Looking for the perfect Oklahoma summer getaway that keeps kids entertained, parents relaxed, and everyone cooled off from the blazing heat? Marval Resort in Gore, Oklahoma checks all the boxes. Nestled along the lower Illinois River in the foothills of the Ozarks, this family-friendly campground offers swimming pools, river play, endless kid-approved activities, and plenty of ways for parents to feel like they’re back at summer camp (minus the braces and bug juice). Today, Oklahoma mom Katie LaCombe shares what makes Marval Resort such a hidden gem – from the best things to do and where to stay, to tips from her family’s experience visiting Marval year after year.
It’s summertime in Oklahoma, and if you’re like me, you are itching to find some fun, kid-friendly relief from this oppressive heat. Well, look no further, because I have the solution: Marval Resort.
Hi! I’m Katie! I’m a mom AND an Okie, so when it comes to the topic of “fun summer Oklahoma getaways” I hope you can lean into those two trusted credentials. Because let’s face it, the temperatures are already reaching ‘Campbell’s Soup” degrees and we are exhausted trying to put sunscreen on our velociraptor… I mean, toddler. So, for the love of popsicles and “is that a freckle or a tick?”, you and your family deserve some core memories to coincide with the sweat pooling down your back.
Let me introduce you to your new favorite place…Marval Resort.
Marval Resort: The Basics
Marval Resort is located in Gore, Oklahoma, in the beautiful foothills of the Ozarks, right on the lower Illinois River. It’s a destination designed for families, whether you’re looking to relax, play, or explore.
With options for tent camping, RV hookups, bungalows, and cabins, it works for both weekend getaways and longer family vacations.
Think of it as a place where kids can roam free, make new friends, and burn off energy, while parents get a chance to reconnect with their own summer-camp selves (but, like, without the braces and acne). From fishing to themed weekends, Marval truly offers something for everyone. Let me show you around…
What to Do at Marval Resort
What to do, indeed! Boredom doesn’t stand a chance here. Marval Resort is packed with activities for every age and interest:
Playground & Outdoor Sports: basketball, volleyball, pickleball, mini golf, a gaga pit, kayaking, bird watching, treasure hunts, and the always-popular jump pillow (my personal favorite, even if my “mom bladder” was not happy with me, if you know what I mean).
Activity Center: clubhouse, arts and crafts, tie-dye, painting, arcade, karaoke, and more for when you need some creative time.
Mining Station: kids can sift for gems, fossils, and shark teeth to take home (my daughter still talks about her treasures).
Water Fun: two swimming pools plus a splash pad for cooling off between adventures.
Outdoor Movie Nights: the perfect way to wind down after a busy day.
Dog Park: yes, your furry family members are welcome too!
Whether your kids are climbing, jumping, splashing, or crafting, there’s never a dull moment at Marval.
The Illinois River
The Illinois River runs right along Marval Resort, offering gorgeous views, excellent fishing, and plenty of opportunities for family fun.
When we first arrived, the river instantly captured my heart. Clear, inviting, and shallow in many areas, it’s perfect for kids to splash around, toss rocks, and (most importantly) cool off in the summer heat.
If my children were just a little older, I would have loved to float the river. There’s something magical about drifting under an Oklahoma sunset, toes skimming the water, with a cooler tube in tow. Just the thought makes me exhale.
For this trip, my favorite part was watching my daughter play in the river with her best friend. They had a (reusable) water balloon fight, practiced floating on their backs, and laughed until their cheeks hurt. Meanwhile, my four-month-old snoozed contentedly in his portable playpen (because rivers really are nature’s built-in sound machines).
It’s those simple, joy-filled moments that make Marval so special. As my friend (and trip buddy) put it: “This trip will live in the scrapbook of my heart.”
And the river adventures only scratch the surface. Fun fact: Gore is actually the fly fishing capital of Oklahoma. While I didn’t get a chance this visit, next time I’ll be out there with a fly rod in hand. The resort has over one mile of riverfront, onsite bait and tackle, and a fish cleaning station. It even greets guests with a giant trout statue, a fitting nod to its fishing roots.
If fly fishing with kids is something you’d like to try, be sure to check out this post on How to Teach Kids to Fly Fish.
Lodging options at Marval Resort
One of the best things about Marval Resort is the variety of lodging options:
Tent camping for the true outdoorsy families
RV hookups with full amenities
Cozy cabins and bungalows for families who want comfort and convenience
There are clean facilities, fire rings & picnic tables at every site, free Wi‑Fi, laundry, general store, dining, and cart rentals.
We stayed two nights in a bungalow, which was the perfect fit for our crew. With a master bedroom, two loft beds, a small kitchen, bathroom, and coffee pot (essential!), it had everything we needed.
If you want to vacation with a large group but still have your own space for your family, consider the bungalows. We saw a big group of families rent a section of bungalows so they could all be next to each other during their stay. They would grill out in the evenings while their kids rode their scooters and played in the yard. The way their laughter and joy echoed was addictive. It was special watching so much community live out loud.
The scene stuck with me so much, I have talked about it nonstop. I think I have almost convinced my friends to do the same thing this fall. The resort has themed weekends and people get festive with it. Like, really festive.
I would love to go back and see Marval in the fall with all the costumes and decorations. Fingers crossed, I am able to convince everyone we need our minions to dress up like minions and enjoy some spooky fun along the river! Who’s with me?
Where to Eat at Marval Resort
Imagine this, you’ve been swimming all morning, the kids are drying off with a round of mini golf, when you hear one kid sit down with their golf club, throw their head back in exhaustion, and proclaim, “I’M HUNGRY!”
The walk back to your cabin seems overwhelming, and honestly, you just don’t want to make anything. You’re tired and hungry, too.
Cue Marval’s Riverfront Grill! You can order pizza, sandwiches, sweet treats, and more! And the best part? It’s right there and the only thing you need to do so sit and enjoy. Instantly, bellies are full, morale is lifted, and you all are ready to rock and roll!
When we stayed, we ordered their cheese pizza for the table and man, that really hit the spot.
Now, if you are wanting to try some local flavors, I highly recommend driving into town and trying either Soda Steve’s, Gambino’s, Or Jimbo’s.
I am getting hungry thinking about their food as a type. Anyone have a teleportation device so I can enjoy Soda Steve’s California Burger? Because that would be great!
As if Marval Resort itself wasn’t enough, there are even more outdoor adventures just a short drive away.
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge – Only 20 minutes from the resort, this refuge is perfect for birdwatching, spotting wildlife, or taking a leisurely hike through Oklahoma’s natural beauty.
Lake Tenkiller – Another nearby gem, where you can rent a boat, go swimming, or simply enjoy a day on the water.
Both spots make excellent day trips if you want to add a little variety to your Marval stay. Whether you’re after a quiet hike, a scenic drive, or a full day on the lake, you’ll find something nearby to suit your family’s mood.
Things to Know Before You Go
Before you toss swimsuits and scooters in the car, here are a few things to know that will make your Marval Resort trip smoother:
Best Time to Visit: Summer means pools, splash pads, and river play. Fall is cooler (and less crowded) with themed weekends that families really get into with costumes and decorations.
Length of Stay: A weekend is enough to sample the activities, but 3–4 days gives you time to enjoy both the resort and nearby adventures like Lake Tenkiller.
Location: Marval is in Gore, Oklahoma (about 1.5 hours from Tulsa and 2.5 hours from Oklahoma City), making it an easy drive for a weekend getaway.
Who It’s For: Perfect for families with kids of all ages, multi-family groups, and even grandparents who want to join the fun. With options for tent camping, cabins, and RVs, you can go rustic or keep it cozy.
Pets Welcome: There’s even an on-site dog park, so your four-legged family members can join the fun, too.
Day Pass: Marval offers day‑use passes ($12 per person (ages 4+), free for kids under 3), ideal if you want a fun day trip without staying overnight.
Packing Tips for Marval Resort
Packing smart makes the difference between a laid-back trip and one where you’re constantly running back to the cabin (or Walmart). Here’s what I recommend bringing:
Water Shoes: The Illinois River is shallow and perfect for kids, but rocky in spots. Protect those toes!
Extra Towels & Swimsuits: Between the pools, splash pad, and river, your kids will cycle through outfits faster than you can say “Who left this wet towel on the floor?”
Sunscreen & Bug Spray: Essentials for Oklahoma summers. Reapply often.
Camping Basics: Flashlights, folding chairs, and a cooler for snacks/drinks by the river. Check out this post for a full list of camping gear for families.
Scooters/Bikes: Tons of kids ride around the bungalow areas in the evenings — it’s like an impromptu neighborhood block party.
Portable Playpen: If you’ve got a baby, the river doubles as a natural sound machine — but you’ll want a safe spot for them to snooze.
Themed Weekend Gear: If you’re visiting in the fall or during a holiday, pack costumes and decorations (I hear people go all out).
Trust me, being over-prepared means less stress and more time enjoying the pools, river, and all the activities Marval has to offer.
Y’all Come Back Now, Ya Hear
In conclusion, Maraval Resort will forever reside as one of Oklahoma’s most cherished and hidden treasures for you and your family. It’s a place where memories are made year after year, and the memories you make will compound over time. You will find yourself making picture collages of your kids in front of the general store over the years. You’ll remember when they were timid to jump into the deep end or how the tye-dye shirt they made now is too small. You will see their sweet faces grow each year in a place that will grow with them. It’s not just a vacation, it’s a timestamp for their childhood.
The fun is only the beginning.
About the Author
Katie resides in the heart of Oklahoma with her husband and two incredible children. She loves all things outdoors. From blowing backyard bubbles with her kids to backpacking in the Rockies. She has a heart for it all. She is passionate about conservation, community, and cultivating a space for the two to collide. When she’s not adventuring with her kiddos, you can find her nose-deep in a book – either reading one or writing one. She is a sucker for a good story and she is excited to share a piece of her story with you.
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining your love of canoeing with camping in the wilderness, you’re in for a treat. Today, Anthony Quill (of From Tent to Takeoff), a passionate outdoorsy Minnesota dad, is here sharing his insights and experiences canoe camping with kids. In this comprehensive guide, he’s included everything you need to know about canoe camping with kids, from where to go, what to pack, and tips for keeping the little ones entertained in the great outdoors. Join us as we navigate the waters of family-friendly canoe camping, creating lasting memories and fostering a love for nature in the hearts of your children. Let the adventure begin!
Canoe camping with kids
Canoe camping is a remarkable adventure that offers a unique blend of nature, exploration, and quality family time. Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immersing yourselves in the serene beauty of the great outdoors can create unforgettable memories and strengthen your family bond.
In this ultimate guide to canoe camping, we will delve into the benefits of time outdoors, the essentials of planning, packing, choosing the right destinations, and some lessons learned from almost four decades of canoe country experience. So, grab your paddles, gather your gear, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of canoe camping. The rewards and memories await you just beyond the shoreline.
What is canoe camping?
Canoe camping combines the joys of canoeing with the experience of camping in natural environments. Instead of packing all your stuff in the car and driving to a campsite, canoe camping requires you to pack your canoe and then navigate rivers, lakes, or other water bodies, carrying all necessary camping gear with you and paddle to your camping destination.
This immersive adventure allows families to access remote and pristine wilderness areas, often unreachable by other means. Canoe campers typically paddle during the day, enjoying the scenic waterways, and then set up campsites along the shore at night. This unique blend of paddling and camping fosters a close connection with nature, providing tranquility, exploration, and self-reliance as you navigate diverse landscapes and engage in outdoor living. Explore the beauty of backcountry adventures with a canoe in tow, unlocking remote and pristine landscapes that few other modes of travel can access.
Benefits of canoe camping
Canoe camping allows families to disconnect from screens and distractions, replacing them with the soothing sounds of water, the rustle of leaves, and the chorus of birdsongs. It offers a chance to slow down, breathe fresh air, and appreciate the wonders of nature together.
One of the reasons why I think canoe camping with kids is so rewarding is the opportunity it provides for hands-on learning. As you paddle along calm waters, your children can observe different species of birds, identify various plants, and even spot unique wildlife like moose and deer. It’s a chance to ignite their curiosity, foster a deep appreciation for the environment, and cultivate a sense of stewardship for the natural world.
Beyond the educational aspects, canoe camping encourages quality family time. With limited distractions, you can engage in meaningful conversations, share stories around a crackling campfire, and laugh together while navigating, or getting lost, on your route. It’s an opportunity to create a shared experience that will be cherished for years to come.
Canoe camping also offers a sense of adventure and the thrill of exploration. Discover hidden coves, secluded beaches, and breathtaking landscapes that are only accessible by water. Paddling through serene lakes or gentle rivers allows you to explore nature at your own pace, stopping along the way to swim, fish, or simply bask in the tranquility of your surroundings.
Furthermore, the self-sufficiency required during a canoe camping trip can instill valuable life skills in young children. They can learn to set up camp, cook meals, and adapt to different situations, fostering independence, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.
What to pack for canoe camping
Canoe camping requires careful planning and packing to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Usually, you can take more (and heavier) items than you can take on a backpacking trip (as you won’t be carrying your items), but less than you can pack on a traditional car camping trip (as everything needs to fit into the canoe (along with all the people in your family).
*Don’t forget to pack a little bit extra patience and flexibility, as unpredictability is part of the charm when embarking on canoe camping adventures with kids.
Here’s a comprehensive list of essential items to pack for your adventure:
Plenty of meals and snacks (dehydrated backpacking meals work great)
Cooking utensils, pot to boil water, and a cooking pan
Backpacking stove
Water filter and containers to store filtered water
Eating utensils, plates, and cups
Safety equipment:
First aid kit fit for your group size
Insect repellent (lots) and sunscreen
Life jackets that are comfortable to wear all day
Whistle or signal mirror for emergencies
Maps, compass, and Emergency Locator Beacor or GPS device
Knife, saw, lighter, and waterproof matches
Personal items:
Toiletries and biodegradable camp soap
Prescription medications and basic over-the-counter remedies (i.e. kid and adult Tylenol)
Personal identification and emergency contact information
Cash or cards for emergencies
Entertainment items for kids, such as books, toys, and games
Packing tips
Remember to pack efficiently to keep the weight manageable, especially when portaging between lakes or rivers. Distribute the load evenly between canoes and ensure easy access to frequently used items. We prefer portage packs lined with a plastic bag that are custom-made to fit in a canoe. Traditional backpacking bags also work.
When packing the canoe, you want to make sure everything stays evenly distributed and dry. Wet/dry back can be a lifesaver in the event of a tip or rain. Before setting off at your entry point, make sure your gear is securely packed and waterproof; a soggy sleeping bag at the bottom of the canoe is an experience best avoided. Even with limited gear, prioritize much space for movement and comfort in your canoe, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone on board.
If you are new to canoe camping, call an outfitter to help you with your first time. They can be a great resource even if you are not using their full guided services.
Want to pack like the pros? Then check out our exact packing list for our Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness trips.
Where to go canoe camping with kids
Discovering the best places for family canoe camping involves seeking tranquil lakes with calm water, scenic landscapes, and ample opportunities for exploration. Choosing the right destination for your canoe camping adventure is crucial, especially when traveling as a family. When selecting a destination, consider factors such as accessibility, regulations, and the suitability of water conditions.
As a general rule of thumb, small lakes/rivers are much better if you are bringing kids than large ones. Check with local park authorities or experienced canoe camping organizations for updated information and permits. Opt for routes with a short portage if you’re venturing out with younger kids, making the journey more manageable and ensuring everyone arrives at the next waterway with smiles intact. Also, choosing routes with calm water can be helpful, especially when traveling with younger kids or novice paddlers.
Here are some family-friendly canoe camping destinations that offer breathtaking scenery and exciting activities:
Local waterways (best for beginners):
The options below are large and beautiful destinations (think bucket list worthy), but the best place to canoe camp is the one that’s accessible to you and gets you out on the water! The options listed below are amazing, but they may not be suitable for your first canoe camping trip with the family.
When you first start canoe camping, we recommend checking out your area’s local rivers and lakes. Here in Minnesota, we have a number of State Parks that offer canoe-in campsites that can give you a flavor of a big canoe camping trip without the commitment! Many rivers also allow for camping on banks and sandbars, which is a perfect way to start for your first trip.
Embarking on your first canoe trip? Start with short, manageable routes, gradually building confidence and expertise for more extended adventures. Ease into canoe camping with kids. Start small your first time and make each future trip slightly longer, harder, or both!
National(ish) Parks:
Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada: Known for its stunning lakes and wildlife, Algonquin offers numerous canoe routes suitable for families, including shorter trips and designated campsites.
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota, USA (our favorite, and technically not a National Park): With its interconnected lakes and pristine wilderness, this area provides a serene environment for canoe camping and offers various entry points for different skill levels.
Lakeside camping:
Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah, USA: This picturesque reservoir offers beautiful sandy beaches and secluded coves for camping. Kids can enjoy swimming, fishing, and exploring the stunning red rock formations.
Lake District, England: With its vast network of lakes and stunning landscapes, the Lake District provides an ideal setting for canoe camping. Families can paddle on Windermere, Ullswater, or Coniston Llkes, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
River adventures:
Allagash Wilderness Waterway, Maine, USA: This 92-mile-long waterway provides a wilderness experience with opportunities for wildlife sightings. It offers calm waters and numerous camping spots along the riverbanks. This offers a similar experience to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Dordogne River, France: The Dordogne River is perfect for family canoe camping, with its gentle currents and scenic countryside. Paddle through medieval towns, explore castles, and enjoy picnics along the riverbanks.
Buffalo National River, Arkansas: For a scenic, family-friendly canoe camping getaway, consider the serenity of Buffalo National River. The gentle currents and lush surroundings create an idyllic setting for outdoor bonding.
Coastal escapes:
Everglades National Park, Florida, USA: Discover the unique ecosystem of the Everglades by canoeing through mangrove tunnels and coastal waterways. Look out for alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species. Here’s a great post on what to expect when exploring Everglades National Park with kids.
Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden: Explore the stunning archipelago with its thousands of islands, calm waters, and cozy camping spots. Enjoy the tranquility of the Swedish nature and picturesque fishing villages.
What to do when canoe camping
Canoe camping offers a range of exciting surprises and activities to keep kids engaged and entertained. Bringing along a selection of nature-themed games and activities is always a good idea to keep the little adventurers engaged and entertained in the canoe and during downtime at the campsite. Here are some ideas to make your adventure memorable:
Nature exploration:
Wildlife spotting: Encourage kids to observe and identify birds, animals, and plant species along the shores. Keep binoculars and a field guide handy for identification. We like to study up on key species ahead of time and then try to identify them in the field.
Nature scavenger hunt: Create a list of items found in the area you are visiting, such as different types of leaves, animal tracks, or specific rocks, and challenge the kids to find them during hikes or paddling breaks. Scavenger hunts are a great way to get little kids actively observing nature around them.
Fishing:
Teach kids basic fishing skills, such as casting and reeling, and let them experience the excitement of landing a keeper. Here’s some info on how to get started teaching kids to fly fish.
Campfire cooking:
Involve the kids in preparing meals over your campfire. They can help gather firewood, mix ingredients, and assemble simple recipes like foil packet meals or s’mores. Here’s a great post on getting kids involved in camp cooking.
Storytelling and stargazing:
Share stories and legends around the campfire can create a sense of awe. Additionally, stargazing during clear nights offers a chance to identify constellations and share stories about the cosmos. Unfortunately, we rarely do the latter, since it means our young kids would be staying up until 10PM with our late summer sunsets, but it’s a great idea for older kids. Here’s a great post on incorporating storytelling into your stargazing adventures.
Water activities:
Swimming and snorkeling: If the water conditions permit, let the kids cool off by swimming or snorkeling. Cliff jumping is also a great option if you are certain the landing zone is deep and clear of debris.
Canoeing and kayaking games: Organize friendly races, relays, or paddling challenges to keep the kids active and engaged while on the water. Here are some great ways to get kids active on the water.
Nature crafts:
Encourage creativity by collecting natural materials like rocks, shells, or driftwood to create crafts. Kids can make nature-inspired artwork, jewelry, or even build miniature shelters using sticks and leaves.
Our kids love charring a stick in the fire and then using it as a pencil to draw on pieces of birchbark. We bring them home and hang them in their room and they last for years!
In the great outdoors, even the simplest moments—like cooking over a campfire or stargazing from the comfort of your tent—can become the great things that shape cherished family traditions.
Canoe camping gear
The right gear is crucial for a successful and enjoyable canoe camping trip with kids. Here are some essential items to consider:
Canoe and paddles:
Choose a stable and family-friendly canoe with enough space for everyone and their gear. We use a Northstar Northwind 18 kevlar canoe, which has a third bench seat in the middle where both kids sit.
Select paddles suitable for each family member’s height and strength. We use adjustable paddles to accommodate our growing kids.
Life jackets and safety gear:
Ensure each family member has a properly fitting and Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Look for jackets specifically designed for children and make sure they are comfortable enough to be worn all day long. Here’s a full post on the best life jackets for kids.
Carry essential safety gear, such as a whistle, signal mirror, rope, GPS/Emergency Locator Beacon, etc. in your life jacket pockets or a dry bag.
Camping equipment:
Family-sized tent: Invest in a spacious tent that can comfortably accommodate all family members and has room for sleeping bags and gear. You don’t have to use an ultralight (backpacking) tent, but it will save you space and weight in your canoe. We use an REI Half-dome Trail Hut 4+ backpacking tent and love it.
Sleeping gear: You need a lightweight (we like hydrophobic down) sleeping bag that is warm enough for any weather you might encounter. We also use inflatable sleeping pads for comfort and warmth. Nemo, Sea 2 Summit, and Big Agnes all make great ultra-light sleeping pads.
Camp kitchen: Bring cooking utensils, pots, pans, and a portable stove for meal preparation. Less is more. We bring two bowls and often eat out of the freeze-dried meal bags. This means less weight and fewer dishes to clean!
Water containers and purification: In most cases, you will be purifying your own water on your canoe camping trip. We bring a couple of Nalgene water bottles, a gravity filter, and a 10L water bladder to hold excess purified water.
Lighting: Make sure you bring a couple of headlamps, lanterns, and/or flashlights.
Storage and organization:
Dry bags and waterproof containers: When canoe camping with kids, you want to be sure to keep clothes, food, and important items dry by using dry bags or waterproof containers. We line our canoe packs with heavy-duty garbage bags and bring personal dry bags for use during the day. We like the Sea 2 Summit dry bags that come in a variety of sizes.
Gear storage: Mesh bags and compression sacks are your friend! They are a great way to help keep your gear organized and help pack down big items (sleeping bags) so they fit better in your packs.
Clothing and personal items:
Choose quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for local weather conditions. Include extra layers for cooler evenings and rain gear for wet conditions or bad weather.
Pack personal items like toiletries, medications, insect repellent, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to ensure comfort and protection from the elements.
What we’ve learned from canoe camping with kids
We’ve learned a lot from almost four decades of canoe country experience. Below are some practical tips and advice that we wish we’d known from the start.
Plan for rest days:
Depending on the length of your trip, consider incorporating rest days into your itinerary. This allows everyone to relax, explore the surroundings, and engage in activities at a leisurely pace. On long multi-day trips, we use a one-day on, one-day off schedule. This means we are changing campsites every other day.
Involve kids in trip planning:
Get the kids involved in the trip-planning process by allowing them to choose destinations, activities, or meals. This helps foster a sense of ownership and excitement, making them more engaged throughout the journey. It is harder for them to complain about what they are doing when it is their choice!
Optimize packing:
Evaluate your gear and assess if there are any unnecessary or duplicate items. Streamline your packing list to minimize the weight and maximize space, making portaging and setup easier. Less truly is more.
Prioritize comfort:
Invest in quality sleeping gear, such as thicker sleeping pads or inflatable mattresses, to promote quality sleep. While we personally do not use them, comfortable camp chairs and portable tables can also make a significant difference during meal times and relaxation.
Incorporate variety into activities:
Switch things up. Mix in different activities on different days. Balance physical exertion, such as paddling or hiking, with more relaxed activities like fishing, swimming, or nature observation. However, in our experience, the kids are never the ones needing more relaxed activities.
Embrace flexibility:
Allow for flexibility in your itinerary to accommodate unexpected weather changes or spontaneous discoveries. This flexibility can add excitement and reduce stress during the trip. Some of our best trips are the ones that we followed our plan the least.
Teach leave no trace principles:
Educate your kids about the importance of Leave No Trace principles, such as packing out trash, respecting wildlife and vegetation, and minimizing campsite impact. Instilling these values early on promotes responsible and sustainable outdoor practices.
Above all, remember that the most important thing during your canoe camping expedition with kids is to embrace the journey, fostering a sense of wonder and shared family memories. Remember, every trip is a learning experience, so don’t worry if the first one isn’t perfect!
Canoe camping websites and resources
Thankfully, there are a ton of great resources for families looking to try canoe camping and want to learn the ropes. Here are some helpful websites and resources:
From Tent to Takeoff: (http://www.fromtenttotakeoff.com) This is our family blog where we document our trips and provide advice on how to make the most out of your family adventures
Paddling.com: Paddling.com offers a wealth of information on canoeing and kayaking, including trip reports, gear reviews, and destination guides. Their forums and community provide opportunities to connect with fellow paddlers and share experiences.
National Park Service (nps.gov): Visit the website of the National Park Service to explore canoeing opportunities in various national parks. Check out park-specific information, regulations, and camping options for a safe and enjoyable experience.
American Canoe Association (aca-paddler.org): The American Canoe Association is a valuable resource for paddlers of all skill levels. Their website provides safety guidelines, instructional videos, and a directory of certified instructors for those looking to enhance their canoeing skills.
Canoe Camping Club (canoecamping.club): The Canoe Camping Club is a community of canoe camping enthusiasts. Their website offers trip reports, gear recommendations, and a forum to connect with other families who share a passion for canoe camping.
Local tourism board websites: Check the official websites of local tourism boards for your desired canoe camping destinations. They often provide information on campsites, canoe rental services, maps, and local attractions.
Outdoor retailer websites: Visit outdoor retailer websites like REI (rei.com) or MEC (mec.ca) for gear recommendations, buyer’s guides, and informative articles on outdoor activities, including canoe camping.
Canoe camping with kids
Canoe camping with kids offers a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and foster a love for outdoor adventures. By following the tips and insights shared in this ultimate guide, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for the entire family.
Safe travels and happy canoe camping!
About the author
Anthony Quill is a Minnesota dad and blogger who loves experiencing epic adventures with his wife and two kids. He is Twin Cities-based but globally bound, traveling with his family everywhere from Minnesota’s North Shore to Morocco, Spain, and Italy. No matter the distance, he always returns to his roots on the North Shore, and in particular the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Learn more about his family’s adventures on their blog at From Tent To Takeoff, on Instagram at @fromtenttotakeoff, or on Facebook at @fromtenttotakeoff.
Bikepacking with kids is an opportunity to bond, explore, camp, and create lifelong memories. If you’ve ever dreamt of embarking on a two-wheeled adventure with your little ones in tow, you’re in for a treat. Today, St. Louis mom of three, Steph Hampton, is here to introduce you to the wonderful world of bikepacking with kids and share her family’s first bikepacking experience. She’s included practical tips to ensure a successful and enjoyable journey, advice on how to make the experience as smooth as possible, and what you need to be well-prepared for any adventure. So, fasten your helmets, pump up those tires, and explore the world of bikepacking with kids, one pedal stroke at a time.
The idea to try something new
My husband and I have been married for 7 years now, and he knows that I love to come up with unique adventures for our family. Very rarely does he ever say no to a new adventure, no matter how outlandish some of my ideas are. So, when I asked him one day, “Are you up for something crazy?” He responded, “Sure, why not?!”
My idea was to try bikepacking, which would involve biking our camping gear (and our 3 young children) to a campsite for a weekend. After looking for a route and campground near us, we decided we could totally make this happen! Here’s our story, a bit of information about bikepacking, and some tips that helped us along the way.
What is bikepacking
Bikepacking combines elements of backpacking and traditional biking. It involves using a bicycle as a means of transportation to carry your camping and outdoor gear to your campsite. It’s similar to backpacking (in that you’re carrying all your camping gear with you), but you have the benefit of being on your bike, which can get you farther, and faster.
Benefits of bikepacking
Bikepacking is all about immersing yourself in nature and exploring remote areas that may not be accessible by traditional vehicles. Bikepacking allows you to cover more ground than traditional hiking, allowing you to explore larger areas within a given time frame. You can also travel between different campsites or explore multiple destinations in a single trip.
Cycling is an efficient (and eco-friendly!) mode of transportation, allowing you to carry more gear and cover longer distances without the fatigue associated with backpacking. However, bikepacking can still be physically demanding, as you may encounter steep climbs, rugged trails, and various weather conditions. It offers a satisfying physical challenge for those who love both cycling and the outdoors.
All packed up and ready to start our bikepacking adventure!
What you need to go bikepacking with kids
If you’re interested in a bikepacking adventure, the type and quantity of gear you need will depend on the specifics of your trip and your family. You’ll want to consider things like the duration of your trip, the terrain you’ll be biking on, how long you’ll be camping and the weather. Here’s a general list of essential gear you should consider for bikepacking:
Bikes — Each person on your trip will need a reliable, well-maintained bike suitable for the terrain you’ll be riding on. If you don’t have a bike trailer or one that carries kids, they’ll each need their own bike, too. Mountain bikes are commonly used for bikepacking, and e-bikes are growing in popularity (this is what we used…more on our bikes below).
Bikepacking bags — There are various types of bags that fit on bikes. They can attach to the frame, the handlebars, the seat, etc. You could also pack your camping gear in a haul-behind trailer (we love this Burley).
Camping gear — You’ll need to pack all your camping gear in the bags to bring with you. This includes your tent and sleep systems, clothing, food/water, cooking and eating equipment, flashlights, first aid, etc.
Tools and repair equipment — You’ll want to pack tools for bike repairs and adjustments. Items include a multi-tool, tire repair kit, spare tube, tire pump, chain and links, etc. If you have an ebike, bring along an extra battery or a way to charge your battery at your campsite. Also, it’s good to know how to repair your bike and fix tire issues before heading out so that you’re prepared.
Just a reminder that no trip is perfect! 🙂 We came upon a part of the closed greenway and had to find a different route on our GPS.
Assessing our bike setup
Our bike situation is a bit unique, in that we have two e-bikes, both designed to haul kids and gear. This means that we were at a huge advantage in the amount of gear we could bring with us, and how we traveled with the kids. Our children are young enough that they couldn’t bike this distance on their own, so having the ability to haul them on the bike was fantastic. Here’s a bit more about our two family-friendly e-bikes.
This bike is a game-changer in the world of family-friendly cargo bikes. It’s built to accommodate families, making it perfect for transporting kids (and everything that goes with kids). The Bunch Bike has a bucket-style cargo area in the front, with enough space to carry up to four children, groceries, or anything else you need to transport.
It has an electric-assist motor, which offers pedal assistance to make riding effortless, even with a full load. This makes it easy to tackle hills and longer distances without breaking a sweat. The bike is designed for the rider’s comfort and ease of use, with a step-through frame for easy access, ergonomic handlebars, and high-quality components.
I felt very sturdy in this bike because it has three wheels instead of two, which brought me peace of mind while biking while pregnant with our 4th baby. We carried all our camping gear, the girls’ Woom Bikes, and our 4-year-old on this bike (she has a seat on the back)! I told you, it hauls a LOT!
Radio Flyer ebike
My husband rode on the Radio Flyer L885 cargo bike. While this bike doesn’t have much cargo space for hauling gear, the battery power covers 30-50 miles and 2 kids can comfortably ride in the back. We carried our 2yo & 6yo on the back rear platform of this bike, and they loved it!
The Radio Flyer L885 also has pedal-assist and full-throttle capabilities, making hills and distances easy! It is a little more wobbly with two wheels, but a great eBike all the same!! My husband biked this one, while I rode the Bunch Bike.
We did this trip while I was 18 weeks pregnant. I felt very comfortable riding our Bunch Bike with 3 wheels instead of 2 wheels.
Practical tips for bikepacking with kids
1. Find a comfortable route & decide on a distance
If you and your kids are just getting started with bikepacking, I recommend starting with a short trip and staying close to home. This way you can test your gear, gauge your child’s comfort and endurance, and make necessary adjustments without being too far from help or home (just in case you need to bail).
Try to choose a kid-friendly route that’s suitable for your kids’ ages, interests, and biking experience. Also, look for bike trails with manageable terrain and minimal traffic. Unless you have e-bikes, try to avoid routes with steep hills or challenging technical features.
I highly recommend taking advantage of a greenway system near you. We biked 10 miles on backroads/a few short rides on busier roads, and then another 10 miles on greenways to arrive at our campground! Our favorite was the Monarch-Levee trail, if you are in the St. Louis area.
Since we both had ebikes (and were comfortable with the distance and battery power/life), we chose 20 miles as a distance we could handle.
2. Practice carrying gear beforehand
Both our ebikes are cargo bikes, so they are meant to carry a significant amount of gear for distances. The ebikes handled the majority of the work, so we didn’t need to do much practice or training carrying all the gear, but we did need to figure out how we were going to pack everyone on the bike safely and what our bikes could handle.
We did a few test runs around our neighborhood beforehand so that we could shift gear around if we needed a better center of gravity. We needed to make sure that the heaviest items were low and centered for stability.
It was also our first time carrying all three of our girls’ bikes on the Bunch Bike, so we wanted to test this out before a larger trip.
We biked on the greenway system for half of our route (10 miles), which was great peace of mind.
3. Choose a kid-friendly campground
If possible, try to choose a kid-friendly campground. These campgrounds are usually designed to cater to the needs and safety of children, with facilities such as playgrounds, family-oriented activities, and child-appropriate amenities. Sometimes these family-friendly campgrounds offer quiet hours and even foster a sense of community, allowing the kids to make new friends and play with other kids.
We camped at a local state park, which has great trails and a fun nature center. When we needed a break from the heat, we went into the nature center for a storytime! We looked ahead of time at the list of activities, but we were pleasantly surprised with a great nature center. Our girls had fun playing “I Spy” and drawing animals.
4. Consider ebikes
I really can’t say enough good things about our experience with ebikes. If you’re been considering purchasing an ebike for your family, consider this the push you need. They really have made all the difference for us! Having two ebikes so we could carry the kids and the gear up some big hills was crucial for this trip and all our biking experiences lately (especially because I’m pregnant).
Although, you do need to consider batteries and charging when bikepacking with ebikes. While we were at our campground, the hosts helped us with charging up our bike batteries, so that we were ready for the ride back home (since we had a primitive campsite). We were so thankful! We have two batteries for my Bunch Bike, which was perfect for the weight we carried.
If purchasing an ebike isn’t in your budget, you could consider renting one for your bikepacking trip.
5. Invest in ultralight backpacking gear
Having gear that’s compact and lightweight can make a huge difference. We used our backpacking gear (tent, sleeping pads & bags) all from Klymit (ultralight backpacking gear). Our largest weight was our cooler with our meals & ice.
Even with light gear, we had to minimize the number of items we were carrying. Kids may be able to help by carrying their own clothing, sleeping bag, or a small portion of the gear if they can wear a backpack on the bike.
Encouraging our kids to help us set up the tent really helps them to give responsibility in the campsite.
6. Be flexible!
Just like anything with kids, it’s so important to lower your expectations and to remain flexible! No trip will be perfect, and that is okay. We worked together as a team and had a blast.
Ironically, we found a huge hill leading up to the campsite.
There was a large hill going up to the campground, which was too large for the Bunch Bike to make it up with all the weight we were carrying. My husband, bless his heart, walked the Bunch Bike up the hill! Thankfully, the bike has a walk-assist, which helped tremendously, but it was still a feat! This bike handles a ton of weight, but even some hills are too large…and this one was huge!
About to leave our camp site! Mark rode the RadioFlyer eBike, while I rode our Bunch Bike cargo eBike.
7. Get the kids involved
Encourage kids to help with tasks like setting up the tent or preparing meals. Let them help pick the route or pack the bags. Have them be on the lookout for trailmarkers, or be in charge of singing songs along the way. Getting them involved instills a sense of responsibility and adventure. And give them lots of positive reinforcement and praise for their effort and cooperation.
8. Have fun!
Camping with kids, no matter how you’re doing it, is always an adventure! Be prepared!
Our 2-year-old crawled over us all night, a raccoon stole our bagels, we removed some ticks, and the weather was hot, but we still had a blast. (Losing the bagels was the toughest one of these for our girls…ha!) Luckily, we had backup food for breakfast, and all was fine! To make it up to them, we made some homemade sourdough bagels when we arrived home, and that hit the spot!
No matter what happens, try to remember that the experience is worth it. Have fun and keep a positive attitude! That’ll go a long way!
Bringing our kids’ Woom Bikes along was worth it. After seeing their parents bike, they wanted their turn too!
Definitely worth the effort!
Being out in nature is our favorite way to connect and have fun as a family, and this was no different. Our trip didn’t go as we expected, but we had an amazing time, created some really special memories and learned a lot!
Would we bikepack again? Yes!
This was such a fun and unique way to travel, camp, and be together. We had a great time unplugging from a busy week and enjoying the fresh air, sunshine, and adventure!
You know it’s a good trip when the 2-year-old falls asleep on the way home.
Have you ever considered bikepacking?
About the author
Steph lives in St. Louis with her husband, Mark, their three daughters (ages 5, 3 & 1), and their funny pup. Steph taught elementary school for five years and became a stay-at-home mom when her first child was born. When the pandemic hit and the playgrounds were closed, she started taking her kids hiking on a different trail each day. Steph is also a NICU mama (her 2nd daughter was born 3 months early). The outdoors has been so healing for her and her family, not to mention fun!
Since the pandemic started, their family has visited over 175 parks and hiked over 200 trails around St. Louis and Missouri. Their family also loves to tent camp, canoe, and bike. Steph has a passion for exploring the outdoors, helping start a free, weekly nature playgroup, and sharing adventure tips with others. When she is not hiking, she loves baking, reading, and dreaming of being a Survivor contestant.
Exploring the rugged and wild corners of Iceland is a dream trip for eager travelers. However, it can also seem incredibly daunting to do with young children in tow. But, that’s not the case! We are here to tell you that traveling around Iceland is completely achievable with children and you will make the most wonderful memories together. Today, travel blogger and UK mom of two, Aimee K, is here sharing her family’s 7-day camper van tour of Iceland with kids. She’s included tips for traveling around Iceland and fun family-friendly outdoor activities.
Exploring Iceland with kids
If you’re dreaming of embarking on a breathtakingly beautiful and nature-filled journey with your little ones, look no further than the awe-inspiring landscapes of Iceland. With its dramatic waterfalls, rugged mountains, and vibrant geothermal wonders, this Nordic island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. And what better way to experience it all than by embracing the freedom and flexibility of a family adventure in a cozy camper van?
In this post, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Iceland’s incredible outdoor wonders, as well as provide you with a sample 7-day itinerary to make the most of your time on this magical island. We’ll also share valuable tips and tricks for planning a successful Icelandic adventure with your kids, ensuring that every moment is filled with joy, discovery, and unforgettable memories.
Prepare yourselves for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will captivate both you and your children. Iceland offers an incredible array of natural wonders, and with the freedom of a camper van, you’ll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace. From thunderous waterfalls to geothermal marvels and majestic glaciers, this country is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Top tips for visiting Iceland with kids
Book ahead: Attractions, tours, hotels and campers become fully booked months in advance. Get in early with booking key aspects ahead of your visit, most are refundable if your plans change and you need to cancel.
Be prepared: Make note of the Met Office and Road Administration websites which provide real time updates on road, weather and geological conditions along your route. Staying safe is at the front of our minds when traveling with kids.
Dress for the elements: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes for the entire family.
Safety first:Prioritize safety during your outdoor adventures. Teach your kids about the environment, follow marked trails, and be aware of weather conditions.
Essentials: Stock up on supplies such as food, water, and warm bedding. Campsites are plentiful, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of Iceland’s nature while having essential facilities nearby.
Embrace Icelandic cuisine: Encourage your children to try traditional Icelandic delicacies like lamb soup or skyr yogurt, providing them with a taste of the local culture.
Unplug and immerse: Disconnect from technology and encourage your kids to engage with nature fully. Let their imaginations run wild as they explore Iceland’s majestic landscapes.
Camping in Iceland with kids
Iceland is incredibly well set up for campers with well-equipped campsites found easily across the country and no pre-booking is needed. Prices range from £18-25 per night for a small camper van pitch. The facilities can vary between sites, some campsites have only bathrooms, while others are equipped with playgrounds, kitchens and cafés.
We would certainly recommend staying at:
Skógar Campsite: Located at the base of the thundering Skogafoss waterfall. Waking up to this epic waterfall was unforgettable, and being able to explore early when there was no-one around was magical.
Vík Campsite: This one is only open in summer and located in the heart of beautiful Vík. Perfectly located for a walk to the beach… or the local pizzeria!
Grindavík Campsite: One of the only camp sites we found with a playground and perfectly located near the airport and just a few minutes from the Blue Lagoon. This campsite is ideal if you are planning to visit the Lagoon early!
We often get asked if camping in Iceland was cold, and we can honestly say it was absolutely fine! Although, we would recommend renting a camper van with insulated sides, a heater and warm bedding.
What to pack for Iceland
Flying with just cabin/carry-on bags not only saves money when you travel with budget airlines, but also drastically reduces the amount of time spent waiting for luggage in airports, which is always good when travelling with children! While that means less room for packing, it can be a really practical choice for camping when space is limited.
For Iceland, layers are key as the weather is highly changeable. progressing from scorching sun to ice rain in just a few hours. Thermal base layers, wool socks, wool jumpers and a waterproof coat are essential, along with a good pair of waterproof boots (snow boots or hiking boots depending on the time of year). Don’t forget swimwear if you plan to take a dip in any geothermal pools!
Aside from clothing, we packed basic camping items (such as torches) and entertainment for the kids on long journeys (e.g. colouring books, games, toys). We were able to pre-book all of the bulky items such as towels, bedding, cooking equipment and chargers through our camper van provider including towels, blankets, cooking equipment and charger packs.
The one challenge we experienced was being able to dry wet clothes when there was very little space to hang anything so it’s best to only take quick-drying layers rather than thick clothes such as jeans.
Iceland with kids: Seven-day itinerary for camping
Exploring Iceland is a wild adventure which can can take weeks, or even months to do fully. We initially had big plans to travel the entire ring road, exploring the lesser travelled parts of the island, however we soon realised this was overambitious with only seven days. Instead, we prioritised the waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers of South Iceland.
Our 7-day itinerary is action-packed and completely manageable with young children so it’s a great starting point for planning your own Icelandic adventure! We built in down-time for the boys and some activities we knew they would really love.
Day 1: Arrival – Reykjavik and Grindavik
Keflavik is a small international airport near Reykjavik where most flights to Iceland arrive. It’s very quick to get through as there are not many flights which is perfect for travelling with young children!
From the airport, we collected our campervan from nearby CampEasy HQ, which we had pre-booked to include car seats, towels, bedding and chargers, and set off on our Icelandic adventure!
The first stop was the supermarket to stock up on food for the week. It is incredibly expensive to eat out in Iceland at around £20 for fish and chips or £10 for tomato soup. Netto and Bonus supermarkets were reasonable, easy to find and stocked everything we needed.
Camp overnight at Grindavik campsite to be close to the Blue Lagoon for opening time.
Day 2: Blue Lagoon – Seljalandsfoss – Skogafoss – Vík
Blue Lagoon: The bright blue geothermal pools of the Blue Lagoon were a highlight of our time in Iceland and despite our initial concerns around taking small children and ruining the ambiance, it was very well set up for kids! The boy’s entry was free and armbands were provided (and compulsory) for children under eight. To beat the crowds, head to the Blue Lagoon when it opens at 8am.
Seljalandsfoss Trail: This stunning short hike starts at the car park near the impressive 130ft Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Seljalandsfoss was the only waterfall we discovered which has a narrow path leading into a cave behind the falls! There’s a short 1km gravel trail up to Gljufrabui, another impressive waterfall hidden away inside a cavern.
Skogafoss: Casting rainbows in its spray, this waterfall was truly magical and has featured on the big screen many times.
Along the section of the ring road near Vik you will travel through the other worldly mossy lava fields of Eldhraun. Created hundreds of years ago, and now protected, this expanse of undulating green domes is certainly worth a short stop.
Camp overnight at Skogar campsite if you want a chance to visit with no-one else around in the evenings or early morning! Or head to nearby Vik and camp there..
Day 3: Vík – Jökulsárlón
Vik: Vik is an enchanting small town steeped in folklore and mythology. The black sand, dramatic rock formations and moody seas create a particularly cinematic atmosphere. The culinary delights of Vik tempted us away from self-catering for a few meals as we indulged ourselves at the epic Black Crust Pizzeria and the Skool Beans café (located inside a repurposed school bus).
Katla Ice Caves: A short guided super jeep tour from Vik will take you to the Katla Ice Caves. These are some of the only ice caves which are open all year round. They allow children over the age of six on group tours or you can book a more expensive private tour to take younger children. Helmets, crampons and headtorches are provided for this epic three hour adventure.
Icelandic Lava Show: Watch volcanic sand transform back into lava in this impressive demonstration! Learn about volcanic eruptions in Iceland, how lava tunnels are formed and take home a little shard of dragon glass. Situated in Vik (with a second location in Reykjavik) goggles are provided… be warned though, it does get hot!
Reynisfjara beach: Follow the instructions at the entrance to this beach to avoid the deadly sneaker waves which claim lives on a regular basis. This dramatic black sand beach hosts a huge cave made of enormous basalt columns formed by volcanic eruptions. Follow the advice displayed, dont turn your back to the ocean and keep the kids close. If you are lucky you might even spot a few puffins!
Continue the journey east along the ringroad and camp near Jökulsárlón.
Day 4: Jökulsárlón – Fjallsárlón – Vík
Diamond Beach: Iceland’s iconic diamond beach is located along the ringroad near the Jökulsárlón lagoon. Huge icebergs carried from the glacier lagoon by the outlet river wash up on the black sand beach. This creates the illusion of huge diamonds on the beach. There’s a car park near the beach and a cafe beside the lagoon to warm up after exploring the ice!
Jökulsárlón lagoon: This is a quick stop or perfect picnic spot. Watch the seals frolic in the lagoon as bright blue, white and grey icebergs peacefully drift past. Lagoon boat tours are available here but the smaller (and cheaper) Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon is just a short drive away.
Fjallsárlón lagoon boat tour: Probably the easiest way to get up close to a glacier with children in tow! Hop on a RIB boat and take a guided tour of a glacier lagoon. Minimum age of 5 but they were flexible with allowing younger children. Waterproof and windproof gear was provided for the trip.
Vestrahorn: If you have time and the weather is kind, you may be able to squeeze in a journey out to Vestrahorn and back to see the mountain. This was in our original itinerary but we scrapped it after encountering some awful weather!
Head back to Vik to camp for the night.
Day 5: Golden circle: Vík – Geysir – Gulfoss – Þingvellir – Reykjavík
The golden circle is certainly the most travelled path in Iceland, and there is a lot to see. We didn’t think it really compared to the stunning waterfalls, glaciers and beaches of the south, but the boys were so excited to see the geysers we had to include it in our itinerary.
Geysir: A collection of bubbling pools and explosive geysers. The Strokkur geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes so the wait is never long. It’s an exciting opportunity to learn about geothermal activity as it happens! There’s a visitor centre and parking here.
Gulfoss: A short drive from Geysir, you will hear this thundering waterfall before you see it! A short walking route offers views over the waterfall at a few different points. The children weren’t too interested in this one as it’s so immense you can’t get very close. Worth a stop if you choose to travel the golden circle route. There’s a visitor centre, cafe, shop and carpark.
Þingvellir: Picturesque and dramatic scenery… but not much for the kids to do. Older children may enjoy hiking along the trails but we headed to Silfra where the crack between the separating tectonic plates can be found. There was a waterfall and some short trails here.
Head to Reyjavik for the night.
Day 6: Explore Reykjavík
Reykjavik is a small, welcoming city which is home to around half of Iceland’s residents. There are plenty of shops, restaurants and street art to explore.
Perlan Museum: You can get a taste of all things Iceland in one place at this interactive and educational museum! Experience the Northern Lights in the planetarium and explore the longest man made ice cave. Learn about volcanoes, glaciers and Iceland’s wildlife then head to the rooftop terrace for views over Reykjavik.
Sun Voyager Sculpture: Make a short stop at the Sun Voyager sculpture on Reykjavik’s seafront to take in the mountain views.
You may also enjoy heading up the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church for more views of Reykjavik.
Camp in Reykjavik or back at Grindavik campsite.
Day 7: Depart Iceland
The final day of exploring Iceland with kids! We had an early flight out of Keflavik but if you had time you could visit the nearby Hopsnes lighthouse or spend more time in Reykjavik. Head home, taking photographs and memories to treasure forever!
Traveling to Iceland with kids
The endless opportunities to learn about the natural world and the intriguing folklore stories makes it the perfect place to take the kids. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your loved ones, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Iceland. Let the windswept beauty of this Nordic gem ignite your family’s sense of wonder and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. It’s time to embrace the wild and experience the magic of Iceland with your adventurous little ones by your side!
Additional resources
If you love this post, make sure to check out some of our additional family-friendly travel content on Iceland, Estonia, and the Azores.
Aimee is a humanitarian worker and photographer based in the UK. As a mum to two young boys, she spends much of her time outdoors in nature and enjoys traveling with her family. Aimee loves to support other families to explore with young children by sharing tips and inspiration.
You can find more from Aimee online in the following locations:
Instagram: @how_i_wander_uk
Website: How I Wander
If you love camping, hiking, and a challenge, backpacking is the next step! Backpacking with kids can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging if you’re not adequately prepared. But, where do you even begin? Today, St. Louis mom of three, Steph Hampton is here to share her family’s recent backpacking experience. As a first-time backpacker with kids, Steph learned that planning and preparation are essential to ensure a successful trip, and she’s sharing some of the tips and tricks she learned from her first time backpacking with kids with you today.
Our first backpacking with kids experience
Here’s an idea…why don’t we take our three young kids camping deep in the woods, with just the stuff we can carry on our backs?
Well, why not?!!
My husband and I love nature, love camping, and we love a good challenge. We have always wanted to take our kids backpacking, but until recently, it seemed too daunting. Particularly with three kids (ages 5, 3 & 1). What if we forgot something important? What if there was an emergency? What if…what if…what if.
But…what if we did it?!
We prepped and researched as much as we could to get us to a point where we felt very comfortable taking this leap. Leveling up our outdoor adventures isn’t new to us. We started cabin camping before progressing to car camping, then primitive camping. Backpacking felt like the next logical (albeit much more challenging) step, and we couldn’t wait to give it a try!
We checked our schedules and found we had an open weekend in March and decided to go for it! This would not only be the first backpacking trip for my daughters but for me, as well! We can do hard things together.
Hiking to our campsite at Cuivre River State Park
Choosing a backpacking campsite
One of the first things we did when we were ready to go backpacking was start researching backpacking campsites near us. When you’re choosing a backpacking site for a family, there are several factors to consider, including safety, accessibility, and amenities. Here are some tips from our experience.
Start close to home
We searched our state park website for sites that offered backcountry camping within an hour of us. We chose to stick a little closer to home for our first time because those are the trails and areas we’re most familiar with. Plus, if we needed to bail for any reason, we’d be relatively close to home. For those familiar with the St. Louis area, we chose Cuivre River State Park (one hour NW from St. Louis). We chose this location because we were familiar with the park, knew there was cell service if we had an emergency come up, and we were close to a city.
Consider making reservations
Some backcountry campsites are first-come-first-served and some allow you to make reservations to reserve your location. If you’re a serious planner or backpacking during peak season, I’d recommend starting with a campsite that you can reserve so that you’re guaranteed your space. If you’re up for being spontaneous or camping in places where they’re not much of a crowd, you can be more flexible when selecting a site. The campsite we chose did not take reservations in advance, but was available when we arrived (it’s not peak camping season here yet). We were thankful the site was open! We learned to search for future backpacking sites that we are able to reserve ahead of time.
Choose a location within a doable distance
Because you have to hike (with all your gear!) to your campsite, we chose a site down a trail that was just 1.5 miles from the trailhead. It was a great distance for all of us with what we were carrying and doable for even our youngest child. We carried everything we needed, but also had extra supplies (food & water) in the van (only 1.5 miles away), just in case.
Could we have hiked a longer trail? Totally! But, our goal was to test out our gear and the backpacking experience. We were glad we went with a shorter trail because we didn’t feel rushed at all. We could enjoy our time in the woods with the girls.
This also was a more rustic trail (limited trail markers), so it was helpful that it was shorter to locate the correct backpacking site. Before we planned our trip, we kept in mind what distance our kids could confidently hike based on prior experiences. Our family hikes normally vary between 0.5 miles to 5 miles, so we were happy to find a backcountry trail this distance that all three of our daughters could hike independently.
Enjoying a granola breakfast around the campfire. Our girls are wearing Merrell hiking shoes from Laurie’s Shoes, which we loved for traction on the trail!
How to get your kids involved in backpacking
Getting your kids involved in backpacking can be a fun and exciting for them. Kids are natural helpers and love getting to be involved in the process. Here are some tips to help you get your kids interested in (and excited about) backpacking:
Let them make choices
Our kids helped us choose our backpacking site and how we got there. They had fun looking at the park map to find out what route we should take to get to our campsite. Once we arrived, we let them help pick the spot for our tent and where we’d set things up. Giving them choices throughout the process made them more excited about the adventure and invested in it.
Meal plan
Our kids also helped choose our weekend meals They each brought their own hiking backpack that carried a family meal, their spork, and their water bottle. This added to their excitement, as they had more responsibility and helped our family. We usually bring a large cooler for our previous camping experiences but were not able to when backpacking, so this was a different experience. We all felt empowered by carrying everything on our backs, including our food and water.
Packing help
We prepped our kids that we are bringing only the bare necessities, and then got them involved in the packing process. When we car camp, our kids are used to bringing toys, many baby dolls, doll clothes, picture books, etc. But for backpacking, we all agreed ahead of time that they would each be able to bring one lovey. They had fun choosing that one special item and were excited to take it on our adventures. The girls did surprisingly great throughout the trip with limited toys. It was so neat to see their imagination blossom when playing in the woods. A huge fallen tree became the Polar Express train, and a pile of leaves and sticks became a chef’s kitchen to feed their loveys.
Starting our 1.5 mile trail to the site, sporting our Deuter backpacking packs
Hiking to the campsite
The hike to our campsite was only 1.5 miles, but it can still be challenging to keep kids entertained and moving down the trail. Here are a few tips and tricks we implement when hiking with kids to keep their spirits high and their little feet moving!
Search
Our daughters were in charge of finding the trail markers, which is always a fun “I Spy” game. The trail markers were limited on the trail to our campsite, so it was really helpful to have a few more eyes searching! From the “I Spy” of trail markers, we also transitioned to search for animals, flowers, trees, and animal tracks.
Sing songs
Dancing and singing always seem more fun in the woods. My husband and I brought back ALLLLLLL the scout songs when we entered parenthood. Princess Pat, Boom Chicka Boom, or Alice the Camel, anyone? We also like to make up songs from what we see on a hike (nature, animals, weather, etc). Singing and dancing definitely keep us moving!
Carry ultra-light backpacking gear
I highly recommend ultra-light gear when you’re backpacking. 1.5 miles might not sound like a long distance, but heavy gear can make any distance feel grueling. As this was our first family backpacking trip, we did have to make some purchases of ultra-light items, and I was thankful for the light weight of our gear. My husband carried 45 pounds in his pack, while I carried 35 pounds in my pack. (Normally, I carry my 30lb daughter in a hiking backpack on hikes, so this wasn’t too different for me!) If you’re not used to a hiking with a heavy pack, the shorter distance and ultra-light gear can make a huge difference.
Involving our kids in setting up our tent
Tent setup
Include your kids in the setup process
We let our girls help figure out where the best spot to set up the tent would be and got them involved in each step of the process. Do you want the tent on a slope or flat? Why do we need a tarp under the tent? All of these questions helped the girls be more invested in our tent setup. Their favorite part was snapping the tent poles together!
Organize the inside of your tent
Inside our tent, our girls were thrilled to play “Tetris” to figure out where everyone should sleep. They helped blow up our insulated sleeping pads and roll out our sleeping bags (my husband and I had sleeping bags, while our daughters wore Morrison Outdoors wearable sleeping bags). We were camping in the spring and the temperature got down to 40 degrees at night. I was a little cold at one point, but everyone else was warm enough. While we had a 4-person tent with 5 people, we were all on one side of the tent by the morning, snuggling.
Vestibule
Our tent has a vestibule (an outer room) we could use to set things up before entering the tent. Our girls thought this was the coolest thing to have a “tent porch” and were excited to lay out our hiking shoes there. This helped to keep our gear dry, as it rained a bit throughout the night.
Cuddling as the sun rises
Our first-time backpacking tips and takeaways
Lower your expectations
As with anything with kids, be flexible and lower your expectations! Did you lower them? Now lower them again! Don’t set yourself up for failure thinking that this will be an easy, peaceful, restful experience. Backpacking (and all camping) is work, and anytime you get kids out of their comfort zone, there will be hiccups.
My husband and I went into the trip knowing that we would probably not get much sleep, and that helped (because we didn’t). Our two older daughters slept through the night, but our youngest was very excited and had a pretty hard time sleeping. This meant she was climbing over us and all through the tent all night long. At one point she went over to her older sisters, tapped their heads, and said, “Sisters, awake?” In our previous tent camping experiences, we brought a pack n’ play for her to keep her contained and provide some familiarity. With all the space (and us!) I don’t know she knew what to do with herself! For us, lowering our expectations helped because the experience was so worth the limited sleep!
Next time, we’ll make reservations
As I mentioned above, some backcountry campsites allow you to make reservations, and we already reserved our next campsite for our next adventure! This one will have a little longer trail (at Hawn State Park for Missourians) and a water source available, so we can filter our own water and not have to pack in so much (you go through more water than you realize).
Keep it simple
Our biggest takeaway was just how much fun it was to unplug, live simply, and have fun. One of the most unexpected benefits of backpacking is how you realize just how simply you can live and that you really don’t need that much stuff. We could only bring the most absolute essentials on our backs, so we didn’t have the option to overpack. And it was wonderful!
Although, I will admit that I splurged and brought s’mores fixings (because it’s not really camping without s’mores, right?). I put the graham crackers in a Tupperware container so they didn’t crumble. This luxury item was totally worth the little extra weight!
Peace in the woods at night!
Making the leap to backpacking
Camping as a family is my favorite outdoor activity because it allows us to unplug and spend real quality time together, just the five of us. No technology (except the occasional phone photo), no laundry, no home projects…just special time together bonding, playing, and adventuring.
There is something for everyone in the outdoors, whether it is a family walk in the neighborhood, hiking in the woods, or camping. If camping is something you also enjoy, but you’re unsure about taking the leap to backpacking, I highly encourage you to go for it! Start small and give it a try! The family memories are well worth it!
Have you ever gone backpacking? Where will your family adventure together next?
About the author
Steph lives in St. Louis with her husband, Mark, their three daughters (ages 5, 3 & 1), and their funny pup. Steph taught elementary school for five years and became a stay-at-home mom when her first child was born. When the pandemic hit and the playgrounds were closed, she started taking her kids hiking on a different trail each day. Steph is also a NICU mama (her 2nd daughter was born 3 months early). The outdoors has been so healing for her and her family, not to mention fun!
Since the pandemic started, their family has visited over 175 parks and hiked over 200 trails around St. Louis and Missouri. Their family also loves to tent camp, canoe, and bike. Steph has a passion for exploring the outdoors, helping start a free, weekly nature playgroup, and sharing adventure tips with others. When she is not hiking, she loves baking, reading, and dreaming of being a Survivor contestant.
If you’re looking to bond with your family and have amazing outdoor adventures together, where should you go for the best family vacation? Here at Run Wild My Child, we get asked about outdoor family adventure travel a lot! And we have a lot of ideas on how to plan the perfect adventure for your family. But, what if I told you that it’s not always about where to go, but more about what you do when you get there? The best outdoor family adventure locations for your family may be different from mine, based on the size of your family, age and interests of your kids, your location, your budget, and a variety of other factors. But, no matter any of these things, this post is going to give you some amazing ideas for traveling together as a family. Today, Jen Barnes, South Carolina mom of three and travel guru, is here to share the top ten outdoor family vacations for those of you craving adventure!
Outdoor adventure travel for families
When outdoor active families are considering where to go and what to do on a family vacation, there are a variety of things to consider. The best family vacations are the ones that perfectly fit your family’s wants and needs. Most families are looking to prioritize the quality time they will have together during their trip. They want to experience good times as a whole family and make memories together. They are open to trying new things and want their kids to have new experiences. These families want to spend less time on screens and more time getting to know each other.
Families that love adventure and prioritize spending time outside have a wide variety of options when it comes to finding amazing outdoor adventure family-friendly destinations. I’m passionate about helping families connect through travel and outdoor adventures, and I’ve been planning trips for my family and others for years. Today, I get to help you!
I arranged this post into ten categories (different locations and types of family travel), with plenty of options in each one. Many of the categories overlap in places, but I think they will get your wheels turning and the ideas flowing about the types of destinations and adventures you could have there. We focus heavily on travel with in the United States, but there are some international options included. I hope they help as you prepare to plan a trip with outdoor adventures and find the best family vacation spot for your family!
1. Outdoor family vacation in National Parks
National Parks travel is likely one of the most common trips a family will take. Is there anyone who hasn’t thought about a Grand Canyon vacation? Or about a hike under those red rock arches? The iconic spots dotted across the U.S. landscape lure families of all types. A National Parks vacation provides wide open spaces for families to explore together. Whether you enjoy hiking, paddling, rafting, horseback riding, or other activities you can find a lot in our National parks.
Multiple national parks or a deep dive?
There are so many ways to do a National Parks vacation. You can plan a road trip that covers a group of National Parks together. A good example of that would be to road trip what is commonly referred to as “Utah’s Big 5”. There will be a good bit of driving involved for this type of trip. The extended days outdoors amongst the rock formations of Arches National Park or hiking along the waterways of Zion National Park will meet those outdoor wanderlusts. Don’t forget that parks like Death Valley National Park and Joshua Tree National Park are dark sky areas. They are perfect for nighttime star gazers. You and your family can literally spend from sun-up to past sun-down outside.
Another idea is to do a deep dive of a National Park. You can easily spend a week enjoying parks like Yellowstone National Park, Olympic National Park, or Glacier National Park. Those trips are especially satisfying if you want to do any long-form hiking. All-day treks and multi-day treks eat into an itinerary quickly. This really lets you connect as a family while you soak up the fresh air together.
Planning a national parks trip with kids
Here are a few tips if you are planning a trip to National Parks.
Look into an annual pass that will cover your cost for entrance for a full 12 months.
Be prepared that cell coverage is scarce inside the parks. Download your maps and let your friends and family know where you are and that you will be out of touch for a while. It’s glorious!
Many families choose to camp or RV in the parks, but there are also in-park accommodations to look into. Many parks have gateway towns or cities that facilitate family vacation plans. They offer hotel chain options or smaller mom-and-pop lodging.
If you want to stay inside the park, you must plan up to a year in advance.
Food can be very limited and pricey inside the parks, so I suggest packing a cooler for those long days of outdoor exploring.
2. Outdoor family vacation in state parks
Do not underestimate the park and recreation systems within each of the 50 states. State parks are outdoor havens on a smaller scale than national parks, but that does not mean they are lackluster. Look first at your own state to find the local treasures. My home state of South Carolina has incredible and diverse options from coast to mountains to choose from. They are perfect for long weekend getaways when we need to step away from the daily grind.
As you plan a family road trip, look to include a few state parks. They offer great day trips and can often have more overnight camping openings than a National Park. The entrance fees are typically less than the National Parks and can give you a closer view of the local area as you explore.
Favorite recommended state parks
A few unique state parks that regularly come up as places to experience together as a family are Starved Rock State Park in Illinois, Watkins Glen State Park in upstate New York, Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Florida. Located along the Illinois River, Starved Rock State Park is filled with hiking trails and seasonal waterfalls. Watkins Glen has amazing waterfalls and is a respite during the hot months of summer. Valley of Fire has rock formations that are fun for scrambling around, especially in spring and fall. John Pennekamp is an underwater park; it’s a haven for snorkeling and diving that families love to visit.
Wakulla Springs State Park, outside of Tallahassee, Florida, is a hidden gem and a family favorite. Home to one of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs, the sapphire water of Wakulla Springs boasts manatees, alligators, gars, and a host of diverse birds and wildlife that can be viewed from a riverboat tour, guided by knowledgeable park rangers. The kids will love the boat tour, and you’re basically guaranteed to see alligators galore, up close and personal, in their natural habitat. The water at the springs is a cool and refreshing 70 degrees year-round, which feels absolutely invigorating on sweltering hot Florida summer days.
3. Best family beach vacation destinations
Many a family vacation tradition has begun at the beach. It’s no surprise that families flock to these sandy, sunny spaces to enjoy time together and relax. Of course, not every beach vacation is tropical in nature. Sure, you can hit the warm coastal beaches of the southeast or southern California, where the sun shines, and the temperatures heat the days. A lot of families get out in the mornings to seashell hunt and build sandcastles. Then, head inside for the middle of the day, and return beachside for wave jumping and beach games in the late afternoon until dinner. My family likes to then take a walk down the beach after dinner to extend our outside time.
Beach vacations are a great way to travel as a multi-generational family. Everyone from infants to grandparents can soak up the fun at the beach. It’s nice to have an option that includes everyone for together time. You will primarily find vacation rental properties (with full kitchens) and some of the best family vacation resorts in beach towns that line the coasts. Even the Great Lakes have beaches where families seek out rejuvenation. Make sure to read our tips for a successful beach trip with kids.
Florida beaches with kids
There’s something truly magical about the beautiful beaches in Florida. Florida tends to have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for action-packed entertainment or want to get away from it all. The beaches along the Gulf of Mexico are usually white sand and low surf, making them perfect for families with little kids. Most places we have vacationed have all kinds of outdoor activities for families, including fishing, tide pooling, kayaking, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, jet skiing, and so much more. A few of our favorite vacation spots to enjoy the Florida beaches with kids are Destin, Gulf County, Anna Maria Island, and Captiva.
A different kind of beach vacation
If you want a different kind of beach – not your typical warm water white-sand beach – then head to the PNW. Even in the summer, the water can be chilly, but that certainly doesn’t stop the kids from exploring the tidepools, digging up razor clams, and splashing in the waves. You’ll be blown away by the abundant and colorful aquatic life in the area – bright purple sea stars, fire-orange urchins, turquoise anemones, red rock crabs, and all kinds of various plants, barnacles, mussels, and more. Our favorite beaches in the Olympic National Park area were Ruby Beach, La Push, Kalaloch, and Rialto. Most of them have that iconic PNW rocky shore feel, with driftwood and sea stacks, dark sand, and a lingering layer of mist. They’re each more beautiful than the next.
International beaches
International beach destinations draw families, too. Consider Costa Rica, where you can learn to surf or go deep-sea fishing. My youngest and I spent three glorious days at a surf camp in Jaco, Costa Rica. We took surf lessons, stand-up paddle boarded, and enjoyed one-on-one time together. Think about Puerto Rico, where you can do a bioluminescent kayak excursion, or the Greek Islands, where you can kite surf. There are so many options for activities! These kinds of activities are great for trying new things together as a family.
4. Camping & backpacking family vacations
Spending a vacation camping or backpacking is a no-brainer for families who love the outdoors. As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, many of these ideas overlap, so your camping adventure could take place in a national park, state park, or even at the beach. Family camping inside national and state parks is a great way to immerse yourself in the heart of it all. If your family has the desire to step away from the distractions of daily life, weekend camping trips are a wonderful and low-cost option to maximize your outdoor time and really bond.
State and national park camping
You can certainly camp and backpack in National and state parks. Great Smoky Mountains National Park ranks among one of the best spots for a family camping vacation. When we visited Olympic National Park, we came across a family with middle school-aged children who were backpacking for the first time. The hiking was mostly flat, and they camped along the river bed; it looked like a great way to get started. Hunting Island State Park in South Carolina is a great family camping spot in the southeast for its proximity to beachside camping.
Unique camping adventures
Camping can be done at various levels of comfort. RV camping has become increasingly popular with families who love to road trip and explore together but want the comforts of a real bed and bathroom. Car and van camping provide makeshift beds inside a vehicle, but also allow you to be in nature. Tent camping and hammock sleeping put you in the midst of the wilderness, breathing that fresh air all night long. If you’re not quite ready for full-on tent camping or aren’t sure about investing in the equipment needed, you could also consider glamping. Glamping can be anything from those big, heavy canvas tents set up and decked out for families, to sleeping in a teepee, bus, mini-cabin, treehouse, or yurt. Some even have bathrooms connected!
Backpacking for families
Backpacking is a level-up from camping. It’s typically done over a few days and requires you to pack in and pack out all of your own supplies. This includes bedding, shelter/tent, all food, and all waste. Backpacking can be an unbelievable way to immerse yourself in nature and a great family bonding experience. So many of the epic locations you see in photos are from people who have trekked into the deepest parts of the wilderness. Check out this post for more info on how to get started backpacking with kids.
5. Family ski trips (and snowboarding)
There are a number of ski resorts and ski towns across the U.S. that cater specifically to families. There are a wide variety of ways to do a ski trip, but one thing is for sure. You will spend a lot of time outside, and much of it in weather that may not be optimal or even desirable if not for the powder. Ski trips have a way of getting everybody outside in the winter months that may not otherwise. If you don’t ski or snowboard, don’t worry. Most ski areas offer other outdoor activities such as snowshoe trails, dog sled excursions, sleigh rides, and snow tubing. There is so much to do on or off the slopes for the entire family while outside. A ski vacation is an annual tradition for many families!
Snowboarding with kids
If you’re looking for a great snowboarding spot on the East Coast, consider Bolton Valley Resort in Vermont. Bolton Valley was the perfect spot for learning the basics of snowboarding with kids. It is large enough to have nice rides down, but not intimidating or too difficult. The staff is so incredibly helpful and patient! They paid very close attention and assisted every person, from toddlers to adults, as they were learning.
The resort also has an indoor skatepark, which is attached to the Sports Center and has both street and traditional features. It includes a micro mini ramp, a mini ramp, a vert ramp, and even a bowl to ride. The Sports Center also includes a pool, sauna, and hot tub, as well as a game room. And everything at the resort is close enough together that you can easily walk from your room, to the lifts, to the restaurants, to the Sports Center as much as you want! It doesn’t feel overwhelming because it’s all easily accessible.
Colorado is jam-packed with so many great places to ski with the entire family. Breckenridge and Vail are both huge mountains, with tons of runs for all different skill levels of skiier. There are also a lot of things to do in and around town. Other smaller favorites close to Denver are Keystone, A-Basin, Copper, and Beaver Creek.
One of the best ski resorts to visit with the entire family or kids just learning how to ski is Buttermilk Mountain, just outside of Aspen, Colorado. While not as technical as Aspen Mountain or as large as Snowmass, Buttermilk is a great compromise for families looking for a little bit of everything (and easy access to the other area ski resorts). Buttermilk is the perfect place for kids to learn the basics, master the terrain park, skin uphill, or watch the world’s best athletes during the X Games. It’s usually less crowded than other local mountains but still serves as a one-stop shop for lessons, rentals, tickets, and lounging. At the top of Buttermilk, with panoramic views of the dramatic Pyramid Peak and the entire Maroon Creek Valley, is the Cliffhouse restaurant. Don’t miss this! It’s famous for its Mongolian grill.
6. Outdoorsy activity vacations
Did you realize you can plan an entire family vacation around one outdoor activity? With one week or a long weekend, you can base an entire trip on one outdoor activity of your choosing! As mentioned above, skiing is a great option. Some others that come to mind are mountain biking, fishing, multi-day canoe adventures, snorkeling, surfing, and more.
Plan a trip around your interests
Tap into the interests your kids already have. Find a way to travel to a place that brings some extra excitement around doing it in a new location. Or, if there is an activity you have all talked about trying and are curious about, perhaps plan a trip around giving it a shot!
The best way to plan a trip like this is to search for destinations that cater to the specific activity you and your family are interested in. For example, a quick google search on kiteboarding in the U.S. brings up a list of top spots for this exciting sport. And if Key West, Florida is a place you have always wanted to visit anyway, it may be the perfect outdoor family vacation spot.
Montana, Colorado, Arkansas, and Wyoming are great destinations for fly fishing. If you have avid anglers who want to fish in some of the most scenic locations, you can plan an entire trip around this activity. Make sure you have the appropriate permits and that you follow all of the state laws about catch and release, open season, etc.
Pick a destination where you can do it all
Another idea is to plan an outdoor adventure vacation that incorporates lots of outdoor activities you can try. For example, both the Lake Tahoe area and the Southwest Michigan area have so many amazing outdoor activities for families. You could plan a week-long itinerary in either of these locations with swimming, rock climbing, family hiking, rafting, skiing, cherry picking, sailing, dune buggy rides, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, boating, and so much more! There is a little something for everyone.
7. City vacations for families who love the outdoors
I know what you are thinking when you think about a city vacation. Yes, every city has museums and indoor activities, but many of them also have a host of outdoor tours, parks, and nature nearby. You will, of course, want to plan for a specific season that will allow you to enjoy the outdoor parts. Honestly, a good city destination gives you a taste of both worlds. You can find comfy lodging, great restaurants, and cool outdoor activities!
Fun cities to visit for families will have a variety of outdoor activities and options for everyone in your family or group. City parks with playgrounds are great for young children, but older kids and parents can enjoy them, too. Central Park in NYC and Forest Park in St. Louis are great examples of green space within major metropolian areas that are perfect for the whole family. They offer biking and nature trails, waterways and lakes, museums, zoos, golf courses, restaurants, and so much more. Don’t forget about all of the outdoor dining you can do in the city. The best European family vacation can’t be done without the cafe life!
Urban adventures for outdoorsy families
The best cities for outdoor recreation are typically located near big nature landmarks. Places like Denver, Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah, have mountains within a short driving distance. They tend to embrace outdoor activities like skate parks and snow parks to accommodate active people. Miami, Florida, pulls in people who love to be on the water for activities like boating or fishing. Asheville, North Carolina, and Boise, Idaho rank amongst the best cities for hiking because they have good trails nearby and cultivate a culture of outdoor-loving people.
Wendy from the Run Wild creative team highlights San Diego, California, as an amazing outdoor city. San Diego is a great outdoor city because there are so many outdoor family-friendly options! There are countless beaches, parks, and playgrounds. San Diego is also home to the southern terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail for the hikers/backpackers out there. Additionally, it’s home to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Sea World, the San Diego Botanic Garden which has two amazing children’s areas, The Living Coast Discovery Center, Balboa Park, Legoland, Petco Park to watch Padres baseball, and so much more!
8. Outdoor family vacation at a dude ranch
If you search for memorable family vacations, you will be sure to come across dude ranch vacations for families. The appeal of this type of family trip is that all of your activities, meals, and lodging are in one location and often come together as an all-inclusive option for the whole family. These types of vacations draw families of all ages and are great as a multi-gen travel option. Do be sure to check the minimum age for horseback riding, so that no one is disappointed.
A family guest ranch experience will connect your family with hands-on experiences and exposure to new skills. Together as a family you can learn and experience all of the ranch chores and activities. With that, you will have on-site accommodations suited for a family, and on-site dining usually within walking distance of where you are sleeping. Your days will be packed with outdoor activities, fun for everyone! Those activities may include but are not limited to horseback riding, cattle sorting, shooting (age appropriate), and nature walks. Adults are not left out! Many of the ranch vacation spots will have wine & cheese for parents or even a happy hour.
Horse ranches for the whole family
You may need to do your research to find the horse ranch that meets the needs and desires of your family. You should be able to find everything from mid-range budget to a luxury dude ranch experience, with lots of daily activities. As most travel is, this is an investment into your family memory bank. And remember, almost everything you will need is included in the one-stop pricing.
White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, is a fan favorite for its proximity to Saguaro National Park. Vista Verde Ranch in Colorado is another family favorite and a great place for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Run Wild creative team member Araceli covers the joys of visiting a ranch in winter and all that a ranch vacation can be as a family.
9. Family sailing vacations
There is no doubt that a family sailing vacation is super niche and may not be the right fit for everyone. However, the truth about sailing is that it is unique and fabulous, but not “bougie” in the way you may expect. Sailing is very technical and adventurous, but it can also be very relaxing. There are several ways to plan a sailing family vacation and quite a few destinations that support this type of trip. I usually describe family sailing vacations as camping on the water. And while you camp, you get to travel to some of the untouched places of the world. The only time you’re not completely outside is when you are sleeping, and even then, the windows are open. It’s pretty fantastic.
Sail yourself
The first way to do a sailing trip is to charter a boat and sail it yourself. This is called bareboat chartering, and you will need to be able to demonstrate your skills or provide certification documentation. Our family was able to do this in the British Virgin Islands for an amazing sailing Caribbean vacation. We anchored or docked for small fees and cruised around the islands for nine days of pure bliss. We snorkeled, swam, and visited the different islands for fun. The best part about this type of sailing vacation is that you determine the when and where with total freedom. It does require that you know how to sail.
Charter a boat
The second way to sail together as a family is to hire a captain through a charter company. You can sit back, relax and enjoy the trip without having to do the work. Most countries in Europe, like Croatia and Greece, require a hefty amount of sailing hours and instruction in order to sail on your own. So, last summer, we hired a captain to sail us around the small Cyclades in Greece. My kids took part in helping out with the sailing because they are interested and wanted to learn, but it wasn’t necessary. We enjoyed stopping at various islands, eating at local restaurants, coastal hiking, and relaxing at the beautiful beaches. I cannot recommend a Greek sailing vacation enough!
Small-scale group cruise
The third way to sail together as a family comes in a larger format, but not as big as a traditional cruise. Smaller crafts more suited to authentic experiences and smaller groups can be found. These types of trips not only get you outdoors but afford you unique opportunities you may not find elsewhere. A great example of this is in the Galapagos islands of Ecuador, perfect for a family that thrives on wildlife encounters. Another option that I’m personally keen to experience is Uncruise, which sails to places like Alaska, Baja, and Belize.
10. Outdoor vacation bucket list spots
There are a host of natural wonders and outdoor destinations that call to us on a regular basis. These are the locations that are known for being outdoor havens worthy of a family experience. You see them pop up in lists of “places you must visit once in your life” and such. Families can plan entire vacations around exploring these places or string a few together for a week or more.
Some famous natural landmarks that come to mind that fall into this category are the Badlands in South Dakota, Niagra Falls, the Boundary Waters, the Cliffs of Moher, Lake Tahoe, Arenal Volcano, the Everglades, the California redwood forest, the volcanoes of Hawaii, Mount Rushmore, and the salt flats in Bolivia. Other natural tourist attractions like the Northern Lights in Iceland, tide pools of the PNW, hot springs in Tuscany, barrier reefs in Australia are big hits. The lists are endless and can give just about any family some serious wanderlust. There are so many amazing places in nature, even if they aren’t famous. You just need to seek them out.
Garden of the Gods
Kristen Ryan, from our Creative Team, recently traveled to the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado, which had been on her bucket list for a while. One of the best things about this park is that it has both easily accessible walking trails that you can use a stroller on and more difficult climbing trails you can take the kids who enjoy a challenge. The views from the top are really unbeatable in the Springs area. The kids absolutely loved getting to climb through the plate-like rocks, and there are always lots of mountain climbers to sit back and watch. There are miles of trails within this little park and then some great small towns to explore nearby when everyone gets hungry after their long walk/hike.
Outdoor family vacations are important
I believe in the importance and benefits of outdoor family vacations for so many reasons. Everyone needs a break from the daily normal, and a family vacation is a great way to get away from your routines, and busy schedules and really reconnect. Give yourself and your family a chance to breathe and do it together. Not only will you create core memories, but you will bond in such a special way. Focus on an outdoor family vacation to elevate the experience and leave behind all of the noise of the world. It’s worthwhile, even if just for a long weekend. Our brains and bodies need this. Give yourself the opportunity to step away from your phone. Get off the wi-fi for a bit and let your mind reset. Let your body work and rejuvenate in nature, too.
Additional resources about family travel & favorite destinations
Are you ready to go on an outdoor family vacation?
About the author
Jen has been married to her original adventure partner, John, for 20+ years. She is a mama to 3 teenagers who, although they have busy and independent lives, love to adventure in the outdoors when they can. Jen is a native of Chicago, but has lived in South Carolina for two decades and calls it home. She’s always planning the next adventure for herself or her friends, whether near or far. Hiking, kayaking, sailing with her family, or traveling the world is all about the experience and the journey. Her extroverted nature keeps her talking and smiling with anyone she meets along the way. She’s on a mission to show other busy families that traveling with teenagers is possible and fun!
If you’ve ever been curious about RV camping with your kids and family, this post is for you! We are sharing the top tips for how to have a successful family RV camping experience, from three full-time RV moms. In this post, Leslie Alvis, an Ohio mom of 4, put together a huge post filled with tips from her RV experiences and those of our experts. They’re sharing their tips for how to choose the right RV for your family, tips for picking a great RV campsite, what to stock in your RV, tips for meal planning, everything you need to know about tanks, RV must-have essential items, and so much more!
*This post contains affiliate links.
The appeal of RV camping
So, you want to travel and experience the great outdoors, but you’re not quite ready to sleep on the hard ground and wash your dishes in the creek? Then RV camping might just be the way to go for you! From compact pop-ups to luxurious fifth-wheel trailers, not to mention full-sized RV’s, this kind of camping provides options for every family and budget.
From state and national parks to dedicated RV campgrounds, when RV camping, you can stay at locations around the world for a fraction of the price of a hotel or vacation rental. RV camping also gives you a lot of flexibility to camp during seasons when the weather is not ideal for camping in a tent. RV camping also allows you to carry some of the comforts of home with you while embracing the adventure of traveling and experiencing the great outdoors.
Considering an RV for your family?
When our family began considering camping as a more affordable way for us to travel, we weren’t entirely sure if tent camping was for us. But sleeping (basically) outdoors, staying in gorgeous natural locations, and waking up to fresh air and the birds singing all around? Absolutely! That’s when we began to research the concept of RV camping.
We found a cheap little pop-up camper off Craigslist and took off on an eight-day camping trip several states away, cold turkey. There was definitely a bit of a learning curve involved, but over the years we’ve learned a lot about how to make RV camping a success. Today the six of us are living full-time in a 27-ft RV trailer while we build our home, so we’ve got a good bit of RV camping experience to draw from.
Tips for RV camping with kids
RV camping may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! It’s easier than you think, and with this post, we’ll make sure it’s your best family camping trip ever. The tips and advice in this post have been tried and tested by our team of expert RV moms. We’ve each spent significant time RV camping with our kids and have learned a lot in the process. So, whether this is your first trip out in an RV with your family or you want to make sure your next trip is a big success, here are the things you’ll want to consider when RV camping with kids.
Tip #1: How to choose the right RV for your family
If you’re thinking of getting started RV camping, you’ve probably already learned the options for RVs are endless. How do you ever choose what rig is right for you? Frankly, I think a lot of it will boil down to two questions: (1) your preferred style of camping, and (2) budget.
RV camping style and budget considerations
The first thing you’ll want to consider when choosing the type of RV to purchase (or rent) is your camping style. Ask yourself what kind of RV camping is most appealing to you and your family. Do you want to be close to nature and have more of a traditional tent camping experience? Or do you want all the luxuries and conveniences of home wherever you travel?
The second main factor in selecting an RV, for many of us, is budget. How much do you want to spend on your camper? The vast array of RV campers on the market today is astonishing. Ranging from questionable older models to shiny luxury homes on wheels, there is an RV camper option in every price range. Pop-ups are pretty affordable (based on what we saved for vacation accommodations, ours paid for itself in two years), while some full-sized RVs can cost more than a house.
Pop-up campers
If you prefer to be as close to nature as possible, but still have a solid bed to sleep on, a sink to wash dishes in, and some storage, then a pop-up camper might be a good option. A pop-up camper is basically a trailer that folds out into a tent. Pop-up camping comes with a lot of perks. Most pop-ups have 2-3 roomy beds, which easily sleeps 4-6 people. They have an interior kitchen table with seating, cabinets for storing dishes and food, a battery-operated power system, and water tanks/hookups with at least a sink inside.
One downside to pop-up camping is that set-up and tear-down are a bit labor-intensive. Also, you’re still at the mercy of the weather. If it’s hot, you’re sweltering. If it rains, you may discover leaks. And if it’s cold, you will be chilly! However, pop-up campers are a great way to still enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and experience nature, while still having some major conveniences and accommodations.
Dealing with weather when pop-up camping in a storm (a night to remember)
I’ll never forget one blustery, stormy night we spent in our pop-up camper in the mountains of Tennessee. Between listening to the wind trying to blow us away and trying to adjust a space heater to keep our kids from freezing, we didn’t get a whole lot of sleep. At some point, though, we drifted off and woke at dawn to find out we were all in one piece still. My husband triumphantly shouted, “We made it!” and thrust an arm into the air in victory.
However, my husband has remarkably long arms, and his fist connected quickly with the canvas over our bed, which had been gathering condensation all night as we tried to heat that little camper. A shower of water droplets rained down on us and I shrieked in dismay, waking the kids at the other end. They, of course, thought the condensation rain was hilarious and started showering each other in their bed. But we did make it, and the story is now a fond part of our family camping memories.
Full-sized RV campers
On the other hand, if you want an RV camping experience that is more like your own custom AirBnB on wheels, with a solid roof overhead, a bathroom, a full kitchen, and bedrooms with doors that close, you may want to look into a full-sized RV trailer. Full-size RV campers come in a variety of sizes and styles, with 1-2 bedrooms as well as convertible sleeping areas. The size, style, and newness of your RV will depend a lot on your budget.
Setting up a full-sized RV is a breeze—some campers even have self-leveling jacks to make it even easier. Just plug in your electric cord and your water hose, and you’ve got all the comforts of home, anywhere you choose to park. Other than the hefty price tag, the only downside of a full RV is the need for a towing vehicle and hauling skills. But, if you have a heavy-duty vehicle and some backing-up skills, you’ll be just fine!
Pro tips for choosing the right RV for your family
The Run Wild My Child team is filled with quite a few moms with significant RV camping experience. Tips and advice included below come from me, Leslie Alvis, Katie Fox (@hiking.motherhood), and Kathleen White (@faithboundfamilyadventures). Our team of experts weighed in with their tips on how to choose the right RV for your family. All of our experts are current or former full-time RV moms, with multiple kids that have traveled extensively in their RVs. Here’s what they had to say…
Rent an RV before you buy one
Pro tip from Kathleen: Honestly, if you’re an RV camping newbie, you won’t know exactly what you’ll want or need in an RV until you start RVing. When choosing an RV, there are so many factors to consider like family size, travel style, budget, RV type, etc. There’s no one right answer for your family, and if you’re just getting started, you may not know what you want, need, or will use.
I highly recommend trying a few different varieties and options of RVs before you commit to buying one. You can rent an RV from a local RV dealership/rental place or through a website like Outdoorsy. Outdoorsy lets you rent RVs directly from the owner (like VRBO for RVs!). You can search by RV type, price, location, size, and date available. They also provide 24-hour roadside service. Some will even deliver the RV directly to you! If you already own an RV, you can even list it on Outdoorsy for rent and earn extra income!
Take an RV trip before purchasing to get a feel for your style and the amenities that you like and/or need. Maybe try a few different types of RVs. Once you figure out some of those things, you can determine the best option from there. Start where you are with what you have, and you’ll figure it out as you go.
Set your budget and choose your non-negotiable features
Pro tip from Leslie: When it comes to choosing the right RV for your family, the decisions and options can be really overwhelming. I suggest starting by deciding on your budget and non-negotiables, then stick to them. For instance, our budget and non-negotiables were: (1) we weren’t willing to spend more than X amount of money on an RV, and (2) for full-time living, we had to have bunk beds for all our kids, not just convertible sleeping areas, (3) we needed a full kitchen. Once we knew exactly what we needed, we started looking and were able to find something used in our area that met all those requirements.
If you take your time in RV shopping, you will find something that meets your needs in your price range. Many used RVs are in great shape and much more affordable, so don’t be afraid to shop used. RV dealers have entire catalogs of used and new campers for sale in every region. If you’re willing to do your homework and know how to check over a camper for problems (or know someone who does), consider shopping private sellers through sources like Marketplace and Craigslist.
Pick an RV you have the ability to tow
Pro tip from Katie: This may sound like an obvious tip, but when you are out looking at travel trailer RVs at a dealership (or when the perfect RV pops up in Facebook marketplace), it is so easy to forget that you are actually limited to what your tow vehicle can safely tow. Not abiding by tow vehicle weight restrictions is a huge factor in RV-related accidents. Make sure to research what your vehicle can safely tow and search for RVs that meet this requirement.
Some things to keep in mind regarding RV weight and towing
The dry weight of an RV (the weight of an RV as it is sold off the lot brand new), does not include the weight of water or waste in your tanks. It also does not include all of your camping gear, clothing, food, etc. And the amount your tow vehicle can safely tow also depends on how much weight is in the tow vehicle as well. In general terms, you must include all added weight to your tow vehicle (people, pets, car seats, bikes, etc.) and the weight of the RV and the gear inside it.
Tip #2: Make RV camping reservations
Many campgrounds stay pretty busy during peak camping season (May through September). In order to be sure you have a place to stay when you reach your destination, you’ll want make reservations in advance! Making campground reservations for your RV is quick and easy to do online through the campground’s website. And one of the best ways to be guaranteed a good site is to make your reservations as early as possible.
Booking the best RV campsite locations
When we first started RV camping, we learned quickly that the best sites—the ones closest to the lake or river, the bathhouse, and the ones with the most space—get reserved earliest. Any RV park or campground we’ve ever stayed at has the best spots filled the whole time we’re there! There may be sites available for spur-of-the-moment camping trips, but they are often the least desirable ones. They may have less shade, be tighter to get into, or have less room between neighboring campsites. Sometimes this can lead to a slightly uncomfortable camping experience, and sometimes it’s just fine! We try not to let the campsite keep us from having a good time. Because even a less-desirable campsite is better than not camping at all!
Size matters
The larger your RV rig is, the fewer options you will have when choosing an RV campsite. Our little pop-up can sneak into some non-electric camping sites, but a full-sized RV trailer is a lot more limited in its site options. When you go to the campgrounds’ website, you will enter your rig’s size. Then, they will show you the available campsites that meet your RV’s specifications. Some campgrounds have all the full-sized RVs lined up in rows; others spread them out more naturally among the trees.
Hookups and more
The campsite you choose should depend on what you’re looking for and need during your trip. An easy parking experience and full hookups are usually available, but you might not have as much shade or privacy. The good news is that a larger RV has its own creature comforts, such as a bathroom and air conditioning, so you aren’t quite as dependent on nature for comfort (or need easy access to campground bathrooms). If you want a more nature-oriented environment, you might have to look through a number of campground maps to get a feel for what is available, then make your reservations early.
Pro tips for making RV campsite reservations
Use Google Earth to scout your site
Pro tip from Leslie: When making RV campsite reservations, use the campground map alongside a Google Earth satellite image of your campground. The campground map gives you the location of each site and shows you its proximity to the other campsites and amenities. Some campgrounds will even show you a photo of your potential campsite from the road, but not all of them.
Google Earth satellite shows you what the actual natural surroundings look like. Are there trees on your campsite? How close is it to the road? Will you be able to walk down to that lake, or is it thick woods with a sharp drop-off down to the water? Depending on what season the satellite image was taken in, you may be able to get a pretty good idea of what your campsite really looks like.
Tales from a terrible campsite
One summer, during the busy family camping season, we made a desperate attempt to get away last minute. Every state park campground in our state was booked full, but we finally reserved one spot in the non-electric portion of a campground. It wasn’t far off the lake and seemed like it would work.
What we didn’t realize was that there was not a speck of shade on that entire campsite. It was 95 degrees each day that weekend, and our little pop-up camper was like an oven. The trees that ran between our campsite and the lake were dense woods full of poison ivy, the beach at the lake was suffering from a crazy algae bloom, and the weekend was very nearly a total disaster. We only salvaged that camping experience by packing our crew up and driving to one of the Great Lakes for the last day. Lesson learned: use Google Earth to make sure your campsite is actually a comfortable place to stay! Just because there’s a parking space on it doesn’t mean it’s where you want to spend the weekend.
Read campground reviews
Pro tip from Katie: If you have the time, browse campground reviews on sites like Campendium or even Google to see what others have said. Often people will complain about noise, sloped sites, crowded sites, etc. Or, they may share some positive things about the campground that you didn’t know. These reviews may reference certain campsites or be more general, but either way, they help you gather information about the campground to help you make an informed decision on when, where, and whether or not to book.
Pro tip from Kathleen: RVing now is so different than when we first started a few years ago. The pandemic has pushed more people outside and camping (traditional and RV camping) are much more popular, so campgrounds are full. We used to book things on the fly and be okay. Now however, depending on where you’re going, you may need to book far in advance (and by far, I mean months). State parks are one of our favorites and often have more openings. Apps like Campnab can alert you when booked campgrounds have openings too!
Now that you have your RV and booked a campsite, here comes the fun part! You get to stock up your RV with every comfortable, fun, and convenient household item you like! There are so many benefits to vacationing in your home on wheels. If you’re planning to use your RV frequently, I highly suggest having some items that you keep in the camper, so it’s easier to just toss some clothes in a bag and go!
Every parent knows that packing for a trip with kids can be stressful. Especially when you’re camping and bringing all your food and gear, it can feel like your packing list is never-ending. However, having your RV already stocked with towels, extra blankets, sleeping bags, and some basic kitchen items makes it so much easier!
Make stocking your RV affordable
It might sound like you need a lot, but you don’t have to run out and buy everything brand new. Getting your RV ready to go camping doesn’t have to break the bank! I stocked our camper with our older towels, some recently replaced pots and pans, and some extra food storage containers. We added a few old blankets from the back of the linen closet, along with the sleeping bags (which I store in the camper). I keep small containers of dish soap, hand soap, and items like ziplock and trash bags in a drawer.
I thrifted some like-new plates for our camper so we could go through fewer single-use paper goods. I also up-cycled some glass jars for large drinking glasses and food storage. These simple and eco-friendly choices for our camper only cost a few dollars. Knowing that all those basic items are already packed and ready to go always make camping trips easier.
Pro tips for stocking your RV
Use different colored towels
Pro tip from Leslie: Use a different color bath towel for each member of your family. Unlike at home, where every member of the family probably has their own towel rod or hook in the bathroom, camper life is a bit more crowded. Towels end up anywhere and everywhere, or all mixed up on a clothesline. Having a different color for everyone makes towel ID a breeze. Stash a clothesline and clothes pins in one of your outdoor compartments to use for quick, easy towel drying on a daily basis. As a bonus, towels that are air- and sun-dried smell fresher longer, so you can go longer between washings!
Don’t be afraid to use real dishes
Pro tip from Katie: A lot of the time, people bring disposable dishes (like paper plates and plastic utensils) camping, and this continues in RV camping as well. It can be much easier to use disposable dishes, but it is far more cost-effective and eco-friendly to purchase plastic or sturdy dish sets or use something you already own. Yes, you will have to wash the dishes regularly. Yes, it may seem lame to do this while on vacation. But, having RV or camping-only dishes saves you a ton of money and makes prepping for a trip so simple. The dishes are already in place and ready to go. Target has BPA-free plastic plates, bowls, and cups that are perfect for camping gear and a great addition to your RV checklist.
Perhaps the biggest learning curve to RV camping is dealing with the tanks. Freshwater, gray water, black water—these tanks become the foundation for your daily water usage. Gray tank= sink water and shower water. Black tank= all other waste. Knowing how much each tank holds and how to empty and/or fill them is a vital part of RVing.
I certainly never wanted to know so much about waste water! But, once you understand your tanks and get used to taking care of them, it becomes second nature. If you’re camping with full hookups, you don’t have to worry too much about how much fresh water you use. This is great for long trips. But, it is important to realize that what goes into your waste tanks must be emptied! So, if you don’t want to empty your tanks until you’re done with your stay, you may have to be conservative with your water usage. This really depends on how many people are in your family. Our family of 6 can go through a fair amount of water on a daily basis, even if we’re being careful.
Different parks have different hookup methods
Some RV parks provide wastewater hookups at each campsite, which makes all of this easy! You hook up your hoses, and you’re good to go. All the state parks that we’ve camped at just offer dump stations, where you can empty your tanks as you leave. Or, if you want, you can hook everything up and drive over to dump your tanks mid-stay. But, that’s a bit of a hassle – once you’re parked, it’s nice to be able to stay put. Some people carry portable waste tanks that they empty their tanks into and haul over to the dump station. Other campers use water very conservatively and use the park bathrooms as much as possible to avoid having to empty their tanks during their stay.
A side note about those tank sensors
As a side note, tank sensors are notorious for going bad in an RV. Much like driving a vehicle without a working fuel gauge, it’s entirely possible to live without them. But, you’d better have some idea of the amount of water you’re using and the state of your water storage system. Currently, none of the sensors in our RV work, which means we need to keep track of our water usage, so we don’t run out of water mid-shower or discover the bathtub full of gray water. (But who are we kidding? The bathtub gets used as an overflow tank fairly often. It’s just better if it doesn’t happen while all the dirty laundry is piled in it!)
Once you’ve been RV camping for a while, you get a rough idea of how much water your family uses and how long it takes to empty/fill the tanks. Or…just replace the sensors!
The black tank absolutely must have liquid in it to function. I know, you really don’t want to think about it. (I didn’t, either!) But what goes in, must flow back out. For the toilet waste to decompose and drain properly, you must start with 5 gallons of water in the black tank. We learned this lesson the very, very hard way. So just trust me and add the water.
Even if you’re boondocking and trying to conserve water, the black tank is not where you want to skimp on water usage. Pour in the five gallons of water. Then add these easy treatment pods to eliminate odors, or else dissolve 1 cup of borax into a gallon of hot water and add 1 cup Dawn dish soap. Either treatment helps with odor control.
Also, make sure to use RV toilet paper or a readily-dissolving toilet paper. These tricks will keep everything working the way it’s supposed to, so you can go have fun and not have to worry about unclogging a very nasty mess!
Conserve water while washing dishes
Camping in an RV often lends folks to use sinks and showers/bathtubs like they do at home. And if you have full hookups (power, water, and sewer), you can absolutely use water the same way you do at home. But, if you do not have a sewer hookup or if you are using water from your freshwater tanks, you need to use a lot less water than you do at home.
One tip to help with dishes is to have a dish tub that fits in your sink and fill it 1/4 of the way with warm soapy water. Use this water to wet and wash your dishes and then rinse them with a low trickle of water right above the tub. The clean soapy water goes into your dish tub and fills it slowly, giving you more and more water to wash with after each dish. It also gives you a visual of how much water you are using, which helps you get better at using less. You can either dump this in your sink where it will go to the grey tank, into your black tank (if you need to add more water into it), or you can take it to the campground wastewater disposal site.
Tip #5: Meal planning for RV camping
One of the economic benefits of traveling by RV is that you can easily meal plan ahead of time and then prepare meals for your family, right there in your camper. Even our tiny pop-up has a sink, a little fridge, and an indoor/outdoor two-burner propane stovetop. Full-sized RV’s have very functional kitchenettes that include ovens and microwaves. The convenience of an RV kitchen on a road trip gives you a lot more flexibility (and affordability) with meals than eating out or cooking strictly over a campfire. And it’s not weather-dependent, either! A lot of RV’s have an outside propane burner for outside cooking, but you can also cook in the camper whenever the weather is bad.
But, planning and packing for all your meals when camping can feel a little overwhelming. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be! My number 1 camping meal planning tip is to keep it simple. Stock your fridge and cupboard with basic condiments and seasonings that you will use for multiple meals. Both prep and storage space in a camper are limited. Think of some of your family’s favorite easy meals that call for few ingredients.
Don’t be afraid to use some convenience foods, even if you normally cook from scratch. This is supposed to be a fun time for you, too! You don’t want to spend the whole time camping cooking. When we go camping, we like to include “fun” foods that we don’t normally eat at home. The way I figure it, we’re still saving a ton of money and eating healthier than if we were eating out. The kids are thrilled, and it helps keeps meals fun and easy.
Pro tips for cooking when RV camping
Use cast iron
Bring a cast-iron skillet or dutch oven that you can use in the oven, on the stove, or over a campfire. Cast iron is incredibly versatile! It’s worth the extra weight because it’s just so useful in all kinds of camping cooking. I can use my cast iron for baking biscuits in the oven, cooking eggs over the campfire for breakfast, making macaroni and cheese on the stovetop, and baking a pizza for supper. Fun and easy food for a whole day, all in one dutch oven.
Tip #6: RV packing list, storage, and organization
Once your RV is packed with your basic kitchen and household essentials, it makes packing everything else so much easier! You just have to consider clothes, personal items (soap, shampoo, medications, etc.), gear for activities, and food items. One great thing about RV camping is that it’s so easy to pack everything up inside! Similar to car camping, you’re not limited by space. You’ve got room to stow everything you want or need — just make sure it’s securely packed for traveling.
I like to pack food items up in small plastic totes. I fill one with breakfast and snack foods, one with non-perishable ingredients, and one with kitchen supplies I’m bringing from my home kitchen. These fit right into the cupboard, and they’re out of the way while we travel.
Make a list of the outdoor activities you’re planning and the gear you need for them. Warm weather activities will be different (and need different gear) than outdoor winter activities. The outdoor storage compartments on an RV are a great place to store outdoor gear. Hiking gear, baby carriers/strollers, colder weather clothing, life vests, swimsuits, and extra gear can all be stashed away in the outside storage areas. They’re out of the way of your immediate living quarters but handy to reach when you need them.
For packing clothes, use stackable plastic drawers that work with your small space. These fit right into most bedroom cabinets/closets and make packing and keeping clothes organized so easy. No suitcases or duffel bags piled on the floor or beds! Give each person 1-2 drawers (based on how much space you have), and voila! Clothes are packed. Even in a pop-up camper, which doesn’t have as much cabinet space, plastic drawers or packing cubes are a great solution to the chaos of having multiple people’s clothes/bags lying around.
Entertainment for the kids on rainy days
Another RV packing list you should definitely make is for rainy day games and easy activities to do close to the RV. Let’s face it: everyone who camps knows that sometimes the weather will NOT cooperate! And sometimes, you just need something to keep the kids occupied at the nearby picnic table while you’re busy. By planning ahead, you can have an entire collection of fun activities for everyone to do in or near the RV while the rain pours down outside. I like to pack a tote just for this with things the whole family can play together. I include some favorite board games, coloring books, crayons, play dough, cards, and some special toys or crafts from the dollar store. The very novelty of having a bin full of games that don’t come out unless it rains adds a certain allure to some very ordinary and familiar items.
Family camping checklist
Every family’s packing list will be different based on when and where you’re camping, the ages of your kids, the weather, the amenities, your comfort level, your camping experience/skill, and tons of other factors. I highly recommend you start with our family camping gear checklist as inspiration, but make your own master copy of your camping packing list and update it with your family camping essentials every time you go camping. Keep track of all the items you have packed and stored in the RV already, then add your clothing items and other camping gear.
Your camping packing checklist will change quite a bit over the years as you think of things that would make camping better, as your kids grow, as the seasons change, and as you get more comfortable camping. Making your own list will trigger your brain to remember things that may be important to your family. When packing, make sure to check each item off your list as you pack and then double-check your camping checklists (just in case you got distracted when packing) so you don’t forget any important items.
Tip #7: RV must-have items
RV camping is so flexible that there aren’t too many things you absolutely have to have, but we’ve found a few items that are invaluable for making your RV camping experience fun and easy. Here are a few of our RV must-have product recommendations to add to your RV essentials checklist:
Command hooks: You can use these anywhere and everywhere. From hanging clothes and bags to kitchen utensils, to towels and shower items, we’ve stuck them all over the camper and use them constantly! The best part is that they cause no damage to the wall and can be removed entirely when you’re finished!
Stick vacuum: No one really wants to clean while you’re on vacation. But camping with kids = messes, no matter how you do it. Whether you’re at the lake or in the woods, you’re sure to find your floor covered with sand, dirt, leaves, and (of course) crumbs. Our cordless stick vacuum is an absolute lifesaver. It’s small enough to fit into a side compartment and useful enough to make it worth the space it takes up! With one easy tool, I can sweep the linoleum floors, the rugs, and the carpet, and get the edges of the room with the wand. The floor goes from gritty and disgusting to clean in just a few minutes.
Stainless steel cups: Lightweight, unbreakable, and stackable, these cups solved our drinking cup problem and are a great addition to any camp kitchen. I wanted something reusable and plastic-free that would hold up to indoor-outdoor camping life and also stack to save cupboard space. These cups have been perfect! Even better, you can write names on them with a permanent marker so the kids can use the same cup all day long, reducing dishwashing and water usage.
First aid kit: The more time you spend outside with your kids, the more likely we all are to encounter some sticky situations. Cuts, scrapes, burns, and bruises can happen. Even when we’re being careful. A first aid kit is an essential item for your RV, as well as anytime you’re out adventuring with kids.
Duct tape: You won’t believe how many uses you’ll find for duct tape. From patching holes to hanging items, repairing rips and sealing seams, duct tape is a super versatile tool that every RV owner should have on hand.
Magnetic knife strip: This is a great way to keep your sharp knives off the counter, out of the way of small fingers, and still easily accessible! Ours has been invaluable for handy knife storage. The only thing is that you might want to tuck the knives into a drawer on travel days.
RV camping and RV travel with kids can sound overwhelming when you’re first getting started, but it’s worth it. I hope this post has made the process a bit more manageable so you know what you’re getting into. Whether you’re hitting the road full-time in your RV or just heading out for a long weekend in your pop-up, I know you’ll have a great time making lifelong memories with your children. The learning curve isn’t nearly as steep as you might think – just remember that the most important thing in RV life is to have fun!
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
Leslie’s RWMC posts: Leslie Alvis
Packing for a camping trip with the family sounds a bit overwhelming and intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be! Today, Lissy Perna, Cape Cod mom of 2, put together this ultimate family camping gear checklist to help make packing for your next trip quick and easy! She covers everything from the camping essentials to all those little items that are easy to overlook. This printable camping gear packing list for your family is organized by categories and filled with exactly what families need. It’s a great starting point for making your own checklist with absolutely everything you need to make your camping trip a success! We’ve also included some additional resources on finding affordable camping gear, what you specifically need with camping with babies and toddlers (or if you’re bringing your dog), plus tips on how to properly store your camping gear, and more!
*This post contains affiliate links.
Ultimate camping gear list for families
Is a camping trip with your family on your summer bucket list? Are you planning to visit one of the national parks or even just a small-town campground? Camping is an amazing outdoor experience for the whole family and totally worth all the work. (Yes, it’s work.) It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you start thinking about everything you need to bring when camping with kids. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
Let this post filled with family camping essentials and our downloadable ultimate family camping gear list be your guide! Whether you’re a camping expert or a camping newbie, having a list is a great way to stay organized and not forget any important items and start making some family memories! We’ll help you get started making your family camping packing list with everything you need to have a fun and well-stocked experience!
The first thing to do before you ever start packing is to research your campground/campsite and make yourself familiar with what’s there and what’s available. Campgrounds can vary widely in the amenities that they offer. Basic amenities at most established campgrounds include bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, water spigots, trash/recycling, and firepits. Beyond that, you may also find campgrounds with playgrounds, splash parks, stores, restaurants, bike/boat rentals, hammock hook-ups, ice makers, electricity, hot tubs, movie nights, zip lines, laundry, wifi, swimming pools, nature crafts, yoga classes, and so much more!
Check to see if your local campground has information online about the layout of your specific campsite so that you can see how much space you’ll have and what is already there. For example, some campgrounds have water access, a fire pit, a picnic table, and electricity! Some sites have none of the above, so you’d be “roughing it” and will need to bring more in order to be best prepared. Either way, you’ll still need to bring various items for a successful trip.
Camping gear can be expensive, so it’s worth trying to find your items below retail price. Gently used equipment can be just as good as brand new at a fraction of the cost. Whatever works for your family’s budget and needs is the best option. Here are some ways to save money while still acquiring everything you need:
Check your local “buy nothing” or yardsale sites on Facebook.
Look for camping gear rental services near you; by renting, you can test a product to see if you like it before taking the plunge on a purchase.
Buy in the off-season or during big sales; prices are sometimes better.
Borrow from friends.
Ask for camping gear as gifts from family or friends for holidays or birthdays.
Check thrift stores; this is where we found our cooler & camp chairs.
You local “dollar store” should have inexpensive utensils, tablecloths, flashlights, and snacks.
Camp packing tip: make your own list
Every family’s packing list will be different based on when and where you’re camping, the ages of your kids, the weather, the amenities, your comfort level, your camping experience/skill, and tons of other factors. We’ve done our best to provide you with a family packing camping list that you can use as a starter to make your own. We’ve included all the basics, but we’ve also added a ton of optional items you may (or may not) want to bring. You don’t need to bring everything! Camping is all about the simple life, so just bring what you need to feel comfortable.
We highly recommend you start with our list as inspiration, but make your own master copy of your packing list and update it every time you go camping. It’ll change quite a bit over the years as you think of things that would make camping better, as your kids grow, as the seasons change, and as you get more comfortable camping. Making your own list will trigger your brain to remember things that may be important to your family. When packing, make sure to check each item off your list as you pack and then double-check (just in case you got distracted when packing).
Camping gear for babies and toddlers
Any age child is old enough to go camping. However, as parents, we know that babies and toddlers tend to be more high-needs than elementary-aged kids and above, and that goes for the camping gear we need to bring too! Whether this is your baby’s first camping trip, or 10th, there are some specific items that you may want to bring for your babies and/or toddlers while camping. Here are a few of our top recommendations:
Pack and play – This can be a safe spot for your child to play in outside at the campground and can also serve as a bed inside your tent.
Outdoor gate – An adjustable play gate can allow your child to play safely on the ground while still being enclosed within a safe area.
High chair – If your baby or toddler is used to eating in the same high chair daily, you may consider bringing it. This will make mealtime easier for everyone!
Kid carrier – A hiking backpack or carrying sling can be helpful, especially when you go on adventures.
Sound machine – If your campsite has electricity, a sound machine can be helpful to drown out the extra noise during nap time or at night.
Stroller – Besides being a great way to transport your little one, a stroller can also help carry gear.
Comfort items – If your child is used to sleeping with a special baby, stuffy, toy, or blanket, be sure to bring it!
What to bring when camping with dogs
Dogs love to camp! If you can take them, camping can be a great experience for your family and your pup! Here are some things to remember if you’re bringing your canine friend along for the adventure:
Dog bed – If your dog is used to sleeping on a bed every night, don’t leave it at home! You want them to feel comfortable while camping and have a place to rest during the day.
Leash and dog lead – Even if your dog is the “goodest-boy ever” you still want to have a leash and even a dog run for your campsite. This is for your dog’s safety as much as anyone else’s.
Dog food – You’d think this would be a given, but sometimes, I forget it if it isn’t on a list!
Dog bowl – Always keep a bowl of fresh water out for your pup, especially in hot weather.
Outdoor dog pen – Sort of like a playpen for dogs, this small but helpful pen will keep your dog contained.
Camping gear you actually need
There’s a lot of gear you can take with you when you go camping. However, you don’t always need all that stuff. If this is your first time camping with kids, you’ll probably significantly overpack, and we’re here to tell you that’s ok! We know that sometimes having everything you just “might” need with you means that you’ll feel more confident going. And if that’s the case and gets you out the door, by all means, pack away!
However, with a little experience, you’ll quickly realize that you don’t need nearly as much stuff for an overnight camping trip as you might think. 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. But again, that takes time (something to look forward to, right?).
For now, we’ll go over the basics of what you need and give you plenty of suggestions for optional items you can also bring to make camping more comfortable and help you feel more prepared.
Let’s start with the basics of traditional tent camping. Here’s what you will need most of these items for even a bare-bones camping trip.
Tent
You’ll want to be sure you have a tent that is the appropriate size for your family. Tents run on the small side – the number of people that your tent says it’ll hold is only that, leaving you no extra room for gear, luggage, mattresses, spreading out, etc. We recommend upsizing when possible. For example, we have an 8-10 person-sized tent for our family of 4. Having room to move around inside the tent and our sleeping space is key. Also, make sure your tent has a rainfly for protection from the elements. You can leave it off for extra fresh air when it’s not raining.
This item is to lay underneath your tent as a moisture barrier and protect against abrasions and punctures. Not all tents come with a footprint included, so this is something that you may need to find or purchase separately. Make sure the footprint is a bit smaller (up to 2 inches smaller) than the outline of your tent. This may sound counterintuitive, but if the tarp/footprint extends out from under the tent edge or is the same size, it can cause water to pool between the footprint and your tent floor in the rain.
Sleeping bags
Sleeping under the stars is always a great idea, unless you can’t get comfortable and stay warm. One key element to this issue is a well-fitting, cozy sleeping bag. For kids, a bag like the Kids Kelty Mistral that keeps kids toasty in temperatures below 40-degrees, is a great investment. For the smaller ones, a sleeping sack/bag made for babies, like this one from Morrison Outdoors, might be just the right fit. If you’re camping in the summer, it may be enough to just bring extra blankets and sheets and sleep on top of your sleeping bag.
Sleeping pad or cot
Every good camping sleep system also includes a sleeping mat or a cot. Mats are a great option because you can buy them a little big to last a longer. A self-inflating sleeping pad like the REI Kindercamp is nice and worth the extra cost because the kids can help set up their own sleeping spot and you don’t need to bring an additional air pump. If you want something bigger (for multiple kids or kids plus an adult, we love the REI Co-op Camp Dreamer Double Self-Inflating Deluxe Bed. If you’re looking for something that gets your little one off the ground, or if you have multiple kids and are tight on space, check out the Kid-O-Bunk bunk bed cots.
You’ll want to be able to see in the dark when camping. Headlamps offer a perfect hands-free illumination option. Once placed on the head your kid can freely move about without worrying about dropping something or shining it in the right place. We love these high-quality adjustable Petzl Tikka headlamps. Flashlights are a classic option and come in so many fun colors and sizes. Small flashlights like these EverBrite Flashlights come in multiple packs for the whole family. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, these LED tactical flashlights are bright, rechargeable, magnetic, and waterproof. Lanterns come in all shapes and are made from a variety of materials. One style to consider is an ultra-lightweight inflatable lantern like these LuminAid lanterns, that can also charge your phone!
Rain shelter
A rain shelter is a great way to provide sun and rain protection over any area of your campsite. Sometimes these are called easy-up tents or pop-up shelters. We put one up over our kitchen space, so I have shade and rain protection to prepare meals. A rain shelter isn’t 100% necessary every time we go camping, but it’s a blessing if we’re expecting any rain or need some additional shade for little ones. It’s also an excellent purchase for picnics, ballgames, tailgating, and other events.
Outdoor/indoor rug
An easy-to-clean outdoor/indoor rug or small carpet is an excellent addition to your campsite. Set it right outside the entryway into your tent to minimize dirt, leaves, debris, mud, and sand tracked into your tent. It can quickly be swept or hosed off to clean. The last thing you want to feel when you slip into your sleeping bag is dirt or sand.
A trash can/barrel is a must-have for any campsite. Sometimes campgrounds will provide these for you, but not always. We have one where the lid clicks closed so no raccoons, squirrel, or skunks can get it. However, if you have bears in your area, you might want to avoid keeping any trash on your site if possible. Be sure to check your campground’s local rules and regulations regarding trash storage and disposal.
Camp table
Some campsites have picnic tables available at every site to provide a space for eating, cooking, playing games, etc. If yours does, that’s great! However, if it doesn’t, you’ll want to consider bringing one. I suggest a collapsable lightweight table crafted for outdoor use.
Camp chairs
Collapsible, comfortable, lightweight, waterproof chairs are the best for camping. Some models have cup holders, headrests, or overhead shades. Pick one that suits your needs! We also recommend small camping chairs for little kids. A chair that’s just the right size like this Coleman Kids Chair is a great option. (Although that’s not to say they still won’t steal your chair!) It’ll give them a safe (and just the right size) place to sit around the fire and feel like part of the group.
Camp kitchen gear & essentials
Your camp kitchen gear essentials will depend a lot on the type of food that you’ll bring with you and how you want to cook it. If you do all your meal prep ahead of time or like cooking directly on an open fire, you may need less gear than if you were planning to prep, assemble, and cook your meals onsite. Before you start making your kitchen gear list, consider the food, snacks and meals that you’ll be eating (and how many of them), and then come up with a list of kitchen items that you’ll need (step-by-step ) when making and cooking the food.
When planning your meals, you’ll want to be sure to pick your “hot” meals around the type of heat source you’ll have available at your campsite. You’ll probably have easy access to a campfire. Cooking over a campfire isn’t hard, but you may need a few basic items to be most efficient, such as an over-fire grill grate. Another option is a portable camp stove. Some campsites may have charcoal grills for you to use, and in that case, you’ll need to bring your own charcoal.
Stove or grill
If you’d like to eat a hot meal while camping, you’ll need something to help you cook your food. As mentioned above, some campsites have fire pits perfect for over-the-fire cooking. If you’re cooking directly on a flame, consider a grill grate or some roasting sticks or pie irons. However, you might also want to bring a small grill or cooktop. This will allow you to cook nearly anything without needing a steady fire going (and can be used in the rain).
Wash bins, dish soap & sponge
Plastic or metal wash bins for holding and cleaning dirty dishes are a must-have. Finding nesting bins is a space saver; one can be used to wash, while the other can be used to rinse. Make sure your soap won’t harm the local wildlife – many campgrounds require use of biodegradable soap. Also, check with your local campsite regarding how to properly dispose of all food scraps, and any special areas to dispose of grey water (used dish washing water).
Tablecloth
While not essential, a plastic tablecloth with fabric backing is great for use on a picnic table. This allows for super easy cleanup and splinter prevention!
If you’ll be camping at an established campsite near your vehicle (as opposed to hiking in to a backcountry campsite with only the stuff you can carry), you’re not limited on space for the kitchen cookware you bring. Full-sized pots, pans, knives, utensils, and the cast iron skill from your home kitchen will work great! No need to buy specialty camping cookware. Depending on what you’re cooking and how (size of cooking surface), bring the appropriate size.
Pot holders, dish towels, wash rags, and cloth napkins
Choose something you don’t mind getting dirty. Second-hand shops are the place to look for these items that you can put into your camping kitchen storage and use exclusively for this purpose.
Plates, cups, utensils
Sturdy plastic is a good choice for these items. You can use paper or plastic for convenience, but if you can choose something more sustainable and reusable, the better. Again, you can find inexpensive ones at the dollar store.
Cutting board & sharp knife
If you’ll need to chop veggies, cut meat or slice anything for your meals, bring a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife. Remember to keep the knife in a sealable container or with a sheath on it when not in use for safety.
Cooler(s)
The number and type of coolers you bring camping will depend on how much (and what) you bring for food. A basic cooler with ice packs is essential for keeping perishable food and drinks cold. We usually use the reusable ice blocks from Yeti in a Yeti cooler for our food. That keeps the ice from melting and having your food swimming around in melted ice water. We do use regular ice for keeping drinks cold. And if we need ice for drinks, we’ll bring a separate special cooler for that.
Instead of using single-use plastic water bottles, we opted for a 5-gallon water dispenser on our camp table. This is not only for easy water storage, but the kids can refill their water bottles independently as needed. We can also use this water for cooking, brushing teeth, washing hands, etc. as needed. Depending on the length of your tip and access to water, you can bring your own water from home or fill it at the campsite.
Paper towels/napkins
A roll of disposable paper towels is always a good idea for quick and easy clean-up. However, if you want to cut down on your waste, consider bringing tea towels or clothing napkins. The soiled towels get thrown into the laundry bag after use and reused for each trip.
Tin foil
Tin foil has a number of uses and is so helpful and handy to have when cooking at the campsite. Foil can be used for both cooking or food storage. We like to make tin foil meal packets to cook on the grill or directly in the camp fire for easy dish-free clean up.
Cooking utensils
Think about the food you’ll be cooking and consider what utensils you’ll need for cooking. A mixing spoon, spatula, tongs, and measuring cups are all basic needs for a camping trip. You may also need some specialty utensils like a can opener, wine key, whisk, or strainer for cooking some items.
Refillable water bottles
These can be used in conjunction with your water dispenser to cut down on the amount of waste and plastic you’re using on your camping trip. Be sure to stay hydrated when camping, and bring your water with you on every adventure.
Coffee pot/french press
It’s a proven fact that coffee tastes better when camping! And after a possibly long night, you may need some extra java in the morning. If you’re camping at a site that has an electrical plug in there’s no rule that says you can’t bring your coffee pot from home! This way, you’re sure to have coffee made just the way you like it, and plenty of it. Be sure to bring an extension cord to stretch where you need it to in your campsite. Don’t forget your coffee grounds and filters (or k-cups, or whatever you use). If you don’t have electricity, consider a french press coffee maker or a pour-over method.
Camping food items to pack
Of course, you can bring whatever food you’d like, but here are some typical camping foods that are easy to bring, store, make and eat to add to your camping gear list! There’s no need for fancy meals when you’re camping. Just be sure to bring enough food! And be prepared for it to taste great, because everything tastes better when you’re camping!
Eggs
Bacon or sausage
Bread
English muffins
Deli meat
Peanut butter
Jelly
Hot dogs
Hamburgers
Chicken breasts
Fish fillets
Rice
Potatoes
Veggies
Fruit
Protein bars
Pretzels
Trail mix
S’mores fixings – chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers
Gatorade or a similar hydrating drink
Salt & pepper
Seasonings & spices
Condiments
Cooking spray
Coffee & filters
Personal care items
Just because you’re out in the wild doesn’t mean you must stop taking care of yourself. So here’s a list of personal care items to add to your camping gear list. Remember that a standard first aid kit might include some of these items.
Depending on the season and where you are camping, you will want to bring different clothing items for you and everyone in your family. What you transport your clothes in is up to you! We used a clear tote that we kept in the car. It was easy to transport and didn’t take up much room. Other options include a suitcase, duffel bags, backpacks, re-purposed laundry bags, or a laundry basket. For adults and teenagers, one change of clothes or a shirt and pants/shorts for each day should suffice. However, kids tend to get dirty quickly when camping (especially if there’s water around), so consider bringing two outfits for each day for the younger kids and babies. But, also know that a little dirt won’t hurt and wearing dirty clothes when camping isn’t the end of the world!
Here are some clothing items for your camping trip that you may consider packing:
Base layers
Merino wool base layers are fantastic options for almost every season. The wool is lightweight, not scratchy, and warm. Woold pieces can be used alone on warmer days or can add a much-needed layer of comfort on those chilly winter escapades. One of our favorite brands that makes beautiful, soft layers is NUI Organics. We love their collection of soft merino wool, which comes in a variety of beautiful solid gender-neutral colors (so they can be passed down kid to kid). This company, in particular, is great because they carry layers for the entire family (adults included).
Check out our post on the Best Merino Wool Layers for Kids for a comprehensive list of the best wool brands, clothing options, and price points.
Socks & underwear
I might be the wrong person to ask this question because my formula for the number of pairs of underwear to bring on a trip goes like this. # of days you are gone X 3 = # pairs of underwear to bring. Is this too much? ALWAYS! But I’d rather be overprepared in this department. The same goes for socks, and wool is always a good option. Our favorite brands are Smartwool and Bombas.
Rain gear
No matter the weather forecast, I would recommend bringing rain gear with you. A rain jacket for every family member, or even better, rain suits! The REI Co-op Rainwall Jacket and Rainwall Pants are great options for a two-piece set. For the younger kids, full-body rain suits are a great choice because there is little to no worry about their underlayers getting wet when the weather turns. Our longtime favorite rain suit for everyday wet adventures has been the Oaki trail suit, but we also really love the Polarn O. Pyret Rain Shell with interior fleece-lining for colder rainy day adventures.
If you’re camping during the spring and summer, don’t forget to bring a swimsuit. If you’re lucky, your campground will include a body of water suitable for swimming. We like rashguards for the kids because it adds an extra layer of protection from the sun and bugs.
Gloves & hats
If it’ll be cold, bring a warm hat for each family member and warm waterproof gloves in the winter. If it’s sunny out, consider bringing a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection during the rest of the year. Check out our full gear review post for a breakdown of the best kids’ gloves and mittens for outdoor play.
Pajamas
Remember that the temperature can vary significantly from day to night, and you are less protected from the elements while sleeping outside. Most of the time, your wool layers can double as pajamas or serve as your base layer (underneath clothes) to keep you and the kids extra toasty warm on cold nights or when camping in cooler temperatures. Light weight layers will help keep kids cool when camping in the hot summer months.
Shoes
Bringing an extra pair of shoes for each family member is a good idea. In the winter, be sure to bring your warm boots. In the summer, a sturdy pair of sandals is a good idea. If you’re planning on doing some hiking, biking or creeking, remember to bring your best shoes for that activity. Also, a pair of shower shoes or flip-flops if you’ll be using a public shower while camping.
Sunglasses
You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors; let’s protect those eyes! A polarized pair will give you a clearer view too! For little kids, we love these Babiator sunglasses that come in 2 styles (the Navigator UV and the Aviator) and a variety of colors. Frames are made from rubber, making them strong and flexible, shock and impact resistant.
Laundry bag
Don’t forget something to hold all of your dirty clothes. A large laundry bag with a drawstring top works well for us. In a pinch, you can also use a trash bag or designate one empty duffle bag or suitcase to hold all the dirty laundry.
Campsite fun
Camping with your family should be a fun experience, and while being out in nature is a form of entertainment all on its own, sometimes you need a few other ideas of things to do or bring from home to help the play. There are a ton of fun activities you can play around the campfire and inside a camping tent to make your camping experience a memorable one. Here are some suggestions for games and enjoyment you can bring along with you.
Walkie-talkies
Walkie-talkies are perhaps one of the best outdoor toys you can purchase for your kids! Not only are they fun to use and can be a catalyst for hours of imaginative play, but they are also a helpful device for keeping track of our busy independent kids when they’re out exploring or running around the campsite. These Topsung rechargeable walkie-talkies are great because they are long-range and come in packs of two or three.
Binoculars
My binoculars go with me on every outdoor adventure, so this is on my essentials list. But, if you aren’t a birder like I am, you might want to think about bringing a pair of binoculars to get an up-close look at some of the natural wonders you might find. A good pair of high-resolution, waterproof binoculars like these Occer compact binoculars will make sure your kids don’t miss a thing (but they also won’t break the bank).
Field guides
Bringing a field guide relevant to the area you are visiting will be a great way to engage your kids in their environment. We all know about the fantastic apps for identifying plants, birds, and even bugs, but a good old-fashioned guidebook is an unplugged version perfect for your camping trip.
Books
Hopefully, you will do some relaxing on your trip, and what’s better than sitting down with a good book? Scroll down below for some great kids camping books for kids.
Games
Bubbles, chalk, jump ropes, frisbee, card games like UNO or Skip-Bo, activity books, board games, sketch pads, fishing gear, and bicycles with helmets are all options for your family to bring for some entertainment.
Outdoor string lights
Solar powered string lights can add extra light and ambiance to your tent or even your whole campsite. They make your whole campsite feel a bit more magical!
These are not necessary unless this is your chosen method for sleeping, but they can be fun and relaxing. Many kinds are easy to pack away and lightweight while still sturdy. A hammock can easily provide my kids with hours of fun and entertainment. If your kids are anything like mine, a hammock can become a swing, a fort, or the perfect spot to ask mom for a gazillionth snack. Whatever way your kids prefer to make use of this classic camp item, you can’t go wrong with something like the ENO SingleNest Hammock.
Clothespins and a clothesline (we used this one, but a rope works well too!)
Phone chargers
Broom
Camera
Utility gloves
Hatchet/saw
Beach blanket
Extension cord
Koozies
Tent repair kit
Extra tent stakes
Rubber mallet
Fly swatter
How to store your camping gear
Now that you’ve got a good grasp on everything you may ever need to bring with you when camping, what do you do with all that gear after your epic camping trip with your family? Make your life easier by staying organized for your next camping trip, with a few of these solutions.
Clear bins
Clear bins work really well for storing camping items. You can see all or most of the contents from the outside, if you are ever unsure of what is on the inside. Each bin can be labeled on the outside with the gear it contains, or you could even keep a master list inside the container of all the contents. This will help you make sure that things are returned to the appropriate bin and restocked when necessary.
For example, a bin with kitchen items, another for lanterns, flashlights, and string lights, a container with bedding, sleeping bags, sheets, etc. Store these bins in an out-of-the-way place like your basement, attic, or garage. If you plan correctly, you will have perfectly packed bins ready for your next adventure, making it that much easier to go camping!
Pegboards
Pegboards are great to hang in garages, storage closets, and basements. These are highly-functional and really helpful when hanging all kinds of items such as backpacks, headlamps, axes, hydration bladders, and even sleeping bags. Pegboards are great use of space when you are already short on space.
How to store your tent
Make sure that your tent is completely dry before storing, and don’t store it in a cramped or tight space. If it’s too tight, it can put unnecessary tension and stress on your tent fabric and poles. Your tent should be stored loosely in a cool dry place. Consider rolling the tent up and placing it inside of a large pillowcase. Avoid folding it, packing it up too tightly, or packing it in hot or humid places that can trap moisture inside.
How to store sleeping bags
If you’re low on storage space, sleeping bags can be rolled up and stored in their original bags or inside of pillowcases. However, if you have room, you could also hang them in a closet or on a pegboard. We store ours hanging from hooks in our dry attic.
Camping books for kids
One of my favorite camping activities is relaxing with a good book. Here are some camping-themed children’s books you can add to your camping gear list and bring along for your kids to enjoy!
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 for your next camping adventure:
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).
Happy camping! What would you add to this camping list for families?
About the author
Lissy Perna lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod”. Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors, and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!
It’s no secret that when it comes to outfitting our kids for the great outdoors, the options are endless, and the choices can get overwhelming. While we all know that a box and a pile of sticks can allow for endless hours of unstructured entertainment, that’s not going to keep kids warm or safe when exploring. When we’re ready to take our adventures past the front yard and to the next level, what outdoor gear do kids need? Today, our gear-guru and PNW mountain mom of 4, RyAnn Peverly is here to go over the best outdoor gear for kids and give you recommendations to save you time, research, and money.
*This post contains affiliate links.
Outdoor gear for kids
We’ve all heard the saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” And we know that quality outdoor kids’ gear will last longer and do better in extreme circumstances. But what gear is worth spending money on for your kids? What makes the most sense to invest in for the whole family?
You certainly don’t need a garage packed with all the latest and greatest in the outdoor industry, but a few well-made key pieces will ensure an endless supply of family fun. From water bottles to day packs, sun hats to rain jackets, and everything in between, this is your ultimate list of gear for your outdoorsy kids.
Best outdoor clothing for kids
You might be asking yourself why your kids need special clothes when going on adventures outdoors. The short answer is…they don’t (or at least not always). Your everyday outdoor trip to the park or neighborhood stroll isn’t going to require anything fancy. However, the more time you spend outdoors, the more adventurous your outings will become and the more your kids will be in the elements. And sometimes adventures call for special outdoor gear.
Just like all our outdoor gear listed, these clothing items each have a specific purpose. The right clothing is the best way to keep your kids comfortable when adventuring outside. I always look at buying good quality outdoor clothing as an investment in our fun. The more comfortable we are outside, the longer we can play and the more time we can spend outdoors. And it’s always good to remember that just a few key pieces can keep us outside all year long.
Best base layers (merino wool)
The first clothing items I always make sure to have on hand (for both kids and adults) are a couple of good sets of wool base layers. These pieces can be used alone on warmer days or can add a much-needed layer of comfort on those chilly winter escapades. One of our favorite brands that makes beautiful, soft layers is NUI Organics. I love their collection of soft merino wool, which comes in a variety of beautiful solid gender-neutral colors (so they can be passed down kid to kid). This company, in particular, is great because they carry layers for the entire family (adults included).
Check out our post on the Best Merino Wool Layers for Kids for a comprehensive list of the best wool brands, clothing options, and price points.
Best outdoor shirts for kids
When it comes to what my kids wear on top, I like to keep a few quick-dry athletic shirts ready to grab, especially for those warmer months. A shirt that allows sweat to wick away from their bodies means more comfort and less complaining. Good options for athletic shirts are merino wool or synthetic materials. Most of our athletic t-shirts come from the All In Motion line at Target.
Another top layer I like to keep in our closets is a quality long-sleeve sun-shirt. A good sun-shirt means this mama knows my kids are being protected from UV rays, and I get to worry less about the last time I applied sunscreen. Our favorite sun-shirts are the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Sun Hoodie, the REI Co-op Sahara Sun Hoodie, and the Veyo Kids Sun Hoodies.
Pants/ shorts (or a combination thereof)
Living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, I’ve learned that clothes that serve a dual purpose are the ones I reach for the most. And that goes for the pants and shorts that I buy my kids. My favorites are those that are great for more than one activity or are convertible. A good pair of convertible hiking pants means I don’t have to pack shorts for when my son says he’s too hot or wants to go splashing in rivers or lakes.
My favorite convertible hiking pants for kids are the ones with zippers by the ankles so that we don’t have to worry about taking off shoes during the transition. These Sahara pants from REI are great because they also have an adjustable waist. In addition to pants, it’s great to have shorts that our kids can wear hiking on the trails, and go straight to jumping right in the big blue lake. One brand that our whole family wears is the Patagonia Baggies.
Kids’ rain gear
If your kids are anything like mine, a little rain never deters the need to get outside and play! It’s actually even better because puddle jumping is one of their greatest joys. Using both feet to generate the perfect splash can mean hours of fun. But, once they get wet and the chill starts to set in, then the adventure is over.
When picking out rain gear that will last through it all, I like to look for three things. (1) The items must be waterproof, not just water resistant. Water resistant is great for a light drizzle, but will not be able to handle a full soaking. (2) I like jackets that are breathable. This allows the child’s perspiration to wick away from their body so that they are not wet inside and out. (3) I like gear that has closures on the wrists, ankles, hood, and hems. Adjustable closures help to seal in the warmth, and keep the rain out.
The REI Co-op Rainwall Jacket and Rainwall Pants are great options for a two-piece set. For the younger kids, full-body rain suits are a great choice because there is little to no worry about their underlayers getting wet when the weather turns. Our longtime favorite rain suit for everyday wet adventures has been the Oaki trail suit, but we also really love the Polarn O. Pyret Rain Shell with interior fleece-lining for colder rainy day adventures.
Best outdoor kids rain boots
If you’re going to spend any time outside in the rain (or live in a wet/damp place like the PNW), rainboots are essential gear for kids. Rainboots allow our children to splash around and keep their feet nice and toasty throughout the day. Over the last 22 years of purchasing boots, the Bogs Classic insulated boots continue to prove they are a wise investment. These boots truly stand up to the tough demands of kids, don’t leak, and last a long time. They’re some of the only boots we’ve been able to pass down to the next kid after wearing through a season or two.
Best jackets, coats, and insulating layers for kids
When those summer months start to turn cool, it’s important to keep a warmer layer close by. A good mid-layer like a fleece or puffy jacket (synthetic or down) will add just enough warmth to keep the play going well into those chilly temps. The insulating layer retains the heat your child is generating, keeping them nice and warm. One style that we have gone back to time and time again is a classic fleece from Columbia that features fun designs and bright colors that all kids are sure to love.
Shoes and footwear fall into the category of outdoor gear for kids that you’ll want to have on hand for all your adventures. If your kids are anything like mine, it really doesn’t matter to them what shoes they throw on. They will still jump, run and climb all the things in any shoe they have available. And we really could let them continue that way, but what they put on their feet does make a difference when venturing outdoors. A good pair of shoes suited to the day’s activity means they stay comfortable, with their feet protected, and the day can last longer.
Outdoor kids’ tennis shoes and kids’ hiking shoes
When it comes to shoes for outdoorsy kids, I like to purchase a pair that can be used on outdoor adventures as well as during P.E. After testing multiple brands and styles I find I reach for the same brand time after time. The Salomon Speedcross Jr. is a lightweight, breathable, quick-dry shoe that has a sole with great traction.
Sometimes a waterproof hiking boot is a better option depending on the type of outdoor adventures your family prefers. If you’re going to hit a hiking trail, a good hiking boot offers ankle stability, a flexible sole, and good traction. If hiking boots are more your style, you can’t go wrong with one like the Merrell Greylock Waterproof Hiking Boots.
Best water shoes for kids
A good pair of water shoes are great for summer adventures. They’re great for exploring creeks, playing in splash pads, and adventuring anywhere your kids will be in and out of water. If you’re looking for a lightweight amphibious shoe, the Vivobarefoot Kids Ultra Bloom is a fantastic option. They’re made from bloom foam which takes harmful algae blooms out of waterways, reversing the effects of water pollution. They’re also super light, bendy, and fast-drying for adventures over land and water. If you’re looking for something that does better in sand, we’ve had good luck with the Speedo Surf Knit water shoes for kids.
Best socks for kids
Socks are another one of those items that you might be asking yourself why your kids need a “special” kind. But, just like the shoes we put on our feet, a good pair of socks can be the difference between a comfortable long walk in the woods or the need for bandaids and blister care. We often go for a good pair of wool socks that help wick sweat, provide cushion, and are long-lasting, like these hiker socks from Darn tough.
Best hiking gear and equipment for families
Often when we think of outdoor adventures, we think of wandering down dirt paths, watching as our kids stop to explore under rocks and roots. Getting outside and hitting the trails can be one of the best ways to spend a day with our outdoorsy kids. Whether it’s a day hike at one of our national parks or just a stroll around your local park, hiking and exploring go hand in hand. But, sometimes that can be hard to do with really little kids, or multiple kids. However, with the right hiking gear and equipment, we can enjoy our outdoor time together with them at any age. Here are some of our favorite tried-and-tested recommendations for outdoor gear for kids (and adults) that will help you get outside and down the trail with your kids easier!
Best outdoor and off-road strollers
A good off-road stroller is a great investment for a family that loves time outdoors. An all-terrain stroller means even the littlest family member can join in the fun, and no one has to be left behind. A stroller with mountain bike suspension and a handbrake makes even the roughest terrain easier to navigate. A great option is the BOB Revolution Pro.
If you’re looking for a stroller that serves a dual-purpose as a bike trailer, the Burley Encore X is a fantastic option. It’s a double biking trailer that comes with a stroller kit (handlebar and front wheel). This makes it super easy to go from biking the trails to strolling the streets with your kiddo(s) in tow. The trailer has comfortable seating for 1 or 2 children, plenty of room for snacks, toys, and other gear, plus a variety of other awesome features (reclinable seats, extra suspension, etc.). For more info, check out our full review of the Burley Encore X trailer.
Child carriers are also a great way to get your whole family out for a day on the trails. Once your tiniest family member is sitting up on their own, a child carrier is essential hiking gear that will keep the adventure going. Features to look for when selecting a structured child carrier are a well-padded hip belt, and shoulder straps and an adjustable torso fit so that both parents can easily use the carrier. Other features to take into account are the child safety harness system and an adjustable seat so your kid can sit comfortably no matter how long the ride is.
Our top two choices for child carriers for young kids are the Ospry Poco Plus and the Deuter Kid Comfort Carrier. You really can’t go wrong with either of these fantastic carriers – check them both out and decide which one is a better fit for you. If you have a teeny tiny newborn baby, we recommend the Ergo Baby 360. For older kids and toddlers, check out the Trail Magik toddler carrier.
Purchasing your kid’s first backpack almost feels like a right of passage in the outdoor adventure world. Their own space to carry snacks, a new water bottle, and all the treasures they can handle. It’s true they could probably get away with a regular backpack, but one made for hiking will make trail time more enjoyable for everyone.
Good kids packs include a hip belt, chest strap, big interior storage, and a mesh pocket on the outside. Other features that can be handy are a sleeve for a hydration bladder and a whistle on the chest strap buckle. One nice day pack that fits all these criteria is the REI Tarn which comes in 12 liters for little kids and 18 liters for big kids.
First aid kit
As parents, we know accidents are bound to happen. Scrapes and bruises are just part of it all when you live an outdoor lifestyle. That’s why it’s important to keep a first aid kit on hand when venturing outside. A good wilderness first aid kit should include bandages and gauze, antibiotic ointment or wipes, sting care, and medications such as antacids, aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and allergy relief.
For a simple day hiking kit, this one from HART is great. If you’re looking for a larger kit for the whole family, check out this one from Adventure Medical Kits. In addition to carrying a kit for the family, I’m also a big proponent of teaching our kids about safety and being prepared when outdoors. One of the easiest ways to do this is to let your kids carry a simple first aid kit. This Coleman Mini First Aid Kit is great for little packs.
For more information on first aid, check out our full posts on Hiking Safety & First Aid (which includes a list of exactly what should be in your first aid kit) and this post on Teaching First Aid to Kids.
Best lights, lanterns, headlamps, and other illumination
A key piece of gear that every outdoor kid needs is a good source of light for when adventures last well past dark. Kids love being able to navigate their way down a darkened trail or read a beloved nighttime story in the tent before bed. There are lots of options out there for ways that kids can illuminate the night. Three of the best options are a headlamp, flashlight, or lantern.
Headlamps: Headlamps offer that perfect hands-free option. Once placed on the head your kid can freely move about without worrying about dropping something or shining it in the right place. If you have toddlers or small children, a child-sized headlamp like the Black Diamond Wiz is a great option made for smaller heads. For school-aged kids through teens, jump up to an adjustable regular headlamp like the Petzl Tikka headlamp.
Flashlights: Flashlights are a classic option and come in so many fun colors and sizes. A small flashlight like these EverBrite Flashlights come in multiple packs for the whole family. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, these LED tactical flashlights are bright, rechargeable, magnetic, and waterproof.
Lanterns: Another great illumination option is a lantern. The lanterns of today are not like our parents’ old oil-filled versions. Lanterns now come in all shapes and are made from a variety of materials. One style to consider is an ultra-lightweight inflatable lantern like these LuminAid lanterns. The Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern is a solar lantern that can also charge your phone! No batteries required, super bright, easy to use, and totally waterproof. (Use the code RUNWILD for 10% off any product.)
Best kids’ water bottles and hydration bladders
Water is an essential item on any outdoor activity, and how you choose to let your child carry it is just as important. Maybe they want to carry their own new bottle in their pack or maybe they want to use a hydration bladder so they can drink without stopping. Either option is great, so long as it’s not too heavy or burdensome for them. Here are a few of our favorite hydration options.
Water bottles: When it comes to water bottles, there are just a couple of key things to keep in mind. A good kids-sized water bottle should be able to hold anywhere from 12 to 16 oz. Nothing too big, or it will weigh their pack down. Another thing to consider is how the bottle opens and closes. A bottle that doesn’t leak and is easy to open are always at the top of my wish list. Both the Kleen Kanteen classic and the CamelBak Eddyare great durable options that should last your child for years.
Hydration bladders: Hydration bladders are a great option for carrying water on a long hike or a day out adventuring. A hydration bladder consists of a BPA-free plastic bladder with an attached straw for easy use. You can either purchase a bladder with the attached straw that can be used with your backpack of choice or get a hydration pack, like the Camelbak Mini MULE, which is a bladder and backpack in one.
Best camping gear for kids and families
Some of our greatest memories come from camping adventures. Family camping trips usually include bike riding around the campground, playing rounds and rounds of UNO, roasting marshmallows over a fire while looking for the big dipper. And at the end of the night, crawling into our sleeping bags and sleeping under the stars. While a lot of our camping gear can be shared among the family, there are a few key items that kids need of their very own. Here’s a short list of a few of our best recommendations for family and kid-friendly outdoor gear for kids when camping.
Best camping tents for families
When camping, your tent is your home away from home. It’s where you’ll spend your evenings when you sleep and possibly hang out during rain or bouts of bad weather. Tents provide privacy, room to hang out, and most importantly, protection from inclement weather, cold, wind, and rain. Your tent can make or break your camping experience and needs to be accommodating for your family and your needs.
We love the North Face Wawona 6 tent. It’s a bit pricey, but really well-made and durable. It’s a good all-around 3-season tent, with 2 doors, a hybrid double-wall construction, extra interior height, large vestibule, and multiple interior storage pockets.
For our full guide on how to choose the right tent for you family and tent recommendations based on your family’s size, check out our post on the Best Tents for Families.
Sleeping under the stars is always a great idea, unless you can’t get comfortable and stay warm. One key element to this issue is a well-fitting, cozy sleeping bag. A bag like the Kids Kelty Mistralthat keeps kids toasty in temperatures below 40-degrees, is a great investment. For the smaller ones, a sleeping sack/bag made for babies, like this one from Morrison Outdoors, might be just the right fit.
Sleeping pad or cot
Every good camping sleep system also includes a sleeping mat or a cot. Mats are a great option because you can buy them a little big to last a little longer. A self-inflating sleeping pad like the REI Kindercamp is always nice because the kids can help set up their own sleeping spot. If you’re looking for something that gets your little one off the ground, or if you have multiple kids and are tight on space, check out the Kid-O-Bunk bunk bed cots.
Best kids’ camping chairs
Camp chairs might be another one of those items that you’re wondering if the kids really need their own. But, everyone loves having their own camp chair to sit in by the fire. Adult-sized chairs may be too high and large (and therefore could be dangerous) for little kids. A chair that’s just the right size like this Coleman Kids Chairis a great option. (Although that’s not to say they still won’t steal your chair!)
Bug protection for kids
There are plenty of ways to keep the bugs at bay during a camping trip, but our family favorites are the ones that don’t stink and don’t need to be reapplied over and over. Great choices for protection are bug bands, like these BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets, or little stickers like the Buzz Patch bug patches that you kids can apply themselves.
Camping hammock
Who doesn’t like to lay back and relax in a hammock and let the breeze gently rock you? Or, if your kids are anything like mine, a hammock can become a swing, a fort, or the perfect spot to ask mom for a gazillionth snack. Whatever way your kids prefer to make use of this classic camp item, you can’t go wrong with something like the ENO SingleNest Hammock.
Best biking gear and options for kids
One of the best activities to get families out is bike riding. Whether it’s on a paved trail near home, or off the beaten path, hopping on a bike is a great way to get outdoors, get active, and spend some quality time together as a family. If you’re interested in biking, we’ve got some great biking gear recommendations for you and your little ones.
Best bikes for kids
A balance bike is a bike without pedals and it’s a perfect way for little kids and toddlers to learn how to ride a bike. It has most of the essential elements of a traditional bike (frame, fork, handlebars, wheels, etc.), but instead of pedaling, they push off the ground with their feet to move forward and place their feet down to stop. Since they’re in control, kids can develop their balance and coordination first, before progressing to a bike with pedals. Our top balance bike recommendation is the Woom 1. But, there’s no one size fits all and lots of things to take into consideration when choosing a balance bike. Here’s our full post on the Best Balance Bikes for Kids.
Once your kids are ready, something like the REI Co-Op Rev Bike is a great option for bikes that have a few grown-up features but are just the right size.
If your little adventure partner isn’t ready for a bike quite yet, another great option is a bike trailer. We absolutely love the Burley Encore X bike trailer (and double-stroller), which allows families to still get out on the trail knowing the littlest one is tucked safely inside with all the necessities. The Encore X has comfortable seating for 1 or 2 children, plenty of room for snacks, toys, and other gear, plus a variety of other awesome features (reclinable seats, extra suspension, etc.).
Best bike helmets for kids
No matter where you’re riding, safety is a top priority. A bike helmet is an important piece of outdoor gear to protect their noggin. When selecting a helmet, look for those that are Mips certified, providing impact protection on all sides. The Bern Nino Helmets are certified and also come with a built-in sun visor.
Biking accessories for kids
Bike accessories are a great addition to add a little flair and function to your kids’ ride. A classic item like the Nutcase Bike Bell lets our kids add little fun and personalization to their bike; plus, it’s an added sense of safety so they can ring out as they pedal away. Another fun biking accessory is a water bottle and holder. Most kids’ bikes are too small to use the more common bottle cage, so this Po Campo Water Bottle Bag is a great option. Check out our full post with 30+ Fun Biking Accessories for Kids for more!
In my experience, one activity that kids of all ages love spending time on or near the water. Whether it’s at the beach, fishing along the river, exploring a creek, or jumping off the dock, kids love water! They love to get their feet wet, splash around, and play in water. No matter where you’re headed, here are a few gear recommendations that will keep the kids safe and happy when on the water.
Best sunhats for kids
When heading out to spend a day on the water, a good hat that provides protection from the sun is a must. There are lots of styles and options out there, and if your kids are like mine, they will have an opinion on what they like the most. For a full coverage hat that protects both their face and neck, you can’t go wrong with something like the Sunday Afternoons play hat or the Veyo Kids sunhat. If your kids prefer a baseball hat, you might reach for the Outdoor Research Kids Swift cap or a snapback from Headster that both offer bright colors or cool designs.
Whether you’re kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing from a boat, a quality and well-fitting life jacket or PFD (personal flotation device) is needed to keep kids safe when on and around water. When choosing the right life jacket for your child, make sure to pick one according to their current size and weight. This ensures it won’t slip over their head when in the water.
For a more detailed list of life jacket recommendations by size, activity, and style, check out our post on the Best Life Jackets for Kids, which includes all the info you need to pick the right life jacket for your child.
Water shoes for kids
Atrip to play in or near the water generally means that our kids will get their feet wet. If you’re headed somewhere besides a sandy beach, a good pair of shoes that they can wear means they are less likely to hurt their feet. These Keen Newport sandals are great because they provide tow coverage and stay snuggly on their feet. If your kiddo wants a little more room in their sandal, try something like this Teva Hurricane.
Best sunscreen for kids
Keeping our kids’ skin safe is just as important as anything else. So having quality sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30+ is essential when we head out for a day near the water. Some sunscreens can have a lot of chemicals added and can be tough on kids’ sensitive skin, so we recommend Countersun Mineral Sunscreen from Beautycounter (comes in spray, stick, and lotion), which provides full coverage protection without harmful effects. It’s also reef-safe, which is recommended anytime you’re in wild water.
Best sunglasses for kids
Protect your children’s eyes while they’re outside playing with sunglasses. My own kids love these Babiator sunglasses that come in 2 styles (the Navigator UV and the Aviator) and a variety of colors. Frames are made from rubber, making them strong and flexible, shock and impact-resistant. Whether your child twists, bends or treads on these sunglasses, they will not break! In addition, these UV400 lenses stop all UVA and UVB rays and protect the eyes of your child against the bright sunlight. Available in baby and toddler sizes and polarization.
Best outdoors toys for kids
Whether playing in the backyard or taking your adventures on the road, it’s always nice to have a few activities around that our kids go for time and time again. There are thousands of things to do outside, but here are a few of our all-time tried-and -tested highly-recommended favorite outdoor toys, activities, and inspiration for getting outdoors.
Slackline: Slacklining is a great activity for kids because it requires concentration, balance, and core strength, plus all you need is a kit like the ZenMonkey Slackline Kit and two trees for hours of fun. If you need info on how to get started, check out this Beginner’s Guide to Slacklining with Kids.
Kites: If you’re looking for another activity that is portable and provides endless amounts of outdoor time, a kite is a perfect solution. These Pocket Flyer Kites can even be put in a kid’s backpack to fly anywhere the wind strikes. Before you head out, be sure to read our post on Kite Flying with Kids.
Binoculars: All explorers need a good pair of binoculars for adventuring. A good pair of high-resolution, waterproof binoculars like these Occer compact binoculars will make sure your kids don’t miss a thing (but they also won’t break the bank).
Walkie-talkies: Walkie-talkies are perhaps one of the best outdoor toys you can purchase for your kids! Not only are they fun to use and can be a catalyst for hours of imaginative play, but they are also a helpful device for keeping track of our busy independent kids. These Topsung rechargeable walkie-talkies are great because they are long-range and come in packs of two or three.
Bait nets: Whether you’re at the beach, in a creek/stream or next to a pond, kids love playing in the water and catching things. These Promar Aluminum Bait Nets are the very best bait net on the market – trust me, we’ve been through a million. Most nets have the netting on the outside of the basket, which means after a while of scraping on sand and rocks, the net wears thin and rips. This one has a metal framing (net guard) and a super durable handle, ensuring it lasts years longer than the others. A bit more expensive, but totally worth it. Perfect for scooping rocks/shells and catching minnows, crabs, crawdads, etc.
Wagon: A classic little red RadioFlyer Wagon is a multi-purpose outdoor toy. This wagon has been a staple in my kids’ childhoods, and we use it more than we ever could have imagined. Use it for taking the kids for a walk around the block (they’ll not only love riding in it, but pulling it as well) or use it for transporting gear and equipment. The uses are endless, and it’s a ton of open-ended fun.
Best outdoor activity books for kids
We all have days when the motivation to head outside is hard to find. Even our outdoorsy kids need a bit of inspiration sometimes. Here is a list of books with fabulous activities, games, and ideas for getting everyone out the door.
Phew! I think we covered nearly everything you could need to fuel your outdoor adventures for years to come! You certainly don’t need this entire list of gear, but hopefully, this will be a good starting place to find just the right gear for your outdoorsy kids. Let us know if there’s any category of items we missed! And in the meantime, here are a few more posts on gear and activities you might enjoy!
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).
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.
The Appalachian Trail and Great Smoky Mountain National Park are both huge touristy areas this time of year. The park is incredible, but the crowds can be intense and overwhelming. However, there is another option for exploring the Appalachian Trail with kids nearby that is family-friendly and way less crowded, with spectacular vistas and stunning wildlife. If you find yourself in Southern Appalachia, check out the Roan Mountain Highlands! The Roan Highlands are quite simply a gem of the American Southeast and have something for families of all abilities. Today, local Tennessee mom and avid hiker Somer Pickel is here sharing her favorite section of the Appalachian Trail to hike with kids and tips for exploring the Roan Mountain Highlands.
The Roan Mountain Highlands are the perfect southeastern mountain get away for families of all abilities.
An introduction to the Roan Mountain Highlands
Roan Mountain is located a couple of hours northeast of Smoky Mountain National Park, nestled along the North Carolina and Northeast Tennessee border. It’s part of the Unaka Mountain subrange within the Blue Ridge Mountains. The surrounding mountains of the area are blanketed by beautiful deciduous national forests (hello fall foliage!) and magical spruce-fir forests of the Cherokee and Pisgah National Forests. The area is famous for its expansive 360-degree Appalachian views and incredible wild rhododendron gardens. Every June, crowds flock to the mountain to view the rhododendron and flame azalea blooms for good reason. They’re magnificent.
Roan Mountain has the world’s largest wild rhododendron gardens and it’s sure something to see!
Visit the Appalachian Balds
The Roan Highlands were my first introduction to Appalachian “Balds”. Aka mountain tops and ridge-lines without forests. The Roan Highlands are the longest stretch of balds in the entire Appalachian Mountain range! The Roan Balds stretch about ~ 2.5 miles across three mountains (Round, Jane, and Grassy Ridge). On clear days, hikers have continuous expansive mountain views for hours while exploring the trail.
These wide open views and minimal light pollution also make the highlands perfect for stargazing. On crisp clear nights, the Milky Way is clearly visible, and there’s no better place to watch a meteor shower.
On a clear day you can see hundreds of miles in every direction from the Roan Highlands. Not that your toddler will appreciate it. This boulder is right off the trail about half a mile up. It’s a favorite climbing spot for small children devouring snacks and adults looking for a breather.
Hiking portions of the Appalachian Trail with kids
If one were to take a day hike with kids from Carver’s Gap parking area, they could choose the distance of the hike based on the family’s ability. The wide open expansive views start not even half a mile up the Appalachian Trail.
Oh, I guess I haven’t mentioned that little detail yet. The trail that leads across these stunning mountains is none other than the famous Appalachian Trail!
The Appalachian Trail is a long trail that stretches nearly 2200 miles from Northern Georgia into Maine. The trail follows the Appalachian Mountainss and includes countless incredible vistas. But the Roan Highlands section is considered one of the most beautiful–especially in June when the rhododendrons and azaleas are blooming. Honestly though, I’ve been up there in all seasons and all weather; it’s a beautiful stretch any time.
Exploring with kids isn’t always easy. But that’s not to say it isn’t doable or worth the effort. Even if they are too young to remember it—I promise you will.
Hiking with kids
My recommendation, if you and your children are able-bodied, is to park at Carver’s Gap on the Tennessee/ North Carolina state line. Directly across the street from the parking lot is the Appalachian Trail and an information board.
Anytime you’re new to an area, you’d be wise to look over any information boards you see. Sometimes it’s just a map of the surrounding area and/or trail. But a lot of time, they have invaluable information about the hike you’re about to embark upon. For instance, there may be a posting warning of recent increased bear activity. Or, in the case of Roan Mountain, it may have warnings not to touch the endangered Grays Lily wildflower species or how you can do your part to protect and preserve the Roan Mountain Highland ecosystem.
Roan Mountain Balds sport incredible wildflowers, including these flame azaleas to trout lilies, trilliums, endangered Grays lilies, the famous rhododendrons, and dozens more!
Roan Mountain State Park
If you’re looking to get your bearings before you set out, head to the Roan Mountain State Park Visitor Center. It’s a lovely stop at the base of the mountain situated on the rambling little Doe river. My kid is a huge fan of the large water wheel at the center. I’m not sure what cascades more, the water or all her ‘why?’ questions about its inner mechanical workings.
But all jokes aside, the visitor center is a great resource where you can ask questions. They will know the shape of the trails and roads (aka, are they too muddy or snowy to traverse) and may have insight into how the weather is on top of the mountain. It is typically open from 0800-1600 EST.
For those who may not be up for backpacking, never fear. The State Park at the base of the mountain has over 100 campsites and 30 cabins available for rent.
Camping at Roan Mountain State Park
Roan Mountain State Park also offers camping in designated camp areas. There’s a $5 reservation fee for booking online, in addition to the nightly fee, which varies depending on the season. And while I can’t give exact costs, the nightly rates are quite reasonable—and lower than those we’ve paid when staying at parks out west.
The camping areas have access to walking trails lower on the mountain, wildflower viewing areas, the beautiful Doe river, and of course, some bathhouses. You also regularly see deer ambling about the fields at dawn and dusk.
Hiking with kids is just as rewarding for kids as it is for us parents. Kids get to explore their capabilities and push their physical limits. Seeing them pride themselves in their own accomplishments is incredible.
Roan Mountain cabins
If you book early enough, you may be able to snag one of the park’s adorable little cabins. There are 30 cabins in all, but they’re spread throughout a beautiful deciduous forest, giving each one a secluded feeling. The cabins sleep between 4 and 6 people, and rates vary between $100-300 a night depending on size and season.
All cabins are equipped with electricity and running water but not Wi-Fi.
Roan Mountain Highlands are a fantastic introduction hike for children. The section of trail up to the first bald is accessible for most children and families.
Carver’s Gap hike with kids
But back to Carver’s Gap. Cross the street and head up the trail as it passes through a field spotted with rhododendron. About a quarter mile up, you enter a Frazier fir forest that’s simply magical, especially in golden hour light and/or in fog. You hike through this forest for another quarter mile or so before you come out onto the side of Round Bald with immediate expansive views of the North Carolina Blueridge mountains, including the highest peak east of the Mississippi–Mt. Mitchell.
If your family isn’t used to hiking and the climb is starting to get to you, or if your toddler is demanding their 5th snack of the day, there’s a great snack rock right off the trail. It’s also a great little bouldering challenge for smaller kiddos.
If you keep going up the trail to the summit of Round Bald, you’ll get your first 360-degree views. From there, you and your family can choose how far to go. If you go all the way out to Grassy Ridge and back, the total length of the hike is somewhere around 5 miles. Keep in mind this milage includes some significant elevation gains along the way.
While I wouldn’t say it’s an easy hike, it’s definitely doable for many. My three-year-old has hiked the entirety of the trail on a recent backpacking trip (though she insisted on being called Spider-Man the whole time–hey, whatever works…).
Backpacking to Grassy Ridge was our perfect introduction trip for our toddler. Far enough out to be an adventure, but close enough to bail to the truck if things go awry.
Entry-level backpacking on the Appalachian Trail with kids
For anyone looking for a great entry-level backpacking trip for kids, you found it! This section of the Appalachian Trail was our child’s first backpacking trip when she was 9 months old. It was far enough out to give us the experience we were looking for, but close enough to the car to bail if something went awry. It was also our kid’s first backpacking trip that she hiked completely independently (hallelujah!).
There are multiple places one could set up camp around this area. There are a couple of backpacking shelters within a few miles of Carver’s Gap parking (Roan High Knob and the Stan Murray Shelters).
Backpacking on the Roan Highlands is one of our favorite family adventures. The mountain gets top points for it’s beauty and accessibility.
Recommended camping site
My recommendation is to camp on one of the balds, if the weather forecast is favorable. If you keep a keen eye, you’ll find multiple established campsites on each bald. I truly cannot describe how beautiful and otherworldly watching the sunsets and sunrises from each of the three balds. (Unless you’re three. Then you’re too busy playing with the penlight you found in your mom’s pack to notice.) Plus, having multiple options on each bald is fantastic when hiking with kids who may or may not have lost all interest in forward progression.
The sunsets and sunrises are 100% worth the lack of sleep that comes with sharing a tent with a toddler. Can we take a moment to peep that happy pupper? Okay, you’re welcome. Moving on.
More family-friendly & accessible trail options
If hiking isn’t your family’s cup of tea, but you’re still out looking for a fun nature-fueled adventure with the kids, head up past Carver’s Gap to the rhododendron gardens. There’s parking galore and trails aplenty to explore.
Another of our favorite trails is the Roan High Knob trail. This leads to a beautiful deck overlook on the western side of Roan. The trail winds less than a mile through a beautiful mossy rich fir forest, that always reminds me of Middle Earth. The forest is an amazing habitat full of treasures. From mushrooms in what look like fairy gardens to salamanders. It’s truly a kid’s dream come true.
While the first section of this trail is paved, the whole of it is not. So, I don’t recommend bringing strollers or wheelchairs on this particular trail. However, the popularity of the rhododendron gardens has led the park to develop more options for folks of all ages and abilities. Paved meandering paths wind through the gardens and fir forests. While some are wheelchair or jogging stroller accessible, others aren’t easily so in patches where roots have bumped up the asphalt. But with a bit of extra effort, you could get kids of all abilities deep into this forest wonderland. On hot days you can smell the balsam in the air as you see the sun twinkling through the canopy overhead. We’re talking core memories here, people.
FYI, the access road up to the gardens is closed in the winter months, so check before heading out.
The Roan mountain ecosystem is incredibly diverse and rich. Salamanders are a definite favorite of our family though. If you’d like to learn more about them check out our Salamander article!The rhododendron gardens are designed so that visitors of all ages and abilities can get out and explore.
Special considerations when hiking the Appalachian Trail with kids
While I don’t want to scare anyone off the trail, there are special considerations to take if you are planning to day hike or backpack this section of the Appalachian trail (especially if you plan to have kids in tow).
First off, know your and your child(ren)’s abilities. If your kid has never done a five-mile hike on even terrain, don’t expect them to be able to climb up and down three mountains. But too, don’t be frightened. This is a great hike for parents of little kids or babies still in carriers. There are sections that are pretty technical and require having the littles under three or four in a carrier. But, there are many sections all along the way that are quite mild. My kid has been crawling down them since before she could walk.
A side note of caution to any parents hiking while wearing or carrying children. Keep in mind wearing children throws your balance and makes it more difficult to keep your footing–especially if you are wearing your child in the front and you can’t see your feet. I always recommend using hiking poles while baby wearing on the trail. They’re a quick and easy safety tool that’s saved my kid and me more than a few mishaps.
There’s loads of opportunity for parents to stretch their legs and for kids to safely explore.
Exposure & elevation
While we are on the topic of safety, let’s point out one of the dangers brought on by what makes Roan so unique. You’re totally exposed for miles. There aren’t any trees to buffer the wind or offer shade. You have to plan for sun and wind exposure. We take sunscreen year-round. We also utilize merino wool’s sun protection year-round (if you want to read more about the crazy awesome powers of merino wool, check out this previous article).
The Roan Mountain Highlands are at a higher elevation than typical for most of us Easterners, and the weather can change on a dime. But don’t let these challenges stop you. Just make sure you prepare properly for the environment. Below are some basic hiking safety tips that can be applied to almost any situation.
If properly dressed kids will often surprise you on what they are game for, even in cold environments.
Always check the weather
I am a strong believer in “There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather” (if you haven’t read this book yet, I 100% recommend it). However, you have to know what sort of weather you might encounter while out adventuring and hiking with your kids so that you can be prepared.
Oftentimes, regular weather apps and websites aren’t suitable sources for labile mountain-top weather. The weather on the mountain may be very different than the weather down below. My personal go-to is mountain-forecast.com. You can look up specific mountains you’ll be on rather than the nearest town, which may be 30+ miles from where you are hiking.
Weather changes rapidly in mountain environments. It’s always safe to bring extra layers just in case.
Dress in layers
Once you know the weather you should expect, plan for the worst outcomes. For instance, with a 30% chance of rain, I’m going to bring my kid’s rain gear and an extra change of clothes in case she gets wet. (You know what, let’s be honest. My kid is three, so I always bring an extra set of clothes with me and have another in the car no matter what the forecast. If your kid is anything like mine, they’re born with an innate ability to trash clothes. But, I digress…)
If it’s showing temperature ranges of 45-60 degrees Fahrenheit, I’m going to bring multiple layers for my kid, including an insulating layer and a windbreaker. Little kids and babies can’t regulate body temperature as well as adults. What may not be too cold for you, could very well likely be too cold for your toddler. (This is especially true if you have recently transitioned your toddler from a front carrier to a backpack carrier where they can’t rely on your body heat any longer.)
If you want to know the ins and outs of layering and my personal go-to’s (hint, hint–it’s merino wool 100% of the time) check out my merino wool article. It contains all you could ever possibly want to know, and then some, about the wonders of merino wool and layering in general.
Merino wool is nature’s wonder fabric. It wicks moisture, protects from the sun and temperature regulates!
Bring food and plenty of fluids
For those out day-hiking, keep in mind that you’re totally exposed to the elements when on the balds. So, bring plenty of water, as it’s likely that you will dehydrate faster than typical. Plus, you never know when your kid might decide to trail run a couple of miles for no reason (or is that just my kid?). But yea, definitely bring water for each party member and even more for breastfeeding mamas–even if you only plan on going out a mile or so.
Snacks are a must for my kid in every situation, but they become more important while hiking. I like to bring high-calorie snacks when hiking with my kiddo. Our go-to’s are typically nut butters, granola/protein bars, meats sticks, dried fruits, and crackers.
But let’s not forget the bribery tools, because heck yes, I resort to bribing my kid on the reg. My favorite bribery snacks are fun-sized packages of fruit snacks or gummies, chocolate bites, and lollipops. Word to the wise about the lollipops, though, do not give your kid a lollipop in a backpack carrier if you have hair. Trust me, just don’t.
If ever in doubt, bring all three layers for your kids. It’s so much better to be safe than sorry.
And last but not least…leave no trace
Please make sure to follow the leave no trace principles whenever you are visiting wild spaces. Take out all your trash and try to leave the area cleaner than you found it. If we want these places to remain accessible to future generations, we have to preserve, protect, and take care of them. Little eyes are watching.
Have you ever hiked a portion of the Appalachian Trail?
About the author
Somer is a mama living in southern Appalachia. Somer’s motherhood journey began when her oldest daughter was born with severe congenital heart disease. Avelyn spent the majority of her 18 months of life within a pediatric ICU. Though she lived her life chronically critically ill, Avie was an incredibly loving and joyous child. After her death, Somer and her husband sought solace backpacking a section of the Appalachian Trail. Before long, they discovered their ability to cope seemed to correspond with time spent outdoors.
When it came time to add another kiddo to the mix, bringing the baby along was never a question. In an effort to celebrate the freedom provided by healthy bodies, Somer has hiked her second-born 2k+ miles. Even so, she doesn’t believe grand adventures are necessary to reap nature’s wonder. They just as often revel in mundane evenings in their backyard. The family believes it’s prioritizing time spent outdoors that’s important.
Professionally, Somer has spent the last decade caring for veterans in an acute psychiatric unit as a clinical nurse educator. Over the years, she’s become a passionate advocate for the intersectional relationships of mental health, wellness, and the natural world. She truly believes there’s healing and strength to be found outdoors for those who seek it.
Whether you’re buying your first tent or upgrading to accommodate a growing family, there’s a lot to consider when purchasing a new tent. When camping, your tent is your home away from home. It’s where you’ll spend your evenings when you sleep and possibly hang out during rain or bouts of bad weather. Tents provide privacy, room to hang out, and most importantly, protection from inclement weather, cold, wind, and rain. Your tent can make or break your camping experience and needs to be accommodating for your family and your needs. We’ll walk you through everything you need to consider when choosing the right tent for your family. This post contains all the factors you need to consider and includes our recommendations for the best tents for families.
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How to choose the right tent for your family
When it comes to finding the perfect tent for your family, there’s no one right way to make your decision. Each family should choose a tent based on their needs, size, budget, weather, camping style, etc. There are a million options out there and lots of features to consider, which can make it very overwhelming for anyone looking to purchase a new tent. However, there are a few really important factors to consider when selecting a tent for your family camping trip. Here are a few things we think all families should keep in mind when looking for a new tent.
Size of tent
Tent size is usually based on the number of people a tent can house in the sleeping area. However, there’s no industry standard for size, so you’ll find that tent size varies across brands for the same number of people. The number of people a tent can house basically means the number of average-sized adults that can lay down on the tent’s floor area. This doesn’t take into consideration space for sleeping bags, sleeping pads, air mattresses, gear, luggage, etc.
It’s always recommended that you size up your tent by at least 1 person so you can accommodate gear, luggage, sleeping pads, etc. So, if a family of three would want at least a 4-person tent (possibly larger if you’ll be storing gear in your tent or the people in your family are larger than “average”). For determining tent size, kids should be considered the same size as an adult (a child’s sleeping pad/mattress is probably not going to be that much smaller than an adult’s).
The type of camping that your family will be doing should play a significant role in the type of tent you purchase. If you’re “car camping” (meaning that you’re not carrying all your gear far from your vehicle), then the packability and weight of your tent are much less of a concern. However, if you’re backpacking (meaning that you’re carrying all your gear to a remote location), you’ll be much more concerned with the size, weight, and packability of your tent.
Backpacking tents are much lighter and smaller than a traditional car camping tent for the same number of people. They’re made from ultra-light materials and usually have fewer features and accessories. They’re also much shorter, making it difficult (if not impossible) to stand up inside the tent when dressing/undressing.
In this article, we’ll only be covering car camping tents. These tents tend to be larger, heavier, and roomier than backpacking tents. However, they’re great for most traditional family camping set-ups and can usually accommodate any size family.
Ease of setup
Some tents are simple pop-ups, while others require more work to set up, even requiring multiple people. It may be difficult to set up a large tent that takes an hour (and requires 2 adults) when you have toddlers and babies running around. The easier it is to erect and set up your tent, the better. Reviews are an excellent way to figure out if a tent is easy or hard to set up.
We always recommend that you set up your tent at least once prior to going on your camping trip. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with how to set up the tent, what it looks like inside, how you’ll arrange your sleepers, and ensure that you have all the parts and supplies you need. Most tent poles are color-coded so you know what goes where. Instructions for assembly are usually printed on the storage bag or included. If you don’t have instructions, you can almost always find them online or YouTube videos showing you how to set up the tent.
Durability
Be sure the check the tent’s durability and seasonality. A tent is your home away from home when camping and can make or break your camping experience. The quality of tent material is crucial because you need something that will protect you from the elements. Consider the area where you’ll be camping, the time of year you’re camping and the types of weather that you’ll likely encounter. Camping in the PNW is very different than camping in Texas and you’ll want a tent with different features based on your location. No matter where you can, choose a tent that offers a rain cover (or rainfly), has durable zippers, is water-resistant, and is rated as durable. Most tents are 3-season tents, so they are lightweight and designed for the relatively temperate conditions of spring, summer, and fall. If you’ll be camping in the winter in really cold temperatures, you’ll want a tent that can handle that.
Shape
Tents come in many shapes! There are cabin-style tents, which have straight walls, are very spacious, and have a high center height so that you can stand up while inside. Some of the larger cabin tents have multiple rooms for privacy or separation of the sleeping area from gear storage space. They offer plenty of room, but due to their height and size, they are not always the most durable in windy conditions, can be heavy, and tend to take longer to set up. Dome-shaped tents are durable and weather friendly. They are lighter, easier to assemble, and can be used for all sorts of camping excursions. Dome tents tend to withstand heavy winds and rainy weather a bit better and sometimes have fewer issues with leaks.
Accessories
Tents can also come with (or you can purchase, in addition) a wide variety of features, options, and accessories. Some tents come with vestibules (created by a rain fly), garages, or attachments to add more square footage, extra space, and rain coverage to your home in the wild. Some have additional doors and windows. Most tents come with an integral pocket or two to let you keep small items off of the tent floor. A gear loft is an optional interior mesh shelf that can tuck greater volumes of gear out of the way. Other accessories include a footprint (usually purchased separately), seam sealant, stakes and anchors, tent repair kits, and floor mats.
Best tents for families
Now that you know some of the factors to consider when shopping for the best family tent for your next camping trip, it’s time to roll out our list of top contenders. Remember to be specific about your choice of material for the climate and your weather conditions, as well as the type of camping you’ll be doing, the size of your family, and ease of setup. Below, we’ve rounded up our recommendations for the best tents for families, based on the size of your family. We’ve included 4 quality options for each family size (family of 3, family of 4/5, and larger families with 6+ people) and ranked them according to a variety of factors. We’ve included specifications for each tent, as well as price, pros, cons, and a link to purchase or find more information. Here are our recommendations for the best family camping tents.
Features: 3 seasons, 1 door, Dark Room technology blocks 90% of sunlight and reduces heat inside, quick setup (less than 5 min), also available in a 6-person version
Pros: budget-friendly, dark blackout cabin is great for helping kids sleep and nap, easy setup
Cons: footprint NOT included, lower quality fabric doesn’t hold up as well in the rain, very little storage, only one entry point
Features: 3 seasons, 2 doors, hybrid double-wall construction and a large mesh front door, extra interior height, large vestibule, rainfly, multiple storage pockets, 75-denier polyester with 1,200 mm polyurethane coating, rainfly
Pros: super high ceiling, large vestibule, lots of space
Cons: footprint NOT included, rainfly can be a bit tricky to assemble, takes up a lot of room
[maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=el&merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&website_id=168b6f4a-277f-418f-8866-6fe50d771f14&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F204311%2Fthe-north-face-wawona-6-tent” text=”NORTH FACE WOWONA @ REI” ]
Features: 3-4 season, 2 doors with solid fabric for privacy and mesh for ventilation, 2 vestibules, highly stable dome architecture, rainfly, also comes in 4-person version
Pros: spacious, great quality, high ceilings, excellent ventilation for summer (but also great for cold nights)
Cons: footprint NOT included, pricy, can be a bit difficult to set up
Features: 3 season, 2 doors, 2 vestibules, steep side walls and high ceiling, durable polyester fabric, multiple gear pockets, protected by the NEMO lifetime warranty
Pros: spacious and roomy, easy to set-up, great ventilation, excellent quality for the price
Features: 3 season, 2 doors, generous living space, vertical walls are ideal for potential cot use, removable divider curtain creates 2 separate rooms for privacy, mesh ceiling panels for circulation, 2 gear lofts plus high stash pockets, zippered electrical power cord port, rainfly, also available in a 12-person version
Pros: super roomy for all your family members and their gear, easy setup
Cons: footprint NOT included, heavy, potential leaks in heavy rains, may be too large for some campsites
The best tent is the one you already own or have access to (assuming that it works for your family). Tents can be expensive, and we never want price or feeling like you have to have the “right gear” to keep anyone from camping. We always recommend that families camping for the first time either rent or borrow a tent before purchasing a tent. This keeps the price point for entry into this fun activity lower and ensures that you like/enjoy camping before making a purchasing commitment.
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).
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:
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.).
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!
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.
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.
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
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:
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).
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
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
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 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!
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”.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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)
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!
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.
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.
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.
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:
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).
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
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!
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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!
When setting up your campsite in your backyard, there are a few things to consider:
Cooking and eating (campfire and table/chairs)
Sleeping arrangements (tent or other)
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo by Katie Fox 
Photo by Katie Fox 
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