Few activities have the power to bring a family together like a night (or two) spent roughing it beneath the stars, far from modern conveniences and distractions. There simply isn't a better backdrop for "family time" than the towering pines, gurgling creeks or mountain vistas of your favorite campsite.
Maybe you're new to camping, or maybe this is the first time you'll have little ones in tow-either way, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience and provide fodder for a lifetime of memories. Sierra Trading Post wants your trip to be a roaring success, so we've compiled some helpful tips and useful information to get you packed, prepared, and on your way.
Make Like a Boy Scout:
Be Prepared
Planning ahead helps keep your camping trip fun and stress-free. And that, after all, is what camping with your family should be.
Know (and then follow) campground rules Identifying the rules and regulations of your chosen campground ahead of time will help you establish guidelines and prepare the kids with any rules they need to follow.
Campfire smarts Be sure to find out beforehand whether or not the campground allows campfires and if so, whether or not you need to bring wood. Remember that campfires can be dangerous in the backcountry. It's safer to use a lightweight lantern and camp stove.
Quick Tip: If campfires are permitted, keep them contained in established fire pits. Keep your fires small and only use sticks you can break by hand. Burn the fire to ash and douse it in water or cover it in sand until it's completely out.
Make a plan, Stan Plan for emergencies. It's a good idea to know where the closest town and hospital are located. just in case.
When it rains on your parade Hopefully the weather will be great for your trip, but it doesn't always work out that way. Have a stormy back-up plan to keep kids entertained in the tent-bring plenty of games and books.
Anticipate the little things Kids need everything you need while camping, plus their little personal comforts. If your child is afraid of the dark at home, for example, he/she will most definitely be while camping.
Safety First
Safety is so important, we put it before tents. Below are a few things to keep in mind.
First-aid kit Don't leave home without it! Make sure your first-aid kit is fully stocked and contains antibacterial ointment, burn cream, anti-itch cream, bandages, and gauze at the very least.
Know your wild animals Always observe wildlife from a distance. When camping, it's smart to know a little bit about the local wildlife and what to do if you encounter a wild animal. Make this fun for the kids, not scary, but stress the importance of acting wisely.
Quick Tip: Bring along books or games having to do with animals. Don't forget the binoculars!
Never feed those animals This cannot be stressed enough. A fed animal tends to become more daring as it develops a taste for people food. This can get both you and the animal in trouble down the road. Let them fend for themselves-they're used to it.
Quick Tip: If camping in bear country, it's a good idea to carry bear repellent and keep all food and trash in airtight containers in the car.
Keep kids close Always keep small children close (within eyesight) while enjoying the wilderness. Like anywhere, there are potential hazards.
Keep the bugs away Nobody likes a bug bite and these days they can be downright dangerous. Protect yourself with bug spray, bug-repellent lotions, or Buzz Offr clothing.
Don't feel the burn Always use sun protection, even when it appears to be cloudy. SPF 45 is recommended. Sierra Trading Post also carries clothing with UV protection.
Pick a Campsite, But Not Just Any Campsite
You won't have to travel too far to find a great place for your first camping trip. There are public campgrounds in every state.
Car Camping Not in the car, but near it. If you're new to camping or have small children, it's a good idea to camp in an established campground, not too far from your car. You'll still get all the benefits of "roughing it", but with the peace of mind that comes with being close to civilization.
Look it up Spend a little time researching places to camp in your area. The National Park Service and maps are great resources.
Setting up camp Your choice of campsite within the campground can make or break your trip. There are a few factors to consider when choosing a spot to pitch your tent. Try to pick a level spot for your tent and rid the area of rocks and debris before you set up camp. Always camp in an established campsite and only on gravel, dirt or dry grass. Be sure to set up camp on high ground, away from rivers and streams.
Choosing a Tent
Unless you want to sleep right out under the stars or you have an RV, you're going to need a tent. People tend to sleep better outdoors when snuggled in the cozy confines of a bug-free, weatherproof enclosure.
3-season tent Most family camping is done in the warm-to-mild conditions of spring and summer. A 3-season tent is perfect for most every time of year (except winter). Most of the tents at Sierra Trading Post are suitable for family camping in the spring, summer, or early fall.
Size matters You need a tent big enough for everyone. and everyone's stuff. A good rule to follow is to size the tent according to the amount in your party plus one, or even two. This way, you can keep your gear inside and away from the elements and critters.
Weather matters, too If you'll be camping in a rainy region or the forecast is calling for scattered showers, make sure your tent is water resistant with taped floor seams and a rainfly.
Quick Tip: Look for tents with sealed or taped seams. Leaks will spring quickly through unsealed seams. Rainflys are essential and are often the only protection covering mesh openings and ceilings.
Protect your investment You'll want to purchase a footprint or a tarp to lay on the ground under the tent for protection. You don't want the floor to rip or get wet. Footprints will also keep the tent floor clean.
Room to grow If your children are old enough, consider letting them have their own tent. This can turn a camping trip into a mini lesson in independence and fuel their desire to make camping a tradition (not to mention give you a little privacy).
Practice makes perfect! Schedule a "dress rehearsal" and pitch your tent in the backyard at least once before you leave. You'll want to make sure you can do it quickly and in the dark if you have to. This way you'll also know if you're missing anything. Give the kids a task of their own and you'll not only get help, but enthusiastic children, too.
Pack for the pooch You don't want a muddy, wet dog sleeping in your nice, dry tent. Give Fido his own sleeping space with a doggie tent or portable crate. After all, he is used to sleeping indoors.
Sleeping Bags & Sleeping Pads
After a long day of fishing, hiking, or boating, you'll be ready to retire to the warm, welcome cocoon of your sleeping bag. Every member of the family will need his/her own. If you have a very small child, you might want to consider zipping two bags together and keeping them close.
Rectangular or mummy? Sleeping bags come in two styles-rectangular and mummy. The choice is up to you. Mummy bags trap more body heat and are therefore better insulators in cold temps. Rectangular bags offer more freedom of movement, but let more heat escape.
Down or synthetic? In most family camping situations, synthetic sleeping bags are probably the way to go. They're just as warm as down, but less expensive, and much easier to care for. They also dry quicker than down. However, down is lighter and better for backpacking when weight is a concern.
No brrrr's about it You'd be surprised how chilly it can get at night-even in the summer. A good rule to follow is to buy a sleeping bag with a cold rating a little lower than you think you'll need. It's much better to be too warm than too cold.
Don't forget the sleeping pad! Essential to your comfort is a part that most people forget - the sleeping pad or air mattress. Not only do a sleeping pad or air mattress add another layer of insulation between you and the ground, but they provide much-needed cushion. There are many different kinds of sleeping pads; self-inflating pads, foam pads with self-inflating inserts, synthetic fill pads and inflatable air mattresses. Choose depending on temperature, level of comfort desired, and weight you're willing to carry.
Clothing and Footwear for Camping
Living outside requires a different type of wardrobe than you may be used to. You're bound to get at least a little dirty, so leave your best clothes in the closet. And there's always the chance you could wet if the weather suddenly changes. Below are some must-haves.
Waterproof jacket or outerwear Make sure everyone has a waterproof jacket or poncho in case of a sudden shower. It can get real cold, real fast if you're soaking wet.
Hiking boots or shoes Every member of the family should have a sturdy pair of shoes or boots if you plan on exploring the area. Make sure they're waterproof if the region is rainy or you're expecting precipitation. Tennis shoes don't provide enough support or traction-especially in wet weather.
Hiking Apparel You'll want to bring some technical clothing if you'll be hiking or exploring. You won't be comfortable in jeans. Convertible pants are handy because they zip off to shorts for comfort and convenience. Men's Clothing / Women's Clothing
Insulating layers Since you'll be without the benefit of heat or A/C, you'll need to depend on your clothing to regulate your temperature. It's best to dress in layers, including insulating base layers and fleece layers. Men's Underwear/Baselayers / Women's Underwear/Baselayers
Sandals or Sneakers You won't want to be in your clunky boots all of the time. A comfy pair of sandals or sneakers are great for kicking it around the campsite. Shoes and Boots
Socks Even though you're living outdoors for a few days, you still have to change your socks (and underwear, but we won't go there). Pack multiple pairs of wool or synthetic socks to avoid blisters and keep feet happy. Leave the cotton at home. Hiking/Liner/Outdoor Socks
Don't Forget! (The Essential List of Essentials)
First-Aid kit We said it before and we'll say it again: don't leave home without it! Shop first aid kits
Water Make sure the campground has potable water or bring your own. If you'll be backpacking, a water filter and iodine tablets are necessary. Never drink directly from streams or lakes. Always boil water if you're unsure of the quality.
Water bottles or hydration packs Every member of the family should have their own. Shop hydration packs and water bottles
Multi-tool pocket knife You never know what kind of MacGyver situation you'll get yourself into. Shop knives
Lantern Make sure you have at least one large lantern (battery powered ones are great). Bring plenty of fuel and extra mantles if it's a gas model. Shop flashlights and lanterns
Batteries Bring enough. and then some.
Flashlight or Headlamp Give everybody one. Headlamps are especially helpful for hands-on activities like setting up camp after dark. Shop flashlights and lanterns
Bug spray It's recommended that you use a bug repellent with DEET to protect from mosquitoes that could carry the West Nile Virus or ticks with Lyme Disease or other infections. Buzz Off Clothing is another great option.
Sunscreen Harmful UV rays are exactly that-harmful. Protect your skin with sunscreen or clothing with sun protection.
Sunglasses UV rays aren't just harmful to your skin. Shop sunglasses
Cell phone or two-way radio Your cell phone isn't just a convenience; it can also serve as a tracking signal if you take a wrong turn.
Walkie-talkies No doubt about it-kids love walkie-talkies. Adults love them, too, because they allow you to stay in touch with children who like to wander.
Whistles If anyone in your family becomes separated, tell them to stay put and whistle until found. Give everybody one.
Camera Capture your memories!
Binoculars Make a game out of spying the most colorful bird or other wildlife. Shop binoculars
Dry bags A must-have if you'll be boating or camping near water. Shop dry bags
Food Storage Container Don't forget an airtight container for food and trash.
Compass/GPS receiver Make sure you also know how to use them-otherwise they're just trinkets.
Maps So you'll never have to ask, "Where in the world are we?" Shop maps
GPS equipment Not only useful, but fun, too. Check to see if there are any geocache sites in the area for the kids to explore. Geocaching is educational and fun-it's basically a GPS treasure hunt. Simply search for "geocaching" on the internet.
Coffee Press If you're used to coffee at home, you'll want it while you're away. Just add hot water and press.
Games or books Make sure your campsite is loaded with stuff for the kids to do in case the need arises for "tent time". Shop Games
Camp Cooking
Fresh air and exercise have a way of working up an appetite. At the end of the day, there's no reason your family can't eat like kings of the campground. There are the old campground staples, of course, but just about anything you can cook inside, you can cook outside. Just be sure to come prepared. and hungry.
Camp stove A necessity for the camp chef, a camp stove provides you with limitless cuisine options. If you can cook it on a regular stove, you can cook it on a camp stove. Just make sure you also bring. Shop Stoves
Pots, pans & utensils if you plan on doing any cooking. Shop Cookware
Fuel You'll need propane for most camp stoves. Bring an extra bottle or two.
Prepared meals If you don't want to mess with cooking, try dehydrated camp food. Just add hot water and eat out of the bag. No prep, no mess. After all, you are on vacation.
Campfire Telling ghost stories around the fire and cooking s`mores are great ways to spend the evening. If fires are permitted, contain them in established fire pits. Keep your campfires small and only use sticks you can break by hand. Burn the fire to ash and put it out completely by dousing it with water or covering with sand.
Easy campfire recipe
You can prep this easy and delicious campfire recipe before you head to camp or bring the fixings with you and make it there. All you need is heavy-duty tin foil and your favorite ingredients!
- Put some butter in the center of a large piece of tin foil.
- Add potatoes and other chopped ingredients of your choice (veggies, ground beef, etc.)
- Spice it up with salt and pepper, hot sauce, or your favorite herbs.
- Wrap it up tightly in the tin foil.
- When your campfire is hot, put the tinfoil package right down upon the coals.
- Check every 10 minutes. When your potatoes are soft, it's done.
- Unwrap carefully (expect steam) and enjoy!
Lighting If you can't have a campfire, or even if you can, make sure you're prepared with alternate sources of light. At least one large battery-powered lantern (with extra batteries), and one flashlight or headlamp for every member of the family is ideal. Shop flashlights and lanterns
Shopping List
We've put together a list to get you started.
- Cooler or two to keep perishables and drinks cold
- Ice
- Main courses or dehydrated meals
- Sides & Sweets
- Coffee or Tea
- Drinks
- Spices
- Paper towels
- Toilet paper
- Garbage bags
- Towels/washcloths
- Breakfast
- Snacks
- Biodegradable soap
- No-water needed hand sanitizer
- Camping dishes and utensils Shop Cookware
Respect the Environment and Other Campers
It has never been more important to follow these rules and teach your kids these lessons. Mold them into respectful adults who care about their environment. Help ensure they can have the same great camping experiences with their children.
Don't leave anything behind
- Pack it in, pack it out. Don't leave anything you brought with you behind.
- The only other things you should take away are things that other campers left (litter, broken glass, etc.).
- Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you found them.
- Don't touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts. Be content to look.
- Always use facilities if available. If not, deposit human waste in holes dug 6 to 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise.
- Use biodegradable soap and don't wash in lakes or streams. Scatter dirty water.
Be a good neighbor
- Be considerate and courteous to other visitors and respect their right to an enjoyable experience.
- Let the awesome sounds of nature be the loudest things you, or others, hear. Try not to make excessive noise or play loud music.
After the Trip
Here's to hoping your family camping trip was a blast! But you're not done quite yet. What you do now will pave the way for smooth travels next time you venture out.
Avoid mold and mildew Make sure you dry your tent, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads completely before storing. Open them up and lay them in the sun or in the garage until you're certain there's no lingering moisture.
Clean and organize Give your utensils and dishes a good washing in hot water now that you're home. Keep them in one place with the rest of your gear so it's all set to go.
Wash coolers There's nothing worse than opening a cooler that's been sitting around with remnants of perishables from your last camping trip. Wash with soap and spray them down with a hose. Wipe dry.
Keep a record A fun idea is to have the kids keep a journal of the trip and share it with the family once you return home.