wilderness Survival Skills

    Choose a proper fire location

    To build a safe and efficient fire, find a location that is sheltered from the wind. Scrape away all debris, down to the dirt, in a wide ring around the fire area. If possible, build a stone ring around your fire to help contain it. (Use dry stones, since wet rocks can explode if they’re heated too rapidly!) If there aren’t any stones available, try digging a depression into the dirt or building a small dirt wall around the fire. Practicing wilderness survival skills always includes showing carefulness for the environment surrounding you. This includes keeping the fire contained and controlled.

    Wilderness Survival Feather stick

    Fire starting materials

    Look for small twigs, leaves, or dry grass for fire-starting material. If it has been raining or snowing, try to find an evergreen tree. In wild areas, the lower, dead limbs of evergreen trees haven’t been trimmed away. Sheltered by the overhanging branches, they provide the perfect source for dry fire materials in a wilderness survival situation. If you’re having a hard time finding dry starter material, you can use a knife to shave one end of a dry stick to carve a “feather stick” (pictured above) to help light your fire.  

    Ferrocerium Rod

    Starting the fire and choosing a firestarter

    Ideally, your wilderness survival kit will contain some way to create a spark. A small lighter, waterproof matches, a magnifying glass, or a ferrocerium rod can all serve as fire starters. While some are easier to use and/or more reliable than others, part of the fun of developing survival skills is learning to start a fire with what you have on hand.  I think the dramatic sparks from the ferrocerium rod (shown above) might be the most exciting way to try to start a fire!

    Once you have a flame going, gradually add small bits of dry leaves and twigs. Feed the fire slowly with lightweight materials until the flame is steady and strong. Be careful not to smother the fire or let the wind blow it out! With some patience and wilderness survival skills, you can have a strong fire to provide warmth, light, and protection in almost any situation.

    Wilderness Survival Fire

    3. Cover: shelter in the wilderness

    The third C of wilderness survival is cover. If you’re ever stranded in the woods, injured on a hike, or caught in a storm, you need to be able to take shelter. Survival may depend on you knowing the most efficient way to use the materials around you. This is a great challenge for teens and tweens! Survival skills add a whole new dimension to fort building. 

    First, look around for any natural cover. A cave, a crevice in a hillside, or a ravine can help provide shelter. But sometimes there isn’t a natural cover to be found. If you need to build a simple survival shelter, you can gather materials from around you and build this basic shelter. You need two stakes to drive into the ground, a ridge pole to run between them, and smaller branches to lean against them. The stakes determine the height of the shelter, and the ridgepole its width. 

    Wilderness Survival ShelterSurvival Shelter

    Shelter building basics and tools

    A hatchet really comes in handy for creating the point on the stakes, plus a notch in the top for the ridge pole. You can use the flat edge of the hatch to drive the stakes in or use a rock. Once you have your stakes set and the ridge pole set, lean the smaller branches against the ridge pole as thickly as possible. If there are evergreen trees nearby, evergreen branches make an ideal cover against wind and rain. But part of wilderness survival is learning to use what you can find. In the spring and summer, green leafy branches will also work. In the fall and winter, gather armfuls of fallen leaves to fill in the gaps in the wall.

    The thicker you pile the branches and leaves, the better shelter you will have.  Even dried leaves provide surprisingly good protection from the elements. Being able to build a shelter is one more skill your teen will enjoy learning as he or she gains proficiency in wilderness survival skills!

    Wilderness Survival Shelter

    Practicing wilderness survival skills

    Although all these wilderness survival skills are helpful in an emergency situation, they’re also just a lot of fun to practice throughout life. The basics aren’t hard to learn, and there are many ways to continue to develop better bushcraft skills. From how to light a fire without man-made materials to creating a drinking container out of natural materials, survival skills can present endless new challenges and encourage your kids to spend more time outside.

    So head outside with your teen, and see what skills you can learn together! 

    Is your teen interested in wilderness survival? 

    About the author

    Leslie is an Ohio farm girl and chaser of light, children, and sometimes chickens. She’s a lover of Jesus, wife to her high school sweetheart, and a homeschooling mom of four wild rascals who love the great outdoors as much as she does. As a family, they love hiking, camping, fishing, and just about any outdoor activity. She and her husband are just beginning the process of building a homestead from the ground up, doing most of the work themselves. Leslie has a lifelong obsession with writing and capturing everyday life from behind the lens. Follow along with their homesteading, homeschooling, and everyday adventures on her Instagram account.

    You can find more from Leslie in the following locations:
    Instagram: @c_l_allofus
    Client work: @lalvisphotography
    Leslie’s RWMC posts:

  • BEACH, CAMP, FAVORITE GEAR, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    A Mother’s Guide to Backpacking with Kids

    Are you looking for a way to get off the beaten path and reconnect with nature and your family? Do you love camping and want to take your adventures to the next level? Have you ever considered venturing into the woods to get away from it all for a few days with your kids? Well, then today’s post on backpacking with kids is going to inspire you! Creative Team member and Washington mom of 4, RyAnn Peverly shares her experience backing with her sons. She’s giving us the lowdown on how to choose the right backpacking location, what permits you need to backpack and camp, how to plan your adventure, what (and how) to pack, what to eat, and so much more! This post gives you everything you need to feel confident hitting the trail for your first backpacking adventure with kids. 

    Mother's Guide to Backpacking with Kids - everything you need to know for your first backpacking trip

    Starting our backpacking adventures early

    Camping is one of my family’s favorite pastimes. Loading up the car with tents, sleeping bags, a cooler full of our favorite foods. Camping is a blast no matter where you camp, but every so often we yearn to get off the beaten path and find a little solitude away from the busy campgrounds and everyday noises. Backpacking allows us the opportunity to connect with each other and the world around us in an up-close and personal way. 

    We started backpacking when the youngest was six months old. Back then it meant shorter trips, with mom and dad carrying heavier packs. Now that the youngest is 6 years old, everyone is carrying their own weight, and our trips are getting more adventurous. 

    As my children start to get older, and more comfortable in their own skills, I wanted to teach them about all it takes to put a backpacking trip together. 

    How to plan a mother son solo backpacking trip

    Planning a mother/son backpacking trip

    My boys and I decided that we would go on a “mom and me” trip. Just me solo, with them. I was really looking forward to the time we’d spend together bonding and I was excited to show them (and myself), just how capable I could be.

    We sat down together and started planning our trip together. Backpacking is the perfect adventure to blend hiking with camping. It allows you to explore the area a little more, and spend a night under the stars. There are no designated campgrounds, no bathrooms, or running water. No one else around. And it’s glorious. 

    Because you’re away from your car and campgrounds, backpacking means that you carry everything you need for a camping trip on your back. All food, water, clothing, and camping gear. There’s a lot of packing and thinking ahead that goes into backpacking, so a good plan is key to a successful trip. 

    How to choose a place to go backpacking with kids

    Where to go backpacking?

    Our first step was to choose where we wanted to go for our backpacking adventure. Our favorite resource here in Washington is the Washington Trails Association website. Their website, wta.org, has the most comprehensive list of trails in Washington state. This list of kid-friendly backpacking trips is a great resource. Some of our other favorite resources for choosing a location are:

    • All Trails
    • Local guidebooks
    • National Park websites
    • National Forest website

    Things to consider when planning a backpacking trip with kids

    When choosing a location to go backpacking, we take a few important things into consideration.

    • How many days are we going out?
    • How far do we want to drive?
    • What will the weather be like?
    • How far do we want to hike to a campsite?
    • What type of permit or reservation do we need?

    There are so many questions! For this trip, we decided to return to one of our favorite places, Sand Point out on the Olympic Peninsula. This backcountry camping area lies right on the coast of the Pacific ocean and offers so many opportunities to explore. Since the trip would be just me and the boys, we decided to stick to a shorter, easier trail. At just three miles in, we knew the hike wouldn’t be a challenge and would give us plenty of time to spend the day playing at the beach. 

    How to plan a backpacking trip with kids

    Secure your camping location and get the necessary permits

    After choosing our location, we had to make sure we could secure our campground spot. For this particular location, we needed to get a backcountry permit since we would be camping in a National Park. Areas like National Forests and BLM (Bureau of Land Management) do not require permits or reservations. Wherever you decide to go, be sure to check your local rules and regulations and acquire the proper permits before leaving the house.

    To secure our permit we visited Reservation.gov, made our date selection, and paid the associated fees. In addition to getting our campsite secured, we checked the weather and downloaded a map of the trail and area we were going. The All Trails app (paid version) allows you to download maps to an app on your phone for easy navigation. You can also download and print maps from the National Park and National Forest websites to bring along.

    Backpacking trips are a great way to teach your kids map reading skills. 

    Mother Son backpacking trip - how to plan

    What’s in your backpack?

    Now that our location was set, we needed to make sure we brought everything for a great trip. Since backpacking requires you to carry everything in your pack with you to your campsite, it requires lighter, more compact items. This may mean that not everything in your car camping kit will work.

    5 essential items for backpacking trip

    1. Backpack: This pack needs to be large enough to fit all of your gear inside. As the parent, I generally carry a 45-65 liter pack, and the kids each carry their own day pack. It is important when selecting a pack for backpacking that it fits comfortably. Remember, you could be carrying upwards of 30lbs. on your back. The kids carry their own water, snacks, extra clothes, and their sleeping bag. 

    2. Tent: Car camping tents can be used if that’s what you have, but be forewarned that they are generally bulky and heavy. A good backpacking tent is an investment that can be used for car camping also. This tent made by REI has served our family well for many types of camping trips.

    3. Sleeping bag: Because we live in Washington state (and it gets cold here!) we have decided 32 degree bags were the best buy for our money. A sleeping bag at this rating will take us through most seasons. When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking take into consideration packed weight, temperature rating and type of insulation. This sleeping bag by Kelty is one of our favorites.

    4. Sleeping mat: Sleeping mats play a key role in a good sleep system while backpacking. If your mat is not comfortable you likely won’t sleep well. The same is true for insulation and keeping you warm through the night. There are a lot of pads on the market, and the choice can be a big one. For our family the kids use a closed cell sleeping mat, like this one. For mom and dad, we chose something with a little more cushion. This is one of my favorites!

    5. Stove: There are so many stove options out there, but for backpacking, we have found that we like to keep meals simple and lightweight. For this all we needed was a stove that could boil water, and make a good cup of coffee. So we chose to bring along a Jetboil stove that comes with a french press kit. How perfect is that!

    Some other fun items to bring along are a hammock, a blow-up lantern, small toys, a book for family storytime, and binoculars. For a comprehensive list of what to bring, I generally print off this great list from REI.

    Mother's Guide to Backpacking in the PNW with Kids

    What to eat on a backpacking trip with kids?

    Our next step was to plan out what to eat on our backpacking trip. The boys and I sat down and made a meal plan together. Because we can’t bring the whole camp kitchen with us, we decided to stick with simple foods. When deciding how much food you need, take into consideration how many days you will be out, and how much energy you will be using. We all know busy and active kids get hungry.

    For breakfast and dinners, we stuck with foods that could be cooked with just boiling water. Oatmeal is a great filling breakfast, and adding freeze-dried berries to it is a fun way to add some flavor and nutrition. For dinner, we chose pre-made dehydrated meals that come prepackaged. They are lightweight and generally have 2 servings in each pouch. There are so many great brands out there (Mountain House, Peak Refuel, Alpine Aire) with fun flavors to try. Our family’s favorites are chili mac and teriyaki chicken & rice. I suggest getting a variety of them and trying a few out at home to make sure you like them and pack your favorites. 

    For lunch and snacks, we stuck with foods we know we love. This is the meal plan we came up with.

    2-day backpacking meal plan

    Meal Day 1 Day 2
    Breakfast At home Oatmeal w/ freeze dried berries & coffee/ hot chocolate
    Lunch Backpackers charcuterie 

    (crackers, baby bell, olives, salami, tangerine/ apple)

    		 Tuna wrap

    (packaged tuna, mayo packet, mustard, hot sauce, celery chunks)
    Snack Dried mango, cliff bars, meat sticks Peanut butter M&Ms, banana chips, salmon jerky 
    Dinner Dehydrated meals x2 At home or restaurant
    Dessert Apple Crisp  Extra snacks in car for ride home

    Backpacking meals grocery shopping list

    • Instant oatmeal
    • Crackers
    • Baby bell cheese
    • Olive or pickle packet
    • Salami or summer sausage
    • Packable fruit (apples, cuties)
    • Meat sticks
    • Salmon jerky
    • M&Ms
    • Banana chips
    • Cliff bar (or other granola/energy bars)
    • Dehydrated meals (Mountain House, Peak Refuel, Alpine Aire)
    • Freeze-dried fruit
      • apples
      • mangos
      • strawberries
      • blueberries
      • raspberries
    • Granola
    • Walnuts
    • Cinnamon
    • Brown Sugar
    • Tortillas

    Easy snacks and meals for overnight backpacking trips with kids

    How to store and pack your food for backpacking

    The first thing we need to know is if there are any regulations on food storage in the area we are going to. Each land management has its own guidelines on how to safely store food. It’s important when researching your location that you find out how you are required to do this.

    There are two general ways to safely keep food out of the hands (or paws) of the animals in your area.

    • Bear canister: A bear canister is a hard-shell plastic cylinder with a lid that humans can screw on and off, but animals can not get inside of. The plus side of this type of storage is that you can leave it on the ground. The con is that these canisters are bulky and take up quite a bit of room in your pack. For our trip we were required to bring this, so we filled it with all our food and a few other supplies so as not to waste space. 
    • Hanging your food: The food hanging method is easy to implement, transport, and is made up of a few easy-to-find components. You will need a bag that closes (we use a dry sack), 50 feet of rope or para-cord, and a rock. The idea is to tie one end of the cord to your bag, and the other end to the rock. Then you toss the rock over a tree branch and use the weight to pull your bag off the ground. Then secure the rock end to another nearby tree. When using this method make sure your bag is at least 10 feet from the ground and six feet from the tree trunk. The con of this type of storage is that you have to have larger trees where you are going.

    Setting up your backpacking camping kitchen

    After food storage had been sorted I asked the boys to help me decide which kitchen items would be helpful for our trip. Since we decided on foods that either didn’t need to be cooked or only required hot water, that meant we could pare down our camp kitchen to a few essentials. Besides the stove we were bringing to boil water, our kitchen kit looked like this:

    • Mug for hot beverages
    • Folding bowl for breakfast and dinner
    • Spork
    • Small pack of wet wipes
    • Biodegradable soap 
    • Small microfiber towel
    • Water filtration system

    best water filtration when backpacking with kids

    Water filtration system for backpacking

    One key factor when you go backpacking is to know where your water sources are. Is there a lake, river, stream nearby? If you are hiking into an area with few (or no) water sources you will need to carry more with you. Our chosen campsite had a freshwater stream that fed into the ocean. This meant we only needed to carry enough water for the hike in, and then would be able to gather and filter more as needed.

    It’s important to filter your water before drinking because all natural water sources carry microscopic pathogens. Ingesting these tiny critters can cause some serious upset tummies. In order to avoid this, bringing along a water filter is necessary.

    There are several types of water filtration systems for camping on the market, but our favorite is a gravity filter. These types of filters allow you to fill a larger “dirty” water bag attached to a filter, which then runs through a hose into your water bottle or “clean” water container.

    how to pack your backpack for overnight backpacking with kids

    How to fit everything you need in your backpack

    There’s a lot of gear and supplies that need to go into your backpack. You need a good packing system in place so that you have easy access to the items that you’ll need first and most often. This will keep you from having to dig through your pack every time you need something. Plus, a well-packed backpack means equal distribution of weight, which helps tremendously when carrying a full pack. 

    You should pack your backpack in layers. The bulkiest items will be on the bottom (the stuff you don’t need access to throughout the hike). The most frequently used items at the top. 

    Here are the levels for packing a backpack:

    • Top
      • snacks
      • first aid
      • map
      • personal items (phone, camera, toiletries, bathroom kit, etc.)
    • Middle 
      • food
      • water
      • stove
      • tent
    • Bottom
      • sleeping bag
      • sleeping pad
      • extra clothing

    Now that we had our plan in place, our gear sorted out, our meals planned, and our bags packed, it was time to head out for some fun!

    backpacking with kids - everything you need to know

    Choosing a campsite when backpacking

    My boys and I had such a great backpacking trip. We enjoyed three miles of hiking among old-growth trees that opened onto a classic Pacific Northwest rocky beach. As we continued hiking down the trail we found the perfect campsite right on a point that allowed us to enjoy the beach as the winds changed direction throughout the day. We worked together to set up our tent and lay out our mats and sleeping bags inside. 

    When camping in our area, there’s a right way to set up your campsite in order to keep everything (and everyone) safe. After setting up our sleeping area, we selected a good spot about 70 steps from our tent to set up a cooking area. It’s important to not get food near your sleeping site to ensure you don’t get any visitors in the night. As stewards of wild spaces, it’s our responsibility to ensure that animals don’t eat human food.

    We also picked out a spot where we would store our food when not in use. Again, this should be at least 70 big steps from your campsite. My youngest had fun counting out the steps and finding the “perfect spot”.

    how to safely set up your campsite to keep food away from bears

    A little potty talk…

    Another topic that must be thought about when backpacking is where one will use the restroom. Unlike car campgrounds, there may not be a toilet when backpacking. Fortunately, our site had a shared pit toilet for the area. But, if you find yourself selecting a location that does not have this amenity, you have two options.

    1. Blue bag system: This system is the easiest, but requires you to carry out your poop when you leave. For this style you will collect your poop and toilet paper in a “blue bag” (essentially a dog poop bag), tie it up and put it inside a resealable plastic bag. You take this with you and dispose of it properly after your camping trip.
    2. Dig a hole: This method is a little more work, but means you carry less out with you. First, dig a hole with a small trowel at least four inches wide and six inches deep. Only put human waste in this hole. When you are done bury the waste and put your paper waste in a resealable plastic bag to dispose of properly after your trip.

    Make sure you use the facilities at least 200 yards (or 80 big steps) from your campsite and all water sources. In my pack, I always carry a “bathroom kit” that I keep stocked with a small roll of toilet paper, travel-size wet wipes, small trowel, resealable bag, blue bags and hand sanitizer. This way when one of the kids needs to go I can hand them the kit and they’re on their way.

    how to go to the bathroom when backpacking - bathroom kit

    Backpacking is worth it

    Backpacking can seem like a daunting task to take on when you are new to the idea. I’ll admit, when our family first decided to start this type of camping, I had my reservations. Will we be able to bring everything we need? Can I actually carry all of that on my back? Will the kids complain too much? What if I forget something? 

    Yes, there’s a lot to consider, but its doable, I promise! With a little planning and forethought, it’s easier than you imagine. After our first few trips I realized that backpacking was an amazing way for our family to bond, not only with each other but with the world around us. We have seen some beautiful places because we were willing to get a little uncomfortable, put in the work, and step off the beaten path.

    A few years ago I may not have embarked on a trip with just my boys. I would have been too intimidated, too nervous, too scared to try something new. But, I have watched my kids grow and strengthen their own skills. I’ve seen them become independent and capable, helpful and thoughtful. We work together so it’s not all on me. It builds their confidence and independence. And I can joyfully say that I look forward to many more backpacking adventures with my boys.

    Have you ever been backpacking with kids?

    About the author

    RyAnn is a mom of four (20, 18, 15, 6) that loves exploring her home in the Pacific Northwest. She works as a youth outdoor program instructor for the Mountaineers Org. in Washington state. RyAnn also loves getting out and adventuring with her family as much as possible. They enjoy traveling around the PNW in their converted Sprinter campervan. On her days off she generally loads up the van and hits the trails for hiking, mountain biking, skiing, or climbing. RyAnn is passionate about instilling love and respect for outdoor spaces in her kids and the youth she is lucky to work with.

    You can find more from RyAnn in the following locations:
    Instagram: @mountain_mama4
    Website: Mountain Mama

  • CAMP, FAVORITE GEAR, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    The Ultimate Guide to Camping with Kids

    The idea of camping overnight with kids can be overwhelming at first. While it does take planning and preparation, we are here to tell you that taking your kids on an enjoyable camping trip is very doable. All you need is a little preparation, the right gear, and a positive mindset! Today, Creative Team members, Colorado parents, and outdoor enthusiasts, Misha and Tyler, share how to relax, enjoy spending quality time with your family, and make some sweet memories camping with kids. They share everything from different types of campsites, supplies to bring, simple camping meal ideas, and so much more.

    ultimate guide to camping with kids

    Overnight camping with kids

    Hi! We are Tyler & Misha, an outdoorsy Colorado family enjoying and experiencing the outdoors with our kid. Overnight camping with your little ones in tow may sound like an expensive and stressful effort. However, it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of courage, some preparation, and the right gear, camping with kids can be easy and enjoyable! Not only will you appreciate the time outdoors, but your kids will also be thrilled with this new outdoor adventure.

    Camping is one of our family’s favorite outdoor summertime activities. Unlike most daily outdoor summer activities, camping can cool you down in the summer. This is especially true, if you venture up into the mountains, where the temperatures tend to be at least a few degrees cooler. We’ve spent a lot of time this summer camping with our little one and we’ve learned a lot about what works (and what doesn’t) along the way. We’re here to help guide you towards making a plan for your first (or next) overnight camping trip with your kids.

    Camping is a learning experience

    Our experience camping, especially with kids, comes with a lot of practice and trial and error. Don’t expect to get everything right the first time. And don’t be afraid to get things wrong. That’s how you learn! (And for the most part, most camping mistakes and forgotten items tend to not be as big of a deal as you might expect). Confidence in overnight camping with kids will only come after you practice, make mistakes, and find your groove. And you can’t make mistakes if you never go — so let’s go!

    A fair warning though, once you start camping with kids, there’s no going back! Camping with  This amazing outdoor activity will be so much more fun than you can imagine. It’ll be worth all the work. At the end of your trip, the stories and experience will pull on you and you’ll be compelled to take your kids out almost every weekend for a fun camping trip.

    how to go camping with kids

    Benefits of camping for kids

    There are so many benefits of camping under the stars and even more when you’re camping with your kids. The biggest benefit to camping is breaking the monotony of daily life. Did you know kids love change? Not only does a new activity or location change a child’s perspective, but it also stimulates their brains. Kids love challenges and doing something different from everyday routines. Introducing new activities with camping can also make the trip that much more of an adventure. They learn new things, try new things, and push their potential.

    As a family, camping can also help you rediscover your bond, away from the creature comforts of home. While camping, kids learn valuable skills hands-on, responsibility and independence. It is a great time to introduce lifestyle changes and distribute responsibilities by giving simple chores for everyone to do at the campsite. Camping is not just a fun activity, but a life skill. It is a survival tactic and every kid deserves to get exposed at a young age. 

    There’s also no denying that kids love the outdoors and spending time in nature makes everyone feel better. Happiness doubles when they are able to be outdoors all day and night. The fresh air, sunshine, Vitamin D and lots of unstructured free time to play and explore are all great for kids. 

    Tips For Overnight Camping With Your Kids

    Planning a perfect camping trip with kids

    There’s no one right way to plan the perfect camping trip. Each family should evaluate what type of camping trip they’d like to experience and plan accordingly. Start by thinking about or writing down the things you want to accomplish with this family camping trip and/or things you’d ideally like to do. Once you’ve listed your target idea(s), do some research on the best location for achieving your goals and move towards the execution part of the trip.

    It’s always good to have a purpose, but the goals for your trip don’t have to be lofty or aspiration. If your only goal for camping is to spend a great evening with your family in the woods around a campfire, then gear your preparation and research towards finding a wooded campsite and bringing lots of firewood and marshmallows. If you envison fishing, swimming or canoeing, look for a campsite near a stream. If you’d like your kids to be able to run around safely with a bunch of other kids and play, look for a group camping area in a park. 

    Choosing the right camping location

    We always recommend that for your first camping trip, choose a location close to home. Maybe within your city (or close enough to drive home if you need to bail in the middle of the night). If for any reason you find you or your kids are not enjoying the camping vibe and desperately want to leave, you can easily get back to civilization or your own home easily. With kids, you never know how they react to anything they are doing the first time. Being close to home and having the option to leave at any time gives first time campers extra peace of mind. Hopefully, you won’t need to leave, but knowing you can makes the decision to try camping in the first place a lot easier. 

    If you’ve gone camping before and are ready to venture out a bit farher, here are few tips for choosing the right camping spot for your family:

    • Check out overnight campgrounds nearby and the availability of camp spots at your local state park/national park. Pick a location that has trees or preferably a water stream. 
    • Look for locations that are not too remote. Camping areas should not disturb wildlife and should avoid wildlife encounters. 
    • Find a spot close t0 other people camping in a dispersed fashion. It’s wise to choose an area as a first-time camper with other people just in case you need help at any point. Other campers are usually more than happy to lend a helping hand. 
    • Do a little research about the location you choose for camping. For example, read up on the local wildlife and know whether it’s mosquito/tick season, rattlesnake season, what poisonous plants are nearby, etc., so that you can take necessary precautions beforehand (bring bug spray, warn kids of poison ivy).
    • Choose a spot that caters to your hobbies. For example. if you like hiking you can camp up in mountains or a state park that has trails to explore. Or if you like boating, paddle boarding, look for a campground close to a lake or water body. It’s always fun to do activities you love along with camping.

    Camping list for first time camping with kids

    Types of campsites and camping locations

    There are so many campsite options you can choose from when it comes to taking your family camping. Weigh your needs and requirements and choose the type of campsite and set up that suits you best. Timing can play a big role in choosing camp spots; it can be time-consuming to research options and during peak camping seasons, campsites book up quickly (and sometimes way in advance). Beginner campers should opt for comfort and safety when going with kids. However, with that said, camping is a rugged activity, so don’t be afraid to get a little off the beaten path!

    1. Reserved campground (paid )

    If you’re a first-time camper, we’d highly recommend you to choose the option of camping at a reserved campsite. 

    Reserved camp spots are a hassle-free smooth option for convenient camping. For this, you will have to look into camping options at your local state parks, National Parks, lakes, BLM, etc. to book a spot. You can usually book online and get all the info on the website that you need about what ammenies are available nearby and what’s provided. These spots are usually open reservations 6 months to 1 year in advance, so you need to be way ahead to book a spot for yourself. This is not always the case, but for peak season (summer) expect to book further out. 

    Reserved camp spots are usually set up for you beforehand and offer you a site to pitch your tent and park your RV/camper. They often provide you with picnic tables, grill/campfire pit, trash cans, clean toilets (if you’re lucky you may find clean showers). These campgrounds may offer a good amount of shade from the trees and are usually well maintained. 

    2. First come first serve (paid or free)

    Most US National Parks and National Forests hold a loop in the campground that is open for first-come, first-serve purposes. These are a great option for spontaneous campers. These spots are under the state authority hence they usually provide you with all basic amenities as the reserved camp spots. 

    Sometimes these sites have restrictions, like tent camping only, so make sure to read the fine print and weigh your options before camping here. They also usually offer a picnic table, toilets, trash cans, and some shade depending on what state you’re at. No prior booking is needed so there’s a good chance you may find a spot if you arrive earlier in the day.

    types of tents for camping and campsites

    3. Dispersed camping (free)

    Dispersed camping is a term used for camping on land outside of a designated campground. Yes, you guessed it right, it’s camping on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land. BLM land offers you the opportunity to camp anywhere on public land. You can take your RV’s/campers/tents and camp under the stars wherever and whenever.

    Sometimes there are readily used BLM campgrounds, which operate like first-come, first-serve campgrounds. They may have campfire rings and they may have toilets, but these are usually not part of the BLM camping experience.

    There’s almost always no fee involved for dispersed camping because there are usually no amenities that come with it. You just have a giant chunk of land all to yourself to enjoy with your family. This is our favorite camping style and the camping style we prefer 95% of the time. You’re usually not dealing with any other campers nearby, so you don’t have to keep the kids quiet (and you won’t have rowdy campers waking you up in the middle of the night).

    However, dispersed camping also calls for a lot of personal responsibility because there’s no one around to help you out if needed and no one there to question your actions. That said, you must be mindful to pick your own trash and dump it at a nearby dump when you get a chance. Always remember the Leave No Trace principles!

    4. Camping on private land (paid or free)

    If you’re lucky enough to know someone with private land, that’s another option for camping. Similar to dispersed camping, camping on private land means that you’ll probably have the entire area to yourself. There may not be cleared locations for a fire and/or tent, so be mindful of your surroundings and make sure you have permission to clear spaces or make a fire. 

    You can also pay to camp on private land. Websites like hipcamp.com are great for finding provide land to rent that’s away for others or only allows small dispersed groups. HipCamp rents tent and RV sites, as well as unique camping and glamping properties like teepees, hammock camps, cabins, etc. 

    Tips for Camping with Kids - everything you need to pack when camping with kids

    Choose a style of camping that suits you best

    Just like there are a variety of different campsite options, there are also a lot of different ways to set up your camp. Whether you’re tent camping, car camping, cabin camping or something in between, you’re guaranteed to have fun. Try one, try them all! Find the style of camping that best suits your family and have fun experimenting along the way. Camping with kids is all about getting outside together. The point is to connect your kids to nature and encourage them to spend time outdoors right? Any form of camping does just that!

    Tent camping

    A good tent can cost anywhere from $250- $1000 new. However, you can also get a tent second-hand much cheaper, or you can borrow a tent from a friend, if you are new to camping and just want to try it out. In that case, any tent that will fit your family is perfect for this adventure.

    Tent camping is the cheapest most affordable option without a doubt. It’s also a lightweight option when camping with kids. Tent camping is our most preferred option because we love sleeping under the stars and feeling the earth beneath us. Also, this is the simplest style of camping. If you love the outdoors and love hiking, this will give you more opportunities to explore than any other option out there.

    Please note, tent camping comes with a little more safety prep than other options.  (Please refer to the Safety section above for details.)

    Rooftop tent

    Rooftop tent can cost anywhere from $750 (basic) to $5000. These are more expensive than regular tents and you need to make sure your vehicle can handle them. We recommend looking for used ones.

    Rooftop tents are an upgraded version of plain ol’ on-the-ground tent camping. A lot of parents are opting for it due to the convenience of it being a smooth camping option, off the ground, but still under the stars. You don’t have to worry about pitching and un-pitching a tent because your rooftop tent is practically already set up (you just have to unfold it). Plus, they come with a thick mattress pad and are set on top of your car roof, so you can basically take it anywhere and anytime without paying any extra cost.

    This is a fun way to camp with your kids on the go! Also, you have a lower risk of bugs and critters bothering you.

    Overnight Camping with Kids - what to eat, what to bring, what to wear, what to do when camping

    RV/camper camping

    RVs and/or campers can run anywhere from $6000 and up (way way up). You can get them used (we highly recommend this) or buy a new one from a dealer. You can also rent an RV/camper before purchasing to see if this is the type of camping you and your family enjoy. 

    If you’re a first-time camper, unless you have a lot of money to invest on your first camping trip, this is not the most recommended option. RVs are expensive, so it makes sense to ensure you enjoy camping before you jump in and spend a lot of money. However, if you know you love camping and exploring the natural world around you, RV camping can enable you to extend your adventures, camp in dispersed campgrounds for longer periods of time, and camp in pretty much in all weather conditions very very comfortably. 

    While RV camping is a more glamourous way of camping (glamping got its name from somewhere), you and your family will still spend a lot more time outside and will connect with your kids more than you may have by remaining at home. Campfires, hiking, playing with nature finds, digging in the dirt, playing card games or board games on a picnic table, swimming in the nearby water, fishing, cooking over an open flame, enjoying a campground playground, and so many more outdoor adventures still happen while RV camping.

    Vehicle camping

    Yes, it’s a thing! And all you really need is a car (or truck, or minivan, or SUV) with room enough for all of you to lay down and a mattress pad for comfort. Vehicle camping means that you can camp even if you do not have a tent or RV. If you have a vehicle with seats that flip down, an air mattress, and some blankets, you can cruise over to the mountains for some car camping with your kids.

    The most spontaneous camping trips we’ve ever done, and the most successful ones, have to be when we decided to take the road less traveled and made our way to the county roads. Try it once and thanks us later! 

    camping checklist for camping with kids

    Be aware of the weather in your camp area

    Weather plays an important role when it comes to camping. Prepare ahead of time by checking the weather forecast for the area to help you avoid forecasted rain, strong winds or storms. But also know that sometimes rain and other inclement weather can appear suddenly, without much warning.

    Rain is a common thing when overnight camping in the woods. Luckily, tents usually come with a rain cover. Make sure your bring your rain fly and know how to use it. Also, be prepared with a few indoor tent activities (card games, coloring books, etc.) or rain gear (boots and rain coats), so that you can continue to enjoy your camping experience despite the surprise weather.

    NOTE: Along with weather, you may want to check forest fires and flash flood warning in your area. Interstate openings/closing info to avoid waiting in long traffic and your local weather-related forecast.

    Camping essentials for first-time campers

    There’s a lot of gear you can take with you when you go camping. However, you don’t always need all that stuff. Your first time caping with kids means that you’ll probably significantly overpack (and that’s ok!). With a little experience, you’ll quickly realize that you don’t need much for an overnight camping trip with kids. And actually, the less stuff you have, the easier it is to get out of the house and the more creative and resourceful you (and your kids) will learn to be. 

    We have made a list of essential camping gear for overnight camping with kids that exclusively caters to tent camping/roof tent camping. 

    • Tent (with rain cover) 
    • Tarp
    • Mattress pad/air mattress 
    • Mattress pump
    • Sleeping bags, pillows, blankets
    • Down jackets (or any cold-weather jacket)
    • Rain jackets, boots
    • Water containers (keep two 10 gallons)
    • Water filter
    • Food supplies
    • Coolers/ice chests (to keep necessary food cold and fresh)
    • Stove/grill
    • Lighter/matches
    • Dry wood (for campfire)
    • Plates, utensils
    • Soap
    • Trash bags
    • Towels
    • Toilet paper (even if the campground has toilets, sometimes the bathrooms run out of TP)
    • Ziplock bags
    • Totes for supplies
    • Lighting (headlamps, lanterns, flashlights, fairy lights)
    • Music/speakers (optional)

    Camping safety is important

    Safety is of utmost importance when camping out in the wild, especially with kids. It is always good to be proactive and prepared. Below is a list of the most basic things you can take along with you to keep you safe and prepared for any situation.

    • First aid kit
    • Flashlights
    • Airhorn
    • Bear spray
    • Bug spray/tick spray
    • Sunscreen
    • GPS-device
    • Map of the location (internet may not work everywhere)
    • Tool kit
    • Rope 
    • Duct tape

    Note: If a life-threatening emergency happens, do not fiddle around using your first aid kit, call 911 immediately. First aid kits are for minor injuries. Unless you are a skilled medical practitioner or have some kind of training related to a medical emergency, call for help!

    Campfire food ideas

    Camping food that can save you time and energy

    Usually, when camping, you can take pre-prepared meals or raw produce to cook at the campsite. If you opt for the latter, we have some quick meals that we cook at the campsite and you’d enjoy it too. 

    • Chicken/turkey cheese sandwiches. All you need is sliced meat from a deli, some cheese, bread, and any condiments you like. You can eat it raw or grill on your campfire. (If you have never used a cast iron skillet before this is a great time to make good use of it)
    • Pasta/ mac & cheese. Kids love pasta (with tomato sauce or just butter) and mac & cheese. Both are pretty quick meal ideas or sides you can offer them.
    • Soup (any kind your family loves). You can make your own or buy cans or packets from the grocery store. Heating up soup is quick and easy.
    • S’mores! Do we have to explain that?
    • Burgers (or hot dogs) on the campfire. Burgers are the most cooked food at our campsite. Throw some patties on a cast iron pan, cheese on top, grill some buns and you have another quick meal ready. Hot dogs can be cooked on a stick!
    • Sauteed veggies, mashed potatoes, and campfire grilled chicken with toasted buns. This looks like a super fancy thanksgiving dinner kinda meal but this is a very quick and yummy meal that gives everyone their favorite item on one plate.
    • Box of oatmeal – Oatmeal packets make for an easy breakfast. (Pancakes or waffles are other delicious easy to prepare options too.)
    • Pack some beverages of your choice and juice for kids to cool yourselves down. Make sure you have plenty of water in addition to your other beverages.
    • Coffee or tea for mornings, so you don’t run around like zombies the whole time.
    • Chips and dips. Kids enjoy this snack and so do adults. It’s a great appetizer to keep everyone satiated while you learn how to cook over the campfire. 
    • Grab and go fruit. Apples, bananas, mandarines, and even grapes are perfect fruits to pack on camping trips. They don’t require any prep work (except washing) and are easy to store outside of an ice chest.
    • Lots of snacks & protein bars. These are obviously perfect for snacking on all day, but also for when you go off on adventures away from the campsite. 

    You can add anything you like to this list. These are just simple food ideas we use on our camping adventures. Make sure you have good coolers so your food is fresh and ziplock bags to store leftovers.

    NOTE: Do not put food anywhere close to your tent or even inside of it, as it will attract wildlife. To be safe lock the food in your car, use provided bear boxes or other campground recommended options.

    Overnight Camping with Kids - food, snacks and meal ideas for camping with kids

    Easy ways to pack your food supplies and camp gear

    When camping with kids, be sure to organize your supplies and camping gear in a way that makes sense and works for your family and situation. You do not want to reach your campsite and not be able to find important things. As a parent, we already have our hands full and we do not want to leave any room for more any issues or forgotten items. Camping with kids is not hard, but it is way easier when you pack what you need and can find it easily.

    Organizing camp gears

    When leaving for a camping trip, make sure you have everything organized and ready to load. Separate things into categories and pack accordingly. We suggest making separate totes/crates for these separate supplies.

    • Dry food & supplies
    • Camp gear
    • Coolers full of cold/perishable foods
    • Miscellaneous

    Label your totes

    Once you’ve separated things into totes, label and make sure they are closed securely. One trick is to take a piece of paper, write the contents of the totes, and seal it with clear tape. This looks like a lot of work but it comes in super handy for parents. If you have older kids this is a great way to start distributing responsibility amongst them and start your trip in an organized manner. That’s right! Getting your older kids to help you organize for the camping trip, helps them build skills they can use their whole life.

    Pack perishable food in a cooler

    Invest in at least two good size coolers. We highly suggest having one 60-65 hard and one 40-45 Soft cooler. The hard cooler can be used to store all beverages, meat, milk, and premade food from home. The soft cooler for cheese, dips, sauces, and other quick food items you may wanna eat on the way. A bag or two of ice is gonna be good for an overnight trip, if you plan to extend the trip, dry ice is a better choice. You can always buy more ice at local grocery stores or gas stations if you are camping near a town.

    Insulated coolers that keep the food cold and fresh for over 5 days are good to invest in. Also, look for bear-proof coolers, those are a game-changer.

    Organize baby/toddler or kid items in a separate box

    Basic everyday essentials for your baby/toddler should be easily accessible. Do not forget to bring extra diapers, wipes, itch/rash creams, or their favorite toys. Keeping it separate will keep your children from digging through other important supplies (where they shouldn’t reach). Kids tend to dig into stuff and during camping trips because items that are usually inaccessible are stored in different locations. They can find lighters, matchsticks, or certain items they shouldn’t play with or be close to. 

    Overnight Camping with Kids

    Explore, pitch, and enjoy your night

    When you arrive at your destination, well equipped with all the essential items, the first thing is to find your campsite. If you have pre-reserved your camping location, you just have to unload and pitch your tent or park your camper in your designated spot. The site is almost ready for you to start your camping adventure.

    If you haven’t pre-reserved the campground and reach a National Forest for dispersed camping, here are a few tips to get started.

    Explore the area thoroughly

    Before you begin to unload your stuff, it’s a good habit to investigate the area.  As parents we all have an instinct, we know if the place gives us the right vibe. Go explore the place and see where are you on the map. We mentioned GPS as one of the essentials and it comes in handy right now. It basically gives you a solid idea of your location, nearby forest, weather, etc. Also, you may want to decide where you want to park your family for the night so this is the time when you can find a spot at your dispersed camping area.

    Pitch your tent

    After you’ve found that perfect spot, it’s time to unload your stuff. We recommend pitching your tent before unloading everything. You want to do it before dark unless you have a rooftop tent or a camper. Spread a plastic tarp under your tent before you pitch your tent, this will keep all the dirt and dust out of the tent and you will have a clean tent to step into.

    Once you have pitched your tent, spray the bug spray inside your tent and zip your tent back up. You will have no mosquitoes or bugs all night this way. If you have made it to your camp early and you have a lot of daylight time, you can go and explore or do some fun activities with kids before the campfire or you can just let your kids play around and spend this time settling down and unload rest of the stuff.

    Campfire and food time

    Gather the wood or use the dry wood you bought for this camping trip. If there is not an existing campfire ring, use some rocks/bricks to make one. We have a great post on how to build a campfire with kids. This is a great time to teach your kids fire safety and caution. This is also a great time during the camp night for music, discussions, or just fun with kids. The campfire is also perfect for making S’mores with your kids and cooking or reheat your meals.

    Make good use of this time because we truly believe campfire nights are magical. You can make your own family campfire songs or a game that you play during overnight camping with your kids. Have a great time together, eat delicious food, and watch stars the whole night. Create something exclusive to your family, so your kids enjoy spending time with you and you can make some beautiful memories together. Here are some ways to make campfire and bonfires magical for kids! 

    Sleep under the stars

    As it gets dark, you will want to switch on your tent lights or lanterns for everyone to find their space to sleep. If you have a baby/toddler you might want to place a travel bed inside or co-sleep, whichever you are more comfortable with. Change your kids to warm clothes. Generally, nights are colder, and tents, cars, and RVs are not insulated as well are your home.

    You all might want to wear an additional layer to keep yourselves toasty throughout the night. Get inside your sleeping bags or under your blankets and call it a night. It’s gonna be a cozy night, so hug each other before bed. Have a wonderful night! 

    Note: Go into a camping trip knowing that you probably won’t sleep as well as you do at home in your own bed. Yes, you may be extra tired in the morning, but that’s a small price to pay for the memories you’ll have of this adventure. Knowing this before going into your trip will prepare you. 

    Overnight Camping with Kids - tips and advice for parents and new campers

    A few more tips and tricks for camping with kids

    • Plan and prepare your trip ahead of time. If you leave it for the last minute, important things may get missed.
    • Leave anything you find at the campsite as-is. If it doesn’t belong to you, it may belong to people who camped before you. Leave it behind. Except for obvious trash. Always pick up trash and leave the campsite looking better than you found it.
    • Do not leave any traces behind. It should look like you never camped there.
    • Be extremely mindful of trash disposal. A simple trick is to throw trash in trash bags as you make it. Hang a trash bag from a table or your car and keep loading it until full. Do not litter. If there’s a place to dispose of your trash properly, do so. Otherwise, take it with you and make sure it gets taken care of. 
    • Minimize campfire impacts. Use campfire wood in small chunks to avoid creating a big fire. Once you are ready for bed, calm down the fire and put the fire out before going to bed. Forest fires are a major issue! Be careful.
    • Please respect the wildlife in your camp area and do not disturb their lifestyle. Always remember you are visiting their home and you need to give them their space.
    • When camping at campgrounds with other people, make sure you are not disturbing their peace or encroaching their space. With kids, it’s hard to not be loud but this is the time you can teach your kids to be considerate of other’s space and privacy. Also, remind kids not to walk through other people’s campsites.
    • Before you go into the tent at night, use your flashlight to check for bugs or other critters. This is just for extra peace of mind.
    • Keep the airhorn, bear spray, or other items like this in the tent, but away from the kid’s reach. Maybe keep a child-proof box or just clip it in your tent.

    We hope this guide, full of tips and tricks for an overnight camping trip with kids is handy for you as a parent. We would love to hear how it went for you as a first-time camper.

    Additional camping resources for parents

    If you’re looking for even more info on how to camp with kids, we’ve got you covered. Check out these great camping resources below:

    family camping gear packing checklist

    Printable camping gear lists for families

    To make it easier for you to get started on your next family camping trip, we put our ultimate camping packing list for your family in a free printable 2-page PDF for you! Use this as the perfect start to create your own master packing list. You’ll also be signed up to receive our  AMAZING weekly newsletter, filled with fun outdoor activities and inspiration for getting your kids and family outside! You can opt-out anytime (although we’d hate to see you go). 

    [maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://mailchi.mp/6ad1ea8208c2/fw0osm9qnr” text=”PRINTABLE CAMPING GEAR LIST” ]

    Where will your next (or first) camping adventure be?
    Happy camping!

    About the author

    Indian Oracle is an interracial family of 3 based in Boulder, CO: Juno (Tyler), Misha (Uplabdhi), and their son Zen (Tarakshya). Juno and Misha have been raising Zen exclusively outdoors ever since he was born. His first outdoor exposure was a short hike at 2 weeks, and his first travel experience was an international flight at 2 months to India. Misha firmly believes that the outdoors brings out a holistic personality and growth of a child. Their family is always in the wilderness, raising their kid in the wild outdoors. They are passionate hikers, mountain bikers, and motorbikers. The Indian Oracle family is always on the go and encourages other families to quit a monotonous lifestyle by opting outdoors. They share easy, doable, and feasible ways to live an outdoor lifestyle. “You don’t need awesome gears and comfy campers to be outdoors, you need a passion and love for mother nature.”

    You can find more from Misha online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @indianoracle
    RWMC posts: Indian Oracle

  • CAMP, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, RECIPES, SUMMER

    Tips for Backyard Camping with Kids

    Camping with kids is so much fun, but it’s also so much work! If you’re intimidated by venturing out for a camping trip with your kids or just want a fun way to spend a few more hours outside together, why not give backyard camping a try! Today, Creative Team member Meghan Garriott, Illinois mom of 3 is here with us sharing some brilliant and creative tips and tricks to make your backyard camping with kids adventure a success!

    {This post contains affiliate links.}

    Tips for backyard camping with kids

    Backyard camping with kids

    Camping is a great way to get outside, enjoy nature, and spend some quality time unplugged. Camping with children can be tough and intimidating, though. Especially if you’re new to camping. Trying to remember to bring everything they need, keeping them entertained, and cooking food they like to eat can be stressful and overwhelming.

    Camping with kids is worth it, but it is a lot of work. If you have multiple children the amount of work and difficulty level can multiply quickly. However, we have a great solution that will be less work, less hassle, super fun, and get you and your kids prepared and excited about a camping adventure!

    Let me introduce you to backyard camping. Backyard camping is just that…camping in the backyard. It’s a great way to ease into real camping or just a great way to get outside and enjoy nighttime nature without the hassle of packing up everyone and everything. If you’re just getting started with camping, want to see how your kids will handle it or just want to spend an evening under the stars (with all the amenities of home nearby), backyard camping is going to be perfect for you!

    playground activitiesImage credit: @meghangarriott

    How to pick your backyard campsite 

    When setting up your campsite in your backyard, there are a few things to consider:

    1. Cooking and eating (campfire and table/chairs)
    2. Sleeping arrangements (tent or other)
    3. Activities or games (enough space to play)

    You don’t need a ton of space for backyard camping, but you’ll want to have a designated space for each of these things, if possible. All three of these designated areas can vary greatly depending on where you live, the size of your yard, and what you plan to use for each. 

    Eating, sleeping and spending time outside are the quintessential elements needed for a camping trip. You don’t have to get fancy with any of them, but try to incorporate them to give yourself and your kids a genuine camping experience. Below are some ideas you can use to plan your camping trip in the backyard. 

    Tents in backyardImage credit: @sara_mccarty

    Backyard camping food 

    A big part of the camping experience is the food. The great part about backyard camping is you don’t have to pack up all that food first and haul it to your campsite. You don’t have to worry about coolers and ice and bring everything you need to cook. You can be a little more creative with your camping food with your refrigerator so close.

    If you have a place in your backyard for a campfire or a small fire pit, we highly encourage you to use it for your camping meals! That will help give you an authentic camping experience and help you gain confidence in what you’ll need to cook when you’re on a camping trip away from home. Plus, it’s super fun for the kids! It’s definitely not every day they get to cook over a fire! If you don’t have a fireplace or a fire pit using, the grill at home is another good option.

    Some of our family’s favorite campfire foods include the classics like s’mores and hotdogs.  We also love some more creative creations like grilled jelly and cream cheese sandwiches, “cinnamon bears”, and campfire pizzas. Foil packet dinners are always fun. I’ve included some kid-friendly camping recipes below!

    We have a great article about involving kids in the fire-making process. And another on tips for outdoor cooking with kids, which will tell you how to get your kids involved in food prep and meal planning for your camping trip. 

    Child with Marshmallow on a stickImage credit: @meghangarriott

    Creative campfire recipes

    Here are a few of our family’s favorite campfire recipes and treats. None of these are too complicated and you can get as creative with them as you want and to your family’s taste. I hope you’ll try a few of these recipes out at your next backyard camping adventure!

    Grilled jelly and cream cheese sandwiches

    To make grilled jelly and cream cheese sandwiches we use a campfire pie iron. Use two slices of buttered bread. On the inside of one slice use about 2 tablespoons of whipped cream cheese, on the other slice use your favorite fruit jelly or jam. Use the pie iron to cook them just like you would a regular grilled cheese about a minute or so for each side.

    Then enjoy a delicious and easy grilled jelly and cream cheese sandwich. This can be a great breakfast option or a dessert option. This can also be made over your backyard grill if you are not using a firepit.

    Cinnamon bears

    “Cinnamon bears” are a family favorite that I made with my family camping while growing up. These use a loaf of French bread, butter, cinnamon, sugar, and a roasting stick. Cut the French bread into thick slices. Dip the sides into butter then into a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Put it on the stick and roast over the fire till the sugar caramelizes. This was always our go-to breakfast growing up!

    Cast-iron skillet pizza

    The last creative camping dish you should try during your backyard camping trip is cast-iron skillet pizza. A cast-iron skillet is a great Multi-use tool for camping and for in the kitchen. Check out this recipe for the cast iron skillet pizza. If pizza isn’t your thing check out this list for a ton of fun cast iron camping recipes.

    Foil-packet meals

    Foil packet meals can be anything you want them to be! These can be made ahead of time and placed on/in the fire to cook. We usually do some combination of meat and veggies, tossed in seasoning and maybe a dab of olive oil. We’ve done everything from steak strips with Brussel sprouts to freshly caught trout with lemon and broccoli. 

    Child by campfire - how to camp in your own backyard with kidsImage credit: @sara_mccarty

    Backyard camping sleeping arrangements 

    The great thing about sleeping outside in your backyard versus a traditional campsite is it probably has less wildlife (and fewer bugs), so your outdoor sleeping options are a little broader. When considering the different sleeping arrangements for backyard camping don’t overthink it. Kids will likely be excited to sleep with whatever you give them because it is fun and exciting just to be sleeping outside!

    And while you may have fewer bugs in the backyard than out in the wilderness, it’s still a good idea to spray whatever you plan to sleep in with some bug spray or permethrin to keep mosquitoes and ticks away.

    Image credit: @sara_mccarty

    Backyard tent camping 

    Tents range in size, rooms, and difficulty to set up. If you are camping in your backyard to prepare for a larger camping trip it’s a good idea to set up your tent at home first. And even sleep in it! This way, you know what you are doing once you get to an actual campsite, and you know all the tools and gadgets you will need once you are away from home, how much space you have inside and the way you want to set everything up. This step is great for helping build your confidence if you’re a new camper.

    If you aren’t preparing for a camping trip away from home and are just backyard camping for fun, any kind of tent will do. Homemade tents built out of sheets or tarps can be a fun activity and learning opportunity for kids. Or you can even set up camp in the kids’ clubhouse or make some kind of fort. 

    Backyard campsite - setting up a tent in the backyardImage credit: @thimbleandtwig

    Hammocks

    Tents are not the only way to sleep outside! If you have some trees or poles to use, hammocks are a super fun and comfortable option for backyard camping and really allow you to enjoy the night. We recommend the hammocks with mosquito netting so you don’t get eaten alive overnight! 

    If opting for hammocks, you’ll want to make sure the kids using them overnight are older and are able to get in and out of them easily on their own. Hammocks may not be an appropriate option for young kids to sleep in overnight. 

    Boy in hammock - backyard camping with kidsImage credit: @wonderclubexplorers

    Sleeping bags

    Don’t have a tent or a clubhouse or a hammock? Never fear! Sleeping bags can be used alone on the ground – they’re not just for use inside a tent. If you live in the county or in a smaller town with minimal light pollution, sleeping in a sleeping bag underneath a full sky of stars is magical.  If you lay long enough and pay attention to the sky on a clear night you will likely even see a few shooting stars!

    Sleeping bags come in lots of fun options, with different thicknesses, and tend to roll up and pack up nicely and easily for kiddos. We recommend a lightweight sleeping bag if you’re camping in the summer months. If you don’t have sleeping bags though no worries.  You are just steps away from the house when backyard camping, so it is easy enough to throw some blankets and pillows outside to use as well. 

    Another perk to being in your backyard is having easy assess to electricity. So if you want to be extra comfy while sleeping outside you can blow up a nice big air mattress to put in your tent. This is often what my husband does when camping in the yard with my kids. You can also use a blow-up pool raft. 

    backyard hammock camping with kidsImage credit: @sara_mccarty

    Set the mood for backyard camping

    A tent and a campfire are probably enough to really make it feel like camping! But if you want to get extra creative and really set the mood, stringing lights, setting out tiki torches, or just using some lanterns is a fun way to bring light to your backyard campsite. Since you’re just at home perfection can go out the window. You can string up some old Christmas lights or some rope lights. If you don’t have those, tiki torches are a great way to keep bugs away and give off some added campfire glow (you can even get citronella torch fuel).

    While you’re putting up lights or lanterns, don’t forget about the playset or tree house if you have them! Even though the children may play on these playsets every day, playing on them in the dark with some fun lighting will bring new life to them and give them something fun to do after the sun sets. 

    Playset lit up at night - backyard camping tips and ideasImage credit: @meghangarriott

    Backyard camping games and activities 

    And speaking of fun things to do when you’re backyard camping, now is the time to break out the slackline, glow sticks, sparklers, and flashlights for some fun games! 

    Slackline

    During daylight hours, one of our kids’ favorite things to do on a camping trip is to play on the slackline. We always bring our slackline on camping trips and set it up for the kids to play on. Sometimes they’ll spend hours walking on it, bouncing, playing games, challenging each other. It’s a great screen-free way to keep them entertained. 

    Glow sticks

    Glow sticks are fun, but when kids are decked out in glow bracelets and necklaces, they are also a great way to be able to see your children as they run around in the dark! Last summer we found a glow stick ring toss game that entertained the kids outside for quite some time. You could easily make your own glow stick ring toss by making rings out of some sticks and sticking a few straight in the ground.

    Flashlight tag

    Another fun and classic evening game is flashlight tag! Every house I’ve ever stayed at has had different flashlight tag rules. So grab your flashlights (or headlamps) and your running shoes, make up your own rules, and get out and play!

    Catching fireflies

    Here in the Midwest, our favorite backyard activity is catching fireflies. This activity can be reserved for dusk, before you break out your glow sticks, sparklers, and flashlights. If using a mason jar to collect and observe, try turning it upside down to better see them, as the lightning bugs like to fly upwards. Try to make sure you release them after 15 minutes so they can find their mate and continue making more lightning bugs for future fun!

    For more on lightning bugs, we’ve got a whole post dedicated to Fun with Fireflies. 

    Boy holding mason jar with lightening bugs - backyard camping activities for kidsImage credit: @meghangarriott

    Backyard camping freedom 

    Taking kids on the road for a camping trip can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming. But, when you bring camping to your own backyard a whole new world can open up. Your options for food, fun, and sleep are so much greater, which can allow the whole family a little more fun with a lot less stress. Backyard camping is a great way to gauge your family’s interest and ability to go on another camping trip a little further from home. Happy camping!

    What are your favorite backyard camping tips?

    About the author

    Meghan is a country living, mom of 2 boys in rural central Illinois (with a baby girl on the way). She is a Physical Therapist Assistant by trade but spends most of her time outside with her family. At home, she has large flower, herb, and vegetable gardens to tend to and 3 large dogs to play with. As a family, they enjoy hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and helping her in-laws show and raise livestock. Photography became a hobby while in isolation after her oldest son’s bone marrow transplant. It has since become a passion to capture her family’s daily life. Throughout her family’s journey with rare disease and transplant, the outdoors have been a safe space for the whole family to grow, learn, and thrive.

    You can find more from Meghan online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @meghangarriott
    RWMC posts: Meghan Garriott

  • BEACH, BIKE, CAMP, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK, SPRING, SUMMER, WATER

    7 Family-Friendly Places to Explore in Illinois

    Illinois might not be on the very top of your family’s outdoor adventure bucket list. But, this Midwest state just might surprise you with some really incredible hikes and trails, amazing state parks, camping options, lake adventures, and more! Today, Creative Team member Meghan Garriott, Illinois mom of 2 (soon to be 3) shares 7 of her family’s favorite free family-friendly places to explore in Illinois! (try saying that five times fast!) If you’re in or around Illinois (or even just driving through on a road trip this summer), make sure you check out this post and add a few of these destinations to your adventure list! 

    Family-friendly outdoor places to explore in Illinois

    7 outdoor places to explore in Illinois

    Let’s be honest here, Illinois is not usually a top destination for scenic views or epic outdoor adventures. When most people think of Illinois, cornfields and Chicago are probably the only 2 things that come to mind. And while both of those are a big part of this state, you might be surprised to find that between the big city and miles of corn and soybeans, Illinois has some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural habitats in the Midwest. There are high waterfalls, deep canyons, enormous bluffs, and prairies and waterways that are full of life and beauty. Read along to discover some of Illinois’ most beautiful and fun-filled outdoor places to explore with your family. 

    1. Matthiessen State Park 

    Matthiessen State Park is in Northern Illinois, just about an hour or so outside of Chicago. It is positioned just south of the Illinois River and next to its better-known neighbor Starved Rock State Park (see below).

    Thanks to the Vermilion River that winds and curves throughout Matthiessen, there is no shortage of waterways to play in or gape at during your visit. The most scenic of these waterways are the upper and lower dells. The lower dells is home to a towering 45 foot waterfall called Cascade Falls. This waterfall is breathtaking to view from the bottom, inside the canyon. 

    Cascade Falls at Matthiessen State Park

    Favorite Matthiessen trails 

    Matthiessen State Park is broken up into two areas: (1) the Vermilion River Area, and (2) the Dells Area, as seen on the trail map. Dells area is where you will find the Cascade falls along with other falls and sights like “Giants Bath Tub” and “Devil’s Paint Box”. The best trail to see all the sights is the Dells Canyon and Bluff trail. Along this trail there are many stairs, bridges and wet crossings.

    Both these trails are fun for kids of all ages. However, make sure you bring a change of clothes for everyone. The trails are often wet and/or muddy during the spring and summer. If you’re going down to the lower dells, be prepared for a lot of stairs. This is not a stroller-friendly trail and little legs may tire quickly.

    When visiting Matthiessen State Park in prime season (spring and summer), I recommend going on a weekday. Due to its proximity to the city it can be a very popular destination for those looking to escape into nature. If you love chasing waterfalls put Matthiessen on your list!

    Wet crossing at Matthiessen State Park - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Wet crossing at the upper Dells

    2. Ferne Clyffe State Park 

    Ferne Clyffe State Park is an all-time favorite for my family. Its versatility in scenery and low difficulty trails make it an easy place to spend the entire day with little kids. Tucked right in the middle of the Shawnee National Forest, Ferne Clyffe has some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring rock formations. One of my children’s favorite rock formations has been named “Spider-Man Rock” (pictured below) because you can slide down like Spider-Man does on buildings. In addition to rock formations it boasts beautiful waterfalls and tons of fern-covered foliage. 

    Moss covered rocks Ferne Clyffe State Park - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Spider-Man Rock

    Kid-friendly Ferne Clyffe trails

    When hiking with children, especially young children, it’s nice to have some short trail options. Ferne Clyffe has 8 trails that are under 1 mile. While these trails are short, they definitely do not lack views. Many of short trails begin in the same area centered around a picnic area, which is great for resting, snacking, and potty breaks between trails. I love how different each trail is despite being so close in proximity to each other.

    Rebman Trail, Hawks Cave Trail, and Big Rocky Hollow Trail all start from the same parking lot but boast very different views. Rebman Trail has high rock formations where rock climbing and repelling can be enjoyed. Hawks Cave Trail (pictured below) leads to and under one of the largest shelter bluffs in Illinois. Big Rocky Hollow Trail is a wide wheelchair accessible trail that leads to a 100foot tall waterfall. Learn more here about accessibility and exploring the outdoors with medically complex children.

    Family in shelter bluff
    Hawks Cave trail

    Ferne Clyffe waterfalls

    Nearly every time we visit this waterfall at Ferne Clyffe we have it all to ourselves. Even on the weekends, this stat park is relatively slow, which is great for being able to sit back and enjoy nature’s beauty. This waterfall is intermittent, however. It is usually flowing the most in the spring and dries up with little rain or during the heat of that summer.

    The trail to the waterfall is easy and the water around the bottom is shallow and fun for kids to splash around in. With all the green foliage and the mini waterfalls that surround the big one, it is easy to forget you are in Illinois, as it feels much like a jungle. 

    Boy in blue at the bottom of a waterfall

    3. Rock Springs Conservation Area

    We are bringing things back to the middle of the Prairie State with our third favorite outdoor Illinois destination – Rock Springs Conservation Area. Rock Springs is one of 5 conservation areas in Macon County, Illinois. Their mission is to promote the conservation of natural and cultural resources by acquiring, maintaining, and restoring natural areas and cultural sites so as to leave them unimpaired for future generations.

    At Rock Springs, there is so much to learn about native Illinois. You can easily spend a day learning, exploring, and enjoying without spending a dollar. Its many trails lead through historic prairies with native grasses and wildflowers. There is a paved bike trail as well as many grass and dirt trails.

    One of our favorite places to hike through is the old Christmas tree farm, which now boasts tall pine trees and an open forest floor.  If hiking is not your thing you can still spend the whole day here learning at the historic prairie house, fishing from the ponds with borrowed equipment from the nature center, or exploring the nature center itself. 

    Sun burst through pine trees
    Pine Forest at Rock Springs

    Rock Springs Nature Center 

    The Rock Springs Nature Center is a great place to hang out on hot summer days or cold winter days. There are many fun and educational exhibits that focus on habitat and history in Illinois. The Ecocenter is a hands-on and interactive museum exhibit inside the nature center. This exhibit features life-sized native wildlife inside their habitat, and shows how the environment in Illinois is ever-changing.

    The other part of the nature center houses live animals like turtles, snakes, fish, and salamanders. The nature center also has a free-to-the-public library, which is great for curious kiddos when that weather doesn’t allow outdoor exploring.

    One of our favorite rooms in the nature center is bird viewing window. There is a big comfy couch in front of a wall-sized window that allows you to comfortably enjoy many birds as they come and go from the many feeders. If you are going to be in the area be sure to check out their website, as they often have educational events for children year-round, making it one of the best family-friendly places to explore in Illinois.

    Boy viewing birds out large window
    Bird Viewing Window at at Rock Springs Nature Center

    4. Garden of the Gods 

    Garden of the Gods is definitely one of those places that you cannot believe is in Illinois. The views year-round are breathtaking. Garden of the Gods is said to be one of the most photographed places in Illinois. It’s not hard to see why. Garden of the Gods is one of the best family-friendly places to explore in Illinois.

    The Observation trail leads you high above the treetops looking over unique sandstone rock formations. This trail is only about .25 miles long but there are many stops and observation lookouts along the way so it can take up to an hour to finish. While short, the Observation Trail can be dangerous because of the high cliffs. You will want to make sure children walking this trail have a good safety awareness and stay close to the trail itself. While the Observation Trail is the most popular trail there are many other trails to explore. There is also a campground and picnic area so that you can stay a little longer. If coming through Illinois Garden of the Gods is a must-see site.

    Garden of the Gods - Family-friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Garden of the Gods from the Observation Trail

    5. Allerton Park and Retreat Center 

    Allerton Park is unlike any of the other locations on this list of family-friendly places to explore in Illinois. Allerton Park started out as a private residence, then was donated to the University of Illinois. According to their website, the property is used by the University as an education and research center, as a forest and wildlife and plant reserve, as an example of landscape gardening, in a public park. U of I now oversees its 14 miles of hiking trails, 1500 acres of woodland and prairie, a 10-acre meadow, it’s many many gardens. The gardens include sculpture gardens, annual and perennial gardens, a conifer garden, and many more.

    Boy looking at purple flowers
    One of the gardens are Allerton Park

    Allerton Park garden trails 

    While Allerton Park has lovely woodland trails, but when we visit, it’s usually for the garden trails. You can spend a lot of time walking and enjoying the gardens through many different seasons. In the spring the peony garden has many different varieties of peonies and is one of the most pleasing smelling gardens. One of my kids’ favorite things to do at Allerton Park is to walk between the arborvitae where small trails allow kids to walk along the main trail (pictured below).

    If you were looking for somewhere to stay in the area, the Allerton has many overnight options, including guest rooms in the Allerton historic mansion or 3 different guesthouses around the property. You can plan your visit or look at lodging options here. 

    Boy in red hat among the arborvitae
    Arborvitae trail that runs along the main garden trail

    6. Giant City State Park 

    Giant City State Park, in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, is one of our top family-friendly places to explore in Illinois. Like Ferne Clyffe and Garden of the Gods, it has beautiful rock formations. Giant City’s rock formations differ from the other two though, in that many of the trails take you through rock formations that look much like walls of a city for giants! This is where the park gets its name. The Giant City Nature Trail is a favorite for viewing the scale of these large rock walls as well a heap of plants, animals, and insects. 

    Giant City State Park, Illinois - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Giant City Nature Trail

    Giant City camping and lodge

    The campground at Giant City is one of my family’s favorites. We have camped here in both the summer and fall seasons and thoroughly enjoyed both. Each time we’ve stayed we’ve eaten one meal at the Giant City Lodge restaurant, which is great. In addition to 85 campsites, they also offer 34 cabins with heating/air conditioning. Just down from the Lodge and restaurant is a Nature Center, which is a great place to start your day and learn about all that you may see while hiking the trails of Giant City.  If you are looking for a one-stop place to camp/stay, hike, eat, and learn, then Giant City should be on your list!

    Giant City Nature Trail - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Giant City Nature Trail

    7. Lake Shelbyville 

    Our final place to explore in Illinois is back in the heartland of the state. There is no shortage of outdoor activities to be done on and around the banks of Lake Shelbyville, making it one of the best family-friendly places to explore in Illinois. This man-made lake which runs along the Kaskaskia river is made up of 11,100 acres of water, and 23,000 acres of land.

    There are over 50 miles of developed multipurpose trails. The bike trails are a favorite for our family. Our favorite bike trails are: (1) Camp Camfield, outside Sullivan, Illinois, (2) The General Dacey Trail, and (3) the Pumptrax at the head of the Dacey Trail. Both of these last two trails are located at the southern part of the lake in Shelbyville, Illinois. 

    Child in red shirt and helmet riding bike over ramp
    General Dacey Bike Trail

    Water fun at Lake Shelbyville

    While most of the places on this list are most enjoyed during the fall, spring, and summer seasons, Lake Shelbyville is definitely your go-to place for summer fun. There is not a better summer day than hanging out with the family in the hot sun and splashing in the cool water.

    Whether it be by boat or beach, there is no shortage of family-friendly outdoor places to explore along this lake for outdoor fun.  If you don’t have a boat, both Findlay Marina and Lithia Springs Marina have rental options for fishing boats, pontoon boats, or houseboats. While out enjoying the lake you will see all kinds of water sports, from water skiing to tubing, to fishing and everything in between.

    When visiting Lake Shelbyville, don’t forget to visit the 108-foot high dam that allows water from the lake to flow into the Kaskaskia River. Down the road from the dam is the Lake Shelbyville Visitors Center. The visitor center includes aquariums and terrariums, a library, an art exhibit, an education room, and expansive views of the lake and dam areas. It’s a great place to learn about water safety, wildlife along the lake, and the building of the lake itself.  

    If you are interested in spending a fun-filled week in the water, check out the many campground and cabin rental options. 

    Lake Shelbyville - Family friendly places to explore in Illinois
    Playing in Lake Shelbyville on a summer day

    Budget-friendly outdoor family fun in Illinois

    Illinois may not be at the top of everyone’s vacation bucket list, but there is no shortage of beautiful views and fun adventures to be had. And because everyone isn’t flocking to see the views, all of these adventures are budget-friendly and almost always less crowded than well-known tourist destinations. Each of these family-friendly places to explore in Illinois can be visited for free, all you have to do is get there! If you are looking for a fun adventure getaway for the whole family, without breaking the bank, make sure you put Illinois on your list. You never know…Illinois might surprise you with its beautiful views and outdoor adventures to be had. 

    About the author

    Meghan is a country living, mom of 2 boys in rural central Illinois. She is a Physical Therapist Assistant by trade but spends most of her time outside with her family. At home, she has large flower, herb, and vegetable gardens to tend to and 3 large dogs to play with. As a family, they enjoy hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and helping her in-laws show and raise livestock. Photography became a hobby while in isolation after her oldest son’s bone marrow transplant. It has since become a passion to capture her family’s daily life. Throughout her family’s journey with rare disease and transplant, the outdoors have been a safe space for the whole family to grow, learn, and thrive.

    You can find more from Meghan online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @meghangarriott
    RWMC posts: Meghan Garriott

  • CAMP, HIKE, INFORMATION, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Outdoor Skills: Teaching Kids How to Build A Fire & Fire Safety Tips

    Having outdoor skills like knowing how to build a fire are important when you spend a lot of time outside. Teaching kids how to build fires isn’t very difficult, but it does take some thought, planning, and time. Plus, teaching your children basic fire safety tips and advice is something that may be invaluable and could possibly save lives. Today, Georgia homeschooling mom of three, SarahRuth Owens walks us through the basic fire safety skills and tips for teaching kids how to build a fire. 

    Teaching Kids How to Build A Fire & Fire Safety Tips for Kids

    Teaching basic fire skills to kids

    If your kids are like my boys, they love the idea of creating a fire, cooking over a fire, and even extinguishing a fire. Having a firestarter in your home is a fun journey. Kids learn so much as they practice following directions, caring for the environment around them, and more. Furthermore, they begin to feel responsibility and ownership of their time outside. When children have a buy-in, a role, they really want to be in that place often. So let’s get started; let’s teach our kids how to build fires. 

    Smokey the Bear says “safety first”

    Conversations and practice are the best ways to teach kids how to build fires. When my boys were 2-3 years old, we began this process. As we were outdoors nearly daily, they sat around a fire, gathered kindling, and helped put out a fire from a very young age.

    Let me begin by telling you that 6 years ago, I knew nothing about building a fire. Zero. Zilch. So do not be intimidated. You can learn just like I did. Go with a friend who enjoys building fires and knows how. Watch, ask questions, be like a kid learning to build a fire. In truth, I think this might be the best way anyhow. If you don’t have someone to show you how, you can always Google it! There are tons of videos and articles out there that will show you exactly how to build a fire. 

    Fire safety tips for kids

    If you recently learned how to build fires, then you will remember the safety rules, the steps involved, etc. If it’s been a while, here’s a quick refresher of some important rules to establish when teaching kids how to build a fire and teaching children about fire safety:

    • Location – Only build a fire in an area you know allows it.
    • Fire ban – Make sure there are no fire bans. 
    • Check the wind – Windy days are not fire-friendly days. 
    • Clear the area – Make sure there’s nothing in the area where you’ll be making the fire. This is such a good project for littles, they can begin this in their toddler years.
    • Wood only – Remind kids that the only thing that goes into a fire is wood. No fresh weeds or vines. No food. No plastic. 
    • Water supply – Have a working water hose or a vessel filled with water near your fire ring.

    These fire safety tips can be parts of conversations you have while you build fires near your children. It can take months of this type of conversation before some will feel comfortable heading into fire building with a child. Eventually, your firestarter should be able to tell you these rules independently. Knowing this information and being able to implement it without reminders, is the first step towards autonomy when building fires. 

    Fire Building and Campfire Safety Tips for Kids

    Basic steps of building a fire

    Once a child knows the basic safety rules, they’re ready to start building a fire. Teaching kids to build a fire occurs in steps. Dependent on the age of your kids, they can help with various tasks. Before the actual fire starting can begin, they’ll need to clear the area, gather kindling, and demonstrate that they know and observe safety practices near an active fire. Then, they are ready to begin to build.

    The basic steps of building a fire go like this:

    1. Location – Choose a spot with at least a 10-foot circumference of clearing, there should be no overhanging branches.
    2. Clear the area – Remove all brush, twigs, leaves, etc. from around the fire area.
    3. Dig a small pit – Some sites recommend as deep as one foot. Our family chooses to not make so deep of a pit and instead focus on a larger fire ring.
    4. Create a ring – Arrange rocks around the space you will build an active fire. 
    5. Gather wood – A fire needs three things: fuel, oxygen, and heat. Wood is the fuel. You want three types of wood: Tinder, kindling, and logs/large wood.
    6. Arrange the wood – There are a couple of different options for setting up your firewood. We go over the teepee and log cabin styles below. 
    7. Ignite the kindling – Finally, ignite the kindling to get the fire started.

    Looking at the list above, things might feel overwhelming. So, let’s move through the fire-building process step-by-step. 

    How to choose a safe fire location

    Choosing a location is probably the easiest and most self-explanatory part of teaching kids how to build a fire. Kids should understand where are good fire spots and where are not. Having adults help with this is necessary and not something I would pass off to a child until they have shown their understanding many, many times. Practically speaking, I let my boys show me where they would like to build. They typically choose well, but, occasionally they need a reminder about being too close to a tree or other structure, or if there’s a limb hanging overhead. 

    Clear the area and make a fire ring

    As I said earlier, clearing an area can be something even your youngest firestarters can help with. Having a space for your fire free from things that could burn is essential. In our family, digging a pit is optional. If you have properly cleared an area and created a ring with rocks, plan to maintain and remain with the fire, you can decide if you need a pit or not. They can be great for camping, as it creates an easily reusable space. One of my boys’ favorite parts of fire building is the ring itself. Something about hunting rocks and shaping the ring is just fun!

    Fire building tips for kids

    Gathering wood for a fire

    When teaching kids how to build a fire, you’ll need three types of wood: tinder, kindling, and fuel wood. We actually like to bring our own tinder (see below). For those times when you have no tinder with you, it can usually be found in your immediate surrounding area. You can use dry bits of grass, pine, moss, lichen, and leaves. Focusing on finding dry, crunchy leaves is the best.

    Once you have collected a good handful of tinder, you need kindling. It is fun to assign roles if more than one child is involved. Someone can be the tinder person, the kindling person, and the fuel wood person (of course, you’ll want to rotate). Kindling will be the small sticks and twigs you set up over the tinder. It will catch fire first and then ignite the fuel wood. 

    Choose your campfire style

    There are a few different ways to stack your wood so that it gets proper aeration for a long-lasting burn. For this discussion, we’ll cover the basics of the teepee/cone method and the log cabin method. Both are easy for kids to understand and create.

    A teepee tends to be a great and easy starting place. For the teepee/cone method, make a small teepee/cone of kindling around a few handfuls of tinder that are loosely piled in the center of the fire ring. Your tinder goes at the base of the fire and then your kindling is placed over it in a tent/cone shape. Once you have your kindling in place, you will build a larger tent shape with your fuel wood around your kindling. Light from beneath and blow as needed. Once the fire is going strong and the temperature increases, you can add larger logs a few at a time as needed. My boys love to build this and enjoy the challenge of getting it to stay upright.

    For the log cabin method, place two larger pieces of fuel wood parallel to each other on the ground in the center of the pit. Leave some room in between the logs. Then, place two more pieces of fuel wood criss-crossed on top in the other direction (like you’re building a log cabin) to form a square. Place your tinder inside the square. Continue adding a few more layers of fuel wood around the perimeter, getting a bit smaller with each layer. Finish your log cabin with a layer of kindling and tinder across the top to make a roof. Make sure you leave some space between the fuel wood logs so the fire can get plenty of oxygen. This build is great for longer and slower burns. 

    Some additional info on firewood

    Depending on where you’re making your fire, there may be restrictions on firewood. Usually, it’s recommended that you do not bring firewood with you if you’re traveling from more than 50 miles away or crossing large rivers. Some campgrounds may even ban bring-your-own firewood regardless of the distance you travel. This is to keep local insects out of certain areas and to prevent the spread of new (and possibly invasive) species into areas.  

    If you forage for firewood, make sure to show the kids how to gather only downed wood. Never cut live trees or break off branches from standing trees, even dead trees. Birds and wildlife make use of dead branches and snags. Fresh wood can also be an issue because sometimes it can be wrapped with poisonous vines that can cause reactions to the skin when burned. 

    Starting the fire

    Matches are our favorite item for lighting our campfires. Kids can simply toss the match into the fire once ignited. Easy peasy. Just make sure to supervise and stay close to your kids at all times. 

    DIY firestarters

    One of our favorite types of kindling is homemade firestarters. DIY firestarters are super easy to make and truly make the fire lighting process so easy. We gather our dryer lint and keep it in a bag in our kitchen along with any old candles (with that wee bit of wax in the bottom), used wax melts, string, twine, etc.

    When you want to make some tinder, you can use an old cardboard egg carton. Simply put some of the dry burning things in, heat the wax you’ve saved, and pour it over the dry pieces. This makes amazing firestarters. You can break off the carton cups and use one section at a time to start your fire. This is also another way children can be involved in the whole process. 

    Fire Safety for Kids - Teaching Kids About How To Build A Fire

    Putting out a fire

    Possibly the most important part of teaching kids how to build a fire and about fire safety is to teach them the proper way to put out a fire. Having a shovel and a bucket is a must. Bring these with you any time you build a fire outside. The shovel is to toss some dirt and stir your fire. A fire must be cold when you leave a site. A person should be able to touch the coals and not feel any heat. If there is heat, repeat!

    What do you repeat? Water, stir, touch. Adults only for touching, please (at least until you have a child who knows and understands when it may be too hot). Putting out a fire is a simple process, but teaching your kids to be sure it is stirred and cold it where it’s at. 

    Teaching kids how to build a fire is fun

    There is something truly magical about outdoor campfires. I love cooking over a fire, roasting marshmallows, and sitting beside a fire and crocheting. Teaching my kids how to build a fire has been an important outdoor survival skill. Seeing my sons take pride in a fire they built and can now enjoy, is the icing on top! There are so many fun things to do with a campfire. Once they can build a fire, they can practice making food in the campfire! They can catch fish and roast them. Kids will love the responsibility, the wonder, and the memories made!

    Don’t forget to ALWAYS use common sense and safety practices with fires. Especially as your children are learning. 

    Do you have tips for teaching children to build outdoor fires?

    Show us your campfires!
    Use the hashtag #runwildmychild and tag us on Instagram! 

    About the author

    SarahRuth is a homeschooling mother of three boys. She was raised in cities across the East coast, but now resides in the Appalachian Mountains of Georgia where her husband grew up. Passionate about inspiring others to shift from the status quo of Western indoor life, she launched a local Free Forest School chapter in 2017. Her family clocked over 2k hours outdoors in 2019 and believes that outside time as a family is vital to a joy-filled life. She collects books, stray children, and as much coffee as her body will permit. When not foraging, chasing waterfalls, or camping with her crew, you can find SarahRuth crossing the globe from her laptop, teaching English full time online! She has two bachelor’s degrees in Education and is passionate about teaching children to love learning through outdoor adventures.

    You can find more from SarahRuth in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @kindle_togetherness
    RWMC posts: SarahRuth 

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, BEACH, CAMP, FISH, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PHOTOGRAPHY, WINTER

    Winter Crabbing with Kids

    If you’re anywhere close to the coast and interested in a fun outdoor activity that will not only provide hours of entertainment, but also provide dinner, we’ve got a post for you! Today, Creative Team member and California mom of three, Araceli Gonzalez takes on a winter crabbing with kids adventure. She walks us through everything you need to know to get started winter crabbing with kids, what to bring and how to catch them! Enjoy (with butter)! 

    Winter Crabbing with Kids - Outdoor Winter Activities California

    Winter crabbing with kids

    Are you looking for a fun winter activity to do with your kids beachside? Are your kids into catching dinner? Let’s go CRABBING! Because there’s nothing quite as amazing as fresh crab with a side of BUTTER, right? Yes, please!

    One of our favorite winter activities is crabbing along the California Coast. Crabbing is a fun and easy activity for the entire family.  It’s a great way to get outside and catch some dinner while burning some energy, enjoying the fresh air, and taking in the scenery of the glorious coast. Going on a winter crab hunt makes for a fun day trip or a weekend camping adventure. We oftentimes crab hunt while camping and there is nothing like taking a bucket of crab back to our campsite, cooking it up over an open fire pit and enjoying it dipped in warm butter and a squeeze of fresh lemon! 

    I am no expert on crabbing, but will do my best to walk you through the basics!

    How to catch crabs for dinner - California Dungeness crabWinter Crabbing with Kids - California Coast

    Crabbing license & regulations

    We live in California and the most abundant crab around here is the Dungeness crab. Crabbing is popular along the Bay and up and down the Coast. While it may sound simple enough to go out and catch dinner, it’s important to understand local laws and regulations as they can change from year to year. 
     
    Before you venture out, make sure you read up on your local licensing requirements and understand the rules and regulations governing crabbing.  In California, recreational crabbing season runs from November through about July.  There are typically daily bag requirements as well as minimum size limits for the crabs you can catch and keep.
     
    We kick off the season in early November and enjoy it throughout the winter months.  Seasons and regulations vary by state and can change from year to year.  Recreating responsibly should always be top of mind so that we can all continue to enjoy these wild and gorgeous places.
     
    More regarding licensing requirements can be found at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife home page. 
     
    How to go winter crabbing with kids - California rules and regulations

    Crabbing equipment & supplies

    Although my husband is the real subject matter expert, I managed to pick his brain to bring you some of the basics and methods we use when crabbing.  Here are some basic supplies that you’ll need to get started crabbing:

    • gloves
    • ice chest
    • traps
    • bait
    • bait holder
    • crab measuring device
    • bait ties
    • crabbing license

    winter crabbing with kids

    How to catch crabs with a snare

    There are several ways to prepare for the big catch. We enjoy crabbing right from shore with snares and a fishing rod.  It’s a simple method that requires the least amount of equipment.  To crab right from the shoreline all you need is a fishing rod and a snare to attach to the end.

    A snare is a trap that tangles up the crab. It is a small bait box with loops of monofilament attached to it. Fill the snare with bait and toss it as far as possible from shore.  Once you catch the crab it’s important to follow local regulations pertaining to the size of the crab and whether it’s large enough to keep. Measure the crab and if it does not meet size requirements release them back into the ocean.

    My son helped this little guy right back into the ocean.  

    How to catch crab with snares and fishing poles

    Rod holders help prop up the fishing rod while you wait for the big catch.  Our boy sitting by the ocean and waiting for the bite…

    Winter Crabbing with Kids

    Catching crab using crab pots

    Now let’s talk crab pots.  How do they work?  Crab pots are larger and if you’re lucky, you can catch a lot more crab in one catch. Crab are lured into crab pots with bait. They walk directly into the large cages through openings that they can enter and once inside they cannot escape. There are several ways to tie the bait to the inside of cages and lots of different things you can use as crab bait.
     
    Our go-to crab bait is usually squid, anchovies, and chicken. Once you open the cage it’s important to measure all your crab and only keep those that meet the size requirement.  We carry a measuring tool that we use to determine which ones we can keep and the kids release the ones that are too small back into the ocean. 
     
    Crabbing with kids using crab pots

    How to handle crab

    Don’t get pinched! Safety always comes first when handling crab – both your safety and the safety of the crab. Crab handling is important and using caution can spare you from a pretty painful pinch.  Once you have a good grip on the center of the crab, you can pick the crab up without getting pinched. Hold them firmly, but not so hard it damages the shell. Wearing gloves is the safest option. Here my husband helped secure the crab for this photo very carefully.  He was pretty excited about his catch! 
     
    crabbing with kids

    Benefits of crabbing

    Crabbing requires patience, persistence, and has a meditative effect on kids and adults alike.  Just like fishing, crabbing is great for our mental health because you’re spending time outside, surrounded by nature, water, and sand. We love exposing our kids to outdoor activities that reduce stress and anxiety. We treasure these moments away from all the noise and crabbing together is a great way to relax as a family. It’s also a great way for kids to know, respect, and appreciate where their food comes from. It connects them to our planet and makes them want to protect it for themselves and the animals that share it with us. 

    Sometimes a day trip is all you need to really enjoy the relaxing benefits of crabbing. While it may seem like a lot of work (as is almost any outdoor adventure with kids), a day trip to our favorite crabbing spot is always worth it. When a long camping trip isn’t possible for us, we make the most of day trips, so we can still enjoy our favorite activities. Sometimes we’ll wake up at 6 am, pack a lunch, make breakfast burritos for the road, and head to the beach. We arrive early and enjoy an entire day of crabbing and playing at the beach. 

    Benefits of crabbing with kids

    A winter tradition for the entire family

    There are so many benefits in finding activities that the entire family can enjoy.  Crabbing has become a tradition for our family and we look forward to crab season every winter.  It means more beach adventure in the cold months when swimming and surfing aren’t an option. It’s also a healthy way for all of us to get outside, get some fresh air and Vitamin D (and Vitamin Sea). Just spending time near the water is often the cure for those winter blues. 
     
    And the opportunities for play for the kids are endless near the beach. Not everyone has to participate in the crabbing, there’s always plenty of other things to do. Digging sand holes, running through sand dunes, and simply enjoying our time together as a family.  It is a great winter activity that will leave your family with countless memories for years to come. 
     
    I hope to see you out on the coast! 
     
    benefits of outdoor time in the winter
    Winter beach activities and ideas for kids

    Have you ever caught a crab?

    About the author

    Araceli is a wife and momma to three wild and adventurous littles. She believes that nature and free play are truly the foundation of a beautiful childhood. Araceli and her husband have made it a priority to raise their children with a strong bond to the great outdoors. Araceli is a working mom with an extensive career in Project Management. She’s creative, crafty, and loves collecting houseplants. As a family, they love exploring wild places and she loves documenting their adventures.

    Find more from Araceli in the following locations:
    Instagram: @roaminggonzalez
    All RWMC posts: Araceli 

  • CAMP, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WINTER

    Winter Car Camping With Kids

    If you’re anything like me, sometimes you catch yourself wishing the winter months away in anticipation of all the fun outdoor activities you can do in spring and summer. Camping is among our family’s favorite things to do during the warmer months and we miss it during the winter. But, do we have to? Who says that camping is only for summer? Today, Oklahoma dad of two and outdoor enthusiast Jared Ryan shares his tips for winter car camping with kids. He’s got all you need to know to get started car camping with your family during the colder months. This post is packed with all his favorite winter camping gear, advice for what to pack, how to make sleeping comfortable for everyone, and more! 

    The need for winter adventures

    For a lot of us, winters can feel long and somewhat unadventurous. Sure, we have the buildup of excitement for our holiday season; but, inevitably there comes a familiar lull in the long wait for spring. For my kids, cabin fever sets in by the middle of December. They need out of the house now.

    So, forget about waiting until spring to get outside. That’s too long to wait and such a waste of a beautiful season. This is why we decided to start car camping in the winter… Yep, winter. Their need to get outside (thankfully) drove us to become cozier with the idea of sleeping under the winter-night stars.

    We introduced our kids to ‘cold weather’ car camping early on. The first time we took them out in the winter they were two and three years old, so they’re used to it and don’t think we’re super crazy. I remember that trip more vividly than most, mainly because I was somewhat surprised and impressed at how well they handled the cool temps.

    It was a late winter weekend, with fairly mild temperatures. The low that evening was around 42 degrees Fahrenheit. We were camped out in a small four-person tent with my and my wife’s sleeping bags zipped together around all four of us. I remember being so worried that the kids would get too cold and we’d be packing up and heading home by 1 am. Much to my surprise and delight, the kids never made a peep! We fell asleep to coyotes howling within (what felt like) 200m from our camp and woke up to turkeys gobbling and strutting through our campsite.

    I remember my son dancing on the picnic table that morning while I heated up milk for their hot chocolate. While my wife and I sipped our morning coffee and snuggled up next to the campfire, the kids were running around in the trees next to our camp. That’s when I withdrew any reservations about taking out littles out during the winter months. The cold never bothered them anyway.

    How to go car camping with kids in the winter

    What is car camping?

    Basically, car camping is camping with your vehicle. You can “car camp” anywhere that you can drive up to in your car, truck, or van. While car camping can also mean literally sleeping in your car, that’s not a requirement. You can also sleep in a tent, hammock or wherever floats your boat. The key is that you arrive to your campsite in your vehicle and keep your vehicle onsite, which allows you to carry more essentials than a backpacking trip or somewhere you don’t have access to your car.

    We’ve been car camping for years. And while we are still not experts, we have fun learning more with every trip. Over time, we’ve acquired a solid knowledge bank of what it takes to make winter car camping just as much fun (and often more fun) as those spring and summer trips. The bonus of winter car camping is that you can enjoy your favorite campgrounds all to yourself!

    tips for making winter car camping with kids comfortable

    You set the tone for the experience

    First and foremost, when you go car camping with kids, make sure you are the cheerleader for your kids. They need you to reassure them that the temperatures are not a big deal. Eventually, they will no longer worry about how cold it’s going to be at night after they have experienced a few of these trips. Your attitude and mindset in this experience will set the tone of the trip and they’ll be much more confident and content when they see you’re relaxed and having fun.

    Winter car camping gear

    Next, it’s all about the gear. I’ve heard several iterations of the Scandinavian saying and I believe it holds true; “There is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothing.” That saying holds true in the winter more than any other time.

    Yes, I know that camping gear can get really pricey when trying to buy for your whole family. That’s especially tricky to justify before knowing if they’ll even enjoy camping. However, there is no reason to not start out using what you already have. Remember, when car camping, you have the luxury of bringing EVERYTHING that you can possibly fit in your vehicle. You may greatly overpack those first few trips, but you’ll quickly figure out what you need (and what you don’t) and will adjust accordingly. 

    This can get cumbersome when loading up, so while packing EVERYTHING is possible, you won’t need it all. And you’ll quickly realize that while loading the car. I am confident to say that you will most certainly NEVER be as organized when packing out to head home. This is still a mystery to me, seriously, how does this always happen? 

    What is car camping?

    What to pack for winter car camping with kids

    As your experience grows and you get a feel for camping, you’ll start to get familiar with the areas where you’d prefer to invest more money into more compact and purposeful gear. There are endless options for improvement and no shortage of cool camping gear out there. The options are endless, but you don’t need it all to get started. 

    What we’ve done over the year may also work for you. With each of our outings, we mark items off our list that we didn’t find a use for or need and recorded new processes that have worked well for us or noted items we wished we packed. For cold weather camping, most of the gear and processes revolve around the night. A cold, sleepless night can turn your kids into cold weather one-and-dones. Adding these few key routines and items to your current camping setup can definitely ease the worry about sleeping in the cold.

    How to stay warm when camping with kids during the winter

    How to stay warm at night when winter car camping with kids

    The best advice when winter car camping with kids is to make sure to get your kiddos warm BEFORE bed. We use a Mr. Heater Buddy heater to warm our hands and feet before getting ready for bed. This is a small propane heater that shuts off when tipped and has a carbon monoxide(CO) sensor in them. Although they are rated to be safe for sleeping, we do not sleep with this lit, nor do we use it in an enclosed space. If you do, I would suggest getting a CO detector to place close to your bed.

    To stay warm through the night, pour hot water into a Nalgene bottle to hold between your legs or place it at the end of your sleeping bag. I haven’t tried this, but I have friends that love and swear by this tip. 

    Serve up dense foods for dinner that will keep your body burning calories well into the night. We try and stick to high protein dinners when camping. Try to limit water an hour before bed. For us, this includes limiting water for the dogs. It’s tough getting out of your warm bed in the middle of the night to take a kid (or dog) outside to go potty. It definitely happens, but if you can avoid it, you’ll stay warmer overnight.

    Check the rating on your sleeping bag and the temperature list. That number assumes that you are wearing clothes while sleeping in it. Did you know that? When we camp in the winter, we sleep in our sleeping bags, under our comforter at night. We use zero degree sleeping bags along with a system of layering clothing that goes from the toes up in the following order: (1) tight Smartwool socks under thick, looser cotton socks (the looser sock helps provide a pocket of heat to circulate around the tight sock.), (2) thermal underwear or Smartwool base layer for the legs and torso, (3) a sweatshirt up top, and (4) beanies on our heads. We still stay away from hoodies on our kids when they are asleep. 

    How to stay warm at night when winter car camping with kids

    Car camping with kids sleeping setup

    Instead of a sleeping pad, we bring a futon mattress. Sounds weird, I know, but we started using this method just because we already had it available. Over the years, we’ve tried numerous sleeping pads and air mattresses. Although there are tons of insulated options out there, I have yet to find one that keeps us as warm as the futon mattress in subfreezing temperatures. 

    Next, we add flannel sheets, then our sub-zero sleeping bags, and top with our comforter! This is a game-changer. We’ve also used a power bank to run an electric blanket as another option. If you’ve got those things, use them! 

    Bring along your pillows from home. Camp pillows work fine, but when you can bring your regular pillows from home, why not? That’s one of the biggest perks of car camping! Bring what makes you comfy! 

    Pack clothes that are dedicated to sleeping and not used for anything else. You definitely want everyone to change into fresh clothes right before bed to make sure no one is sleeping in damp clothes from perspiration or playing in the water. My kids play hard all the way up until bed, so we wait until we’re ready to climb into the sheets before changing.  

    Don’t forget the indoor activities. When it’s cold, we tend to go to bed earlier. So we have enjoyed spending time reading books (currently the Hardy Boys) in the tent or playing card games. This is great family time that our kids seem to look forward to.

    Pro tip: With all the extra blankets, pillows, and coats for warmth, it can get really cumbersome. We make ample use of vacuum storage bags. These are huge space savers. Just don’t forget that in order to vacuum them down from the campsite for the ride home, you’ll need to bring a portable vacuum or the pump from your air mattress and the appropriate fitting.

    Winter car camping with kids sleeping setup

    Winter wind and tent tips

    The biggest difference when camping in the winter vs warmer months is the wind. The cold biting wind in the winter is a game-changer. Obviously, you can try to find campsites and locations that are away from water or close to trees to block some of the wind. However, sometimes we’ll sacrifice wind for a more picturesque location (photographer wife). If this is you as well, here are a few more things to note/remember:

    • Bring tarps and paracord to build windbreaks. Specifically to protect your tent from heavy winds, but also your kitchen and even your sitting area. This can make a windy site MUCH more pleasant and relaxing.
    • Use a heavy coat or blanket as a barrier between you and the side of the tent. This helps with insulation and to keep the warmth in. 
    • Bring along a mat/rug for the tent floor. We use a compact 4’x5′ outdoor mat that folds away easily. This creates a surprisingly warm and substantial barrier between your bed and the ground. 

    how to car camp with kids in the winter

    Creating winter camping memories

    Camping outdoors with your family does not have to be a fair-weather activity. It’s something you can do year-round with the right gear and preparation. It’s given us countless hours of outdoor time in months where we need out of the house the most. Plus, having our favorite camping spots all to ourselves makes it worth the extra packing. Don’t be afraid to get out there and test these tips. I’m confident that you’ll have one of the best camping experiences yet. Along with an incredibly relaxing night’s sleep under the stars! 

    For a great general camping list, we use this list from REI. If I don’t use a list, odds are I’ll forget something.

    About the author

    Jared Ryan is a husband to a talented and beautiful wife, Kristen also a father of two fun-loving and adventurous kiddos. He enjoys leading family adventures to both near and far destinations. Whether it is hiking, camping, climbing, bike riding, or playing in the backyard, he loves it all. He instills in his family the importance of nature and all the benefits it can bring to one’s life. Jared is a GIS analyst by trade, so he is naturally drawn to creating maps and all things trail related, whether it is creating new trails, recording family hikes, or teaching his kids land navigation, he loves to tie in his own work with family adventures.

    You can find Jared online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @bikeshikesbiners
    RWMC posts: Jared Ryan

  • BEACH, BIKE, CAMP, FISH, HIKE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    9 Character-Building Outdoor Activities For Kids

    Technology is everywhere these days. Our children are growing up as digital natives in an era where screens are pervasive and they’re plugged-in to multiple devices throughout the day. It’s no wonder why kids today are so adept at technology. However, the last thing parents want is for their kids to be screen-addicted or penned inside. Now, more than ever, it is important for families to make spending time outdoors and off-screens a priority. There’s no better way for kids to build character, confidence, and improve their physical and mental health than being outside. Today, we have Creative Team member Michelle Garrett, California mom, and creator of Wonder Club Explorers here sharing nine character-building outdoor activities to get your kids outside and having fun in the sun. 

    character building outdoor activities for kids

    Overcoming the challenge of getting kids outside

    2020 has been a hard year in so many ways. The challenge of spending time outdoors right now is compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, pervasive wildfires, diminished air quality, and more. With education shifting towards an online and virtual format, kids are spending their days inside and in front of a screen. Plenty of education and mental health professionals (and parents) are concerned about the long-term effects of remote learning environments. Now more than ever, it’s important to ensure that children have opportunities to spend time playing outside and in the fresh air.

    Being cooped up and inside the house has the opposite effect of being outdoors. Between obesity and Vitamin D deficiency, not to mention higher stress levels, spending too much time indoors is detrimental to a child’s physical and mental well-being. If society’s goal is to raise healthy and happy kids, then it’s time to unplug, power down devices, and head outside. We owe it to our kids to give them the benefits of nature and outdoor play time.

    kids-exploring-outdoors

    Character-building benefits of being outdoors

    So what’s a parent to do right now? In the era of virtual learning, the lure of electronics is strong. Screens provide kids constant new information, a changing view, and countless things to do. But guess what…so does being outside! As parents, it’s our job to take the lead and demonstrate that outdoor activity is a non-negotiable, essential activity.

    Start small, but make outdoor time a priority. Don’t give up after a few minutes or the first time your child says they’re bored. Boredom means that they’re going to have to get creative! After a while, kids will begin to develop new habits, start thinking outside the box and reap all of the benefits that come from playing outside. Benefits include physical exercise, lower stress levels, better temperaments, better sleep habits and lower anxiety.

    Playing outdoors also helps to build character. Certain intangible qualities can be fostered thru particular character-building outdoor activities. From confidence and resilience to respect and kindness towards others, these are things that children can develop by playing outside. 

    character-building-outdoor-activity

    We are builders of our own characters. We have different positions, spheres, capacities, privileges, different work to do in the world, different temporal fabrics to raise; but we are all alike in this, — all are architects of fate.”
    John Fothergill Waterhouse Ware

    Exploring, bouldering & climbing trees

    During a child’s formative years, they learn about their relationship to their physical environment. They learn about their limits and how to push past them. Kids learn how to take risks, problem-solve, compromise and overcome obstacles. Character-building outdoor activities such as exploring, bouldering, and climbing trees are a few easy ways to get children moving and taking healthy risks. Other than a good pair of shoes, water, and sun protection, these activities do not require much equipment and don’t need a lot of planning. They just need a parent willing to get them outside and let them play!

    When kids explore, they are fueling their curiosity about new places and things. Exploring allows kids the opportunity to build confidence and courage as they work through frustrations and challenges. Figuring things out builds problem-solving skills and promotes independence. This teaches kids that they can tackle bigger challenges the next time they encounter them.

    character-building-outdoor-activities-kidsfishing

    Hiking, backpacking & fishing

    Fostering a love and appreciation for nature is just one of the benefits of being outside. Hiking, backpacking, and fishing are three activities that require minimal equipment and can lead to lifelong loves of these activities and the outdoors. Each activity helps to teach survival skills. They also bring real-life science and ecology lessons to life so kids can learn about ecosystems and where their food comes from. They turn kids into tiny naturalists that instinctively want to protect their planet and the nature around them. 

    But beyond these practical skills, activities like hiking, backpacking, and fishing are character-building outdoor activities as well. Through these activities, kids learn patience, perseverance, diligence, and resilience. To land a fish, kids have to wait and be patient until they get a bite. To go the distance on a trail, kids have to put in the effort step-by-step and be tenacious. With each activity, there are sure to be challenges; overcoming adversity and doing hard things helps to develop resilience and grit. 

    character-building-outdoor-activities-youth-sports

    Youth sports, water sports & bike riding

    There are plenty of benefits of playing sports that are reason enough to encourage kids to run, jump, and play outside. Physical benefits include reducing the risk of obesity, increased cardiovascular fitness, and the healthy development of bones and muscles. But outdoor activities like youth sports, water sports, and riding a bike have character-building benefits as well. 

    Kids who are drawn to the camaraderie or competition of sports will cultivate certain character-building traits. When children participate in sports they learn social skills like sharing, respect for others, communication, teamwork, and self-advocacy. Youth sports expose children to situations that help foster these important social skills. 

    While swimming is regarded as a life skill, it has character-building benefits, too. The adage sink or swim helps to illustrate that a person must succeed by their efforts or fail. Waterborne kids learn to be attentive and hardworking if they want to stay afloat, both in the water and in life.

    Cycling is another great character-building outdoor activity for kids to engage in to reap all of the physical, mental and emotional benefits of being outdoors. Developing proficiency in bike riding is not only a rite of passage but a way for kids to be independent. For kids to take their two-wheel adventures away from home, they have to prove their trustworthiness and demonstrate responsibility. They also learn skills such as navigation, awareness, and observation.

    character-building-activities-kids-scouting-program

    Programs that encourage outdoor time

    It’s never too early to encourage children to reap the character-building benefits of being outdoors. If you’re looking for a program that encourages outdoor adventures and character-building activities, check out Wonder Club Explorers. I created Wonder Club Explores a few years ago to encourage my child to explore outdoors. It’s an independent scouting program for young children where they earn merit patches by completing nature-inspired activities.  We’ve found that kids are delighted to get outdoors and love the bonus of earning a patch that they can proudly display. Parents love that we help facilitate activities and give them a reason to get outside and play.

    Older kids looking to socially distance and be physical at the same time might consider forming an outdoor physical education pod to stay active once “virtual school” lets out. Outdoor playdates and scheduled activities give parents some help and accountability in prioritizing outdoor time for their kids. Find a few families with children your kids’ ages and schedule a meet-up! Make it a weekly (daily?) thing and watch as your kids gain independence and confidence week after week by playing outside.  

    kids bodyboarding

    Build character through outdoor activities

    There are any number of ways to encourage the fun of outdoors without making it seem like it’s a chore or something kids ought to do. Whether you’re doing any of the character-building outdoor activities mentioned above or simply letting your kid run around outside and be free, the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of outdoor activity are clear.  They far outweigh any obstacles, difficulties and drawbacks, especially when outside play is approached with the happiness and spirit that comes with being a kid. Now more than ever, we hope you’ll find ways to encourage your kids to get outside and play. 

    About the author

    Michelle spends her days working on projects to improve the quality of life for the citizens of her community and her nights reading books to her 6 year-old about every kind of dinosaur there ever was (there are 900 validated species, in case you’re wondering). Together with her son, Michelle created Wonder Club Explorers, a company to inspire wonder and curiosity in kids. She carves out time for herself on the weekends as an early morning exerciser and metalsmith of fine jewelry. She resides in Altadena with her husband and son amongst California Oak trees and a stone’s throw of the San Gabriel Mountains.

    You can find Michelle online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wonderclubexplorers
    Website: http://www.wonderclubexplorers.co

  • CAMP, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    Overnight Camping Made Simple

    If camping with kids sounds like fun, but also a lot of work, you’re not alone! Camping is a blast, but the planning, packing and prep work that parents have to do to go camping sometimes feels overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be. Short and simple single overnight camping trips are perfect for families just getting started camping or in need of a simple getaway or dose of nature. Today, we have Wendy Cox, California photographer and mom of four, here sharing tips on how to make a simple overnight camping experience fun, simple and enjoyable!

    Tips for making an overnight camping trip with kids easy and simple

    Overnight camping made simple

    Tent, sleeping pads, sleeping bags, flashlights, chairs, roasting sticks, fire starter, wood, ahhhhh! Camping with the whole family can seem like a daunting task. The packing list alone keeps lots of families from enjoying one of life’s most wonderful experiences. Our family of 6 has been on many camping trips together and we always have fun, but sometimes it really is a lot of work. However, we recently went on a single overnight camping trip and it was one of the most relaxing camping trips I’ve ever had. Today, I would love to share a few of the ways that we were able to simplify our overnight camping experience and make the most of the short time.

    camping tips - meal prep and foil packet dinnersovernight camping with kids

    Prep your dinner before you go

    Planning meals and packing food for camping can be intimidating. Sometimes as I plan our camping trips I have these grand ideas of gourmet breakfasts and made-from-scratch dinners. Then I end up spending too much time preparing meals and cleaning up from them that I don’t get time to enjoy my family or the beauty around me. My first suggestion to make the most out of your camping experience is to pre-make your dinner. This simple step saves so much time and effort when you’re at your campsite, giving you more freedom to relax and enjoy the experience. 

    I have fun memories of making tin foil dinners as a child when we’d go camping. I want my kids to have that too, but I worried that I would forget something essential and might ruin the experience. There’s something exciting about eating straight out of tin foil though, so I pre-made the foil dinners at home and stuck them in the cooler already prepped. They weren’t anything fancy, just ground turkey, onions, carrots, and potatoes. The only seasonings I used were salt and pepper. 

    We started the campfire a little earlier than usual when we got to our campsite. It takes about an hour for the foil dinners to cook. I started out with the foil packets on the grate of the fire pit, then moved them into the hot coals. After about 30 minutes I flipped them over to make sure all the contents of the packet had cooked through. I’ve undercooked our foil dinners before, and the kids were not fans of the crunchy potatoes. Oops! But the best part about premaking foil dinners? Easy clean up and no dishes to do!

    simple easy overnight camping tips

    Simple breakfasts are the best

    Breakfast has the potential to be a huge ordeal as well. My solution for that is instant oatmeal, hot chocolate, and fresh fruit. All I had to do in the morning was boil water. It really doesn’t get easier than that! Hot chocolate is a fun special treat that always puts everyone in a festive mood, even if it’s the middle of summer. 

    If you bring a small fruit like blueberries or strawberries all you have to do is wash them and you’re good to go. I once brought a whole cantaloupe on a camping trip. That was not the best idea because it required cutting on the spot and then left me with all kinds of seeds and rinds leftover when everyone was done eating. In my opinion, the least amount of trips you make to the stinky camp dumpster the better! 

    how to make camping simple and easytips for camping with kids

    Play pick your spot (for next time)

    You might notice that I have a tendency to focus on meals, but I promise this next suggestion isn’t about food! When we’re at a new campground, one of our favorite activities is to walk around and pick out all of the best campsites. We see which ones have good shade, a big enough spot for our giant tent, or have good climbing trees. We all have different criteria for what makes the perfect camping spot and it’s fun to see which ones the kids like and why. 

    The campground we were at this time had cabins, and the kids were more than happy to tell us which ones they thought were the best. If I’m on top of things, I’ll jot down the numbers of the specific sites we like (write them down, take a photo or put a note in your phone). That way the next time we want to go camping in this location, we’ll already know which campsite we want to book. My 9 year-old’s favorite was the cabin closest to this amazing stump carved into a chair. 

    How to make camping with kids fun and easy for parents

    Leave the toys at home

    I usually keep the toys to a minimum when we go camping. This gives the kids an opportunity to use their imaginations and get creative. They have to play with what nature provides. It also cuts down dramatically on our packing list. The simpler, the better!

    Our campsite had a lot of big, old oak trees that had dropped tons of giant acorns on the ground. My daughter thought these were amazing and started to collect acorns. We talked about how the native people would grind up the acorns and use that in a similar way that we use flour. She tried her hand at grinding acorns, and discovered that it isn’t quite as easy as it sounds!

    benefits of camping for kids

    Why go camping for just one night?

    For me, the motivation to go camping (even for just one night) is the time I get to spend in nature and with family. We found several fun hikes that started right in our campground. There were fallen logs to walk on, tree tunnels to run through, and a giant field to play in. Lots of things for the kids to do and nature to explore.

    Two of my three boys have a rare form of ataxia called Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevioux Saguenay (ARSACS). They attend many different types of therapy to help them increase their balance, strength, and motor skills in general. Sometimes, I feel like being out in nature is therapy in its own right. Instead of grinding acorns, the boys were more into playing king of the hill. This consists of them climbing onto a big rock and standing there with both arms raised in the air.

    King of the hill sounds like a simple thing, but the benefits it has for my boys is threefold. They develop strength in climbing, balance in standing on the rock, and a can-do mindset when they make it to the top on their own. This particular day the boys were being so sweet with each other and helping each other out. That made my momma heart so proud!

    overnight camping made easythe joy and fun of overnight camping with kids

    Camping made simple

    Whether or not your kiddos have special needs, playing outside will benefit them. Camping is one of my favorite ways to get my family outdoors, but I know that the thought of taking the whole family camping can be a little terrifying. It doesn’t have to be complicated though! Make the overnight camping trip simple by keeping your meals easy and leaving your toys at home. Let mother nature be your guide!

    camping tips for kids, parents and families

    Additional camping resources for parents

    If you’re looking for even more info on how to camp with kids, we’ve got you covered. Check out these great camping resources below:

    family camping gear packing checklist

    Printable camping gear lists for families

    To make it easier for you to get started on your next family camping trip, we put our ultimate camping packing list for your family in a free printable 2-page PDF for you! Use this as the perfect start to create your own master packing list. You’ll also be signed up to receive our  AMAZING weekly newsletter, filled with fun outdoor activities and inspiration for getting your kids and family outside! You can opt-out anytime (although we’d hate to see you go). 

    [maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://mailchi.mp/6ad1ea8208c2/fw0osm9qnr” text=”PRINTABLE CAMPING GEAR LIST” ]

     

    What are your tips for making an overnight camping trip more enjoyable?

    About the author

    Wendy Cox is a family photographer and mother of 4 living in San Diego, CA. She also teaches garden education classes at local elementary schools and is an advocate of getting children outdoors. Wendy grew up in rural Northern California raising pigs for 4-H and hiking in the redwoods. She takes every opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature while attempting to pass her love for the outdoors on to her children.

    Find more from Wendy in the following locations online:
    Website:     http://www.wendycoxphotography.com
    Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
    Facebook: Wendy Cox Photography

  • CAMP, FAMILY TRAVEL, NATIONAL PARKS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Top 5 Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park with Kids

    Yellowstone National Park is the oldest and one of the most spectacular national parks. This 3,500 square-mile wilderness recreation area sits atop a volcanic hot spot, in Wyoming. Yellowstone features dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, hot springs and gushing geysers. It’s also home to hundreds of animal species, including bears, wolves, bison, elk, and antelope. With so much to do and see, planning a visit to Yellowstone with kids can be overwhelming. However, we have Kathleen White, photographer and full-time RV mom of three, here sharing her family’s top 5 things to do in Yellowstone National Park with kids. Plus, she’s got lots of great info on how to get to all these places and what to expect while you’re there. If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone with kids sometime soon, make sure you read and bookmark this post!

    Top 5 Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park with Kids

    Visiting Yellowstone with kids 

    Have you ever been somewhere where you felt like you were standing on another planet? Where the colors and sounds literally take your breath away? This is exactly what it feels like when visiting Yellowstone National Park. America’s first National Park, with over 2.2. million acres of steaming geysers, colorful springs, and wildlife galore, it has quickly become our family’s favorite National Park.

    However, since it is so large it can be overwhelming to try and plan where you should visit, especially if you have kids coming along with you. So, to help make your trip to Yellowstone easier, I’m sharing my top five things to do in Yellowstone National Park with kids, plus info on getting to each location.

    Guide to Visiting Yellowstone National Park with Kids

    Getting there

    First, let’s talk about getting into Yellowstone National Park. There are five entrances- North Entrance, Northeast Entrance, South Entrance, East Entrance and West Entrance. For reference, when we visited we entered through the North Entrance and stayed at Mammoth Campground and had to drive about an hour and a half to get to Old Faithful! Here’s a little bit about each to help you decide which way you want to go.

    • North Entrance: best if visiting Mammoth Hot Springs and the Boiling River
    • Northeast Entrance: best if visiting Lamar Valley
    • East Entrance: best if visiting Yellowstone Lake
    • South Entrance: best if also wanting to visit Grand Teton National Park
    • West Entrance: best if visiting Old Faithful

    Visiting Terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs with Kids - Yellowstone

    1. Terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs 

    Mammoth Hot Springs are a must when doing Yellowstone National Park with kids. In the Mammoth area, the hot, acidic solution dissolves large quantities of limestone on its way up through the rock layers to the hot springs on the surface. Above ground and exposed to the air, some of the carbon dioxide escapes from the solution. Without it, the dissolved limestone can’t remain in the solution, so it reforms into a solid mineral. This white, chalky mineral is deposited as the travertine that forms the terraces. Although these springs lie outside the caldera boundary, their energy has been attributed to the same magmatic system that fuels other Yellowstone geothermal areas. But they are so different from other thermal areas. They’ve been described as looking like a cave turned inside out!

    To get to the terraces at Mammoth Hot Spring, use the boardwalk to walk all along the terraces and view unreal springs, full of colors and steam. Liberty Cap is probably the most famous landmark of the Lower Terrace. This hot spring cone was named in 1871 for its resemblance to the peaked caps worn during the French Revolution. Minerva Spring is favorite because of its wide range of colors and intricate travertine formations.

    Don’t put off walking to the top, it’s worth it, even with kids! You can access the upper boardwalk from the one-way Upper Terrace Drive and parking lot. The road winds among springs for 1.5 miles before it loops back for a half-mile.

    Terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs with Kids Top 5 Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park with Kids

    2. Have a picnic with elk by the Albright Visitor Center

    After hiking through Mammoth Hot Springs you’re going to be hungry! Located by the hot spring is Albright Visitor Center. This historic structure was built by the United States Army in 1909 as bachelor officers’ quarters for the cavalry troops who protected the park before the creation of the National Park Service. This pit stop is outfitted with picnic tables and views of the springs and elk! Gather the kids and picnic with wildlife (just watch out for scat 😜). It also has a bookstore, a backcountry office, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi.

    Go inside Albright Visitor Center and talk to a ranger to learn more about the history and wildlife of Yellowstone. Get help planning your trip and stamp your National Parks passport. Kids can also become Junior Rangers and earn a badge.

    Top 5 Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park with Kids

    3. Swim in the Boiling River

    Once you have trekked through Mammoth Hot Springs, on your way out you can stop by the Boiling River for a swim! Don’t worry this river isn’t actually boiling. The Boiling River was created where a large hot spring entered the Gardner River. The hot and cool waters mix into a temperature comfortable enough to bathe in. The natural hot tub makes a great place to stop and relax while soaking in the warm water and soaking up the natural beauty of Yellowstone. It is a little bit of a hike to get down there and parking fills up fast in the summer, but it is a must-do if you are visiting Yellowstone with kids.

    Pro tips:  The Boiling River is closed once it gets dark, so go during the day. It’s open 3 seasons (winter, fall, late summer), but closed during the spring when the river rises and becomes dangerous and often doesn’t open until mid-summer. Take your swimsuit because skinny-dipping is against the rules.

    Yellowstone’s Boiling River is located approximately 2 miles north of Mammoth and 2.9 miles south of the park’s North Entrance. This must-stop spot is just south of the 45th Parallel Bridge, located in the Mammoth area of the park. It’s right near the North Entrance to Yellowstone accessed via Gardiner, Mont.

    Take a swim in the Boiling River Yellowstone National Park Top 5 Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park with Kids Visiting the Boiling River in Yellowstone with Kids

    4. See Old Faithful erupt 

    Old Faithful is obviously the most quintessential thing to do in Yellowstone National Park with kids.  Old Faithful is a cone geyser named in 1870 for its frequent and somewhat predictable eruptions. It has erupted every 44 minutes to two hours since 2000. Old Faithful eruptions can vary in height from 100-180 feet with an average near 130-140 feet. Eruptions normally last between 1.5 to 5 minutes.

    Because eruptions happen so frequently (about 20 times a day), you can plan when you want to see it around the rest of your schedule for the day. Make sure to get a seat early and listen to the Ranger give amazing facts all about Old Faithful. Like the fact that when you are sitting out there, there is enough magma to fill 13 Grand Canyons. What?!

    Old Faithful is located in Yellowstone’s Upper Geyser Basin in the southwest section of the park. The geyser-viewing area is the most accessible and visitor-friendly in the park with bench seating, a large parking lot, and a ranger station that tracks the time, height and length of an eruption to predict the next eruption.

    Watch Old Faithful Erupt - Yellowstone with kids

    5. Admire the Grand Prismatic Spring

    Last, but CERTAINLY not least, add a visit the Grand Prismatic Spring to your trip to Yellowstone National Park with kids. Of all the stunning sights that Yellowstone has to offer, the Grand Prismatic Spring is far and away the most majestic and awe-inspiring.  At 160 ft (almost 50m) deep, it’s the largest hot spring in the U.S. and the third-largest in the world. The spring’s incredible rainbow colors give it an other-worldly appearance. Needless to say, Grand Prismatic is Yellowstone’s most photographed thermal feature and to many the main reason to visit America’s Oldest National Park.

    This was our favorite place we saw while we were there. This area is extremely popular with tourists and it’s important to plan your visit ahead in order to avoid frustration, traffic and massive amounts of people. Also, make sure to give yourself 1 to 2 hours for your visit, more if you are planning to hike to the overlook. Make sure to walk across the bridge past an out of this world steaming spring, to admire the vibrant blue and orange colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring.

    As you enter Yellowstone National Park, look for signage to the Midway Geyser Basin. The Grand Prismatic parking lot is incredibly busy and priority seems to be given to the many visiting tour buses. Traffic can be heavy at times and is often impeded by visitors parking along the roads and around the parking lot entrance.

    Visiting Yellowstone National Park With Kids Yellowstone's Grand Prismatic Spring with kids

    5 things to do in Yellowstone National Park with kids

    I hope this list of the 5 best places to visit in Yellowstone National Park with kids helped make planning your adventure less overwhelming. Or, I hope that maybe we inspired you to visit America’s first National Park! Yellowstone is unbelievably amazing and is definitely someplace that everyone should get to experience.

    Check out our Yellowstone videos

    If you’re more of a visual person, we’ve got you covered! Here are two of our family’s videos of all of these places in Yellowstone we mentioned above. Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more of our RV adventures homeschooling, exploring National Parks and living the RV life! I hope you enjoy!

    About the author

    Our Lovely Family | Run Wild My ChildI’m Kathleen, wife to my high school sweetheart and mama to 3 energetic littles. I’m a photographer in love with telling compelling stories of life’s beautiful chaos and photographing families authentically. I am slightly obsessed with window light, Saturday morning snuggles, and documenting our adventures. We recently took the biggest leap of faith of our lives and are currently traveling full-time around the United States in our RV!

    You can follow all our adventures online in the following locations:
    Website: http://www.faithboundtravel.com
    YouTube: Faith Bound Travel
    Instagram: @faithboundtravel
    RWMC articles: Kathleen

  • CAMP, FAVORITE GEAR, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    20 Must Have Items for RV Camping

    Getting started RV camping with your family can be quite an overwhelming task. While it may sound easy enough to pack up food, your clothes and some camping gear, there are so many items you need for RV camping that aren’t obvious. Today, we have full-time RVing mom of three, Kathleen here sharing her family’s 20 must-have items for RV camping. After spending months on the road with her family, Kathleen’s RV packing list includes all those essential RV items you never knew you needed to stay safe, organized and have fun!

    {post contains affiliate links}20 Must Have Items for RV Camping

    Learning our lesson

    When we rented our very first RV, we were completely clueless as to what we would need. We thought we’d fill our suitcases with clothes and the pantry with food and we’d be good to go! Boy, were we wrong! We forgot so many important items. We brought stuff we didn’t need that took up space and caused clutter. And we ended up wasting a lot of time and money going out and purchasing all the things we forgot to pack or figured out we needed along the way.

    Must-have items for RV camping

    We’ve been a full-time RV family for a few months now. When we look back at those first misadventures in RV packing, it seems obvious where we went wrong. There are so many factors that go into RV life that I didn’t know about until I experience them! So, to make life easier on you, take some advice from someone who’s been through this and learned our lessons. Here is my list of our top 20 must-have items for RV camping with kids.

    Spoiler alert: Not every item is fun, but these items are necessary to get set up and start making memories with your family!

    Must have items for RV camping with kids

    Must-have RV camping basics

    The most important things are water, power, and sewer when it comes to camping. Not at all glamorous, but extremely necessary! Here are a few basic essentials that you’ll most definitely need for cooking, cleaning and living comfortably in your RV.

    1. Freshwater hose

    A water hose for freshwater is a necessity. Make sure it is drinking water approved/safe. We also have a second hose strictly for cleaning out our black tank. We never swap them out or use them for the other’s purpose. We also store each of them in separate storage containers.

    Must Have RV Items - best hose for RV camping

    2. Water filter & regulator

    When you are camping, you never know what the quality of the water will be. That is which is why a water filter is super important. We still purchase gallons of water for drinking, but we use our filtered water for cooking, showering, etc. It’s also a good idea to have a water pressure regulator so you don’t destroy your plumbing. In fact, in some RV parks and campgrounds, it’s mandatory!

    Best RV Water Filter

     

    3. Surge protector

    Depending on the amperage of your RV, you will either need a 30 amp or 50 amp surge protector. Always, always, always check this when plugging into shore power. The surge protector will let you know if the wiring is okay, or if something isn’t right it will protect your RV from harmful power surges!

    Must Have RV Items - Best RV Surge Protector

    4. Sewer hose kit

    Yes, this one is just what it sounds like – a hose kit for cleaning out your sewer. Okay, I get it! You’re probably now thinking, “We’re supposed to be making memories, not dealing with all this boring maintenance!” But trust me, basic RV maintenance and protection is a necessary evil. If you’re going to live in your RV, you need to protect it and keep it well-maintained. After getting this sewer hose kit, make sure you also stock up on some holding tank treatment.

    Must Have RV Items - Best Sewer Kit for your RV

    5. Generator

    If you know ahead of time that you will ALWAYS be camping with full hookups, a generator might not be necessary for you. However, when boondocking or dry camping in warm weather you must have a way to power your air conditioner, keep the fridge running and charge your battery. Inverter generators are preferred in the RV community because they are much quieter and lighter!

    Pro tip: We blew through 2 different generators (causing many stressful days) because they weren’t strong enough to power our A/C. Make sure you determine how many watts your RV needs to run your A/C and other necessary electrical appliances.

    Must Have RV Items - Best RV Generator

    6. Solar charger

    This solar-powered charger is our favorite! It won’t power the air conditioner in the RV, but it charges our batteries and is much easier to set up than a generator. All we do is set the panels out and plug it into our RV solar connection! This is perfect for keeping your batteries charged, and also for boondocking or dry camping in places where you don’t need A/C.

    Must Have RV Items - Best RV Solar Panel Chargers

    Essentials for setting up your RV

    The next few items are necessary for getting your RV set up and level at your campsite. Again, these items might not be the most interesting or novel, but they’re each essential for making sure your RV camping experience is fun, easy and memorable (for all the right reasons). Here are a few more must-have items that will help make RV camping better and easier.

    7. Leveling blocks

    Sometimes you arrive at a campsite and it’s not level. It’s the worst! If you’re not prepared, you can waste a ton of time trying to get level and frustrate yourself to no end. Save your sanity and use these nifty little leveling blocks to help with leveling your RV. In addition, they can also be put them under the tongue and stabilizer jacks. Plus, your kids will think they are giant Legos!

    Must Have RV Items - Best Leveling Blocks for RVs

    8. X-Chock wheel stabilizers

    No one wants their RV to accidentally roll or take a trip on its own! Sometimes your RV has a mind of its own! Give yourself some peace of mind that that won’t happen with these awesome x-chock wheel stabilizers. These little guys go in-between the wheels of your RV, on each side, to keep your RV safe and sound in one place.

    Best Wheel Stabilizers for RV Camping

    Best RV tools & equipment

    It goes without saying that there are lots of tools that come in handy when you’re RV camping. Basic tools like screwdrivers, hammer, wrench set and pliers are obvious. Here are a few not-so-obvious extra tools we have found to be extremely helpful when RV camping.

    9. Robertson square-tip screwdriver

    Who knew these square tip screwdrivers even existed? Before owning an RV I definitely didn’t. The interior of most RVs is assembled using square tip screws. If you want to be able to unscrew anything in your RV for any reason at all, you will need one of these!

    Must Have Tools for RV Camping

    10. Air compressor

    You could say that tires are a pretty darn important part of your RV. Unless your RV is parked and never moving, you’re going to want a way to keep your tires well-maintanced and full of air. This portable air compressor will give you peace of mind while on the road and allow you to inflate your tires on the go. We like this one since we can use it on the RV, as well as our truck tires.

    What to pack in your RV toolbox

    11. Tire pressure gauge

    Yep, this tire pressure gauge does exactly what it sounds like! It makes sure your tires are all set at the correct pressure. Don’t underestimate how important it is to maintain proper tire pressure, particularly when you’re hauling such precious cargo. It’ll save wear on your tires and get you better gas mileage. Both of those things will save you money in the long run and is definitely worth it. We use this every time we get ready for a travel day.

    Must Have RV Items - Best items for RV tire maintenance

    12. Torque wrench

    Each time before heading out with your RV you should check your tires not only for correct pressure, but also check that the lug nuts are secured properly. Both items are crucial in ensuring your tires are safe on the road. A torque wrench is the best and easiest way to make sure everything is tight and secure.

    What to put in your RV Toolkit for camping 

    13. External battery charger

    We love finding ways to harness our planet’s natural energy and this battery charger works great. It’s solar-powered and includes 3 USB ports for charging all your devices. We set it outside the RV while we’re out and about, exploring, eating, and playing. It also has a built-in LED light that we can use in and out of the RV when it’s dark.

    Must Have RV Items - solar powered battery charger for USB & flashlight

    Thank me later items for you RV

    Alright, we’re now to the fun part! These are the items I’ve learned from experience that we could not live without while RV camping. Most of these are items I would not have thought of before spending a significant amount of time on the road in the RV with our kids. These are the fun items that make life easier, your RV better and your memories amazing!

    14. Bug spray 

    If you’re going to be spending any time outside while you’re camping (and of course you will be), you’re going to need bug spray. This bug repellent is the BEST bug spray ever. It’s organic, hypoallergenic and DEET-free. It keeps the bugs away, is safe for the whole family and doesn’t stink!

    Must Have RV Items - best bug spray for RV camping organic

    15. Mattress topper

    If you’ve spent any time at all in an RV, you know that they’re not known for not having the most comfortable beds. However, there is a quick fix! We purchased this mattress topper and it helps so much! We are also considering putting one on the bunks for the kids. It is super easy to trim to whatever size you need. We may eventually buy a new mattress, but this works for right now!

    Adjustable Sizable RV mattress topper

    16. Instant Pot

    Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last few years, you’ve heard the hype about the Instant Pot. Everyone loves the Instant Pot and it’s easy to see why – it does everything! It’s a slow cooker, a pressure-cooker, a steamer, a rice-maker, a yogurt-maker and more! I love cooking in the RV with our Instant Pot because it’s super fast and makes large amounts of food to save for later! Plus, it doesn’t take up a lot of space, doesn’t fill your RV with heat and is easy to clean up. What’s not to love?

    RV Must Have Cooking Essentials - Instant Pot

    17. Scratch-off map

    While maybe not technically a must-have item for RV camping, having a large scratch-off map in your RV adds so much fun to your trips. We love documenting where we have been with this giant fun map! We scratch off each state as we travel and it is a perfect memory of our travels. The kids love pointing out where we are (and where we’re going next) and scratching off states as we pass through. And I love that they’re learning geography as we travel!

    Must Have RV Items - giant scratch off map

    18. Hanging organizers

    Space in an RV is limited! There’s never enough room for everything you want and it’s easy to lose things if they get boxed up and put ouf of sight. We love having these over-the-door hanging clear organizers for storing things. These have been lifesavers for us! We hang one over the pantry door (to hold food, spices, etc.) and one over the bathroom door for all our toiletries and bathroom items. They keep things from moving/sliding around and give us easy access to the things we use most.

    RV Storage Organizers - Organizing Tips & Tricks

    19. Command Strips

    Command Strips are everything when it comes to hanging things in an RV! These little guys are so incredibly useful and versatile. We use them to hang our picture frames, all decorative items, and more. We also use the hooks to hang our keys. They hold strong and remove easily with no residue, mess or holes left behind.

    20. Collapsible dish drainer

    Our final must-have item for RV camping is a good one! Are you ready for this…a collapsible dish drainer! (Yeah, ok, not as exciting as you may have thought). However, counter space in an RV is precious territory. You never have enough! This dish drainer is perfect for saving space while doing dishes (because those never end). Plus, it folds up small for easy storage (because storage space is precious, too).

    Must Have RV Items - Favorite RV Kitchen Items

    And there you have it, friends! Our most used and beloved items that make our life easier while traveling full-time in our RV. Of course, there are many more items we love and use all the time, but these are 20 must-have items you need to get you started with your RV adventures. I hope this helped and that you feel even more prepared for your next family road trip!

    And if you’re looking to spend more time on the road in your RV, be sure to check out Kathleen’s post: Tips & Advice for RV Camping with Kids.

    What are your must-have items for RV camping?

    I’m Kathleen, wife to my high school sweetheart and mama to 3 energetic littles. I’m a photographer in love with telling compelling stories of life’s beautiful chaos and photographing families authentically. I am slightly obsessed with window light, Saturday morning snuggles, and documenting our adventures. We recently took the biggest leap of faith of our lives and are currently traveling full-time around the United States in our RV!

    Kathleen can be found in the following online locations:
    Website: http://www.faithboundtravel.com
    Instagram: @faithboundtravel
    YouTube channel: Faith Bound Travel

  • CAMP, FAMILY TRAVEL, FAVORITE GEAR, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Tips & Advice for RVing with Kids

    We’ve had a few recent posts here on Run Wild My Child about what it’s like to go RV camping with kids. (spoiler alert: it’s awesome!) But how do you even get started going on an RV adventure with your whole family? Where do you go? What do you pack? How do you cook? Well, today we have the amazing Kathleen White, photographer and full-time RVing homeschool mom of three here sharing everything you need to know to get started RVing with kids. Kathleen and her family are just beginning their adventures across the country and are documenting the entire journey (links below where you can follow along). If you have any questions about how to get started on your own RV adventure, she’s here to help!

    RVing with kids 101 - tips and advice for RV camping with kids

    Let the adventure begin!

    As a kid, my summers were filled with pool days, going to camp, and traveling. I cherish those simple childhood memories and will never forget our adventures. Now, as a mother to three, I want to fill my children’s childhood with amazing memories, too. As they say, we only get 18 summers with our kids. If that’s not a motivator to soak it all up, then I don’t know what is! It’s what spurred our year-long RV roadtrip across the USA, with three kids in tow in a 300 sq. ft. RV. Adventure is out there and we haven’t looked back!

    Travel opens your heart, broadens your mind, and fills your life with stories to tell.” -Paula Bendfeldt

    How to get started RVing with kids

    RVing with kids tips and advice

    Whether you are looking to go full-time in your RV or are just planning your next weekend adventure, getting started RVing with kids can be a bit overwhelming. Where do you even begin to know what to pack, where to park or what to bring? What do you eat? Where does everyone sleep? And how do you make your RV feel like home? If you’ve ever had these burning question, wonder no more! Based on our travels and adventure experience, I’m here to share some helpful tips and advice for RVing with kids to get you started on your next RV trip.

    RVing with kids tips and advice

    How to choose the right RV for your family

    There are so many personal decisions and consideration to take into account when purchasing your RV. Starting the RV buying process is extremely overwhelming. Travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A’s…oh my! Where do you even start? And then you need to consider price and condition (used vs. new), gas mileage, features, etc. Making this decision is not easy and every family’s needs will be different. I could write an entire post on just this one decision – actually, I did! If you want more information on how we chose the right RV for our family, check out our post on how to decide between a travel trailer and a fifth wheel.

    Safety first

    Before the adventure begins, you have to make sure you are protecting your precious cargo. Remember, when RVing with kids, you are never in so much of a rush to disregard safety! Mistakes are more likely to happen when you are rushing, so slow it down, if you can. Towing an RV is a whole other beast on its own and there are a few things you must be aware of. First, always double-check that your tow vehicle and RV are set up correctly. Second, always do a walk around your entire rig before pulling off. Third, be sure to check your towing capacity and cargo weight to make sure you are not overcapacity. We also carry a first aid kit, tool kit, emergency roadside kit, plenty of flashlights, and extra water, just in case.

    This is obviously not an extensive list of all the safety tips when RVing with kids, but it’s a good place to start.

    What to pack and how to cook when RVing with kids

    You know your child best

    RVing with kids allows you to experience things with your family in a whole new way and in lots of new places. Your RV can take you on adventures you never thought possible. The world is literally right outside your door and you get to choose your own adventure daily. However, sometimes that can be a bit much for kids. As the parent, you know your kids best. Can they hike for a while on their own, or do they get tired easily? Do they love being in the water or do they come alive in the forest?

    Knowing your kids and planning your adventures to suit their strengths and interests will really help with keeping your kids excited about the trip and minimizes meltdowns! Of course, there will be an adjustment period after first setting out on your adventure. Especially if they are used to constant streaming shows, video games, and larger spaces. However, don’t give up! The reward is so great when you see them playing outside, experiencing new things and interacting with nature on their own!

    Just have patience, and remember why you are RVing with kids in the first place!

    Best tips and advice for beginner RVing with kidsRVing with kids tips and advice for beginners

    Setting up your RV

    Once you arrive at your awesome new location, it’s time to set up! The first thing to do is check into your campsite, if you need to and park according to the rules (is it a pull-through or do you need to back in?). Make sure there are no low-hanging branches to scratch your vehicle or interfere with awnings, pop-outs, etc. Once you’re positioned on flat ground or leveled out, park and unhook the RV from the truck. Connect your power/water/gas hookups and check to make sure everything is working properly. Assigning tasks to each person can also be helpful to make things go smoothly!

    Next, we put out our outdoor rug and chairs and call wherever we are at home for a little while. I even set out a candle, plants, and pillows inside which helps make the RV feel homier. This is one of my favorite parts about RVing!

    Beginner RVing with kids 101How to make your RV feel like home for your kids

    Full hookups vs. dry camping vs. boondocking

    If you are coming from a “sticks & bricks” house, then you are used to the conveniences of home (long showers and A/C all the time!). This is why a lot of RVers love full-service campsite that have electric, water, and sewer hookups. You can shower to your heart’s content and not have to worry about filling up your black and grey tanks. You can run the A/C and have a movie night if you want! A lot of them also include other amenities such as laundry facilities, pools, playgrounds, restaurants, shops and dumpsters. However, these kinds of RV parks usually come with close neighbors and high price tags.

    The other types of RV camping are dry camping or boondocking. Dry camping essentially means staying in a campground without hookups, whereas, boondocking typically means staying in a completely undeveloped area (also without hookups).

    There is a time and a place for each type of camping and they all have their pros and cons. While I love having amenities, some of my favorite campsites have been when we are boondocking. If you’re wanting to get away and have a place to yourself, this is definitely the way to go. Just be sure to check the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service for rules and regulations.

    How to get started RVing with kidsRVing with kids storage and organization

    Cooking in an RV

    There are many ways to prepare food in an RV, which many people don’t realize! If you have electric hookups or a generator, you can use your Instant Pot, crockpot, microwave, toaster oven or other electric cooking appliance. I love using the Instant Pot because it makes a lot of food in a short time!

    Another way I love making food when we’re RVing is using our stove, which I can use anywhere and anytime since it runs off of propane. There is really no limit to what you can cook. RVing adventures are not just eating BBQ and s’mores (although those are really yummy!).

    Keep in mind that RV refrigerators are a bit smaller depending on your RV type. Buying refrigerated perishables in bulk is not necessary. We are a family of 5 and have had no issues with not having enough food. We also use our pantry to store dry goods, snacks, and household goods. And because we have kids, we always have plenty of snacks on hand. Being active outdoors makes for hungry kiddos! Crackers, granola bars, fruit, and pretzels are some of our favorites.

    RV storage organization tips and advice

    RV organization

    One of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to RV life is, “How in the world do you store all your stuff?!” Well, the first answer is to downsize, downsize, downsize. Everything in your RV needs to have a place, and there aren’t a lot of places. I highly recommend downsizing before starting your RV adventure. We downsized our clothing, furniture, pots and pans, and the kids’ toys. It is so refreshing to get rid of so much stuff and eye-opening to see how little we really need.

    As for what we kept, my husband and I each have a closet in the bedroom and we use hanging storage organizers for our clothes. The kids each have a storage bin filled with all of their clothes. If it doesn’t fit anymore, we donate it. Right now, all of their clothes have to fit in the bins!

    When organizing your RV, storage baskets will become your best friends. Baskets and bins make everything look less cluttered. We also use hanging organizers for the back of the pantry and bathroom doors to maximize storage, which is my favorite RV storage hack!

    What to pack for full-time RVing with kidsHow to get started RVing with kidsRVing with kids

    Enjoy the memories

    Spending time together on your RV adventures is an incredible experience your entire family will never forget. RVing allows you to camp in some of the most amazing places and experience the world in a whole new way. We have just begun our RV journey and the hard work of RVing has been so worth it. The memories we will make together make up for all the stress of planning, downsizing, and packing. RVing is an experience in and of itself. I can give you all the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way, but my best piece of advice is to soak it up and enjoy the journey.

    RVing with kidsHow to get started RVing with kidsRVing with kids basic tips and adviceWhat to pack when full-time RVing with kidsFull Time RVing with kids and homeschoolingBenefits of RVing with kids

    What questions do you have about RVing with kids?

    About the Author

    Kathleen
    Arizona
    @faithboundtravel

    I’m Kathleen, wife to my high school sweetheart and mama to 3 energetic littles. I’m a photographer in love with telling compelling stories of life’s beautiful chaos and photographing families authentically. I am slightly obsessed with window light, Saturday morning snuggles, and documenting our adventures. We recently took the biggest leap of faith in our lives and are traveling full-time around the United States in our RV! You can follow our adventures at http://www.faithboundtravel.com or subscribe to our YouTube channel.

     

  • CAMP, FAMILY TRAVEL, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    A Day in the Life of a Road School Family

    Have you ever dreamed of leaving everything behind and hitting the road with your family for an extended indefinite adventure? How would you feel waking up every day in a new location of your choosing, surrounded by nature and new places to explore? Today, we have a wonderful post from Emily Kimball, mom of 3 kids and a pup, living life on the road while unschooling and adventuring. Emily’s sharing all the beauty in a day of her road school life and insight as to what she’s gained through this experience. This post seriously makes me want to sell everything and hit the road!

    a day in the life of a road school family

    Greeting the morning

    I awake in the early morning to the songs the birds sing. Their melodies are filled with cheer as they welcome the new day. I tiptoe to my living room where my daughter is awake eagerly awaiting my arrival. “Mama, the ducklings are back!” We open the window and watch the mama duck with her babes enjoying a morning feast.

    I step outside with my golden doodle pup, Rosie, and watch the morning come to life. The river is peaceful this time of day, the Nuttall sandstone mountains still covered in the dawn’s fog, not quite ready to awaken. I breathe in deep and am grateful for this unique life I live with my family. Today, my feet are on the banks of one of the longest rivers in the world, the New River in West Virginia. Last week I lived in a little town in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia. The week before, the outskirts of Washington DC. And a month before that I awoke to the sound of waves and sand under my feet in the Outerbanks of North Carolina.

    why we decided to roadschool our kids

    A colorful trade up

    We chose to leave our life of normalcy, of knowing which local coffee shop served the best lattes, which park had the largest playground and where to find almond milk at the grocery store. We left all of that and more – our family, friends, neighbors and community. Instead, we chose to live on the road. We sold nearly everything we owned, stored a few things in a storage unit and the rest is in our motorhome. It’s been a year since we said goodbye to life in Orange County, California and we said hello to living a different type of life.  To quote P.T. Barnum, “Trade that typical for something colorful.” We took that advice to heart.

    A life of adventure

    Since we left our comfortable lives for a life of adventure, my children (8, 6 and 4) have swum in glacier lakes in Montana, had a close encounter with a bear in Wyoming and saw alligators in South Carolina. They’ve experienced countless incredible thunderstorms, had a couple of close-encounters with tornados and witnessed breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. They have met more people in a year than I had met in the previous 5 years. We’ve lived in mountain towns, coal mining towns, urban forests, beach towns, metropolitans and quiet national forests. We have visited 20 states so far and hope to see them all. Yes, even Alaska and Hawaii.

    roadschool family adventures

    City scouting

    I try to plan at least one day dedicated to seeing the city we are in. Although, we typically see much more of a city than we can in just one day while we’re there. Between grocery shopping, getting acquainted with the local coffee shop, finding a book store, visiting science and children museums (through our reciprocity program we are apart of) and scouting the best places to hike, we can get a pretty good idea of any town. Traveling is a way of life for now, but we do eventually have a goal of finding somewhere we can permanently live. For now, we are having a lot of fun and have no intention of stopping.

    a day in the life of a roadschooling family

    Exploring a state park

    This week of road school, I planned for us to stay near Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia so we could visit it without having to travel far and to explore the darling little town near it. As we adventured into the park, we descended down to the path that led to the Natural Bridge. We stopped along the way reading every sign and learning why the water is brown and admiring the remains of the now-extinct white cedar trees.

    Road schooling has been such an incredible blessing. Learning side-by-side with my children is a gift I do not take for granted. Are there days that are hard? Yes. Are there days of bickering and frustration? Of course! Are there days that I want to give up or maybe just take a leave of absence? Absolutely! But today? Oh, what a joy today is!

    Roadschooling with kids

    Taking in the history

    The moss-covered rocks are incredible, as is the slow-moving river that has worked for thousands of years to make this gorge. We walk in awe. The arch is 215 feet above us, birds fly overhead making nests on landings. Flowers sprout from limestone walls as cool water drips on our heads from the rocks soaked with moisture. Legend says that George Washington walked the same path we are now on and then climbed up the side of this natural bridge and carved his initials into the side. Thomas Jefferson’s father owned this land and centuries later the state of Virginia was able to buy it and turn it into a state park preserving it for generations to come.

    family road school adventures

    Of course, Thomas Jefferson was not the first owner of this land. The Monacan Indians lived here long before any Europeans came to the Americas. A small village shows what life was like for the Native American tribe. The exhibit gave us a sense of the intuitiveness that was needed to thrive in this place. One huge benefit to being a road school family, is being able to see places during the week, without crowds. The reenactors of the Monacan village linger with us, probably the only children they will see that day. They take time to answer our questions and give their knowledge freely.

    roadschooling adventures with kids

    Hikes and home base

    This was a short trail, one mile each way. But, as any mother knows, even short trails require loads of snacks. Butterflies and wildflowers provide lovely distractions while we snack. As do hidden caves, mystery bones, and beautiful lace waterfalls. However, we have to make sure not to get too distracted, as one of my sons nearly touched a Northern Mole Kingsnake on accident!

    a day in the life of a roadschooling family

    Our road school days aren’t always filled with adventuring out of the campground. Sometimes we stay around the motorhome the entire day and explore. I tend to think the greatest adventures happen at our campsite. Today, while my children ate breakfast outside, three families of geese with their babies swim by. What a delight to see! It feels like we are living in the book Trumpet of the Swan by E.B.White and we were Sam Beaver getting a front-row seat to see these babies.

    roadschooling adventures with kids

    Welcoming the seasons

    Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Monarchs and Red- Spotted Purple butterflies flutter about us. We research if carpenter bees are friends or foes. We literally watch, for the first time in any of our lives, winter turn into spring. I was born and raised in Southern California, where the change of seasons is swift. It’s nothing compared to spring on the East Coast where life emerges tentatively, with a delicate sense of trepidation. What an educator mother nature is and only now am I learning what a treasure she is.

    roadschooling life and adventures with kids

    This life is full of wonderment. And while it might seem easier for me to observe these changes in my California backyard, nothing has prepared me for how amazing this experience has been. I believe it is the posture I have taken to open my eyes to truly see the beauty of life around me. What an amazing experience this road school lifestyle has been for our family.   exploring state parks on roadschool adventures

    If you could hit the road, where would you go first?

     

     

    About the author

    Hi there, I’m Emily.
    Road school mom of 3.
    My family and I travel the country full time searching for beauty.
    I am an artist, mother + wife.
    You can find my writings and pictures on Instagram: @kimball5wanderlust