Family camping is one of the most popular activities in America, with a total of 534.9 million days spent camping all together in 2011, and that number growing since. Somewhere around 99% of camping participants said that they were “likely” or “very likely” to camp next year, according to a 2014 American Camping Report. This means that family camping trips or family camping vacations have a lot of draw for the average American family, and it’s easy to see why. Spending time in the sun or around a campfire at night is a great bonding experience.

So whether you’re going Upstate New York camping, or camping in Wisconsin here are some great things for the entire family to do!

Have Fun Camping Around Water

Water is one of the best creators of entertainment for a camping trip. It can create easy joy for kids, and for parents, too. Swimming, fishing in lakes, building sand castles, skipping stones, or just hanging out on the shoreline are all fun things to do near a lake or beach. The sounds of the waves and the smell of the water can be a relaxing thing in and of itself.  Be sure to bring plenty of things to your favorite H20 experience such as towels, sunscreen, goggles, and maybe some fishing equipment, too.

Hiking or Forest Walks

This is for the more adventurous campers, but taking a trip off the beaten path to explore the surrounding area can be both a good source of exercise and a nice way to relax. Hiking is also a great way to burn calories. Be sure to bring some snacks and water if you’re going to go for a hike. Take a compass or GPS to avoid getting lost and bug spray to keep unwanted pests like ticks off you.

Bring Plenty of Games

Not all your time can be spent wandering around the woods or sitting at the beach; you have to spend some time at the campsite, too. Card games or board games can help to make your trip even better! There’s nothing better than playing a board game at the table with a fire nearby and the sounds of nature around you. So whether you’re out New York camping near the waterfalls or camping at one of our great Wisconsin Jellystone Parks, near some great lakes, we have a great camping experience waiting for you and your family!