Happy Sunday friends! In keeping with my tradition, I am either accepting of posts from others because a) I think you'd like them, or I myself like them or b) it's something I typically don't cover in my own writings. This one...let's put it this way...I buy a zillion fleece jackets from Cabela's, but the person who actually uses Cabela's for their outdoor gear in my house is MFD. He is a huge fan of camping, which is something he does with his friends. I've only been once. I keep threatening to go again, and stranger things have happened, but that ship may have sailed. Anyway hope you enjoy.
In a recent survey by Kampgrounds of America (KOA), nearly
half of respondents from
various backgrounds and races strongly agree that camping is a time just to
relax and not feel they have to be somewhere or do something. Respondents also
agreed that camping is a great way to escape the stress of everyday life, and
that it provides an affordable vacation option.
Turn your next camping trip into a family tradition by adding
your own personal touches and fun. Whether you want to go geocaching or make
s’mores around a campfire, your kids will look fondly on your family camping
trips for years to come.
Start Prepping
A successful camping trip takes some time and preparation to put
together. Load up the kids in the car and head out to your favorite outdoor recreation
retailer to get
ideas on what type of camping trip you want to create. For example, will you
need a separate tent for the kids, or opt for an over-sized tent big enough for
the whole family?
You can also ask about special equipment if you want to include
fishing or hiking as part of your camping experience. For a splurge, let the
kids pick out a new outdoor item like a special weatherproof jacket or lantern
for the campground that they can enjoy during the excursion.
Find Family Balance
Not all families have the same idea about a camping trip. Mom
and Dad may want to recreate their old-fashioned traditions from decades ago.
Meanwhile, kids may want to plug-in their devices and enjoy some gaming and
music before exploring the area. Their idea of getting in touch with nature may
be snapping digital photos of the epic scenery instead of identifying leaves
and plants along a trail.
Balance the differing opinions and preferences of your family.
Ask kids to turn off their devices during a cook-out or while making gooey
s’mores. But ask them to grab their smartphones or tablets to indulge in an
inspired geocaching game. A site like Geocaching.com can help you find a
geocache adventure with
treasures and landmarks along the way. If you can’t come up with a suitable
option, see what’s going on with Pokemon Go. You may find hidden Pokemon right
in your campground!
Make Mealtime Fun
Stocking up on protein bars is fine for snacks and a single
meal, but feeding your family at a campground should be a fun and memorable
experience. Tell the kids to bring their favorite noisemakers or instruments
like harmonicas to set the mood while you prepare dinner. Cook up a fresh catch
of fish or bring along easy to
make meal options, whether boiling a pot of water and making pasta over an open
fire or grilling burgers and hot dogs.
Remember, part of the fun of camping is meeting other people
from all walks of life. Once the music starts up, don’t be surprised if someone
wanders over with their guitar or an amazing voice to lend to the entertainment.
Turn Disasters into Fond Memories
It’s inevitable something will go wrong on your camping trip.
Weather and wildlife don’t always comply with your plans. If you get stuck in a
downpour, turn it into a family bonding experience by huddling together inside
your tent telling ghost stories. Or if you wake up and find a furry friend
munching on your breakfast, take a few photos to post on social media and head
out to catch your own breakfast or look for fresh berries that you know are
safe and edible.
Give your kids the tools and context to handle mishaps. Let them
know, while it might be frustrating, it just gives your family an opportunity
to try something new and problem solve together. After all, the whole point of
a family camping tradition is to bond and grow together. Figuring out how to
salvage the tent that a critter just ate through is one good way to do that.
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