Camping for Families: 22 Best Family Campsites in the US

Camping for families is an enjoyable and adventurous experience that presents an excellent opportunity to escape from the confines of home and revel in the beauty of nature while spending some quality time with your loved ones.

However, you have a lot on your plate regarding camping with your kids, mainly if you are new to camping. There are so many things to consider – from the type of campsite to the amenities. And then there’s the question of safety. How do you know if a campsite is safe for your family?

Choosing the right family campsite doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little research, you can find the perfect spot for your next camping trip. In this article, we’ll share some of the best family campsites in the US.

So, whether you’re looking for a tent camping site or an RV park, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn more about the best family campgrounds in the US.

The 22 best campsites and RV Parks for families in the US

Islander Resort | Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Islander Resort in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, is a great campground for families because of all the activities and amenities it has to offer. The resort has more than 1.5 miles of sandy beach for swimming, plus family-friendly activities like pickle ball, horseshoes, bocce, and shuffleboard.

RV sites are spacious, paved, and have views of the lake or mountains, and you can also rent fully stocked cabins that come with everything you need (except food) for a camping vacation. You can also fish with a license and launch boats from the docks, and nearby you can rent paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, and jet skis.

The resort also has a resort-style pool and several places to eat, shop, and explore. With so much to do, Islander Resort is the perfect place for a family getaway.

El Capitan Canyon | Santa Barbara, California

El Capitan Canyon in Santa Barbara, California, is a great campground and RV park for families. It has something for everyone, offering both backcountry and beach access.

The campground has 65 acres of land in the foothills of the coastal mountains, providing plenty of space for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. For those who prefer the ocean, the beach is within walking distance and kayaking and fishing trips can be booked from the resort. Live entertainment is provided in the summer, and the park is a great place for families to spend quality time together.

The campground also has a variety of lodging options. Families are able to rent permanent safari tents and cabins, with the safari tents being heated and having electricity. The cabins are situated on 12-by-14-foot wood platforms and are fully furnished with beds and linens. Dogs are not allowed, which helps preserve the native habitat in the area.

El Capitan Canyon is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy the outdoors and all the Santa Barbara area has to offer.

Camp Clearwater | White Lake, North Carolina

Camp Clearwater in White Lake, North Carolina is a great campground and RV park for families looking for a unique outdoor experience.

The campground’s beautiful lakefront location provides easy access to a wide range of kid-friendly activities. There are two sandy beaches on the lake where children can go swimming, fishing and kayaking, as well as a playground, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

The campground also offers plenty of amenities, including a general store, a snack bar, hot showers, and a large pavilion for outdoor movies or ranger programs. For outdoor adventurers, the area offers nearby bike rentals and easy cycling paths, horseback trail rides and even boat rentals for fishing and cruising on the lake. There’s also a ranger station where children can take part in ranger-led outings and programs.

Overall, Camp Clearwater offers families an array of fun recreational activities and amenities all in one convenient location.

Austin Lake RV Park and Cabins | Toronto, Ohio

Austin Lake RV Park and Cabins is a great campsite and RV park for families due to its abundance of activities and amenities. The resort sits on a huge manmade lake with plenty of open space perfect for hiking, biking, and relaxing. Water sports like paddle boats, paddle boards, kayaks, and bumper boats are readily accessible and stocked spring-fed ponds are great for fishing.

Kids can also have hours of fun splashing in the creek. Additionally, the resort has four playgrounds, a tube slide, hayrides, and planned weekly events. Families can also look forward to dining on the patio, fishing in the Wisconsin River, and taking part in various outdoor activities like canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.

All of these activities and amenities make Austin Lake RV Park and Cabins a great place for families to camp and enjoy the outdoors together.

The Ridge Outdoor Resort | Sevierville, Tennessee

The Ridge Outdoor Resort in Sevier County, Tennessee is the perfect family campground for a getaway. With its beautiful mountain views, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Families will love the variety of activities available, including swimming in the pool, zip lining, rock climbing and nature walks.

The resort also offers cabins, tent sites and RV sites, giving families the choice to camp however they prefer. The store at the resort also offers snacks, gifts and souvenirs for purchase. For families looking for a unique, outdoor experience, The Ridge Outdoor Resort is the perfect destination.

Beaver Lake Campground | Custer, South Dakota

Beaver Lake Campground in Custer, South Dakota is a great campground for families because it is close to a variety of outdoor attractions, including Mount Rushmore (22 minutes away), Custer State Park (29 minutes), Crazy Horse Memorial (10 minutes), and Jewel Cave National Monument (nine minutes).

The campground itself is a great place to relax, with 81 sites including RV sites, tent sites, deluxe and basic cabins, and a pool with a 360-foot-long water slide. The campers also have access to hayrides and classic chuckwagon cookouts.

The Beaver Lake Campground offers families the chance to enjoy the great outdoors, explore the region’s unique attractions, and relax in a comfortable and safe atmosphere.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Mammoth Cave | Cave City, Kentucky

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Mammoth Cave in Cave City, Kentucky is an amazing family campsite and RV park, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and fun.

Located just a few miles from Mammoth Cave National Park, the campground features a variety of tent sites, RV sites, and model cabins, making it an ideal base for outdoor activities. Families can explore the nearby cave, paddle down the Green or Nolin Rivers, or soar through the air with nearby ziplines and canopy tours.

When at the park, families can partake in many planned activities like a giant jumping pillow, a large splash pad area, a sandy beach complete with an inflatable obstacle course, mini golf, and basketball.

To relax, there are five swimming pools, as well as a catch-and-release fishing pond and inflatable boat races at Karst Beach. Those looking for a more luxurious stay can choose from a range of cabins, cottages, and Yurts.

What really sets this Yogi Bear-themed campground apart from the rest is the many fun activities and events for families, such as the flag-raising and lowering ceremonies, fossil digs, archery classes, geocaching, and of course, visits from Yogi and Boo Boo Bear. Plus, with close proximity to Pike National Forest, there is plenty of opportunity for outdoor exploration and adventure.

All in all, Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave is the perfect place for family fun and relaxation.

Elizabethtown/Hershey KOA | Pennsylvania

The Elizabethtown/Hershey KOA in Pennsylvania is an excellent choice for family camping. It offers RV sites with gravel patios, fire pits, and Adirondack chairs, plus premium patios with gazebos.

It is close to popular attractions such as Hersheypark, Amish Country, Gettysburg, the National Civil War Museum, and the Liberty Bell.

Kids will love the themed weekends, such as the Chocolate Extravaganza, complete with a chocolate slip-and-slide. The campground also features a stocked pond for fishing, mini golf, wagon rides, and a pool that is due to reopen in 2022. Families can also enjoy outdoor movies, a game room, arts and crafts sessions, and more.

With all these great amenities, Elizabethtown/Hershey KOA is the perfect choice for a family camping experience.

McCormicks Creek Campground | McCormick’s Creek State Park, Indiana

McCormick’s Creek State Park is a great campground for families in Indiana due to its modern and clean facilities, its easy access to hiking trails, and its fun Halloween activities.

The park offers 190 campsites with showers and bathrooms, as well as adjacent hiking trails. During Halloween, campers get into the spirit of the holiday by decorating their tents, offering candy to trick-or-treaters, and attending educational talks on spooky creatures given by an on-site naturalist.

Half an hour away from downtown Bloomington, McCormick’s Creek State Park Campground is an ideal destination for families looking for a wooded escape with plenty of natural beauty.

Wallowa Lake Campground | Wallowa Lake State Park, Oregon

Wallowa Lake Campground in northeast Oregon is a great campsite and RV park for families due to its breathtaking views, a plethora of activities, and comfortable camping options.

The lake is surrounded by the majestic Wallowa mountain range and can be explored in glass-bottomed kayaks, or for more thrill-seeking visitors, there is go-karting and an aerial tramway. There are also countless other activities to enjoy such as wilderness trails, horseback riding, bumper boats, canoeing, and miniature golf.

The campground provides overnight camping for tents and RVs with full hookups, as well as yurts, cabins, tepees, and reservable group tents. There is also a boat ramp for the lake, making it a perfect spot for fishing and swimming.

With such a stunning landscape and an array of recreational activities, it is no surprise that Wallowa Lake Campground is an ideal destination for families.

Lodgepole Campground | Sequoia National Park, California

Lodgepole Campground in Sequoia National Park, California is a great campground for families due to its proximity to exciting attractions, convenient amenities, and spectacular natural beauty. With its flush toilets, showers, and laundry nearby at Lodgepole Village, campers need not worry about the basic comforts of daily life.

What’s more, the campground features a wide variety of kid-friendly attractions and activities, such as Moro Rock, the Tunnel Log, Tharp’s Cabin, the General Sherman Tree, and Crystal Cave.

In addition, campers can experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sleep beneath the towering Giant Sequoias and explore the Muir Grove of giant sequoias, a 1.7-mile loop hike with dramatic 1,200-foot-high waterfall views.

With its spacious sites, pine trees, and boulders providing natural boundaries between sites, Lodgepole Campground provides families with the perfect setting to explore and create lasting memories.

Mount Rushmore KOA Resort | Palmer Gulch Resort, South Dakota

Mount Rushmore KOA Resort and Palmer Gulch Resort stand out as family-friendly campsites and RV Parks due to the variety of activities they offer. At Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, campers can take advantage of the tram service to visit nearby Mount Rushmore National Monument and Crazy Horse Memorial, as well as partake in UTVs, horseback rides, mini golf, movie nights, and a pool.

At Palmer Gulch Resort, campers can enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding peaks while taking part in various activities such as bike rentals and shuttle services to Mount Rushmore.

Additionally, the resort has a former country club from the 1920s, a renovated basketball court, and a small playground, as well as an onsite restaurant and camp shop. Both campsites are conveniently located, with Mount Rushmore KOA Resort near Chicago and Palmer Gulch Resort near Mount Rushmore.

Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground | Virgin, Utha

Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground is a great place for families to enjoy the beauty of Zion National Park. The campground is well-shaded and situated along the banks of the Virgin River, providing a scenic and cool place to spend time outdoors.

Families can cool off in the river, explore the nearby trails, and take in stunning views of the red cliffs that surround the campground. Conveniences like showers, shuttle buses, food and munchies are also within easy reach, just a 5-minute drive away in the town of Springdale.

Additionally, the campground is the starting point for the Pa’rus Trail, a paved ADA-accessible route that leads to the Canyon Junction Bridge, a popular sunset viewing spot. With its combination of scenery, convenience, and activities, Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground is a great place for families to explore and enjoy the beauty of Zion National Park.

Seawall Campground | Acadia National Park, Near Southwest Harbor, Maine, Maine

Seawall Campground in Acadia National Park near Southwest Harbor, Maine is a great campground for families due to its remote feel and close proximity to the beach. The ocean is a great place to cool off, and there are no showers, making this a great spot for a more rustic camping experience.

The campground is also close to Bar Harbor which offers ice cream and souvenir shops, so you can enjoy a treat after a day of exploring the jagged cliffs and scenic views of the island. The nearby beach offers a great spot for swimming, and the ocean offers a variety of water activities, such as kayaking and fishing.

Families can also take advantage of the nearby hiking trails and explore the natural beauty of the area. Seawall Campground makes for a great family camping destination, with plenty of activities and nearby attractions to keep everyone entertained.

Malaekahana Beach Campground | Kahuku, Hawaii

Malaekahana Beach Campground in Kahuku, Hawaii is the perfect place for a family getaway. It offers discounts on swimming and surfing lessons, as well as plantation hales and suites that can provide shelter for four people.

The campground also has RV sites that come with all the amenities necessary for modern camping comforts, as well as a camping store where you can find camping supplies, snacks, and clothes. The beach is a great place to relax and take in the incredible ocean view. Families can also rent surfboards, go sailing, and take a canoe, kayak, or tube tours. Plus, the nearby Frog Pond Farms allows families to visit the farm animals, shop for local produce, and wander in the greenhouse.

Lastly, MacKerricher State Park offers plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, such as fishing, tide pool exploration, hiking, and biking. With all these wonderful amenities and activities, Malaekahana Beach Campground is obviously the perfect place for families to stay in Kahuku, Hawaii.

Marval Family Camping Resort | Gore, Oklahoma

Marval Family Camping Resort is an ideal campground and RV park for families looking for a place to relax and enjoy outdoor activities. It is located in Gore, OK inside the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, a 402,000-acre reserve filled with all sorts of wildlife.

Kids of all ages can explore the park and spot alligators, turtles, frogs, lizards, snakes, and even black bears during their hikes. The RV park is also a certified dark-sky area, so there are plenty of nighttime sights to take in.

At Marval Family Camping Resort, guests can choose from a variety of different lodging options including cabins, campsites, and other facilities. There are also plenty of kid-friendly activities like mini-golf, riding bikes, driving pedal cars, an outdoor theater, water parks, and a gaga pit. The resort also has a swimming pool with a water slide, a fishing pond, hiking trails, and a playground. The park is well-equipped with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, a propane station, and a general store with groceries and ice.

Marval Family Camping Resort is a great option for families looking for a fun, relaxing getaway in nature. With a variety of activities, lodging options, and amenities, everyone in the family is sure to have a great time.

White River RV Park & Campground | Montague, Michigan

White River RV Park & Campground in Montague, Michigan is a great place for families because of its peaceful environment, convenient amenities, and wide range of fun activities. The campground is located right on the banks of the White River and offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding countryside.

Families will enjoy the cable service, water park, and warm beach located on-site. Kids will love the playground with basketball and beach volleyball courts and the beautiful water park. The campground also has a camp store stocked with groceries, fishing and camping supplies, a laundromat, and a snack bar for convenient meals and snacks.

For outdoor activities, families can enjoy fishing, swimming, biking, horseback riding, and more. There’s also a swimming pool and a fishing pond, plus a game room, basketball court, and a gaga pit. With all these amenities and activities, White River RV Park & Campground makes for a wonderful family vacation destination.

American Heritage RV Park | Williamsburg, Virginia

American Heritage RV Park in Williamsburg, Virginia, is the perfect place for families who are looking for a great camping experience. This park offers over 70 acres of land with a variety of amenities and activities that will keep everyone entertained, including a campsite, basketball court, volleyball court, and mini-golf course.

For those who want to relax, this park also provides a 24-hour laundry service and a clubhouse that is within walking distance of the campsite. Families can rent one-bedroom or two-bedroom units with complete kitchen facilities, cable television, refrigerator, and free wireless internet access.

Additionally, the park offers plenty of outdoor activities for kids to enjoy. Families can go hiking on the trails or play arcade games at the local playground. This is the perfect place for kids to learn about nature and explore the great outdoors.

With affordable rates and all the fun activities, American Heritage RV Park is the ideal campground for families who are looking for a great time.

Smoky Bear Campground | Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Smoky Bear Campground in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the perfect spot for families looking for a peaceful, fun-filled getaway. With its large selection of cabins, tent sites, and RV hookups, there is something to suit everyone.

The campground also features a playground and library for the kids, a clubhouse for rallies and reunions, and a park store for snacks and souvenirs. Its close proximity to nature trails makes it easy for families to explore the great outdoors and take advantage of the picturesque views of the Smoky Mountains. It’s also situated in a safe and quiet location, where families can relax and make lasting memories.

Colonial Woods Campground | Upper Black Eddy, Pennsylvania

Colonial Woods Campground in Upper Black Eddy, Pennsylvania, is the perfect destination for family fun. With both a water park with slides and a mini-golf course, kids will be entertained for hours.

In addition, the campground offers a full range of activities for both adults and kids, from outdoor movies to arts and crafts, a game room and sports courts for basketball, volleyball and tennis. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making sure that families feel welcomed and taken care of. The park also has a fishing section and is close to Nockamixon State Park, giving families the opportunity to explore and take in the scenery of the wooded hills of historic Bucks County.

All of these features make Colonial Woods Campground one of the most recommended campgrounds with water parks in the city.

Sunsetview Farm Camping Area | Monson, Massachusetts

Sunsetview Farm Camping Area in Monson, Massachusetts is a great campground for families due to its variety of activities and features. This campground is located in a beautiful area and has plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy themselves.

It offers wagon rides, crafts, movie nights, and musical entertainment that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Kids will love the bingo, kickball, and wiffleball activities that are available and can even participate in the monthly events that are hosted.

Additionally, the staff is very friendly and helpful, making sure that everyone has an enjoyable time. With its convenient location, great activities, and friendly staff, Sunsetview Farm Camping Area is the perfect spot for a memorable family vacation.

The Longhorn Ranch Lodge & RV | Dubois, Wyoming

The Longhorn Ranch Lodge & RV is a great campsite and RV Park for families because it offers a variety of amenities and activities that the whole family can enjoy. With a trail that leads to Yellowstone National Park, this campground is perfect for those who want to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors. Kids can also learn how to ride a horse and have fun in the nearby playground.

The lodge also offers a massage therapy service for those looking for some relaxation after a day of activities. With horse trail rides lasting from two hours to a whole day and cabins, RV and tent sites, as well as covered wagon lodging, The Longhorn Ranch Lodge & RV has something for everyone.

Additionally, the campground is located close to other attractions like Governor Dodge State Park, Wisconsin Riverside Resort, and Dallas Cowboys Stadium, making it a great destination for a family camping trip.

Tips for having the perfect family camping adventure

Make Sure Everyone is Ready for Camping

Create a packing list of all the necessary items needed for camping, such as tents, sleeping bags, flashlights, bug spray, plastic plates, cups, utensils, towels, roasting forks, plastic bags, a portable clothesline, outdoor tablecloth and a cooler.
Practice spending an overnight in the backyard to test gear and troubleshoot any snags. Make sure you will be comfortable and warm enough, and that younger children can go to sleep with different surroundings and nocturnal noises.
Give each child a duffel bag to pack their personal items and set the duffel in a different color for easy identification.
Take along at least two pairs of shoes including a pair that can get wet and a pair that’s easy to slip on and off.
Involve your kids in camp chores, teaching them the basics on how to set up a tent, find a level tent site, and cook a camp meal. Assign age-appropriate, meaningful tasks.
Book a powered site in an established campground with amenities and activities for the kids.
Buy good-quality and long-lasting gear.
Check the forecast for bad weather and defer or call off the trip if necessary.
Find an experienced camper to travel with and learn from.
Test the gear beforehand and pack the car.
Planning your meals and snacks ahead of time will help you stay well-fed and entertained. Try easy-to-prepare meals like sandwiches or a snack bag with some healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, or hummus. Don’t forget the munchies and marshmallows!

Learn About the Campground

Step 1: Research the campground or campsite you are planning to go to. Look for information online about the layout and amenities that are available. Check to see what basic amenities the campground has, such as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, water spigots, trash/recycling, and firepits. Also, look for additional amenities that may be available such as playgrounds, splash parks, stores, restaurants, bike/boat rentals, hammock hook-ups, ice makers, electricity, hot tubs, movie nights, zip lines, laundry, wifi, swimming pools, nature crafts, yoga classes, and more.

Step 2: Determine if your campground has information about the layout of your particular campsite so that you can get an idea of how much space you will have and what is already accessible.

Step 3: Select a campground and campsite with amenities that fit your family’s needs.

Plan Activities for the Family

How can you plan activities for the family while camping? [Step-by-step instructions and example]

Step 1: Prior to camping, decide on the type of activities the family will participate in. Think about the location of the campground and what activities are available. For example, if the campground is near a lake, fishing is an option. If the campground is in the mountains, hiking could be an activity.

Step 2: Make a checklist of items needed for the activities. Depending on the activities, this could include fishing gear, bicycles with helmets, a frisbee, a jump rope, or activity books. Bring some entertainment options like card games, board games, and sketch pads.

Step 3: Familiarize the family with the new area. Check out local bulletin boards for easy nature trails, bike routes, or boating rentals.

Step 4: Once at the campground, get creative with nature-based activities. Enjoy simple pleasures like exploring the area, stargazing, or playing water games in the lake. Also, plan some organized activities like scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, or spotlighting at night.

Step 5: Bond with your family by playing card games or board games. Bring some of your favorite classics or pick up a travel board game at the store. Also, don’t forget to bring drawing pads and books for the kids.

By following these steps, you can plan activities for the whole family while camping. With the right preparation and attitude, you will create a camping experience that everyone will enjoy.

Make Sure Everyone is Prepared for the Weather

Check the weather forecast ahead of time and plan accordingly. Dress your kids in layers, or bring extra clothing if the temperature varies significantly during the day or night.
Bring rain gear for each family member, such as rain jackets, pants, and/or full-body rain suits.
Bring a warm hat and waterproof gloves if it’s cold out. Bring a wide-brimmed hat if it’s sunny.
Bring a tent, sleeping gear, and a tarp. Invest in better-insulated, higher-tech sleeping bags if camping in higher elevations.
Bring extra shoes for each family member.
Bring a battery-operated lantern, eyeglasses, and flashlights.
Do a practice overnight in your backyard to test gear and troubleshoot any issues.

Establish a Family Camping Etiquette

Setting up a family camping etiquette can help ensure that everyone is having a safe and enjoyable time while camping. Here are some steps to help you establish a family camping etiquette:

Talk to your family about the importance of camping etiquette and set ground rules. Discuss the importance of being respectful to other campers, respecting wildlife and the environment, and maintaining a peaceful and calm atmosphere while camping.
Encourage kids to be courteous to other campers. Remind them to keep the noise down early in the morning, not to walk or ride through the middle of someone else’s campsite, and to clean up after themselves in the shower block and camp kitchen.
Make sure to familiarise your kids with the campground rules, including when they should return to the campsite in the evening.
Encourage your family to enjoy their camping experience by embracing the unique and diverse campers in the area that they are staying in. Remind them to not sweat the small stuff and try to enjoy what is going on around them.
Make sure that everyone follows the Leave No Trace Principles by planning ahead and preparing for their activities, traveling and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly and leaving the environment as they found it.
Respect wildlife and stay aware of their habitats and pathways. Do not feed them and be careful not to disturb them.
Lastly, be courteous and respectful to hosts, other campers and visitors. Lead by example and be patient and considerate to others.

What is the ultimate camping gear list for families?

A photo of a family camping out in the wilderness

Preparing for a family camping trip is no small feat. That’s why we created this ultimate camping gear list for families. This list includes all the essentials, plus some bonus items that are easy to overlook. The list is organized by category, making it easy to locate the items you need. Included in this list are camping tents, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, first aid supplies, flashlights and lanterns, hygiene and bathroom items, and much more.

We’ve also included some additional resources on finding affordable camping gear, what you specifically need with camping with babies and toddlers (or if you’re bringing your dog), plus tips on how to properly store your camping gear, and more. Every family’s packing list will be different based on when and where you’re camping, the ages of your kids, the weather, the amenities, your comfort level, your camping experience/skill, and tons of other factors.

This list is a great starting point for making your own list with absolutely everything you need to make your camping trip a success. Here are some of the items included in the ultimate camping gear list for families:

Tent
Sleeping Bags
Air Mattress or Sleeping Pads
Camping Chairs
Cooking Equipment
Food, Snacks, Munchies & Drinks
First Aid Kit
Flashlight/Lanterns
Hygiene & Bathroom Items
Camping Games & Activities
Clothing & Footwear
Sun Protection
Emergency Supplies
Firewood & Fire Starter
Insect Repellent
Tools & Repair Kit
Bicycles & Sports Gear
Pet Supplies (if applicable)
Trash & Recycling Bags
Camping Chair
Water Bottles
Maps & Compass
Camera
Binoculars
Books & Magazines
Personal Items
Towels
Camping Pillows
Blankets
Utensils & Dishes
Stove & Fuel
Cooler & Ice
Cleaning Supplies
Camping Hammocks

FAQ

Finding the perfect family campsite is easier than ever with a wide variety of public and private campgrounds across the U.S. To get started, consider the amenities your family needs and look for campgrounds that offer those features. Here are some tips for finding the best campsite:

Research Campgrounds: Start by researching campgrounds in the area you want to visit. Consider public land campgrounds if you are looking for more nature-focused camping experiences, or private campgrounds if you are looking for more amenities and activities. You can use Recreation.gov to search for public campgrounds, or Hipcamp to find private campgrounds.
Research Amenities: Once you have a list of campgrounds, research the amenities each offers. Consider ballfields, beaches, swimming areas, playgrounds, picnic tables, flushing toilets, and hot showers. You can also ask other families for their favorite kid-friendly recommendations.
Make it a Family Affair: Involve the whole family in the planning process and ask kids for ideas of things to do or see at your destination. This will make the trip more fun for everyone.
Choose a Campground: Once you have narrowed down your list, choose the campground that best suits your family’s needs. Consider a more developed campground if it is your first time out, then work your way up to more remote or adventurous locations.
Try an Example: A great example of a family-friendly campground is Assateague in Maryland. It has everything for a family you could want, including plenty of places to explore, a beautiful beach, and lots of wildlife.

By following these steps and researching, you will be sure to find the perfect family campsite for your next adventure!

When choosing a family campground, it is important to consider the location, amenities, activities, and safety of the campground. Public campgrounds are great for those looking to be surrounded by nature, while private RV parks provide convenience to attractions or urban areas.

Depending on the season, amenities like pools and water slides can be important for keeping kids entertained. Other features like playgrounds, fire pits, picnic tables, green space, easy access, interesting attractions, and a dog park are also important to look for when choosing a family campground.

Additionally, good cell service or free Wi-Fi may be desirable for rainy days or downtime. Ultimately, researching reviews and surveying campsite options can help families make the best decision for their camping adventure.

When choosing a family campground, some of the most important qualities to look for include location, activities, amenities, safety, cleanliness, access, attractions, green space, cell service or free Wi-Fi, bathrooms with flush toilets and hot showers, potable water, a dog park if you plan to bring a pet, ballfields, beaches or swimming areas, streams or rivers, playgrounds, picnic tables, fire pits, beautiful views, and safe roads for kids to ride bikes or scooters.

Additionally, make sure to ask other families for their favorite kid-friendly camping recommendations, and involve kids in the trip planning process by asking for their ideas of things to do and see at the destination.

Families can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities while camping, such as horseback riding, river rafting, swimming in mineral hot springs, hiking to scenic overlooks, pitching a tent together, starting a campfire, cooking outdoors, assembling s’mores, nature trails, boat rentals, biking, and family hikes.

Families can also bond over card or board games, such as a more compact travel game or card games that are easy to learn. Additionally, camping is a great way to get away from work, school, and technology and to focus on family, so it is a great opportunity to limit the use of screens and to turn to each other to supply entertainment.

Once you get to the campsite, set ground rules for where your children can roam and what they should do if they get lost. Make sure they know the boundaries and are aware of any hazardous features.
Get your kids excited about the trip by demonstrating enthusiasm and having a can-do attitude.
Be prepared with ideas for activities and day hikes that your family can do at the destination.
Involve your kids in camp chores as much as possible, like setting up the tent and cooking.
Pass down knowledge and traditions by teaching your children how to cook outdoors and make s’mores.
Choose campgrounds with amenities that suit your family’s needs, like playgrounds or swimming areas.
Remind your kids about best practices for protecting the environment and for going to the bathroom in the woods.
If your kids are new to camping, try pitching a tent in the backyard to get them used to the sleeping environment.

The best age to take a child camping is dependent on the individual child and their needs. While any age child is technically old enough to go camping, it is best to wait until they are old enough to understand the importance of respecting nature and appreciating the outdoors.

Babies and toddlers may need more attention and special camping gear, such as a pack-and-play, outdoor gate, high chair, and a sound machine. For older children, it’s important to teach them how to respect wildlife, dispose of trash properly, and follow “leave no trace” principles while camping. Involving them in camp chores and providing meaningful tasks can help make the experience enjoyable for the whole family.

Grandparents and parents can also pass down their knowledge to the younger generations, conveying important lessons about nature during a camping trip. Ultimately, it is up to the parent to decide when their child is old enough to go camping.

After your epic camping trip with your family, it is important to take steps to stay organized for your next camping trip. Start by organizing your camping gear in totes or bins for easy access when you get to camp.

Separate your kitchen supplies, tent, sleeping bags, and other equipment into different compartments. Label the outside of each bin or tote with the gear it contains, or keep a master list of the contents inside the container.

Additionally, use a camping checklist to make sure you don’t forget any important items. Store the bins in an out-of-the-way place like your basement, attic, or garage. This will help you make sure that things are returned to the appropriate bin and restocked when necessary.

Further, take the time to educate your children and create new family traditions during your camping trips. Introduce the kids to a lifelong love for assembling s’mores, or teach them how to pitch a tent and start a campfire.

Include items like a travel board game, packs of cards, drawing pads and pens, Lego, softcover books, inflatable items, a cricket set, bikes, and fishing gear for fun activities. Consider other activities such as hiking, water games, treasure, scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, and spotlighting at night. Following these steps will make your next camping trip easier and more organized.

When it comes to planning a camping trip for the whole family, it can be hard to know what type of camping setup is best. While towing a trailer is a great option for those who have the means, many families prefer the more budget-friendly option of tent camping.

Tent camping has the advantage of being more flexible, allowing families to choose their own camping spot and move around more easily. It is also a great way to connect with nature and experience the outdoors without having to purchase a lot of expensive equipment.

When it comes to choosing a set up for tent camping, there are several important factors to consider. It is important to ensure that the tent is large enough to comfortably accommodate everyone in the family.

It is also important to make sure that the tent is waterproof and well-ventilated to ensure a comfortable camping experience. Lastly, it is important to have the necessary equipment, such as sleeping bags, before embarking on the camping trip.

Overall, tent camping is an excellent option for families who want to get outdoors and experience nature without breaking the bank. With the right tent and equipment, families can enjoy a safe and enjoyable camping experience without having to worry about an expensive trailer setup.

Planning a family camping trip for the first time can be a bit intimidating. With the right camping gear, however, you can make the experience enjoyable and comfortable for everyone. The key is to rent the right gear that will suit your needs and budget.

When choosing a tent, look for one that is easy to assemble and has enough floor space to accommodate all the kids and their bags. Handy extras to look out for include pockets for glasses and flashlights, and a rope clip hanger on the ceiling for hanging a lantern. You’ll also want to pack a tarp to put below the tent.

For sleeping gear, you can get by with standard sleeping bags or air mattresses and sheets and blankets if the weather is warm. For higher elevations where temperatures drop significantly at night, it’s worth investing in better-insulated, higher-tech sleeping bags to keep you warm and dry. Sleeping mats can add comfort and insulation if you’re camping in a tent; the best mats self-inflate. If you have the cargo space, fold-up cots can keep you off the ground and let you store gear underneath.

To save money, shop around for gently used gear and check for camping gear rental services near you. You can also look for sales and promotions, borrow from friends, or ask for camping supplies as gifts. The dollar store is a great source for inexpensive utensils, tablecloths, flashlights and snacks.

With a solid plan, sturdy gear and a sense of adventure, you and your family can have a successful and memorable camping trip.

Camping for Families: Summary

So, whether you’re looking for an RV park with all the amenities or a primitive campsite deep in the woods, there’s sure to be a perfect spot for your family. And, with a little planning and preparation, you can ensure that your trip is fun, safe, and memorable for everyone.

Lastly, Camping is a great way for families to spend time together and disconnect from technology. It also allows children to learn valuable skills. So, what are you waiting for?