We have the Best Ideas For your Next Family Camping Vacation!

Going camping can be a fun and rewarding experience for anyone who is open to exploring nature and getting in touch with the outdoors. If you love camping and are planning on sharing this love with your family, consider planning a family camping vacation.

Anyone can go camping with their friends, colleagues, or team members. While this may sound simple, camping is more complicated than you think. In this guide, we’ll be covering everything you need to know so that you can have a safe family camping adventure.

Benefits Of a Family Camping Vacation

There are many wondrous benefits of camping with your family. It is a time when you genuinely get to know each other. In a way that you can’t during your everyday routine. You could find out what everyone likes and may even hear stories you may not have otherwise at the kitchen table.

Starting your kids young with camping is great for building character as well. It allows them to be one with nature and teaches them about teamwork. A family camping vacation is a memorable gift for your kids. It allows them to learn exciting things about being one with nature and encountering wildlife species such as bugs, animals, and plants.

How To Choose The Best Campsite

When looking for a campsite, consider weather conditions, proximity to important locations, and potential hazards or risks around it. Learning how to choose the best campsite is something that can take time, and it’s a skill that all campers have to perfect over the years. However, with a few of our tips and tricks, you’ll be primed to select the best campsite in your area so that you can truly enjoy everything that the outdoors has to offer.

Where Is The Best Place For A Campsite?

Before you can find the best campsite in the whole area, you’ll first want to do your research and find where exactly is best in your local area to camp. Thankfully, nowadays, there are quite a few sites available that can show you places close by that might be ideal for setting up camp.

The National Parks Service has its own website where you can search for camping spots in your local area and learn about other services the parks might offer, such as dog-friendly areas.

When choosing a campsite, look for proximity to fresh water and amenities. Where possible, avoid camping on a hill and be aware of wind and sun exposure. Usually, the best place to camp is where you can see a previous campsite already set up, as this approach has many benefits.

The Benefits Of Camping On Previous Campsites

If you’re lucky enough to find a campsite already used previously, this should be your number one pick for choosing the best campsite. Here are just a few benefits that can be found when you make use of someone’s previous camping site:

Safety

It’s likely that if people have camped here before you, then it’s a safe and popular place to be, so if you run into trouble, you won’t be far from other campers to call for help.

Setup Campfire

If you’re a camper who prefers to use a little bit of fire, then it’s great to have an established campfire set up already. This means less work for you in organizing one and less strain on the environment, so look for an old fire ring if possible.

Flat Ground

When you find the ideal campsite, you usually need to put in some work flattening the ground and checking it over to ensure that there’s nothing sharp or dangerous sticking out. Using an old campsite, this work is usually done for you so you can simply lay your tarp down and get started.

Close Amenities

Usually, if someone has been there before you it’s likely they chose it for its good location. This can be a sign that a campsite has closeby cooking areas or public restrooms, along with other important amenities.

Friendly To The Environment

By following important principles like the Leave No Trace policy, you can use somebody else’s campsite to reduce your footprint in the outdoors. This means less damage will be done to the environment and fragile ecosystems of the wilderness.

Safety Around Your Campsite

If you’re not lucky enough to find a suitable campsite already used recently, there are some things to look out for and avoid. Keeping an eye on these things means you’re more likely to have success with your newfound campsite.

Watch The Trees

While it’s best to find somewhere with good shade, you need to look at the type of tree you’re camping under. Avoid gums or those with large boughs, as they are more likely to drop their branches unexpectedly and significantly damage your tent and your family.

Don’t Go Near A Hill

Although you might be tempted to get up high and watch the sun rise and set, it’s best to avoid hills or large slopes. There’s the potential for a few things to go wrong including running water that can go straight into your tent or your belongings rolling downhill and out of your possession.

Look At Your Neighbors

Obviously, you should take a look at the campsite of a potential neighbor before you start setting up. If they’re loud or rowdy and have made a mess of their campsite, there’s a good chance that they aren’t considerate enough to make a good camping neighbor.

A Major Decision In Camping With Major Results

Choosing the best campsite is a decision that will significantly impact how much you enjoy your trip, so it’s not to be taken lightly. By selecting the right campsite for your next adventure, you’ll secure prime real estate near fresh water, local amenities, and peace and quiet, allowing you to truly get away from it all.

Family Camping Vacation Ideas: Where to Camp

Now that we know how camping with our family is beneficial, we might consider the burning question: Where to camp? Before deciding where to go, consider reviews, amenities, and safety ratings. Also, remember to stay safe and respect the environment while exploring the great outdoors. With the proper preparation and camping equipment, you can create an unforgettable adventure.

We set out a short but comprehensive list of the best places to set your family camping vacation. It doesn’t matter if you choose a campground in a national park or if you want to RV camp on a sandy beach; we are here to point out the best ideas for your next family vacation.

1. Hiking trails/Campgrounds

You and your family love the mountains, and the fresh breeze pumps your blood—a hike on one of our beautiful trails would be your best idea.

Bring everything lightweight and enough insulated hiking gear since the weather might change. Other than that, search for hiking trails and point on the map to which mountain you still haven’t been. You’re set to go now! Consider these options:

Devils Garden

Escalante, Utah

If you’re looking for a place to witness fantastic rock formations that usually only appear in pictures, Devils Garden is a great choice. You can enjoy the beauty of nature and do activities like camping, backpacking, and hiking. Landscape Arch is the most popular spot here and the most prominent arch in North America, stretching 306 feet long. Erosion has made these rocks form arches, tall rocks called hoodoos, and slender rocks called “fins.” 

If you like the idea of camping in the area, it’s good to know that reservations at the Devils Garden Campground are available from March to October, while during the winter months, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Overall, Devils Garden is an exceptional destination for families looking to appreciate the beauty of nature and explore the outdoors.

Sunrise View Point

Olympic National Park, Washington

Explore the Sunrise Trail near Port Angeles, Washington! This 1.4-kilometer route is excellent for a peaceful and beautiful hike. The path is mostly paved but has some dirt and rocks. Families and kids looking for short hikes will likely love the trail, as it offers a pleasant and scenic stroll that can be completed in around half an hour.

You can spot different wildlife such as deer and birds while hiking. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the trail. The incredible thing to witness is the sky at sunrise – it is truly stunning. You will never forget the breathtaking colors of the sky!

Grinnell Glacier

Glacier National Park, Montana

Take an adventure to Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park! Start at the Many Glacier Hotel boat dock and get ready to take a shuttle boat across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine. You’ll be amazed by the glaciers and meadows on your journey. This glacier was named after George Bird Grinnell, a conservationist, explorer, and writer who first discovered it and made it a national park.

Be careful when exploring the glacier. The park rangers no longer lead hikes on it because it has been shrinking. If you decide to wander off, stay within a reasonable distance. Fresh snow can hide deep cracks in the glacier, which can be dangerous. Enjoy the beauty of nature and its wonders, but stay safe!

2. Beach Camping

Sleeping under the starry skies on a beach is something every person should experience at least once in a lifetime. This is why we think you and your family should try it too.

Your kids will love this summer camp because they can explore the water, animals, and way of life on the coast or by the lake. This will be fun for the entire family. These might interest you:

Kalaloch Campground

Olympic National Park, Washington

Kalaloch Campground is a great place to get through the beautiful Olympic National Park! The campground sits on a cliff overlooking the amazing Pacific Ocean. There are many activities to enjoy, like scouring the peaceful coastal forest, checking out nearby trails, and superb scenic overlooks. 

Many activities for family bonding await you there, such as fishing, collecting shellfish, and swimming, but beware of strong currents and logs in the water. Some campsites may be closed in the winter, but you can still have a wonderful time. To make your reservation, go to their website.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Bayfield, Wisconsin

The Apostle Islands, located in northern Wisconsin, is worth exploring. It’s renowned for its historic lighthouses, sandstone sea caves, and old-growth forests where wildlife can be found. Plus, there are also lots of beaches and campsites! You can use a kayak, motorboat, sailboat, shuttle service, or water taxi to get to the islands.

Camping is not allowed on the mainland, but 18 of the 21 islands have camping sites. One campsite is accessible by kayak or a six-mile hike along the Lakeshore Trail from Meyers Beach. If you want to camp, get a permit and make reservations to get a slot.

Sea Camp-Cumberland Island National Seashore

St. Mary’s, Georgia

Cumberland Island is a lovely spot off the coast of Georgia. Its beaches are soft sand, the waves are perfect for swimming, and the forests are full of live oak trees. You may even be lucky enough to see wild horses running around! 

If you’re considering visiting Cumberland Island, you should book a campsite to guarantee your visit. Each site contains a picnic table, a fire ring, and a food storage box to protect your food from wildlife. Remember that no electricity or water hookups exist, but you will find a shower and restroom nearby.

3. Lake Camping

Living inland and don’t get to see the sea too much? Then you might try an even better idea – a lake family vacation for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to bring your fishing equipment and canoe as needed. We found these gems for you:

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Nevada-Arizona border

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the most extensive recreation area in the United States. It has 1.5 million acres of land with hills, canyons, and valleys. The scenery is gorgeous, and the lakes have bright blue water. You can do fun stuff with family and friends, like boating, swimming, and fishing. If you like to hike, there are also trails to try out. You’ll see lots of incredible rock formations and landscapes on your adventure.

Talbot Islands State Parks

Jacksonville, Florida

The Talbot Islands State Parks are a remarkable combination of beaches and woods. There are lots of natural beauty and unique ecosystems. You can take a 4-mile walk and spot animals like deer, rabbits, raccoons, armadillos, and bobcats. If you want to hang out by the beach, you can sunbathe, surf, go shell collecting, or even birdwatch. You can also rent bikes and go tent camping. There are even places where you can set up a hammock and truly experience the Florida wilderness.

Lake Havasu State Park

Mohave County, Arizona

Lake Havasu State Park is a great spot to have fun outdoors. Beautiful beaches, hiking trails, boat ramps, and campsites can be found. It’s near the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City and is an excellent spot for fishing and boating. People have fishing tournaments on the lake to catch fish. The Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden provides an opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife including birds, lizards, and desert cottontails.

4. Museums and Historical Sites

Are you or someone in the family a history buff? Or do you enjoy museum trotting, field trips, and combining them with outdoor activities? Then this is the best match for you! Here are our picks:

Rock Creek Station State Historical Park

Fairbury, Nebraska

Rock Creek Station State Historical Park is located near Fairbury. It covers 350 acres of land with hills, trees by a creek, and deep canyons. Rock Creek Station State Recreation Area offers camping with modern showers, bathrooms, a place to fill up or empty your RV, and a visitor center. If you want to camp with your horse, there are 20 stalls with water, picnic tables, and barbecues. For more information and to book a reservation, please visit their website.

Koreshan State Historic Site

Estero, Florida

Visiting the incredible Koreshan State Historic Site is like going back in time. It was developed in the 19th century and is based on uncommon religious and scientific beliefs. This site should be on your bucket list if you want to learn, explore, and appreciate the natural beauty of Florida. The area boasts some nature trails where you can find native and non-native species planted by the Koreshans. It is open every day of the year and has 60 camping spots with water, electricity, fire rings, picnic tables, showers, and a playground. You can bring your furry friend as pets are allowed here.

Trail of Tears State Park

Jackson, Missouri

Trail of Tears State Park is a Cape Girardeau County, Missouri, recreation area with 3,415 acres. It is a great place to learn about an unfortunate part of American history. Nine Cherokee Indian groups were forced to leave their homes and travel to Oklahoma in the winter of 1838 and 1839. Many crossed the Mississippi River under challenging conditions, and sadly, many people died on the journey. The visitor center has more information about this tragedy.

Aside from the park’s historical significance, it is an excellent spot for a fun outing! You can picnic, hike, ride horses, fish in the Mississippi River or Lake Boutin, observe the birds flying over the river and admire the scenery. It offers tent sites and lodgings for everyone in the family. If you ask us, a national park is one of the best camping ideas.

5. National Parks

If a hiking trail doesn’t do the trick, try rafting, horseback riding, golf, or mountain biking. In national parks, nobody is going to be excluded from the fun. Check these out:

Channel Islands National Park

Ventura, California

Channel Islands National Park consists of islands where you can glimpse what California once was. Being isolated from mainland California, it protects the island’s natural and cultural resources. Yet travelers visit to experience solitude, peace, and wildlife. The park has many plants and animals that can’t be found elsewhere. It is a place of research and recreation, and it only takes about half an hour by plane from the mainland to get there.

Murray River National Park

Katarapko, South Australia

The Murray River National Park is a particular area in South Australia, around 180 to 240 kilometers from Adelaide. Before cars and roads, people used paddle steamers to bring goods up and down the river. Now, the park allows people to do fun activities like walking, riding bikes, canoeing, bird watching, and camping. 

There are designated camping areas with toilets, parking, walking trails, and a self-guided drive. This park is home to more than 14,879 hectares of wetlands and floodplains that make for unique natural experiences.

Big Cypress National Preserve

Ochopee, Florida

Big Cypress National Preserve is a great place to explore and have fun! It has many different kinds of plants and animals, like the Florida panther. You can camp, canoe, kayak, hike, and watch birds. The Preserve has twelve campgrounds for motorhomes, so you can park your vehicle and go off-roading. It’s a paradise for people who want to relax and connect with nature.

Accommodation for Family Camping Trips

If you’ve just found the perfect place to start your family camping trips but still can’t figure out how to do it consider these options:

• Tent camping
• RV camping
• Glamping and other related camping types
• Cabins

Whichever does the trick for you, ensure everyone in the family is okay with it and ready for some adventures. Family camping vacations are perfect for the family that loves the outdoors, camping, national parks, and history. Even if it’s your first time out in the wild with your loved ones, you might experience something new that might offer you a new hobby or pastime.

What do I need for a family camping trip?

If you are looking for ideas on planning the best trip ever, we are here to help. We’ve created a comprehensive camping checklist to ensure you have a memorable and stress-free family camping adventure, so stay tuned to learn what’s important.

For any camping trip, it is essential to plan things out so that you will be thoroughly prepared. Not being adequately prepared could lead to having a very unpleasant trip that even might damage your health.

Nowadays, technology dominates everything and may play a big part in your child’s life. While camping, there is no wi-fi, so prepare for your kid’s reaction when you explain this to them.

After that, you will need to prepare, and this section will explain what you need to take with you to have the best camping experience.

1. Tent

One of the first things to consider when deciding to go camping is how you are going to sleep. There are three main types of tents out there, which are family, individual, and children’s tents. Decide which tent is ideal for you before leaving on your journey.

If your children are under 12, having them sleep in their tent may not be good since they might get curious during the nighttime and wander off. For a child to have their tent, they must understand the dangers of the outdoors. It’s safer to opt for a family tent to sleep together.

2. Tent Interior

Don’t forget to bring your children’s favorite blankets to make your tent’s footprint cozier. Our favorite is the KAMUI  blanket, perfect for family camping outdoors or in the park.

Here are some of the specifications and reasons why we recommend this blanket to any camper and outdoor family; we love it because it’s:

• Waterproof
• Easy cleaning
• Durable
• Transportable with bag

3. Sleeping Gear

Considering purchasing a family-style sleeping pad that’s amazing for three seasons?  Here’s our pick, the KAMUI sleeping pad! It’s durable and perfect for a family since it’s connectable and a simple to use sleeping pad for car camping. Think of your sleeping style – do you sleep on your side or stomach? There are different sizes of children and adult bags as well.

4. Chairs

Chairs are also essential when you and your loved ones gather around the campfire or have some off time during the day. Sitting on the ground is uncomfortable and can get wet when the weather is off, and sometimes you may have trouble finding logs to sit on, so having extra chairs is always a brilliant choice so that you can be more comfortable.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and easy-to-use camping chair, we’ve got the one for you – The KAMUI camping chair! Here’s what sets it apart from others on the market:

• Side pockets
• Durable
• Easy setup
• Easy foldable

5. Tasty Food

Another essential factor that should be on your family camping checklist is food supplies. Going camping is to be one with nature and have fun, not starve.

Search the web for easy camping meals for families to find recipes that are nutritional, easy to make, and that your children will love. Always make sure s’mores are on the list!

Family camping vacation gear list

That sums it up, so here is our short but comprehensive guide to all of the things you need to prepare before setting out on your family camping trip: 

Tips On How To Plan a Family Camping Vacation

If it’s your first time on a family road trip, consider some of our tips on making your planning and trip easier.

Here are our recommendations:

1. Plan in advance – If you’ve got a tight schedule, plan early and book a few months before the trip.
2. Include everyone in planning – Make sure the kids have their wishes granted too.
3. Make an itinerary – And don’t stick too hard to it. Add some backup ideas, and don’t forget to include time to relax!
4. Try something new – You’ve never tried rock climbing? Get a guide and try out what the hype is about.
5. Make memories – These moments are precious to both your children and yourself. Bring your camera or phone with a portable battery charger.
6. Knowing to Start a Fire

One of the most important things to do when camping is to know how to start a fire. This will keep you insulated and warm, and will allow you to make all the delicious camping meals. Having a campfire sets the mood and tops off the spring camping experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

As you can see, family camping is a great way to bond with your loved ones. It can teach your kids many valuable lessons that can’t be taught and fully appreciated elsewhere. As long as you have everything you need, you will have one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

We hope we helped you consider some of the best ideas for a family camping vacation and you’ve finally chosen your perfect place to visit.

Resources:

Recreation
CDC
BritishColumbia