How to Plan a Seamless Family Camping Trip

By Lauren Matison, April 15, 2021

Step-by-step guidance on finding a campsite during high season, easy and delicious meal ideas, and games that’ll turn your kids into lifelong campers.

One of life’s guaranteed adventures, besides having kids, is a family camping trip. Because when we’re talking about that trusted recipe for fun—dirt, fire, stars, and wild places—it’s nearly impossible for kids not to have a good time. But if you’re intimidated by the idea of planning your first family camping adventure, we have good news: there’s no one right way to do it. 

“Don’t confine yourself to this picture of what you think camping is from what you’ve seen in films, TV, or magazines,” said Jahmicah Dawes, father of two young boys, and the owner of Slim Pickins Outfitters, the nation’s first Black-owned outdoor gear shop, in Stephenville, Texas.

“We went about camping a different way, subscribing to more of the glamping side first. We would stay in cabins, go on group trips with other families. Our most successful “campout” with small kids was in our backyard. I’m thoroughly okay with that. I want to cultivate a love of the outdoors for our family first.”  

Source: Family Camping Guide: Everything To Know About Camping with Kids | Condé Nast Traveler