5 ways to make camping extra fun for kids

“And Into The Forest I Go, To Lose My Mind And Find My Soul” ~ John Muir Camping with kids can sometimes feel like we are losing our minds! Although, I’m sure when John Muir originally wrote this he was not referencing parenthood, but rather a more sophisticated scene where one can tune out and find new perspective. Either way the quote is fitting. Camping with kids in a tent, in a car, with a goat or on a boat, it’s all a crazy wild adventure and if we’re going to do it, it’s helpful to figure out the best method for our families before we head out. Here are a few pros and cons for both tent and car camping (I’ll leave Dr. Suess to explain the subtle perks of camping with a goat on a boat). For this article let’s assume that car camping includes actually sleeping in the car as well as camping from it, while tent camping implies that all our necessary gear, food and bedding is hiked into the camping spot with no access to a vehicle.   Car camping The first thing that comes to mind is that car camping allows us to bring EVERYTHING! This one can easily be either a pro or con depending on the needs for your family. Having that extra space is great when trying to bring that favorite book, stuffed animal or enough diapers. Plus, there’s endless room for things like bikes, buckets and shovels and frisbees to keep the kids entertained. Not to mention the adult perks like the big cooler (that’s right, the heavy one with all the ice, drinks and burgers), the two-burner stove, depending on your set-up and those sweet camping chairs to sit around the fire with. The flip side of bringing so much is that, well, there is so much! It becomes hard to keep track of everything. It also creates a bit of chaos at the campsite (something all parents probably have plenty of already) and the purists among us might argue that it takes away from the actual experience of camping because it creates such luxury. Tent camping That brings us to the next thing on my list. Car camping can allow for a lot of things tent camping can’t, but if the goal is to camp overnight in a remote area, car camping is out. Cars can only go so far, but our legs can take us almost anywhere! Carrying everything in a backpack makes for more succinct, compact packing. The space provided is self-limiting. There is only so much room and once it’s gone, that’s it. So, only the necessities make the cut.  Depending on the situation, this may make things more or less difficult. It's more difficult with smaller kids who may also have to be carried, but it's less difficult with older kids who may enjoy the independence of packing, hiking and carrying their packs. Other factors And finally, weather is a huge factor to consider when camping. If it's a nice sunny day, then no worries, car camping, tent camping and even goat camping is a great option. But if the weather turns, so can the entire camping trip! Being prepared for any kind of weather is the best any of us can do, but car camping can ensure protection from bad weather -- even during those unpredictable weeks between seasons. Tent camping in bad weather is doable but comes down to preparation and gear. For instance, a four-person family tent with standing room may be just as leak-proof as some vehicles out there, but a lightweight 3-season tent with no head room may prove a bit more interesting in terms of staying warm and dry in that spring storm. On that note, just like anything else, camping is not one-size-fits-all and every family is different. Choosing the best camping solution for your family depends on your camping goals, timeframe and, of course, those tiny people we bring along with us! This is a basic list of pros and cons but there are many others that could be added. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the pros and cons for your family! Read more: The ultimate guide to camping with kids What to look for in a kid-friendly camping site Helpful camping hacks for camping with kids Photos by Arika Bauer.

Are you thinking about taking a family camping adventure? Besides thinking about what to pack and what campground to visit, where you set up your tent can be just as important in having a successful family camping trip. Location, location, location Location -- Location is a huge factor when selecting a campsite. Picking a campsite that isn't super close to other campers can be very beneficial. This allows you to not be worried about the noise your kids make while ensuring the memories you're making aren't disruptive to other campers. On the flip side, you also don't have to worry too much about other campers staying up late when you're trying to put your kids to bed. Playground -- Close proximity to a playground can be something else to look for in a kid-friendly campsite. This will give your kids ample chance to burn off energy close to camp. If you're cooking, packing for a hike or cleaning up after breakfast, your kids can spend time on the playground before your family heads off for your next adventure. Restrooms -- Another factor to consider is the distance to the bathroom. If your kids are potty-trained, it will be helpful to get to the bathroom quickly. Bathrooms with running water may also need to be considered if you're looking to be able to flush toilets, shower and wash baby items when needed. Campground location -- The location of the entire campground can be important as well. You may want to camp in an area that is close to a grocery store so you can buy food supplies when you arrive instead of packing everything before you leave home. Planning your hikes, activities Near trail heads -- The location of your campsite can also help when planning your family's hikes. Campsites near short trails can be helpful for young hikers depending on their own two feet. Flat areas are also helpful for young hikers. Swimming -- If your family enjoys swimming, making sure your site is near lakes will save you time driving to a swimming location. However, you may not want to be too close to water if you have young children who can't swim. Biking -- Another fun camping activity kids enjoy is biking, so planning your site on a loop or cul-de-sac can allow children to bike in circles while staying close to home base. Staying safe and healthy while camping The last thing you want when enjoying the outdoors away from home is to deal with an injury or illness. Poison ivy is a common concern on the trails. Looking for clear trails of rock or sand may be helpful in avoiding dangerous plants on trail. Flat and sandy areas near the campsite can give kids a place to run around and burn energy. These flat areas away from rocks and poison ivy can create a safe place for kids to have fun. Additionally, some campsites may be near steps. Avoiding these campsites will be helpful so you don't have to worry about missing a step when climbing back up in the dark. If you're camping with young children, a wide campsite with room to set up a Pack 'n Play is something you may want to look for. With baby safe in the Pack 'n Play, you can have a campfire without fear baby will get too close. Whatever campground or campsite you choose, make some great memories and learn from your experience! Let us know in the comments below what you look for in a kid-friendly campsite. Read more: The ultimate guide to camping with kids Things to know for your first camping trip Helpful camping hacks for camping with kids How to have a budget-friendly camping adventure Photos by Jessica Human and Ashley Scheider.