dragons hearth farm word logo
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
  • Blog
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
  • Blog

An Ultimate Guide for Camping with Kids

Camping with kids and babies

Camping with kids can be such a rewarding experience for families! I grew up camping with my family all summer and also worked as a camp counselor in Appalachia for several years. I even had the opportunity to hike part of the Appalachian Trail as a teen! The memories I have of camping are some of my favorites! Now I get to make memories with my own kiddos which is a dream come true. 

Taking kids camping offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from daily routines and technology and reconnect with nature and each other. Exploring the great outdoors together fosters a sense of adventure, encourages physical activity, and helps children develop a deeper appreciation for our Earth. The fresh air, open spaces, and shared experiences can create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds and kid’s confidence in themselves.

We wrote this guide to camping with kids to equip parents with the knowledge and practical tips needed for a successful and enjoyable camping trip. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or embarking on your first family adventure, the information in this guide will help you prepare for every aspect of the journey. From selecting the right campsite to packing essential gear, keeping kids engaged, and handling common challenges, we’ve got you covered.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure a safe, fun, and memorable camping experience for the whole family. So, get ready to embrace the joys of camping with kids and create unforgettable memories under the stars.

Table of Contents

Planning Your Camping Trip

By choosing a family-friendly campsite with suitable amenities and considering the proximity to home and healthcare facilities for your family camping trip, you can ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free camping experience for the entire family.

Choosing the Right Campsite

Importance Of Kid-Friendly Campsites

When camping with kids, selecting a kid-friendly spot is crucial. If you research the campsites ahead of time, you can find sites designed to accommodate families with children and offer amenities and activities that cater to younger campers. Family-friendly campsites often have playgrounds, kid-friendly swimming areas and organized activities that can keep children entertained and engaged. Additionally, these sites tend to prioritize safety, providing well-maintained facilities and clear signage, which can give parents peace of mind.

Research Campground Amenities and Activities Available before your Family camping trip

Before choosing a campsite to take your kids camping, it’s important to research the amenities and activities available at the campgrounds. Look for campsites that offer:

1. Restroom And Shower Facilities:

Clean and accessible facilities like hot showers can make the camping experience more comfortable, especially for young children. Our family often picks out a campsite with the walk to the bathroom in mind. Remember that your older kids or potty training kiddo might want to go potty in the middle of the night or early morning, and you don’t want it to be a hike if you can help it. Pick a camping spot that has easy access to the bathrooms but not too close to them that other families and campers keep you awake.

2. Playgrounds And Recreational Areas:

These provide safe spaces for kids to play and interact with other children. It is always a good idea to think about what you and your kiddos will do during your family camping trip during the day or downtime. A playground can be a great option where kids can get their wiggles out while parents relax. You can set up a snack or meals at picnic tables while the kids play.
Taking Kids Camping playgrounds

3. Swimming & Fishing Areas:

Whether there is a pool, lake, or beach located in your campground, ensure that the swimming areas are safe and suitable for children. Be mindful that your kids are far enough from the body of water that young kids can’t wander away and fall in if adults take their eyes off them for only a second. Go over your water safety rules often with kiddos to keep safe choices in mind.  

If you plan on taking your kids fishing check out our guide on How to Take Kids Fishing!

Taking kids camping and swimming areas
Keeping Cool by Swimming at Playthink 2023

4. Nature Programs and Workshops:

Many campsites offer educational programs, outdoor activities, nature walks, and craft activities that can enrich your family’s camping experience.

5. Convenient Access to Trails:

Easy hiking trails suitable for kids can offer great family adventures and exploration opportunities. Make sure to bring plenty of water and bug spray!

Taking kids hiking
Hiking at Turner Falls, Oklahoma.

6. Camping Festival Activities:

Our family LOVES family-centered camping festivals like PlayThink, Carpe Diem, and ReKinection. They are a fun way to camp as a family and have a million things to do for kids! You can read about our family’s experiences at PlayThink here to learn more. 

Camping with kids at festivals
One of our dragons playing with silk fans with another kiddo at PlayThink Festival

7. Considerations for Proximity to Home and Healthcare Facilities:

When planning a camping trip with kids, it’s wise to consider the campsite’s proximity to healthcare facilities. Being relatively close to home can provide a sense of security, especially for first-time campers or those with very young children. It also makes it easier to cut the trip short if necessary.

In emergencies, having quick access to medical help can make a significant difference. Research the closest hospitals, urgent care centers, and pharmacies before your trip, and keep this information handy.

Preparing for the Adventure

By prioritizing safety, packing the right camping supplies, and practicing at home, you can ensure your kids are well-prepared and confident for their first camping trip. Regardless of your family’s camping style, you can get your kids involved in preparing for the trip and setting up your campsite and your camping adventure.

Packing the Right Camping Gear

When camping with kids, having the appropriate equipment can make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience and making camping fun. Here’s a short guide to help you pack effectively for your adventure. Some of these items may not be applicable if you are car camping or RV camping.

1. Shelter And Sleeping Arrangements

Tent: Choose a spacious, weather-resistant family tent with enough room for everyone. Look for features like easy setup, good ventilation, and a rainfly for added protection.

Sleeping Bags: Invest in high-quality sleeping bags suitable for the season and weather conditions. Kids’ sleeping bags often come with fun designs, making them more appealing to young campers. Inviting your kids to pick out their own sleeping bags can help them feel included!

Sleeping Pads or Air Mattresses: To ensure a good night’s sleep, pack sleeping pads or air mattresses. These provide insulation and comfort, keeping everyone well-rested and happy.

Pillows and Extra Blankets: Bring pillows and extra blankets for added comfort and warmth. Familiar items from home can help kids feel more secure and cozy.

Our camping set up at PlayThink 2023

2. Clothing and Footwear

Baby Carriers: One piece of helpful advice I hope you take away from our guide for taking kids camping is that baby carriers like a ring sling, Tula, or Ergo are game changers when camping with babies or toddlers! You can set up a tent without worrying about young kids wandering away if you throw them up in a baby carrier on your back! We take our Ergo and Tula carriers everywhere, from camping festivals to cruises and everything in between.

Layered Clothing: Pack clothing that can be layered to accommodate temperature changes. Include moisture-wicking base layers, insulating middle layers, and waterproof outer layers.

Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must. Pack hiking boots for trail walks and sneakers for around the campsite. Don’t forget sandals or water shoes for swimming or showering.

Weather-Specific Gear: Be prepared for different weather conditions. Pack rain gear, sun hats, sunglasses, and swimwear. For colder climates, bring hats, gloves, and thermal wear.

Camping with kids and babies
Our littlest dragon nomming her ring sling at PlayThink Festival

3. Cooking and Eating Supplies

Portable Stove and Fuel: A portable camping stove is essential for cooking meals. Ensure you have enough fuel for the duration of your trip.

Cookware and Utensils: Pack lightweight, durable cookware such as pots, pans, and a kettle. Bring cooking utensils, kitchen supplies, plates, bowls, and cutlery. Consider collapsible or stackable items to save space.

Food Storage: Keep perishable foods fresh in coolers or insulated bags. Bring resealable bags or containers for leftovers and snacks. Staying organized can keep stress down when it comes to keeping food and kitchen supplies clean when camping. A few easy breakfast snacks like energy balls are great to take along with you for kids to snack on in the mornings.

Cleaning Supplies: Pack biodegradable soap, a sponge, and a small basin for washing dishes. Bring trash bags for proper waste disposal.

Our baby dragon eating a little piece of bacon while Bryan cooks breakfast.

4. Personal And Hygiene Items

Toiletries: Bring personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, and wet wipes. Pack a towel and washcloth for each family member. You can hang dry these after use to prevent them from getting musty and damp.

Hand Sanitizer and Toilet Paper: Essential items for maintaining hygiene at the campsite. Don’t forget to pack these in easily accessible locations.

5. Entertainment & Comfort

Toys and Games: Bring toys, books, and games to keep kids entertained. Consider items like frisbees, balls, and card games that are easy to pack and fun for all ages.

Wagons: Our family always brings a small wagon on our camping trips! It makes getting to and from caping festival activities so much easier and it doubles as a little pack-n-play for babies. Our big kids used to nap inside of the wagon with their favorite blankets too!

Headlamps and Flashlights: You can equip each family member with a headlamp or flashlight. It’s a great idea to remind kids not to shine lights in each other’s faces or other campers’ camp areas. As always with parenting, extra batteries are also a must.

Camping with kids at festivals
Bryan pulling our littlest dragons in our 'Dragon Wagon'. You can add an umbrella for added sun protection!

Safety First

Teaching Kids Basic Safety Rules

Before camping with kids, teaching your kids basic safety rules is essential. Ensure they understand the importance of staying in sight of adults and never wandering alone. Teach them to recognize and avoid hazards such as sharp rocks, unstable ground, and wildlife.

Emphasize the importance of not touching unfamiliar plants or animals and the dangers of playing near bodies of water without supervision. For instance, you can show them photos of Poison Ivy and teach them the rhyme, “Leaves of three, leave it be.”

Familiarizing Kids with the Campsite Layout

Once you arrive at the campsite, take some time to educate your kids about the layout. Show them key locations such as the tent, restroom facilities, and the designated play areas. Establish a central meeting point where everyone can gather in case someone gets lost. Encourage your kids to remember landmarks around the campsite to help them navigate more easily. Remind them to be respectful of other people’s campsites as well.

Importance Of A First-Aid Kit And How To Use It

Having well-stocked first aid kits are crucial when camping with kids. Ensure your kit includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, pain relievers, and necessary medications. When taking kids camping, you never know when someone might trip and skin a knee or, if you have babies, when they could suddenly start teething! Check your first aid kits before each camping trip.

Knowing how to use the items in your first-aid kit is equally important. Take a basic first-aid course if you still need to become familiar with standard procedures. Teach your kids simple first-aid steps like cleaning a minor cut and applying a bandage. Knowing how to handle minor injuries can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe and calm during the trip.

This can also help empower your kids with the knowledge of how to stay safe and take care of themselves when they get older! Older kids may enjoy helping little kids carefully clean a scraped knee and apply a bandaid with adult help. 

Bring Plenty of Sunscreen and Bug spray:

Mosquito repellent and sunscreen are must-haves in your camping gear, whether tent camping, RV camping, or car camping with kids. Avoid the discomfort of mosquito bites and prevent ticks by applying bug spray often.

Practice at Home

Setting Up the Tent in the Backyard:

Practice setting up the tent in your backyard before heading out on your camping trip. This activity can be fun and educational for kids, giving them a sense of what to expect when you reach the campsite. Let them help with tasks like unrolling the tent, inserting the poles, and securing the stakes. This hands-on experience will teach them valuable skills and build their confidence for the trip.

It is also a great idea to air out your tent and ensure it is clean and doesn’t need any repairs before taking your family out on a big camping trip! 

Doing a Mock Camping Night at Home Helps Kids Prepare

A mock camping night at home is an excellent way to prepare your kids for the actual experience. Spend a night in the backyard, sleeping in the tent and using the same gear you’ll take on the trip. This practice run can help your kids get used to sleeping outdoors and familiarize them with camping routines.

During this mock campout, you can also review safety rules and practice some of the activities you plan to do at the campsite. This preparation can help reduce anxiety and build excitement for the upcoming adventure. This backyard camping trip might also show you if your kids are ready for a full camping trip!

Activities to Keep Kids Engaged

By incorporating nature exploration and campfire fun into your camping itinerary, you can keep kids engaged and create memorable experiences. These kid-friendly camping activities can entertain and educate, fostering a deeper appreciation for the great outdoors and family memories. 

Bring Flow Arts Props

You can bring your favorite flow props along, like fans, dragon staffs, hula hoops, juggling balls, and more to keep yourselves and your kiddos entertained while at camp! You might want to leave your LED props at home to keep them safe. 

Flow Arts with Kids
Bryan and our oldest dragon flowing with Dragon Staffs at PlayThink 2018

Nature Walks, Scavenger Hunts, and Wildlife Watching

Nature exploration is one of the most exciting aspects of camping for kids. Plan a variety of activities to keep them engaged:

  • Nature Walks: Organize short, guided nature walks around the campsite. Point out interesting plants, rocks, and insects. Bring a field guide to help identify different species.
  • Scavenger Hunts: Create a list of items for a scavenger hunt, such as a specific type of leaf, a feather, or a unique rock. This activity can be fun and educational, encouraging kids to observe their surroundings closely.
  • Wildlife Watching: Equip kids with binoculars and a notebook to spot and record different animals. Teach them to watch quietly and from a distance, respecting the wildlife they encounter.
hiking with kids

Teaching Kids About the Local Flora and Fauna

Camping provides an excellent opportunity to teach kids about the local flora and fauna. I love geeking out about wildlife and biology with my kids on camping and hiking trips! Before your trip:

  1. Research the types of plants and animals native to the area.
  2. Read nature books that relate to camping and wildlife in the area you will be camping in.
  3. Share interesting facts about them and explain their roles in the ecosystem.
  4. Encourage kids to ask questions and explore the natural world with curiosity. You can even bring a nature journal for them to draw and write about their findings.
Camping with kids teaching about nature

Campfire Fun

Campfires are a cornerstone of camping! Yet is is important to check ahead of time if the campgrounds, state park, or camping festival you are heading to allows fires at your campsite. You will also want to check your area’s National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS). This is a system that allows fire managers to estimate today’s or tomorrow’s fire danger for a given area. 

Safe Campfire Practices

Campfires are a quintessential part of the camping experience, but safety is paramount. Teach kids the importance of campfire safety:

  • Keep a safe distance from the fire.
  • Never leave the fire unattended.
  • Always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
  • Only adults should handle fire-starting materials and manage the fire.

Fun Campfire Activities: Storytelling, Singing Songs, and S'mores

Once fire safety is ensured, campfires can be a source of endless fun:

  • Storytelling: Share family stories or ghost tales or create new stories together. Encourage kids to use their imaginations and take turns telling their own stories. They can come up with some pretty funny stories! 
  • Singing Songs: Campfire songs are an excellent way to bond and create lasting memories. Choose a mix of classic campfire songs and family favorites. If you have musical instruments like a guitar or ukulele, bring them along to enhance the experience. As a former camp counselor, I love teaching my kids as many old camp songs as I can remember while camping or hiking together. 
  • Making S’mores: No campfire is complete without roasting marshmallows and making S’mores! Teach kids how to roast marshmallows and assemble their s’mores safely. This delicious activity is sure to be a highlight of the trip. Spice up your s’mores by using Oreos or chocolate chip cookies for your graham crackers instead. 
Our oldest dragon at Chalice Camp 2023

Handling Challenges

You can handle the common challenges of camping with kids by preparing for weather changes, maintaining campsite hygiene, and addressing homesickness. These strategies will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience for the whole family.

Dealing with Weather Changes

Preparing for Rain and Other Unexpected Weather

Weather can be unpredictable, especially when camping. Check the weather forecast for your camping trip and prepare accordingly. It’s beneficial to be prepared for rain and other unexpected weather conditions:

  • Packing Essentials: Everyone can bring rain gear, such as waterproof jackets, pants, and boots. You can pack extra clothes in waterproof bags to keep them dry. For some reason, it almost always rains at camping festivals! So, be prepared for rain and mud! Rain boots are practically a must-have unless you want to get covered in mud.  
  • Setting Up Camp: Choose a campsite with good drainage and set up your tent on higher ground to avoid water pooling. Use a tarp under your tent and another above it to provide extra protection from rain.
  • Activities: Have a list of indoor or sheltered activities ready. This could include playing cards, reading books, or telling stories inside the tent. Bring a portable shelter or canopy to create a dry space for activities outside the tent. 

Keeping Kids Entertained During Bad Weather

Rainy days can be challenging. Still, with a bit of creativity, you can keep kids entertained and make it a fantastic day:

  • Indoor Games: Pack various small board games, card games, and puzzles you can all play inside the tent.
  • Craft Supplies: Bring along some craft materials, such as coloring books, crayons, and paper. Encourage kids to draw or create nature-inspired art.
  • Storytime: Use this time to read stories together or tell interactive tales in which everyone contributes to the plot. Audiobooks can also be a great way to pass the time.

Preparing for Hot Weather

The only thing worse than soggy clothes when camping is keeping everyone happy and cool when the temperatures are high. Camping in hot weather requires extra precautions to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety:

  • Hydration: Ensure everyone drinks plenty of water throughout the day. Bring reusable water bottles and encourage kids to take regular sips. Add some liquid IV or trace minerals to the water to help keep kids hydrated! It is helpful to avoid sugary drinks and caffeine. Our family always brings a full 7-gallon water jug to fill our water bottles. 
  • Shade: If possible, set up camp in a shaded area. I always try to camp under trees or near a tree line. You can also bring tarps, umbrellas, or canopies to create additional shaded spots. Encourage kids to relax and play in the shade during peak sun hours.
  • Clothing: Dress in light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton. Hats and sunglasses can provide extra protection from the sun.
  • Cooling Methods: Bring portable fans, cooling towels, and misting bottles to help keep everyone cool. Take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas if available.
  • Sun Protection: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin and reapply every 80 minutes or after swimming. Use lip balm with SPF as well. We also encourage the kids to wear sun hats to prevent their scalps and face from burning. 
Parasols are a fun way to avoid sun and keep cool while camping with kids.

Managing Campsite Hygiene

Tips for Keeping the Campsite Clean

Teaching kids how to maintain a clean campsite is important for both safety and everyone’s enjoyment:

  • Designate Areas: Set up specific cooking, eating, and waste disposal areas. Keep food and trash away from sleeping areas to avoid attracting wildlife. Depending on your campgrounds, you can dispose of your trash in the campground-designated areas. 
  • Regular Clean-Up: Make it a habit to clean up after meals and before bedtime. Assign tasks to each family member to ensure everyone contributes. By keeping your food and waste clean, you can prevent unwanted encounters with wildlife. 
  • Proper Waste Disposal: Use campsite-provided trash bins or bring your trash bags. Teach kids to dispose of waste properly and to pick up any litter they see around the campsite. We teach our kids to leave a place cleaner than when they found it and to “pack out what you pack in”. 

Encouraging Kids To Maintain Personal Hygiene

Personal hygiene can be more challenging while camping, but it’s still necessary:

  • Hand Washing: Bring hand sanitizer and encourage kids to use it or wash their hands before meals and after using the restroom. If there’s access to clean water, set up a hand-washing station.
  • Regular Teeth Brushing: Brushing teeth should be part of the morning and evening routine. Bring travel-sized toothpaste and brushes.
  • Bathing: If showers are available, you can use them! Getting a nice shower after a long, warm day camping can be a game changer. If not, bring biodegradable wipes or set up a makeshift wash station using a basin and warm water.

Handling Homesickness

Strategies to Comfort Kids Who Miss Home Homesickness is common, especially for young or first-time campers. Our kiddos sometimes get a little homesick, even though they have camped and traveled so often. Here are some strategies to help:

  • Stay Positive: Reassure your kids that feeling homesick is normal and encourage them to talk about their feelings.
  • Stay Busy: Engage them in fun activities and keep a routine similar to home. This can help distract them from missing home.
  • Frequent Check-Ins: Regularly check in with your kids to see how they are feeling. Sometimes, just a little extra attention and comfort can make a big difference.

Bringing Familiar Items to Ease the Transition Familiar items can provide comfort and make the transition to camping easier:

  • Favorite Toys and Blankets: Let kids bring a few of their favorite toys, stuffed animals, or a beloved blanket. This can also make the ride to the campgrounds and back home easier. 
  • Comfort Foods: Pack some of their favorite snacks or comfort foods to help them feel more at ease. You can also make a special camping snack that you eat only during camping adventures to help it feel a little more special. 

Camping with kids can be an enriching experience that strengthens family bonds and instills a love for the great outdoors. With the proper preparation and a positive attitude, your camping trip can become a cherished family tradition filled with wonderful memories and valuable life lessons.

Taking kids camping creates family memories & bonds kids to nature

Proper camping preparation and active involvement are essential for a successful camping trip with kids. From selecting a family-friendly campsite to packing appropriately, teaching safety rules, and planning engaging activities, each step contributes to a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Involving your children in the planning process can help them feel more excited and invested in the trip, making the experience even more special for everyone.

Encouragement to Enjoy the Experience and Create Lasting Memories

Camping with kids offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from daily routines and connect with nature and each other. Embrace every moment, from the quiet mornings to the lively campfire evenings. Remember that the goal is to have fun and create lasting memories, even if things don’t always go according to plan.

The challenges you face can become the stories you laugh about later. Family camping can be a great time, especially after you have mastered the basics of camping with kids. You will be planning your next camping trip together before you know it.

For more tips and ideas on family adventures, subscribe to our blog. Stay updated with the latest posts and never miss out on valuable information to enhance your family outings.

Links to Related Posts or Resources on Camping with Kids

Looking for more resources on camping with kids? Check out these related posts: 

  • A Guide On How To Take Kids Fishing 
  • 10 Fun Camping Activities for Kids ((Coming soon))
  • How to Choose the Best Campsite for Your Family ((Coming soon))
  • Packing List Essentials for Family Camping Trips ((Coming soon))

By following these tips and embracing the adventure, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable camping experiences family camping. Happy camping!

PrevPreviousA Guide on How To Take Kids Fishing
NextThe Dragon’s Guide to Backyard ChickensNext

share this blog:

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
previous Blog
next blog
things to do in Portland maine 1

Jenni Sekine

Mother of Dragons

Hey there! I'm Jenni, a homeschooling, home birthing, and home growing mama of four little dragons, and I run Dragon's Hearth Homestead with my husband, Bryan Sekine. We are all about teaching others about the things we are passionate about. Come learn with us!

🌿 home grown 🌿 🍁 homeschool 🍁 🐓 home raised 🐇 🚗 travel ✈️

More Posts

how to celebrate imbolc

How to Celebrate Imbolc

Read More »
healthy tomato plants

The Best Crops for Homesteading

Read More »
English cottage garden

Planning my English Cottage Garden

Read More »

Want to Learn More?

how to celebrate imbolc

How to Celebrate Imbolc

Read More »
healthy tomato plants

The Best Crops for Homesteading

Read More »
English cottage garden

Planning my English Cottage Garden

Read More »
dragons hearth farm word logo

A family-centered urban farm sharing their journey from small urban farm to full scale, off the grid, homestead.

Facebook-f Twitter
Quick Links
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
  • Blog
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
  • Blog
Get In Touch
  • Email: JenniSekine@gmail.com

Located in Central Oklahoma

© 2025 All Rights Reserved.