When it comes to choosing a vacation for your family, a family camping trip can be a great option. Whether you’re interested in camping in tents or would prefer to stay in style at a RV camping park, there are numerous benefits to this experience in the great outdoors: statistics show that 74% of campers report trying something new at a family summer camp, and 63% of children report that they continued new activities they learned at camp even after returning home. Moreover, camping has been shown to help kids learn respect for nature and help families spend time together. For this reason, camping is becoming increasingly popular: three million more Americans went camping in 2012 than in 2010. However, if you are unsure of how to ease your family into camping life, follow these tips to make your family camping trip a great time for all:
Firstly, you may want to consider the style of camping that will best suit your family: while the traditional image of camping is of camping in tents in the wilderness, camping is no longer synonymous with “roughing it.” Some families may enjoy tent camping, while others will likely prefer staying at RV parks or cabin camping, which are known to be more comfortable.
Secondly, find a park that is a comfortable distance away from home, and provides activities and services that you are interested in. There are great campgrounds in every state in the U.S., from cabins in Tennessee to tent camping in New York. There are also a number of great family camping resorts that can provide fun for the whole family, with plenty of amenities, activities, and services that will appeal to all ages.
Thirdly, make sure everyone in your family is comfortable with the idea of a camping trip, especially if you have young children who have never been on a similar trip. Even if you are not camping in tents, it may be beneficial to have a trial period in which your family camps out in the backyard. Additionally, for the duration of the trip, have your kids pack their own bags, including favorite toys, books, or stuffed animals that may help them feel more at home.
Fourthly, be prepared to exercise common consideration. Because you will be sharing the campground with other campers, keep noise at a reasonable level, dispose of your garbage properly, and be polite and courteous when you come into contact with other campers. However, you are also due the same consideration you extend to your neighbors: if someone at your campground is being disruptive and discourteous, even after polite requests to change their behavior, feel free to contact a campground administrator.
