Canoe camping with kids

Canoe camping is a remarkable adventure that offers a unique blend of nature, exploration, and quality family time. Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immersing yourselves in the serene beauty of the great outdoors can create unforgettable memories and strengthen your family bond.

In this ultimate guide to canoe camping, we will delve into the benefits of time outdoors, the essentials of planning, packing, choosing the right destinations, and some lessons learned from almost four decades of canoe country experience. So, grab your paddles, gather your gear, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of canoe camping. The rewards and memories await you just beyond the shoreline.

What is canoe camping?

Benefits of canoe camping

Canoe camping allows families to disconnect from screens and distractions, replacing them with the soothing sounds of water, the rustle of leaves, and the chorus of birdsongs. It offers a chance to slow down, breathe fresh air, and appreciate the wonders of nature together.

One of the reasons why I think canoe camping with kids is so rewarding is the opportunity it provides for hands-on learning. As you paddle along calm waters, your children can observe different species of birds, identify various plants, and even spot unique wildlife like moose and deer. It’s a chance to ignite their curiosity, foster a deep appreciation for the environment, and cultivate a sense of stewardship for the natural world.

Beyond the educational aspects, canoe camping encourages quality family time. With limited distractions, you can engage in meaningful conversations, share stories around a crackling campfire, and laugh together while navigating, or getting lost, on your route. It’s an opportunity to create a shared experience that will be cherished for years to come.

Canoe camping also offers a sense of adventure and the thrill of exploration. Discover hidden coves, secluded beaches, and breathtaking landscapes that are only accessible by water. Paddling through serene lakes or gentle rivers allows you to explore nature at your own pace, stopping along the way to swim, fish, or simply bask in the tranquility of your surroundings.

Furthermore, the self-sufficiency required during a canoe camping trip can instill valuable life skills in young children. They can learn to set up camp, cook meals, and adapt to different situations, fostering independence, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.

What to pack for canoe camping

Canoe camping requires careful planning and packing to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Usually, you can take more (and heavier) items than you can take on a backpacking trip (as you won’t be carrying your items), but less than you can pack on a traditional car camping trip (as everything needs to fit into the canoe (along with all the people in your family). 

*Don’t forget to pack a little bit extra patience and flexibility, as unpredictability is part of the charm when embarking on canoe camping adventures with kids.

Here’s a comprehensive list of essential items to pack for your adventure:

Camping gear:

• Tent with rainfly and groundsheet
• Sleeping bags and sleeping pads
• Headlamps
• Knifes and portable camp saw
• Fishing poles and tackle

Clothing:

• Quick drying clothing (shorts, pants, t-shirt, long-sleeve shirt)
• Rain jackets, ponchos, or waterproof gear
• Sturdy hiking shoes or water sandals
• Swimsuits and quick-drying towels
• Extra wool socks and underwear

Food and cooking equipment:

• Plenty of meals and snacks (dehydrated backpacking meals work great)
• Cooking utensils, pot to boil water, and a cooking pan
• Backpacking stove
• Water filter and containers to store filtered water
• Eating utensils, plates, and cups

Safety equipment:

• First aid kit fit for your group size
• Insect repellent (lots) and sunscreen
• Life jackets that are comfortable to wear all day
• Whistle or signal mirror for emergencies
• Maps, compass, and Emergency Locator Beacor or GPS device
• Knife, saw, lighter, and waterproof matches

Personal items:

• Toiletries and biodegradable camp soap
• Prescription medications and basic over-the-counter remedies (i.e. kid and adult Tylenol)
• Personal identification and emergency contact information
• Cash or cards for emergencies
• Entertainment items for kids, such as books, toys, and games

Packing tips

Remember to pack efficiently to keep the weight manageable, especially when portaging between lakes or rivers. Distribute the load evenly between canoes and ensure easy access to frequently used items. We prefer portage packs lined with a plastic bag that are custom-made to fit in a canoe. Traditional backpacking bags also work.

When packing the canoe, you want to make sure everything stays evenly distributed and dry. Wet/dry back can be a lifesaver in the event of a tip or rain. Before setting off at your entry point, make sure your gear is securely packed and waterproof; a soggy sleeping bag at the bottom of the canoe is an experience best avoided. Even with limited gear, prioritize much space for movement and comfort in your canoe, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone on board.

If you are new to canoe camping, call an outfitter to help you with your first time. They can be a great resource even if you are not using their full guided services. 

Want to pack like the pros? Then check out our exact packing list for our Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness trips. 

Where to go canoe camping with kids

Discovering the best places for family canoe camping involves seeking tranquil lakes with calm water, scenic landscapes, and ample opportunities for exploration. Choosing the right destination for your canoe camping adventure is crucial, especially when traveling as a family. When selecting a destination, consider factors such as accessibility, regulations, and the suitability of water conditions.

As a general rule of thumb, small lakes/rivers are much better if you are bringing kids than large ones. Check with local park authorities or experienced canoe camping organizations for updated information and permits. Opt for routes with a short portage if you’re venturing out with younger kids, making the journey more manageable and ensuring everyone arrives at the next waterway with smiles intact. Also, choosing routes with calm water can be helpful, especially when traveling with younger kids or novice paddlers. 

Here are some family-friendly canoe camping destinations that offer breathtaking scenery and exciting activities:

Local waterways (best for beginners):

The options below are large and beautiful destinations (think bucket list worthy), but the best place to canoe camp is the one that’s accessible to you and gets you out on the water! The options listed below are amazing, but they may not be suitable for your first canoe camping trip with the family. 

When you first start canoe camping, we recommend checking out your area’s local rivers and lakes. Here in Minnesota, we have a number of State Parks that offer canoe-in campsites that can give you a flavor of a big canoe camping trip without the commitment! Many rivers also allow for camping on banks and sandbars, which is a perfect way to start for your first trip. 

Embarking on your first canoe trip? Start with short, manageable routes, gradually building confidence and expertise for more extended adventures. Ease into canoe camping with kids. Start small your first time and make each future trip slightly longer, harder, or both!

National(ish) Parks:

Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada: Known for its stunning lakes and wildlife, Algonquin offers numerous canoe routes suitable for families, including shorter trips and designated campsites.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota, USA (our favorite, and technically not a National Park): With its interconnected lakes and pristine wilderness, this area provides a serene environment for canoe camping and offers various entry points for different skill levels.

Lakeside camping:

Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah, USA: This picturesque reservoir offers beautiful sandy beaches and secluded coves for camping. Kids can enjoy swimming, fishing, and exploring the stunning red rock formations.

Lake District, England: With its vast network of lakes and stunning landscapes, the Lake District provides an ideal setting for canoe camping. Families can paddle on Windermere, Ullswater, or Coniston Llkes, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

River adventures:

Allagash Wilderness Waterway, Maine, USA: This 92-mile-long waterway provides a wilderness experience with opportunities for wildlife sightings. It offers calm waters and numerous camping spots along the riverbanks. This offers a similar experience to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 

Dordogne River, France: The Dordogne River is perfect for family canoe camping, with its gentle currents and scenic countryside. Paddle through medieval towns, explore castles, and enjoy picnics along the riverbanks.

Buffalo National River, Arkansas: For a scenic, family-friendly canoe camping getaway, consider the serenity of Buffalo National River. The gentle currents and lush surroundings create an idyllic setting for outdoor bonding.

Coastal escapes:

Everglades National Park, Florida, USA: Discover the unique ecosystem of the Everglades by canoeing through mangrove tunnels and coastal waterways. Look out for alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species. Here’s a great post on what to expect when exploring Everglades National Park with kids. 

Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden: Explore the stunning archipelago with its thousands of islands, calm waters, and cozy camping spots. Enjoy the tranquility of the Swedish nature and picturesque fishing villages.

What to do when canoe camping

Canoe camping offers a range of exciting surprises and activities to keep kids engaged and entertained. Bringing along a selection of nature-themed games and activities is always a good idea to keep the little adventurers engaged and entertained in the canoe and during downtime at the campsite. Here are some ideas to make your adventure memorable:

Nature exploration:

Wildlife spotting: Encourage kids to observe and identify birds, animals, and plant species along the shores. Keep binoculars and a field guide handy for identification. We like to study up on key species ahead of time and then try to identify them in the field. 

Nature scavenger hunt: Create a list of items found in the area you are visiting, such as different types of leaves, animal tracks, or specific rocks, and challenge the kids to find them during hikes or paddling breaks. Scavenger hunts are a great way to get little kids actively observing nature around them. 

Fishing:

Teach kids basic fishing skills, such as casting and reeling, and let them experience the excitement of landing a keeper. Here’s some info on how to get started teaching kids to fly fish. 

Campfire cooking:

Involve the kids in preparing meals over your campfire. They can help gather firewood, mix ingredients, and assemble simple recipes like foil packet meals or s’mores. Here’s a great post on getting kids involved in camp cooking. 

Storytelling and stargazing:

Share stories and legends around the campfire can create a sense of awe.  Additionally, stargazing during clear nights offers a chance to identify constellations and share stories about the cosmos. Unfortunately, we rarely do the latter, since it means our young kids would be staying up until 10PM with our late summer sunsets, but it’s a great idea for older kids. Here’s a great post on incorporating storytelling into your stargazing adventures.

Water activities:

Swimming and snorkeling: If the water conditions permit, let the kids cool off by swimming or snorkeling. Cliff jumping is also a great option if you are certain the landing zone is deep and clear of debris. 

Canoeing and kayaking games: Organize friendly races, relays, or paddling challenges to keep the kids active and engaged while on the water. Here are some great ways to get kids active on the water. 

Nature crafts:

Encourage creativity by collecting natural materials like rocks, shells, or driftwood to create crafts. Kids can make nature-inspired artwork, jewelry, or even build miniature shelters using sticks and leaves.

Our kids love charring a stick in the fire and then using it as a pencil to draw on pieces of birchbark. We bring them home and hang them in their room and they last for years!

In the great outdoors, even the simplest moments—like cooking over a campfire or stargazing from the comfort of your tent—can become the great things that shape cherished family traditions.

Canoe camping gear

The right gear is crucial for a successful and enjoyable canoe camping trip with kids. Here are some essential items to consider:

Canoe and paddles:

Choose a stable and family-friendly canoe with enough space for everyone and their gear. We use a Northstar Northwind 18 kevlar canoe, which has a third bench seat in the middle where both kids sit.

Select paddles suitable for each family member’s height and strength. We use adjustable paddles to accommodate our growing kids.

Life jackets and safety gear:

Ensure each family member has a properly fitting and Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Look for jackets specifically designed for children and make sure they are comfortable enough to be worn all day long. Here’s a full post on the best life jackets for kids. 

Carry essential safety gear, such as a whistle, signal mirror, rope, GPS/Emergency Locator Beacon, etc. in your life jacket pockets or a dry bag.

Camping equipment:

Family-sized tent: Invest in a spacious tent that can comfortably accommodate all family members and has room for sleeping bags and gear. You don’t have to use an ultralight (backpacking) tent, but it will save you space and weight in your canoe. We use an REI Half-dome Trail Hut 4+ backpacking tent and love it. 

Sleeping gear: You need a lightweight (we like hydrophobic down) sleeping bag that is warm enough for any weather you might encounter. We also use inflatable sleeping pads for comfort and warmth. Nemo, Sea 2 Summit, and Big Agnes all make great ultra-light sleeping pads. 

Camp kitchen: Bring cooking utensils, pots, pans, and a portable stove for meal preparation. Less is more. We bring two bowls and often eat out of the freeze-dried meal bags. This means less weight and fewer dishes to clean!

Water containers and purification: In most cases, you will be purifying your own water on your canoe camping trip. We bring a couple of Nalgene water bottles, a gravity filter, and a 10L water bladder to hold excess purified water.

Lighting: Make sure you bring a couple of headlamps, lanterns, and/or flashlights. 

Storage and organization:

Dry bags and waterproof containers: When canoe camping with kids, you want to be sure to keep clothes, food, and important items dry by using dry bags or waterproof containers. We line our canoe packs with heavy-duty garbage bags and bring personal dry bags for use during the day. We like the Sea 2 Summit dry bags that come in a variety of sizes. 

Gear storage: Mesh bags and compression sacks are your friend! They are a great way to help keep your gear organized and help pack down big items (sleeping bags) so they fit better in your packs.

Clothing and personal items:

Choose quick-drying, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for local weather conditions. Include extra layers for cooler evenings and rain gear for wet conditions or bad weather.

Pack personal items like toiletries, medications, insect repellent, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to ensure comfort and protection from the elements.

What we’ve learned from canoe camping with kids

We’ve learned a lot from almost four decades of canoe country experience. Below are some practical tips and advice that we wish we’d known from the start.

Plan for rest days:

Depending on the length of your trip, consider incorporating rest days into your itinerary. This allows everyone to relax, explore the surroundings, and engage in activities at a leisurely pace. On long multi-day trips, we use a one-day on, one-day off schedule. This means we are changing campsites every other day.

Involve kids in trip planning:

Get the kids involved in the trip-planning process by allowing them to choose destinations, activities, or meals. This helps foster a sense of ownership and excitement, making them more engaged throughout the journey. It is harder for them to complain about what they are doing when it is their choice!

Optimize packing:

Evaluate your gear and assess if there are any unnecessary or duplicate items. Streamline your packing list to minimize the weight and maximize space, making portaging and setup easier. Less truly is more. 

Prioritize comfort:

Invest in quality sleeping gear, such as thicker sleeping pads or inflatable mattresses, to promote quality sleep. While we personally do not use them, comfortable camp chairs and portable tables can also make a significant difference during meal times and relaxation.

Incorporate variety into activities:

Switch things up. Mix in different activities on different days. Balance physical exertion, such as paddling or hiking, with more relaxed activities like fishing, swimming, or nature observation. However, in our experience, the kids are never the ones needing more relaxed activities. 

Embrace flexibility:

Allow for flexibility in your itinerary to accommodate unexpected weather changes or spontaneous discoveries. This flexibility can add excitement and reduce stress during the trip. Some of our best trips are the ones that we followed our plan the least.

Teach leave no trace principles:

Educate your kids about the importance of Leave No Trace principles, such as packing out trash, respecting wildlife and vegetation, and minimizing campsite impact. Instilling these values early on promotes responsible and sustainable outdoor practices.

Above all, remember that the most important thing during your canoe camping expedition with kids is to embrace the journey, fostering a sense of wonder and shared family memories. Remember, every trip is a learning experience, so don’t worry if the first one isn’t perfect!

Canoe camping websites and resources

Thankfully, there are a ton of great resources for families looking to try canoe camping and want to learn the ropes. Here are some helpful websites and resources:

From Tent to Takeoff: (www.fromtenttotakeoff.com) This is our family blog where we document our trips and provide advice on how to make the most out of your family adventures

Paddling.com: Paddling.com offers a wealth of information on canoeing and kayaking, including trip reports, gear reviews, and destination guides. Their forums and community provide opportunities to connect with fellow paddlers and share experiences.

National Park Service (nps.gov): Visit the website of the National Park Service to explore canoeing opportunities in various national parks. Check out park-specific information, regulations, and camping options for a safe and enjoyable experience.

American Canoe Association (aca-paddler.org): The American Canoe Association is a valuable resource for paddlers of all skill levels. Their website provides safety guidelines, instructional videos, and a directory of certified instructors for those looking to enhance their canoeing skills.

Canoe Camping Club (canoecamping.club): The Canoe Camping Club is a community of canoe camping enthusiasts. Their website offers trip reports, gear recommendations, and a forum to connect with other families who share a passion for canoe camping.

Local tourism board websites: Check the official websites of local tourism boards for your desired canoe camping destinations. They often provide information on campsites, canoe rental services, maps, and local attractions.

Outdoor retailer websites: Visit outdoor retailer websites like REI (rei.com) or MEC (mec.ca) for gear recommendations, buyer’s guides, and informative articles on outdoor activities, including canoe camping.

Canoe camping with kids

Canoe camping with kids offers a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and foster a love for outdoor adventures. By following the tips and insights shared in this ultimate guide, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Safe travels and happy canoe camping!

About the author

Anthony Quill is a Minnesota dad and blogger who loves experiencing epic adventures with his wife and two kids. He is Twin Cities-based but globally bound, traveling with his family everywhere from Minnesota’s North Shore to Morocco, Spain, and Italy. No matter the distance, he always returns to his roots on the North Shore, and in particular the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Learn more about his family’s adventures on their blog at From Tent To Takeoff, on Instagram at @fromtenttotakeoff, or on Facebook at @fromtenttotakeoff. 

The post The Ultimate Guide to Canoe Camping with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Hiking Havasupai with kids

Picture this. You’re scrolling through social media, and suddenly, you see it – a majestic waterfall cascading over a red rock ledge and flowing into the most unreal turquoise-blue water you have ever seen. You wonder if the image is some sort of Photoshop magic, so you investigate. It turns out that the water really is that color. The red cliffs are real, and the waterfall actually exists.

From the moment I saw my first photo of Havasu Falls, I knew that I had to go there. Quickly, I added it to my bucket list and started researching. I didn’t know right away if hiking Havasupai with kids would be something that could happen. I dug around the internet and asked friends who had been before, and I’m here to give you all of the tips and tricks for hiking Havasupai with kids.

What is Havasupai?

The Havasupai Reservation is located in Northern Arizona. The reservation is surrounded by Grand Canyon National Park. It is home to the Havasupai Tribe of Native Americans. Members of this tribe have been living in the area for longer than has been recorded. Some say they have resided there for more than 1,000 years. The United States government allotted the tribe 188,000 acres of land. As of the 2020 census, a little over 200 people lived on the reservation. Visiting the Supai village is a privilege. There is no other place on earth quite like it. 

Havasupai is a remote and stunningly beautiful area known for its vibrant blue-green waterfalls, red rock landscapes, and the Havasupai Native American tribe that calls it home. The name “Havasupai” translates to “people of the blue-green water” in the Havasupai language, perfectly encapsulating the area’s most distinctive feature—the mesmerizing turquoise waters that flow through Havasu Creek.

The term Supai refers to the village within the Havasupai Indian reservation. Supai Village is the only inhabited area in the Havasu Canyon and serves as the administrative and cultural center of the Havasupai tribe. Havasu refers to the blue-green water of the creek. Havasupai encompasses the tribe as a whole, reflecting their historical and cultural ties to the breathtaking natural environment of the Grand Canyon.

Why visit Havasupai?

There are no roads that take you down into the Supai village. The only way to access it is by foot or by helicopter. The trek from the parking lot trailhead to the bottom of the canyon is 8 miles. There’s something special about going places that you can’t drive to. Remote places like this are getting harder and harder to find. With the incredible beauty of the waterfalls, Havasu Creek, and the towering canyon walls on either side, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Havasupai is not just a destination; it’s a classroom where adults and kids alike can learn about geology, ecology, and Native American history in an immersive and enchanting setting. For families seeking an extraordinary blend of adventure and education, Havasupai stands as an unparalleled destination, promising a journey filled with awe, inspiration, and shared memories that will endure for generations. 

When to hike Havasupai

The best time of year to visit Havasupai with kids is typically during the spring and fall seasons. April through June and September through October offer ideal weather conditions for a family adventure in the canyon. During spring, the temperatures are mild, creating a comfortable environment for hiking and camping. The waterfalls are also likely to be flowing at their peak during this time. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38°C), making it less suitable for families, especially with young children. Monsoon season in Havasupai typically occurs during the months of July and August. This period is characterized by increased rainfall, which can lead to flash floods in the canyon. Winter can bring colder temperatures and the potential for snow, making trail conditions challenging.

Accommodations in Havasupai

Hiking Havasupai (with or without kids) is not a day trip. Anyone entering the reservation must have previously made arrangements with either the campground or the lodge in Supai Village. The minimum stay is 3 nights. A room at the lodge for 3 nights in 2024 is $2277. 2024 Camping prices are $455 per person per night, with a 3 night minimum as well. My family and I went in 2023, and the lodge was under renovation at the time. We stayed in the campground. Campground reservations can be difficult to secure (see below for more info). 

The campground is 2 miles from the Village of Supai, where the lodge is located. It’s an easy 2-mile hike, and you even get to go past one of the smaller but still amazing waterfalls – Little Navajo Falls. There is a part of the trail where you cross Havasu Creek, just before entering the campground. My kids loved going over the bridges. I was a tad nervous because we had our packs on, and the bridges were temporary (more on that later), but no one fell in, and we all made it to the campground safe and sound! 

Reservations at Havasupai

The increasing popularity of Havasupai over the last decade or more has led to a fairly complicated campground reservation system. The first order of business is to create an account with the tribe. Initially, you can try to get in on their lottery for reservation dates. The chances of you getting chosen in the lottery system are very slim. 

Cancellations

However, another option is to take advantage of another group’s cancellation. You can go to the website and click on the link for cancellations/transfers. This list updates daily with reservation cancellations. This is how we got our reservations.

The hard part about the cancellation system is that the reservation is already made for specific dates and for a specific number of people. You have to be willing to go for the dates available with the correct number of people. It took me checking every single day for months before I found a date and a group size that fit what we needed. And you have to snatch it up immediately when you see it, because by the end of the day the available cancellations have usually all been taken. May the odds be ever in your favor!

Additional resources

The tribe also has an official Facebook page with loads of great information. As your trip to Havasupai with kids draws closer, you’ll want to check into things like the weather and other updates from the tribe. Their Facebook page is a wonderful place to read the experiences of others who hiked there recently and read information that the tribe has put out regarding trail conditions, etc.

Pack mule reservations

One other consideration to make when planning your trip to Havasupai with kids is whether or not you’ll use pack mules. You can pay to have some of the tribe members strap your packs to a mule and transport your gear to the bottom of the canyon for you. More information can be found on the reservations page after you create your account with the link above. There will be a button titled “Your Pack Mule Reservation.” 

Preparing for the hike (where to stay the night before)

Once you’ve made all your reservations, you’ll want to pack your bags. If you need information on how to pack for a backpacking trip with kids, check out that linked post for tons of great ideas and gear recommendations.

The thing about hiking Havasupai with kids is that the closest overnight accommodations are located at the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn in Peach Springs, AZ. If you want to get an early start on the hike (which I highly recommend), you will want to be as close to Hualapai Hilltop (the trailhead) as possible the night before. 

Grand Canyon Caverns Inn is also the pickup point for the tags you will need to have on your packs if you are sending them via pack mule and the permit you need to get onto the reservation. All I have to say about this place is that I am glad we only stayed one night. It’s definitely an experience. It’s a little over an hour’s drive from the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn to the trailhead.

On your drive, you’ll come to a stop sign that seems to be in the middle of nowhere. Someone will be at the stop sign checking to make sure you have a reservation, so you’ll want to have your paperwork handy. Once you pass this checkpoint, you’re almost to the trail head! You haven’t even started your adventure and it’s already been quite a road trip! 

Hiking the Supai Village trail

The distance from the Hualapai Hilltop trailhead to Supai Village is 8 miles. I won’t lie to you; it’s a long hike and a hard 8 miles. You start with a series of switchbacks going down into the canyon. There is almost no shade for most of the 8 miles, so be prepared with lots of sunscreen and any other sun protection you want.

In the summer months, temperatures can surpass 100 degrees Fahrenheit. We made the trek in March. The temperatures were mild, but the sun was shining. I made sure everyone had lots of water and encouraged them to remember to stay hydrated. 

Supai Village is a wonderful sight to see after hiking for 8 miles! We stopped at the little cafe there and ordered a snack to share. Then we started on towards the campground. Just before you get to the campground you’re met with the most amazing view of Havasu Falls! It makes all of the previous 10 miles worth it. 

Finding a campsite at Havasupai

The Havasupai Campground has no marked sites. All of the spaces are first come, first served. The Havasu Creek runs right through the campground, so if you can find a flat spot beside the turquoise waters you should snatch it.

The campground has a spring where campers can get fresh, clean water to fill their water bottles, as well as composting toilets on each end of the campground. Be sure to bring your own toilet paper though. 

There are some picnic tables dispersed throughout the campground. You’ll have to get there early if you want to set up your tent near a table. In my experience, other campers will share the table with you if you ask. It’s hard to cook without a table or a flat surface. Campfires are not allowed. You’ll need to cook on a portable stove.

Mooney Falls

After your first dayjust getting to the campground, it’s time to explore. The far end of the campground overlooks another phenomenal waterfall – Mooney Falls. We hiked down to this waterfall on our second day. From the top, it looks like a treacherous journey getting down. If you’re afraid of heights, this might not be the hike for you.

In order to get down to Mooney Falls, you’ll have to use the metal chain anchored into the canyon wall. There was a pile of gloves at the beginning of the descent, but if you’re very concerned about having gloves, please bring your own.

The chain is very wet. It isn’t hard to hold onto, though. The spray from the waterfall is continually soaking the area where the chain is. You’ll definitely get damp on your way down, and back up, the chain. In the summer this would probably be very refreshing! In the spring we didn’t take too long to dry so it wasn’t unpleasant to get a little wet. When was the last time you were close enough to a waterfall to get wet in its spray? I say embrace this amazing experience!

We stayed at Mooney Falls for a short time. The kids wore their swimming suits and got in the water a bit. It was magical to sit there and take in the waterfall. Mooney Falls was my favorite of all the waterfalls we saw in Havasupai. 

Beaver Falls

The hike from Mooney Falls to Beaver Falls is about 3 miles. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but you will cross Havasu Creek several times during those three miles. As you’re traveling with kids, this will take a while. Parts of the creek are fairly deep, about to an adult’s thigh. The water wasn’t moving very quickly while we were there, but you will want to be sure that your kids are within arm’s distance when crossing the creek.

The rocks in the creek shift easily and are slippery in places. There was one crossing where almost everyone in our group fell at the same part of the creek! Plan on getting wet by bringing quick dry clothes or packing an extra set of clothes in a waterproof bag. 

Bridges and ladders

When you’re almost to Beaver Falls you will come to a series of ladders leading up and down the boulders. There is also a creek crossing that, when we were there, was too deep to wade through. There was an existing “bridge” made up of a couple of narrow logs/boards that led to a rope you could grab to help yourself up a ladder waiting on the other side.

This, by far, required the most bravery and skill to accomplish, but everyone in our group made it safely to Beaver Falls. The youngest member of our group was 11 years old. I was never worried about whether they would make it, but we had to work together to get everyone up, down, and across all of the many obstacles between Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls.

When we got to Beaver Falls, a member of the tribe was there making sure everyone who went to the falls made it back out. There was a storm coming in, and it did end up raining hard that night. The tribal member let us know that we needed to head back to the campground by a certain hour, for safety reasons. 

Footwear considerations for hiking in Havasupai

Footwear is another important part of hiking in this area. Because you will be crossing the water several times, you’ll want to have suitable shoes or sandals. This could be sandals, water shoes, or regular tennis shoes if you have a backup pair to put on after the hike. The actual hiking part requires sturdy soles, so if you bring water shoes, I would either change into your hiking boots after crossing the water or bring water shoes with a sturdy sole.

I will also note that my husband carried several children (and also me) across the creek more than once. It took a long time to take socks and shoes off and then put them back on again after crossing. He’s a trooper!

Havasupai wildlife

Another highlight of our hike on this day was the wildlife. The canyon has a rich biodiversity of native species, such as mule deer, bobcats and bighorn sheep. We came around a bend and saw several bighorn sheep just hanging out on the side of the trail. They took no notice of us and continued to eat their delicious green grass.

The calls of canyon wrens echo through the air, while colorful songbirds flit among the vibrant foliage as you’re hiking. Keep a keen eye out for the turkey vultures soaring overhead and the acrobatic antics of agile squirrels and chipmunks scampering through the lush undergrowth. 

The Confluence

Though we only made it to Beaver Falls, the trail continues to the confluence of the Colorado River and Havasu Creek. From what I have read about this part of the hike, it requires even more water crossings and is not easy.

It’s about 5 miles from Beaver Falls to the confluence. I don’t think I would attempt it with younger children. However, if I had teenagers and they wanted to do the hike, I think it would be a realistic goal to make it to the confluence.

Day three activities: rest, explore, and fry bread

The tribe requires a three-night reservation, so on the third day, we got to rest a bit. We hiked the few miles back into the village for a snack from the cafe there. At the top of the hill, just before reaching the campground, there is something you will not want to miss. A couple of tribal members set up a fry bread stand. My son said eating the fry bread was the highlight of the trip, which is so funny to me! After you purchase the fry bread there is a table with chocolate syrup, strawberry syrup, peanut butter, honey, powdered sugar, and more. I think the kids put every one of the toppings on their fry bread!

After the most delicious fry bread treat we made our way back to the campground. We napped, played cards, swam in the turquoise water of Havasu Falls, and just enjoyed being in such an incredibly beautiful place.

The hike out of Havasupai

In all honesty, I was incredibly nervous about the hike out. Hiking down into a canyon and hiking all the way back up it are two very different things. The hardest part of the hike back, all of the switchbacks, is at the very end on the way back up. They come after hiking over 8 miles from the campground. The lack of shade made me nervous too, because if all went as planned, we would be getting to the switchbacks a little after midday, when the sun is high. 

Turns out I had nothing to worry about. The kids were literally running up the switchbacks at the end of the trail. They were so excited to get back to the car and take their packs off, they had no trouble with the switchbacks or lack of energy. I brought up the rear, and they were all waiting for me as I came up to the last turn! 

Hiking Havasupai with kids

Hiking Havasupai with kids is not for the faint of heart. It requires a lot of preparation and must be planned months in advance. However, all of the planning and preparation are worth it. As you navigate the rocky red landscape and crystalline waters of Havasupai with your children, the bond forged through shared challenges and the sense of accomplishment will create lasting memories for your entire family. Witnessing the wide-eyed wonder of your little ones as they explore this natural wonderland is a testament to the profound impact that such an expedition can have on young minds!

The breathtaking beauty of Havasupai, coupled with the educational experiences it offers, makes every moment invested in preparation worthwhile. It’s a journey that goes beyond the physical exertion, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories and instilling in your children a lifelong appreciation for the great outdoors. The experience is one that you will look back on for the rest of your life and think, “I can’t believe we did that!”

Have you ever hiked Havasupai with kids?
Would you consider it?

About the author

Wendy is a married momma who recently moved from San Diego to Virginia. She’s raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out of doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as the garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth; we just have to open our eyes to see it.

You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

The post Hiking Havasupai With Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*Some experiences in this post were sponsored by Pursuit for review purposes. All opinions expressed belong to the author.

Exploring Banff with kids

Chances are you’ve probably heard people absolutely rave about Banff. But, why? What makes Banff so great for kids?

Banff has so much to offer you can easily tailor your trip to meet the needs of your family. Banff is not only a haven for nature lovers and adventure travelers but also a wonderful destination for families seeking unforgettable experiences. Its unparalleled beauty lies in the juxtaposition of snow-capped peaks against crystal-clear bright blue glacial lakes – visually, it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring. Banff’s array of outdoor activities ranges from world-class hiking trails and exhilarating wildlife encounters to pristine skiing slopes in the winter months.

You can stay in the city of Banff (within the national park) for a more comfortable experience with a wide range of lodging, restaurants, and shopping. Plus, Banff has excellent public transportation, which takes some of the stress out of navigating a new place with your kids in tow. Or, check out more remote adventures in Banff, from campgrounds to cabins to backpacking. 

Every time we visit Banff National Park we learn something and experience something new. Let us share our experiences to make your next trip to Banff National Park with your family extra memorable.

About Banff

Banff National Park, established in 1885, stands as Canada’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it encompasses 6,641 square kilometers of awe-inspiring landscapes, including rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. The park was created to preserve the stunning natural beauty and promote outdoor recreation. Banff remains a testament to this commitment, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its extensive network of hiking trails, opportunities for wildlife observation, and winter sports adventures.

What sets Banff apart is not only its stunning vistas but also the immersive experiences it offers, allowing visitors to forge a profound connection with the untamed wilderness. Here, the untethered spirit of adventure meets the serenity of nature, making Banff an extraordinary and unparalleled destination for those who yearn to explore the great outdoors.

Getting to Banff

Unless you’re close enough to road trip to Banff, most people fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC). From here, it’s easiest to rent a car to get around. However you can purchase seats on charter buses that leave directly from the terminal and will drop you right at your hotel in Banff. Banff has an excellent public bus system (more on this later), which makes it very possible not to rent a car if you plan to only spend time in Banff during your visit to the Canadian Rockies.

If you do rent a car (easy to do at the airport), and need to burn off some energy after a long flight, head to the Bow River. You can choose to spend a few hours exploring the Calgary Zoo or take a walk along the Bow River Pathway, which stretches 48 km around the city.

The drive from Calgary to Banff is easy to navigate and entertaining, as the plains transition into towering rocky mountains before your eyes. Expect it to take 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic and if you need to make a pit stop.

PC: Sarah Boles
Bow River Pathway downtown is a great way to get exercise after a long flight to Calgary before driving to Banff.

Best Banff attractions for kids

Like most visitors, an opportunity to experience Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is what convinced us to plan our first trip to the Canadian Rockies. We were very pleasantly surprised to find out that a wide variety of activities exist even just within the city of Banff. As a result, we can visit Banff every year and try out new activities, restaurants, and hikes, without getting bored.

If this is your first visit to Banff, or you only plan to visit once, here are a few of our bucket list family adventures.

Banff Gondola

Riding a gondola in the Canadian Rockies is one of those iconic experiences that everyone should have. The Banff Gondola does not disappoint! It takes you on an eight-minute ride up the side of Sulphur Mountain to a discovery center. Here, you can head outside to explore the boardwalk to the summit of Sanson’s Peak and the Cosmic Ray Station. During the day views are incredible – they are not kidding when they claim you can see six different mountain ranges.

I suggest heading up an hour before sunset to watch the transition from day to night fall over the river valley. The discovery center has a delicious restaurant – Sky Bistro, which is not the most kid friendly place, but a must dine for adults if you have a kid-free meal. However, there is a coffee shop with snacks, and the exhibits are great for kids. There’s even an app you can download to guide your kids through the center called “Agents of Discovery”.

You do not need to reserve a gondola ride back down, so you can stay as long as your kids are still entertained. Just make sure to ask when the last gondola is scheduled to head down that evening, as it changes depending on the time of year.

PC: Sarah Boles
Ride the Banff Gondola with your kids for epic views of the Bow River Valley and beyond.

PC: Sarah Boles
Kids love to explore the boardwalk at the top of the Banff Gondola.

Boat rentals with kids

We love how the Banff Townsite is built around the Bow River. You can explore its banks, but we prefer to get up close and personal and see the city from the water. I highly recommend renting a watercraft from the Banff Canoe Club. Their location is easy to access whether we stay in town or further out, and we have options on where we paddle.

The Banff Canoe Club’s boat launch sits on a quiet part of the river, where you can easily head around the bend through the main stretch of town for a shorter, yet entertaining paddle. If you’re looking for a longer adventure, you can make your way out to the Vermillion Lakes and back in a few hours. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, they deal with all experience levels well, and they have reasonable prices for rentals – exactly what to look for in a business when paddling with kids on vacation.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Banff Canoe Club rents canoes and kayaks on the Bow River near downtown Banff.

PC: Sarah Boles
A family canoes with their daughter for the first time on the Bow River in Banff.

Best kid-friendly hikes in Banff

Being a national park, Banff has a huge variety of trails for all levels of hikers. You can find everything from extremely remote backpacking trails to paved trails in town. It can be easy to forget you are out in the wild when hiking near town; always be bear aware. Certain hikes require bear spray and groups of four or more hikers, depending on the season.

Here are a few recommendations for shorter hiking adventures with your family.

Tunnel Mountain hike with kids

Tunnel Mountain is an iconic Banff hike in part because its trailhead is located downtown. It’s a half mile walk east from Banff Avenue to the trailhead at the lower parking area. From there, the trail winds upward through the forest, offering views of downtown Banff and the surrounding mountains as you climb. Round trip the hike clocks in at just under three miles with under 1,000 feet elevation gain. For a summit hike, this trail is very kid-friendly, even for younger walkers.

PC: Sarah Boles
Head to Tunnel Mountain for a great, kid-friendly hike in downtown Banff.

Bow River Falls hike with kids

For a mostly flat hike near downtown, take the Bow River Trail to Bow River Falls. The trail follows the river through the woods along the river. It’s dirt most of the way, with wooden stairs built into the path as you get closer to the falls. The trail has lots of social trails that lead you to benches and clearings along the river, so you need to keep a close eye on young hikers. However, the trail itself is far enough from the river banks that you shouldn’t have an issue catching up with a young one who takes off on their own path.

It’s very common to spot elk on or near the trail, especially during the morning. Make sure to review wildlife safety with your kids before setting out.

To get to the Bow River Trail from downtown you can walk along the trail on either side of the Bow River. We like to cross the river on the pedestrian bridge closest to the falls, because it has a rainbow painted on it. The falls are best enjoyed from the trail along the southwest side of the river.

Past the base of the falls you can interact more with the river itself. There’s space in calmer water to dip your toes in (it’s ice cold by the way), and see who can make the biggest splash or skip their rock the farthest.

We love this hike because it can take an hour or three, depending on how much exploring we do along the river. It’s also a great picnic hike with lots of spots to stop and enjoy a bite. Most importantly, it’s pretty impossible to get lost on this trail. The Banff Townsite does an excellent job with signage, making it easy to navigate your way back, even if you get distracted and stray from the river trail.

This is our go to hike if the weather is less than ideal, someone doesn’t feel well, or wildfire smoke is an issue.

PC: Sarah Boles
Kids love to cross the Bow River on the rainbow pedestrian bridge in Banff.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Bow River Trail has lots of fun spots to stop along the trail. They’re great to rest short legs or to have a picnic with your kids.

The area at the base of Bow River Falls is a great place to let your kids explore the river in much calmer waters.

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake with kids

And, of course, there’s those world-famous natural glacial lakes located in Banff National Park that you hear so much about – Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. There’s a ton to do near the city of Banff, but if you cannot resist experiencing Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in real life, here’s what you need to know.

PC: Wendy Cox
You can make your visit to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Banff extra memorable by renting a canoe with your kids.

Getting to Lake Louise – public transportation

To get to Lake Louise, you can reserve a seat on the Roam Transit bus to the Lake Louise Lakeshore so that you don’t have to worry about driving or parking. Tickets for children 12 and under are free, but they still need a ticket to reserve their seat. One-way tickets to Lake Louise from downtown Banff cost $10 for adults. You can purchase a day pass for $25.

I highly recommend taking public transportation when you’re visiting Banff. It’s convenient, easy, and takes the guesswork out of things. The only drawback is that you have to stick to a schedule. Because of this, I recommend getting a later reservation. If your family is finished earlier, then you can get in line for an earlier bus, and if they have room, they will let you on. 

Year-round, you can book a seat on the 8x route, which leaves from the Roam Transport Centre in front of Banff High School. During the summer, on the weekends, the 8s route also runs from downtown Banff along the Bow Parkway, a more scenic route. If you are not staying downtown Banff, you can park your car for free at the Banff Train Station and walk to the bus stop.

PC: Sarah Boles The Roam Transit public bus system is the easiest way to get from Banff to Lake Louise with your kids.

Getting to Lake Louise – driving your family

You can also choose to drive your family to Lake Louise. If you do this, during peak season (mid-May through mid-October), you will need to make a Parks Canada account and reserve a shuttle to access Lake Louise. In 2023, they implemented a bus system to reduce crowding. You will park at a park n’ ride near the Trans Canada Highway and take the shuttle.

The online shuttle reservation system is a bit frustrating, so mentally prepare yourself for this. Also, 40% of tickets are released in the spring. Don’t worry that everything is sold out, though; they release the remaining 60% of tickets at 8 a.m. two days prior, so set your alarm for 7:55 a.m. to snag up the seats you need. But, do yourself a favor – create your Parks Canada account ahead of time, not in those precious minutes before the remaining tickets are released (you can thank us later).

Exploring Lake Louise with kids

Before you start planning your Lake Louise adventure, be honest with yourself and set some realistic expectations – it will be crowded. People come from around the world to visit the Canadian Rockies, and this is the iconic spot that has drawn them to the region. Pack your patience and your snacks.

You can try to schedule your visit earlier in the morning if that works with your family, but keep in mind people flock here to photograph the gorgeous glacial blue waters at sunrise, sunset, and every time in between. As you walk the shore looking for your postcard-perfect view, one great thing is there will always be someone to take a family photo for you.

If your family likes to hike, we highly recommend moving on to Moraine Lake to create some distance between your family and the crowds.

PC: Sarah Boles
It’s hard to crop out the thousands of other people at Lake Louise in Banff to capture the perfect family photo with your kids, but it’s possible.

Getting to Moraine Lake with kids

Starting in 2023, experiencing Moraine Lake requires more planning. First of all, the road is closed to all vehicles from mid-October through June (weather dependent) due to avalanches. Over the summer, a Parks Canada shuttle connector bus runs from Lake Louise Lakeshore to Moraine Lake. You need to reserve your pass online ahead of time. Just like the Parks Canada buses from the Park ‘n’ Ride, they release 40% of the seats in the spring, and the remaining 60% become available online at 8 am. two days prior.

If you cannot find seats on the Parks Canada shuttle, you can look into booking a shuttle with a private bus company. This is also how you can reach Moraine Lake if you want to arrive before sunrise or stay past 6 pm. (when the final Parks Canada shuttle leaves for Lake Louise).

PC: Sarah Boles
Pack your patience! While very well organized, the shuttle system for visiting Moraine Lake in Banff requires passes purchased ahead of time, and waiting in line, which can be stressful with your kids in tow.

Exploring Moraine Lake with kids

Moraine Lake is a whole different scene than Lake Louise (thankfully). The bus will drop you off a very short walk from the shore. From here, you can head right for a walk along the lakeshore. It’s a dirt trail with tree roots – stroller friendly (although a bit bumpy), kid friendly, and there are many places to access the water (again, it’s ice cold). If you have an hour or less, this is how to experience the lake with your kids.

You can also rent canoes to paddle Moraine Lake. The lakeshore trail will lead you to the Lake Lodge, which rents canoes from its dock. However, this is not one of those spur-of-the-moment decisions. Rentals are first come, first served, which means you may have to wait (hard with kids), or if you come too late in the day, you will be out of luck. Also, since only one company has the right to rent boats on the lake, the cost is … astronomical. (As in over $100 U.S. dollars an hour – ouch, right!)

This is one of those bucket-list experiences that you need to budget for and decide if this is how you want to experience this world-famous lake. If you do it, you will not be disappointed. We just want to make sure you know that hiking around the lake offers amazing views as well, so if your kids aren’t fans of hanging out in the canoe or won’t help paddle, your trip to Moraine Lake will still be fantastically memorable.

PC: Sarah Boles
Rent a canoe to paddle Moraine Lake in Banff with your kids from the Moraine Lake Resort.

Best Moraine Lake hikes with kids

If you have more time, there are some excellent hiking options in the Moraine Lake area for families. From the parking lot, head left on the trail when you near the lakeshore. You will join the crowds by climbing up the Rockpile, a rocky outcropping along the lakeshore with epic views of the lake.

Depending on the crowds, you may be able to squeeze this adventure into an hour, but 1.5 hours will allow you time to take in the views, arrange photos without other tourists, and not have to worry about weaving through the crowds with kids to reach the shuttle bus.

Larch Valley

One of the best hikes from Moraine Lake is to Larch Valley. Of course, the larch trees light up in fall, making it the best time to make this hike. But you will find this hike enjoyable anytime, and much less crowded than hanging around the lakeshore. This takes you to more remote areas, which means you should bring bear spray and stay together on trail.

Take the lakeshore trail to find the Larch Valley trailhead just past the Moraine Lake Lodge. After the first kilometer (a bit over half a mile), the trail becomes less groomed, and you will begin a series of steeper switchbacks. It’s still very doable for kids, but use this as a good place to stop for a drink and check-in. If anyone is not in good spirits, head back down and explore more of the lakeshore. If not, continue on as the trail leads through the woods up the mountainside. You will enjoy views of the lake as well as wildflowers during the summer, and of course, the largest concentration of larch trees will change from green to lemon-lime to brilliant gold as fall arrives.

Consolation Lakes

We also love hiking to Consolation Lakes from Moraine Lake. Once you check out the Rockpile, head back down the stairs to find the trailhead for Consolation Lakes Trail. You will travel through the forest on a relatively easy path – not a lot of elevation gain here. You can go as far as the first alpine lake, if you want, which makes the trail a bit over 3.5 miles round trip. The best part about this trail – even though it’s easy and gorgeous, not a lot of people take it. Just remember your bear spray, like any trail in the Moraine Lake area.

PC: Tine Voeten
The Lakeshore Trail at Moraine Lake in Banff has lots of spots to rest tired legs, as well as to dip your toes in the clear cold waters.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Rockpile is a very popular and easily accessible place to take photos of Moraine Lake in Banff. Continue on this trail to hike toward Consolation Lakes for a quieter, less crowded experience.

PC: Sarah Boles
To distance yourself from the crowds, branch off from the lakeshore trail at Moraine Lake and head up the Larch Valley Trail. This kid-friendly trail leads you to the highest concentration of larch trees in all of Banff, which turn golden at the end of September each year.

Where to stay in Banff with kids

Banff has so many housing options for your stay; there’s literally something perfect for every family. We have found the most important thing to keep in mind when looking at housing there is that we don’t actually spend much time in our hotel room! There’s just so much to do! All we really need is a solid basecamp to rest our heads.

Elk + Avenue Hotel lofts great for families

With that in mind, Elk + Avenue is a favorite of ours thanks to it being located directly across the street from the Roam Transit hub. This simplifies travel for us, which is important. This hotel is located in the middle of everything, including our favorite souvenir shop and restaurants. It’s also a short walk to the river, to the Tunnel Mountain trailhead for hiking, and to the elementary school when we need to burn off some energy on the playground.

We also like Elk + Avenue because they have loft rooms. Something about high ceilings just makes it feel like we have more space when we travel with our kids. The lofted rooms also help create separation between the sleeping area and the space to hang out, which feels more like home.

Elk + Avenue has tons of comfy social spaces on the main floor of the hotel that help us never feel cooped up in our hotel room when we need downtime. These come in handy at nap time, because they allow us to divide and conquer. One adult can head back to our room with our nappers, while another can take the older kiddos who just need some quiet time in the lobby to play board games they have on hand, or cuddle up by the fireplace and read books/play on their devices.

PC: Sarah Boles
Elk + Avenue hotel in Banff has tons of comfortable spaces to relax when your kids need downtime.

PC: Sarah Boles
The loft rooms at Elk + Avenue give us enough space to unwind when we need to relax after a day of adventuring around Banff as a family.

Kids love the rooftop hot tubs in Banff

Two other places stick out as awesome family hotels in Banff: the Mount Royale and the Fairmont Banff Springs. Mount Royale sits a few blocks closer to the Bow River, down Banff Avenue from Elk + Avenue. Besides the great location, we love Mount Royale because it has two rooftop hot tubs! From the rooftop, you have uninterrupted views of everything from Mount Rundle to the shops along Banff Ave to Cascade Mountain. Our favorite upscale restaurant in Banff – Brazen – is located in this hotel as well.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Mount Royale hotel is a total package for families. Not only is it in the middle of all the action in Banff, it has a rooftop hot tub and delicious restaurant.

PC: Sarah Boles
Families love to hang out on the rooftop at the Mount Royale hotel in Banff. There are two hot tubs and an indoor and outdoor lounge space. The views are epic day and night.

Kids at the Castle in Banff

The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel sits on the hillside, towering over the Bow River. It’s an iconic place to stay in Banff, for good reason. It’s off the main drag in town, making it quieter, and its position high on the hillside offers unique views of the mountains and river valley.

We like the Fairmont because of its kid programming, “Kids @ the Castle.” They host activities for ages 3-12 (must be potty-trained), everything from float trips to tennis lessons to hikes. The Fairmont has plenty of adult things to do while your kids play, including a golf course and a spa. Even if you don’t stay there, you’ll get a great view of the Fairmont if you hike the Bow River Trail to Bow River Falls.

PC: Sarah Boles
The Fairmont Banff Springs is a fantastic hotel in Banff, especially for families.

Where to eat in Banff with kids

Banff is a melting pot of amazing cuisine. You will find delicious options for any type of food, from Italian to Indian to Greek. Plus, Alberta is known for its high quality beef production, making it easy to find any delicious beef and potatoes style meal of your choosing here.

Our favorite upscale restaurant in town is Brazen, located at the Mount Royale Hotel on Banff Avenue. Honestly, if it were in the budget we would eat every meal here, and thanks to the variety and unique offerings, we could do so and not get bored.

If you head to Brazen for brunch, we highly recommend the avocado toast. For dinner, have everyone order something different and then share. Make sure someone orders the Ginger Beef, the kids (and adults) will love the fiery presentation that goes along with it as it’s served.

We love to eat a meal here with our family because the menu (which changes seasonally) always features something new to introduce our kids to, from the ramen duck eggs (our favorite) to the swordfish to the bison skewers. For picky eaters, you can’t go wrong with the kid’s hamburger meal, which comes with a side of tater tots and an ice cream cookie sandwich.

You don’t have to go far to find a good coffee shop in Banff either. We haven’t found one we don’t like, but we keep going back to Evelyn’s Coffee Bar, centrally located on Banff Avenue. Everyone loves their food as well. From pastries to breakfast burritos, we haven’t tried anything that hasn’t been completely devoured.

Banff Avenue has plenty of ice cream and candy options as well, if you choose not to have dessert at the restaurant. 

PC: Sarah Boles
If you only take one piece of our advice, head over to Brazen for a meal with your family. They specialize in unique, sharable plates. The ginger beef comes with a fiery presentation your kids will love.

PC: Sarah Boles
Brazen has a super unique menu that changes seasonally. And while it’s a great opportunity to introduce your kids to new dishes, they will appreciate that all kid’s meals come with an ice cream cookie.

PC: Sarah Boles
Banff Avenue alone has tons of ice cream and candy shops to treat your kids while vacationing in Banff.

Where to shop in Banff with kids

We are guilty of loving to purchase souvenirs on our trips, especially if we visit somewhere very unique. Banff Avenue is lined with shopping options, from big outdoor brands to a range of souvenir shops. We discovered Big Bear Trading Co. on our first visit and now that’s the only place we stop. The selection is ample, prices are fair, and most importantly, the quality is high. We haven’t needed to replace our Banff apparel from here because they have stood the test of time.

PC: Sarah Boles
We head straight to Big Bear Trading Co. for all our souvenirs. It’s located on Banff Avenue not far from the Roam Transit Hub.

Transportation around Banff with kids

Banff has public transportation figured out. The Roam Transit bus system goes everywhere you need to be. You can take it around town as well as out to more remote parts of the park, including Lake Louise. In fact, if you present your Banff Gondola ticket, the Roam bus will take you back to town for free.

Even if you have a car with you, you may opt to take the Roam bus to get around. This will relieve the stress of navigating around an unfamiliar place. You also won’t have to worry about vehicle and pedestrian traffic, parking, and abiding by the very low (and well-enforced) speed limits in town.

PC: Sarah Boles
Taking the Roam bus everywhere makes getting around Banff so much easier as a family. Plus, the main bus stop is located across the street from our favorite place to stay, Elk + Avenue hotel.

What to skip when you visit Banff with kids

If you need help narrowing down the long list of activities you made, let us share a few tips.

The Lake Minnewanka boat tour in Banff is gorgeous. We highly recommend it for adults – they even have a booze cruise with local craft beers available – but it’s not the greatest for little kids (six and under). It may feel tempting to take the entire family on the Junior Cruise, as it’s shorter, and kids under 5 ride free. But, it’s still an hour long, and there’s no bathroom on the boat (a huge red flag as a parent).

If you have recently potty trained kiddos, even up to age 5, we recommend skipping this. While the Junior Cruise is very interactive, you still sit in your seats for most of the tour, with up to eight people permitted to go outside on the back of the boat at a time. Even when you do get up to move around and go outside, it can be hard to balance for little legs.

However, the Junior Cruise is perfect for kids ages 6-12, so if you don’t have littles with you, by all means, check it out. If you do have littles, we recommend using the funds you would have spent on the boat cruise to take everyone up the Banff Gondola, where there’s plenty of room to explore atop the mountain, food, and clean bathrooms.

Some may disagree, but I have to say, it’s ok to skip Lake Louise and Moraine Lake if you have your kids with you. Honestly, there’s so much more to do in Banff, that dealing with thousands of people all trying to capture a postcard image of themselves with this lake makes all the logistics not so worth it – whether you have your kids with you or not. Unless you just have to experience Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in real life (which we understand as well!), I suggest skipping it, especially if you visit during July and August. For reference, we have only visited the lakes in mid-May and early September for this exact reason. If we go any other time of year, we skip it. And even during those “off-season” times, it was still way too crowded for us to really enjoy ourselves.

PC: Sarah Boles
The boat cruises at Lake Minnewanka are a great way to see the glacial waters and rocky peaks of Banff National Park. However, we recommend skipping this if you have younger kids as there are no bathrooms on the boats.

PC: Sarah Boles
A tour guide explains the legend surrounding the city at the bottom of Lake Minnewanka during a boat cruise. We recommend these interactive cruises for school age kids and adults. 

Best time to visit Banff with kids

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your vacation to Banff National Park.

• It snows a lot in the Canadian Rockies! If you do not want snow involved in your vacation, stick to the main tourist season, which runs from mid-May through mid-October.
• During peak season, Banff Avenue closes to vehicle traffic to allow tourists more space to move. Restaurants set up outdoor seating on the road to accommodate the influx of visitors as well. If you’re driving, plan accordingly. 
• The road to Moraine Lake is only open June through October (weather permitting).
• Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the other glacial lakes in the area reach their peak turquoise color in June.
• Larch season, or peak fall colors, occur in the few weeks between the end of September and mid October. Keep in mind, your chance for snow begins around this time as well in the higher elevations.
• An increasingly bigger concern in Banff National Park is wildfires. It’s not just the worry about wildfires causing destruction in the area. The smoke from wildfires farther north in Alberta travels down and can quickly transform your expansive views of the Rockies to nothing but an orange glow. This can be an issue at any time during the main tourism season, unfortunately.

PC: Wendy Cox
Banff has so many perfect hiking trails for families you can keep coming back year after year and not hit them all.

Visiting Banff with kids – bottom line

Banff National Park is a wonderful place for a unique experience with kids, regardless of how outdoorsy and adventurous your family is. You can conquer the rapids of the Bow River together, bike along the Bow Valley Parkway when it closes to vehicles, or backpack remote trails through grizzly bear country. Or, you can have an equally memorable time with your family dipping toes in ice-cold turquoise waters of glacial lakes, summiting a mountain via a gondola, or walking along the Bow River looking for wildlife.

Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, is the perfect outdoor vacation destination for any family.

Have you ever explored Banff National Park with kids?

About the author

Writer, editor, photographer, teacher, and mama. Sarah Boles resides near Kansas City, Missouri, and escapes into the woods whenever she can. Her professional and personal mission is to help families get outside by increasing access to the outdoors for everyone. When she’s not creating or teaching, Sarah’s playing outside, usually with her kids. She loves to climb, hike, run trails, snowshoe, paddle, jump in puddles, garden, and pick up trash.

You can find more from Sarah online in the following locations: 
Instagram: @on_belay_edits
RWMC posts: Sarah Boles

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The idea to try something new

My husband and I have been married for 7 years now, and he knows that I love to come up with unique adventures for our family. Very rarely does he ever say no to a new adventure, no matter how outlandish some of my ideas are. So, when I asked him one day, “Are you up for something crazy?” He responded, “Sure, why not?!” 

My idea was to try bikepacking, which would involve biking our camping gear (and our 3 young children) to a campsite for a weekend. After looking for a route and campground near us, we decided we could totally make this happen! Here’s our story, a bit of information about bikepacking, and some tips that helped us along the way. 

What is bikepacking

Bikepacking combines elements of backpacking and traditional biking. It involves using a bicycle as a means of transportation to carry your camping and outdoor gear to your campsite. It’s similar to backpacking (in that you’re carrying all your camping gear with you), but you have the benefit of being on your bike, which can get you farther, and faster. 

Benefits of bikepacking

Bikepacking is all about immersing yourself in nature and exploring remote areas that may not be accessible by traditional vehicles. Bikepacking allows you to cover more ground than traditional hiking, allowing you to explore larger areas within a given time frame. You can also travel between different campsites or explore multiple destinations in a single trip.

Cycling is an efficient (and eco-friendly!) mode of transportation, allowing you to carry more gear and cover longer distances without the fatigue associated with backpacking. However, bikepacking can still be physically demanding, as you may encounter steep climbs, rugged trails, and various weather conditions. It offers a satisfying physical challenge for those who love both cycling and the outdoors.

All packed up and ready to start our bikepacking adventure!

What you need to go bikepacking with kids

If you’re interested in a bikepacking adventure, the type and quantity of gear you need will depend on the specifics of your trip and your family. You’ll want to consider things like the duration of your trip, the terrain you’ll be biking on, how long you’ll be camping and the weather. Here’s a general list of essential gear you should consider for bikepacking:

• Bikes — Each person on your trip will need a reliable, well-maintained bike suitable for the terrain you’ll be riding on. If you don’t have a bike trailer or one that carries kids, they’ll each need their own bike, too. Mountain bikes are commonly used for bikepacking, and e-bikes are growing in popularity (this is what we used…more on our bikes below).
• Bikepacking bags — There are various types of bags that fit on bikes. They can attach to the frame, the handlebars, the seat, etc. You could also pack your camping gear in a haul-behind trailer (we love this Burley). 
• Camping gear — You’ll need to pack all your camping gear in the bags to bring with you. This includes your tent and sleep systems, clothing, food/water, cooking and eating equipment, flashlights, first aid, etc. 
• Tools and repair equipment — You’ll want to pack tools for bike repairs and adjustments. Items include a multi-tool, tire repair kit, spare tube, tire pump, chain and links, etc. If you have an ebike, bring along an extra battery or a way to charge your battery at your campsite. Also, it’s good to know how to repair your bike and fix tire issues before heading out so that you’re prepared. 

Just a reminder that no trip is perfect! We came upon a part of the closed greenway and had to find a different route on our GPS.

Assessing our bike setup

Our bike situation is a bit unique, in that we have two e-bikes, both designed to haul kids and gear. This means that we were at a huge advantage in the amount of gear we could bring with us, and how we traveled with the kids. Our children are young enough that they couldn’t bike this distance on their own, so having the ability to haul them on the bike was fantastic. Here’s a bit more about our two family-friendly e-bikes. 

Bunch Bike

I rode our Bunch Bike Original 3.0 cargo ebike. 

This bike is a game-changer in the world of family-friendly cargo bikes. It’s built to accommodate families, making it perfect for transporting kids (and everything that goes with kids). The Bunch Bike has a bucket-style cargo area in the front, with enough space to carry up to four children, groceries, or anything else you need to transport. 

It has an electric-assist motor, which offers pedal assistance to make riding effortless, even with a full load. This makes it easy to tackle hills and longer distances without breaking a sweat. The bike is designed for the rider’s comfort and ease of use, with a step-through frame for easy access, ergonomic handlebars, and high-quality components.

I felt very sturdy in this bike because it has three wheels instead of two, which brought me peace of mind while biking while pregnant with our 4th baby. We carried all our camping gear, the girls’ Woom Bikes, and our 4-year-old on this bike (she has a seat on the back)! I told you, it hauls a LOT! 

Radio Flyer ebike

My husband rode on the Radio Flyer L885 cargo bike. While this bike doesn’t have much cargo space for hauling gear, the battery power covers 30-50 miles and 2 kids can comfortably ride in the back. We carried our 2yo & 6yo on the back rear platform of this bike, and they loved it!

The Radio Flyer L885 also has pedal-assist and full-throttle capabilities, making hills and distances easy! It is a little more wobbly with two wheels, but a great eBike all the same!! My husband biked this one, while I rode the Bunch Bike. 

We did this trip while I was 18 weeks pregnant. I felt very comfortable riding our Bunch Bike with 3 wheels instead of 2 wheels.

Practical tips for bikepacking with kids

1. Find a comfortable route & decide on a distance

If you and your kids are just getting started with bikepacking, I recommend starting with a short trip and staying close to home. This way you can test your gear, gauge your child’s comfort and endurance, and make necessary adjustments without being too far from help or home (just in case you need to bail).

Try to choose a kid-friendly route that’s suitable for your kids’ ages, interests, and biking experience. Also, look for bike trails with manageable terrain and minimal traffic. Unless you have e-bikes, try to avoid routes with steep hills or challenging technical features. 

I highly recommend taking advantage of a greenway system near you. We biked 10 miles on backroads/a few short rides on busier roads, and then another 10 miles on greenways to arrive at our campground! Our favorite was the Monarch-Levee trail, if you are in the St. Louis area.

Since we both had ebikes (and were comfortable with the distance and battery power/life), we chose 20 miles as a distance we could handle. 

2. Practice carrying gear beforehand

Both our ebikes are cargo bikes, so they are meant to carry a significant amount of gear for distances. The ebikes handled the majority of the work, so we didn’t need to do much practice or training carrying all the gear, but we did need to figure out how we were going to pack everyone on the bike safely and what our bikes could handle. 

We did a few test runs around our neighborhood beforehand so that we could shift gear around if we needed a better center of gravity. We needed to make sure that the heaviest items were low and centered for stability.

It was also our first time carrying all three of our girls’ bikes on the Bunch Bike, so we wanted to test this out before a larger trip. 

We biked on the greenway system for half of our route (10 miles), which was great peace of mind.

3. Choose a kid-friendly campground

If possible, try to choose a kid-friendly campground. These campgrounds are usually designed to cater to the needs and safety of children, with facilities such as playgrounds, family-oriented activities, and child-appropriate amenities. Sometimes these family-friendly campgrounds offer quiet hours and even foster a sense of community, allowing the kids to make new friends and play with other kids.

We camped at a local state park, which has great trails and a fun nature center. When we needed a break from the heat, we went into the nature center for a storytime! We looked ahead of time at the list of activities, but we were pleasantly surprised with a great nature center. Our girls had fun playing “I Spy” and drawing animals. 

4. Consider ebikes

I really can’t say enough good things about our experience with ebikes. If you’re been considering purchasing an ebike for your family, consider this the push you need. They really have made all the difference for us! Having two ebikes so we could carry the kids and the gear up some big hills was crucial for this trip and all our biking experiences lately (especially because I’m pregnant). 

Although, you do need to consider batteries and charging when bikepacking with ebikes. While we were at our campground, the hosts helped us with charging up our bike batteries, so that we were ready for the ride back home (since we had a primitive campsite). We were so thankful! We have two batteries for my Bunch Bike, which was perfect for the weight we carried. 

If purchasing an ebike isn’t in your budget, you could consider renting one for your bikepacking trip. 

5. Invest in ultralight backpacking gear

Having gear that’s compact and lightweight can make a huge difference. We used our backpacking gear (tent, sleeping pads & bags) all from Klymit (ultralight backpacking gear). Our largest weight was our cooler with our meals & ice. 

Even with light gear, we had to minimize the number of items we were carrying. Kids may be able to help by carrying their own clothing, sleeping bag, or a small portion of the gear if they can wear a backpack on the bike. 

Encouraging our kids to help us set up the tent really helps them to give responsibility in the campsite.

6. Be flexible!

Just like anything with kids, it’s so important to lower your expectations and to remain flexible! No trip will be perfect, and that is okay. We worked together as a team and had a blast. 

Ironically, we found a huge hill leading up to the campsite.  

There was a large hill going up to the campground, which was too large for the Bunch Bike to make it up with all the weight we were carrying. My husband, bless his heart, walked the Bunch Bike up the hill! Thankfully, the bike has a walk-assist, which helped tremendously, but it was still a feat! This bike handles a ton of weight, but even some hills are too large…and this one was huge! 

About to leave our camp site! Mark rode the RadioFlyer eBike, while I rode our Bunch Bike cargo eBike.

7. Get the kids involved

Encourage kids to help with tasks like setting up the tent or preparing meals. Let them help pick the route or pack the bags. Have them be on the lookout for trailmarkers, or be in charge of singing songs along the way. Getting them involved instills a sense of responsibility and adventure. And give them lots of positive reinforcement and praise for their effort and cooperation. 

8. Have fun!

Camping with kids, no matter how you’re doing it, is always an adventure! Be prepared!

Our 2-year-old crawled over us all night, a raccoon stole our bagels, we removed some ticks, and the weather was hot, but we still had a blast. (Losing the bagels was the toughest one of these for our girls…ha!) Luckily, we had backup food for breakfast, and all was fine! To make it up to them, we made some homemade sourdough bagels when we arrived home, and that hit the spot!

No matter what happens, try to remember that the experience is worth it. Have fun and keep a positive attitude! That’ll go a long way! 

Bringing our kids’ Woom Bikes along was worth it. After seeing their parents bike, they wanted their turn too!

Definitely worth the effort!

Being out in nature is our favorite way to connect and have fun as a family, and this was no different. Our trip didn’t go as we expected, but we had an amazing time, created some really special memories and learned a lot! 

Would we bikepack again? Yes!

This was such a fun and unique way to travel, camp, and be together. We had a great time unplugging from a busy week and enjoying the fresh air, sunshine, and adventure! 

You know it’s a good trip when the 2-year-old falls asleep on the way home.

Have you ever considered bikepacking? 

About the author

Steph lives in St. Louis with her husband, Mark, their three daughters (ages 5, 3 & 1), and their funny pup. Steph taught elementary school for five years and became a stay-at-home mom when her first child was born. When the pandemic hit and the playgrounds were closed, she started taking her kids hiking on a different trail each day. Steph is also a NICU mama (her 2nd daughter was born 3 months early). The outdoors has been so healing for her and her family, not to mention fun!

Since the pandemic started, their family has visited over 175 parks and hiked over 200 trails around St. Louis and Missouri. Their family also loves to tent camp, canoe, and bike. Steph has a passion for exploring the outdoors, helping start a free, weekly nature playgroup, and sharing adventure tips with others. When she is not hiking, she loves baking, reading, and dreaming of being a Survivor contestant. 

You can find more from Steph in the following locations:
Instagram: @explorestlparks
RWMC posts: Steph Hampton

The post New Adventures: Our First Bikepacking Trip with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Exploring Iceland with kids

Top tips for visiting Iceland with kids

• Book ahead: Attractions, tours, hotels and campers become fully booked months in advance. Get in early with booking key aspects ahead of your visit, most are refundable if your plans change and you need to cancel. 
• Be prepared: Make note of the Met Office and Road Administration websites which provide real time updates on road, weather and geological conditions along your route. Staying safe is at the front of our minds when traveling with kids.
• Dress for the elements: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes for the entire family.
• Safety first: Prioritize safety during your outdoor adventures. Teach your kids about the environment, follow marked trails, and be aware of weather conditions.
• Essentials: Stock up on supplies such as food, water, and warm bedding. Campsites are plentiful, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of Iceland’s nature while having essential facilities nearby.
• Embrace Icelandic cuisine: Encourage your children to try traditional Icelandic delicacies like lamb soup or skyr yogurt, providing them with a taste of the local culture.
• Unplug and immerse: Disconnect from technology and encourage your kids to engage with nature fully. Let their imaginations run wild as they explore Iceland’s majestic landscapes.

Camping in Iceland with kids

Iceland is incredibly well set up for campers with well-equipped campsites found easily across the country and no pre-booking is needed. Prices range from £18-25 per night for a small camper van pitch. The facilities can vary between sites, some campsites have only bathrooms, while others are equipped with playgrounds, kitchens and cafés.

We would certainly recommend staying at:

• Skógar Campsite: Located at the base of the thundering Skogafoss waterfall. Waking up to this epic waterfall was unforgettable, and being able to explore early when there was no-one around was magical.
• Vík Campsite: This one is only open in summer and located in the heart of beautiful Vík. Perfectly located for a walk to the beach… or the local pizzeria!
• Grindavík Campsite: One of the only camp sites we found with a playground and perfectly located near the airport and just a few minutes from the Blue Lagoon. This campsite is ideal if you are planning to visit the Lagoon early!

We often get asked if camping in Iceland was cold, and we can honestly say it was absolutely fine! Although, we would recommend renting a camper van with insulated sides, a heater and warm bedding. 

What to pack for Iceland

Flying with just cabin/carry-on bags not only saves money when you travel with budget airlines, but also drastically reduces the amount of time spent waiting for luggage in airports, which is always good when travelling with children! While that means less room for packing, it can be a really practical choice for camping when space is limited.

For Iceland, layers are key as the weather is highly changeable. progressing from scorching sun to ice rain in just a few hours. Thermal base layers, wool socks, wool jumpers and a waterproof coat are essential, along with a good pair of waterproof boots (snow boots or hiking boots depending on the time of year). Don’t forget swimwear if you plan to take a dip in any geothermal pools!

Aside from clothing, we packed basic camping items (such as torches) and entertainment for the kids on long journeys (e.g. colouring books, games, toys). We were able to pre-book all of the bulky items such as towels, bedding, cooking equipment and chargers through our camper van provider including towels, blankets, cooking equipment and charger packs.

The one challenge we experienced was being able to dry wet clothes when there was very little space to hang anything so it’s best to only take quick-drying layers rather than thick clothes such as jeans.

Iceland with kids: Seven-day itinerary for camping

Exploring Iceland is a wild adventure which can can take weeks, or even months to do fully. We initially had big plans to travel the entire ring road, exploring the lesser travelled parts of the island, however we soon realised this was overambitious with only seven days. Instead, we prioritised the waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers of South Iceland.

Our 7-day itinerary is action-packed and completely manageable with young children so it’s a great starting point for planning your own Icelandic adventure! We built in down-time for the boys and some activities we knew they would really love.  

Day 1: Arrival – Reykjavik and Grindavik

Keflavik is a small international airport near Reykjavik where most flights to Iceland arrive. It’s very quick to get through as there are not many flights which is perfect for travelling with young children!

From the airport, we collected our campervan from nearby CampEasy HQ, which we had pre-booked to include car seats, towels, bedding and chargers, and set off on our Icelandic adventure!

The first stop was the supermarket to stock up on food for the week. It is incredibly expensive to eat out in Iceland at around £20 for fish and chips or £10 for tomato soup. Netto and Bonus supermarkets were reasonable, easy to find and stocked everything we needed. 

Camp overnight at Grindavik campsite to be close to the Blue Lagoon for opening time.

Day 2: Blue Lagoon – Seljalandsfoss – Skogafoss – Vík

Blue Lagoon: The bright blue geothermal pools of the Blue Lagoon were a highlight of our time in Iceland and despite our initial concerns around taking small children and ruining the ambiance, it was very well set up for kids! The boy’s entry was free and armbands were provided (and compulsory) for children under eight. To beat the crowds, head to the Blue Lagoon when it opens at 8am. 

Seljalandsfoss Trail: This stunning short hike starts at the car park near the impressive 130ft Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Seljalandsfoss was the only waterfall we discovered which has a narrow path leading into a cave behind the falls! There’s a short 1km gravel trail up to Gljufrabui, another impressive waterfall hidden away inside a cavern.

Skogafoss: Casting rainbows in its spray, this waterfall was truly magical and has featured on the big screen many times.

Along the section of the ring road near Vik you will travel through the other worldly mossy lava fields of Eldhraun. Created hundreds of years ago, and now protected, this expanse of undulating green domes is certainly worth a short stop. 

Camp overnight at Skogar campsite if you want a chance to visit with no-one else around in the evenings or early morning! Or head to nearby Vik and camp there..

Day 3: Vík – Jökulsárlón

Vik: Vik is an enchanting small town steeped in folklore and mythology. The black sand, dramatic rock formations and moody seas create a particularly cinematic atmosphere. The culinary delights of Vik tempted us away from self-catering for a few meals as we indulged ourselves at the epic Black Crust Pizzeria and the Skool Beans café (located inside a repurposed school bus).

Katla Ice Caves: A short guided super jeep tour from Vik will take you to the Katla Ice Caves. These are some of the only ice caves which are open all year round. They allow children over the age of six on group tours or you can book a more expensive private tour to take younger children. Helmets, crampons and headtorches are provided for this epic three hour adventure. 

Icelandic Lava Show: Watch volcanic sand transform back into lava in this impressive demonstration! Learn about volcanic eruptions in Iceland, how lava tunnels are formed and take home a little shard of dragon glass. Situated in Vik (with a second location in Reykjavik) goggles are provided… be warned though, it does get hot!

Reynisfjara beach: Follow the instructions at the entrance to this beach to avoid the deadly sneaker waves which claim lives on a regular basis. This dramatic black sand beach hosts a huge cave made of enormous basalt columns formed by volcanic eruptions. Follow the advice displayed, dont turn your back to the ocean and keep the kids close. If you are lucky you might even spot a few puffins!

Continue the journey east along the ringroad and camp near Jökulsárlón.  

Day 4: Jökulsárlón – Fjallsárlón – Vík

Diamond Beach: Iceland’s iconic diamond beach is located along the ringroad near the Jökulsárlón lagoon. Huge icebergs carried from the glacier lagoon by the outlet river wash up on the black sand beach. This creates the illusion of huge diamonds on the beach. There’s a car park near the beach and a cafe beside the lagoon to warm up after exploring the ice! 

Jökulsárlón lagoon: This is a quick stop or perfect picnic spot. Watch the seals frolic in the lagoon as bright blue, white and grey icebergs peacefully drift past. Lagoon boat tours are available here but the smaller (and cheaper) Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon is just a short drive away. 

Fjallsárlón lagoon boat tour: Probably the easiest way to get up close to a glacier with children in tow! Hop on a RIB boat and take a guided tour of a glacier lagoon. Minimum age of 5 but they were flexible with allowing younger children. Waterproof and windproof gear was provided for the trip.

Vestrahorn: If you have time and the weather is kind, you may be able to squeeze in a journey out to Vestrahorn and back to see the mountain. This was in our original itinerary but we scrapped it after encountering some awful weather! 

Head back to Vik to camp for the night.

Day 5: Golden circle: Vík – Geysir – Gulfoss – Þingvellir – Reykjavík

The golden circle is certainly the most travelled path in Iceland, and there is a lot to see. We didn’t think it really compared to the stunning waterfalls, glaciers and beaches of the south, but the boys were so excited to see the geysers we had to include it in our itinerary.

Geysir: A collection of bubbling pools and explosive geysers. The Strokkur geyser erupts every 5-10 minutes so the wait is never long. It’s an exciting opportunity to learn about geothermal activity as it happens! There’s a visitor centre and parking here. 

Gulfoss: A short drive from Geysir, you will hear this thundering waterfall before you see it! A short walking route offers views over the waterfall at a few different points. The children weren’t too interested in this one as it’s so immense you can’t get very close. Worth a stop if you choose to travel the golden circle route. There’s a visitor centre, cafe, shop and carpark.

Þingvellir: Picturesque and dramatic scenery… but not much for the kids to do. Older children may enjoy hiking along the trails but we headed to Silfra where the crack between the separating tectonic plates can be found. There was a waterfall and some short trails here. 

Head to Reyjavik for the night.

Day 6: Explore Reykjavík

Reykjavik is a small, welcoming city which is home to around half of Iceland’s residents. There are plenty of shops, restaurants and street art to explore. 

Perlan Museum: You can get a taste of all things Iceland in one place at this interactive and educational museum! Experience the Northern Lights in the planetarium and explore the longest man made ice cave. Learn about volcanoes, glaciers and Iceland’s wildlife then head to the rooftop terrace for views over Reykjavik. 

Sun Voyager Sculpture: Make a short stop at the Sun Voyager sculpture on Reykjavik’s seafront to take in the mountain views. 

You may also enjoy heading up the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church for more views of Reykjavik. 

Camp in Reykjavik or back at Grindavik campsite.

Day 7: Depart Iceland

The final day of exploring Iceland with kids! We had an early flight out of Keflavik but if you had time you could visit the nearby Hopsnes lighthouse or spend more time in Reykjavik. Head home, taking photographs and memories to treasure forever!

Traveling to Iceland with kids

The endless opportunities to learn about the natural world and the intriguing folklore stories makes it the perfect place to take the kids. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your loved ones, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Iceland. Let the windswept beauty of this Nordic gem ignite your family’s sense of wonder and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. It’s time to embrace the wild and experience the magic of Iceland with your adventurous little ones by your side!

Additional resources

If you love this post, make sure to check out some of our additional family-friendly travel content on Iceland, Estonia, and the Azores.

• Chosen by kids: Top 5 things to do in Iceland
• Christmas in Estonia with kids
• The wild Azores with children

Is Iceland on your family’s bucket list?

About the author

Aimee is a humanitarian worker and photographer based in the UK. As a mum to two young boys, she spends much of her time outdoors in nature and enjoys traveling with her family. Aimee loves to support other families to explore with young children by sharing tips and inspiration.

You can find more from Aimee online in the following locations:
Instagram: @how_i_wander_uk
Website: How I Wander

The post Exploring Iceland with Kids: 7-day Camper Van Tour appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Today, Washington mama of two, Teri Walzenbach, will take you on a virtual journey to discover the hidden gems of the Olympic Peninsula’s coastline. From towering sea stacks to mesmerizing tide pools teeming with marine life, she unveils the top three beaches where you and your little adventurers can embark on an unforgettable backpacking expedition. Whether your family is seeking tranquility, wildlife encounters, or thrilling outdoor activities, the Olympic Peninsula has something to offer for every taste and preference.

Beach camping with kids on the Olympic Peninsula

Have you ever wondered what it would be like beach camping with kids on the gorgeous shores of the Olympic Peninsula on the Washington Coast?

Backpacking on the beach with kids can be a magical experience. Imagine, the sand is so soft you don’t really need a mattress. The vast ocean in front of you with the sound of the waves crashing. A bonfire on the beach where your kids are roasting marshmallows. And a driftwood playground that has your kids climbing for hours.

Sound amazing? It is! Although, I understand that planning a backpacking trip to the beach be overwhelming. What beach do you choose? What permits do you need? How can I prepare for the tides? And, of course, packing. I was there once, too, but after years (and countless backpacking trips), I am here to help you break it down, and share three great beaches on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State that are a great place to start.

Let’s make backpacking on the beach with kids a reality! You got this. 

Know before you go: tide schedule

One of the most important things to know when camping/sleeping/playing on the beach is the tide schedule. Some beaches have campsites set up off the beach in the woods, but others don’t and you can set up your tent very close to the water. Understanding when the tide will rise and how high will help put you at ease and keep you safe (and dry).

I can tell you firsthand that when the tide is high in the middle of the night, it can be a little unsettling to sleep. The waves seem to get louder and louder and closer and closer. We’ve seen campers run off the beach with their wet tents, and it wasn’t pretty. But, don’t worry! With a little understanding of the tides, you can avoid any issues!

There are 5 simple steps to looking up tide information.

1. Find a tide table for the location where you’ll be camping.
2. Locate the date of your trip.
3. Understand the chart datum (a plane of reference to where the tidal heights are measured).
4. Find the high and the low tide info. 
5. Note the time.

If you need some help understanding the ins and outs, take a look at this great article, “How to Read a Tide Table” by REI. 

And this doesn’t just help keep you dry in the high tide…you also wouldn’t want to miss out on exploring all the goodies you find on the beach at low tide. It is one of the best parts of the rocky PNW beaches. Endless hours of fascinating exploration of tiny (and not-so-tiny) creatures! This could quite possibly be the number one reason to backpack on the beach with kids!

What (if any) permits do you need to backpack/camp on Olympic beaches?

To backpack on the beaches of the Olympic Peninsula, you will need a permit. You can reserve your permit at Recreation.gov.  You can find the permit under the Olympic National Park Wilderness Permit.

For the beaches, look under the tabs listed as North Coast and South Coast and go from there. You will need to enter your dates and party size in order to access the various beaches. I recommend booking early in the season as they can book up.

Some of the beaches on the Olympic Coast are on the land of the Makah Tribe and require a separate Makah Tribe Recreational Permit, in addition to the permit you pick up on recreation.gov. There is more information on this permit, including where you can pick one up, on this Neah Bay website. 

Can you have a fire on the beach?

A bonfire on the beach? Yes, please!

But the best part about this is that you don’t need to bring your own firewood. You can burn driftwood! And there is plenty of it! My kids love to comb the beach for kindling and help build the fire. It’s a great activity to do all together (here’s how to teach your kids how to build a fire and fire safety tips). I recommend bringing a small handsaw to help cut some of the larger pieces. Just collect some rocks, make a fire ring, and have at it. Don’t forget to pack waterproof matches. Bring fixings to make S’mores, and dessert is covered! If the kids get their clothes wet, the fire helps speed up the drying process. It’s a win-win-win. 

Other essentials for backpacking on the beach with kids

Definitely bring a bear canister. Not just for the bears but for the raccoons as well.  It is a requirement in Washington on the Olympic Peninsula. I love to use a bear canister because it comes in handy on the beach.  It can also second as a seat or clean surface to work on, which is very much appreciated on the beach. Another option is hanging bags in trees. If you go this route, make sure to hang the bag properly. I have seen them hanging against a tree. This is basically a hanging snack for bears! 

Make sure to bring plenty of water and a water filter. Some beaches have freshwater creeks that flow down all the way to the beach and feed into the ocean. I recommend looking at a map to see if this is available. Also note how far the water access might be from where you plan to set up camp. Two out of three of the beaches on this list have fresh water access. 

And if you plan to camp up in the trees on the shore of the beach, a hammock can come in handy. We brought ours along on one trip and I couldn’t get my kids out of it. Fun entertainment for hours!

And please remember to always pack out whatever you pack in.

Some tips for a successful backpacking trip with kids

Sand sand everywhere

Remember I said that camping on the beach with your kids is a magical experience? I still stand by it, but there is one downfall, depending on how you look at it…the sand. Be prepared for the sand to be everywhere. Stuck to everything. There’s no way around it, so I recommend just trying to embrace it. It’s too stressful to fight it. Just come to terms with the fact that you will be finding sand in all sorts of places for weeks. Especially in your washer and dryer. 

Keep it close when getting started

If you are just getting into backpacking, keep the approach (how far you hike to your location) on the shorter side. For us, in the beginning, this was really important. My kids have hiked a lot, but carrying a bigger pack was something new for them. And this way, there is no stressing to get to your destination if you’re running a little behind schedule or want to take your time on the trail! Also, if you forget something in the car, you can always run back and grab it if you’re close. We had this happen once, and it saved our trip!

Make a list, check it twice

I highly recommend making a list and keeping it updated over time as you can. I have a backpacking essentials checklist that I always use when packing for a trip. It’s a great way to make sure you have everything you need. Each time I come back from a trip, I think about all the lessons learned and modify the checklist if needed. It’s amazing what each new trip teaches you! 

Top 3 Olympic Peninsula beaches to backpack to with kids

Ok, ready for the fun part?! Let’s explore the best backpacking beaches on the Olympic Peninsula! As we explore these kid-friendly beach backpacking locations, I’ll provide some valuable tips and insights to help you plan and prepare for your expedition. As a mom, I understand the importance of safety, comfort, and educational opportunities, so I’ll guide you on how to make the most of your time in this natural playground while ensuring a seamless experience for the whole family.

So, get ready to strap on your backpacks, lace up your hiking boots, and embrace the sense of wonder that comes with exploring the Olympic Peninsula’s stunning coastal landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a family new to the joys of outdoor adventures, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know to embark on an unforgettable journey with your loved ones. Let’s dive into the wonders of the Olympic Peninsula and create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

1. Rialto Beach

It’s hard to beat Rialto Beach! Rialto Beach, a jewel nestled on the rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula, offers an awe-inspiring blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and remarkable landscapes. Located within Olympic National Park, this iconic beach is a haven for families seeking a kid-friendly backpacking experience like no other. With its dramatic sea stacks, vast stretches of sandy shoreline, and an abundance of tide pools to explore, Rialto Beach presents an enchanting playground for young adventurers. Plus, a large amount of driftwood can make for some epic beach bonfires. 

One of the defining features of Rialto Beach is its breathtaking sea stacks. These towering rock formations rise majestically from the ocean, creating a surreal backdrop against the crashing waves. Moreover, the beach is known for its remarkable tide pools, teeming with vibrant sea anemones, colorful starfish, and countless other marine creatures. Exploring these tide pools at low tide allows young explorers to witness the fascinating interplay between land and sea, sparking their curiosity about the wonders of the natural world.

Beyond its natural allure, Rialto Beach is steeped in rich history. The area was once inhabited by the Quileute tribe, who have lived on the Olympic Peninsula for thousands of years. The Quileute people have a deep spiritual and cultural connection to this land, and their stories and traditions are woven into the fabric of the beach’s history. As families hike along the shoreline, they can engage with the Quileute’s cultural heritage, learning about their traditional practices, legends, and the significance of Rialto Beach in their ancestral narratives. It’s an opportunity for children to gain a deeper appreciation for indigenous cultures and the importance of preserving and respecting the natural environment.

Backpacking logistics at Rialto Beach

The hike to the beach is an easy 3.3 miles round trip. The distance depends on where you set up your tent, of course. This beach has plenty of campsites up in the grasses/ woods above the beach if you are looking to get some shade or don’t want to camp directly on the beach. To start, I would recommend camping anywhere before the Hole in the Wall, as passing through the Hole in the Wall is not an option during the high tide. This beach is a pebble beach with some incredible tide pools down by the Hole in the Wall.

Again, you need a permit which you can get on Recreation.gov. There is also access to fresh water at Rialto Beach before the Hole in the Wall. And lastly, parking can be limited, but generally, if you have a bit of patience, a spot will clear out.

The beauty of this beach comes with one small price – the crowds. I guess that is to be expected because it is such a magical place. However, it is an extremely popular destination for good reason! Please don’t worry, crowds thin out and disappear late in the afternoon, and you have the beach all to yourself first thing in the morning. 

Above all, if you try out this Beach, I promise you won’t be disappointed!

2. Shi Shi Beach 

Shi Shi Beach, nestled on the northernmost edge of the Olympic Peninsula, is a coastal gem renowned for its pristine beauty and untouched wilderness. This captivating destination offers a remarkable blend of rugged cliffs, tide pools brimming with marine life, and expanses of soft sandy shores. Situated within the Makah Indian Reservation and accessible through a scenic hike, Shi Shi Beach provides families with an unforgettable kid-friendly backpacking experience that showcases the true splendor of the Pacific Northwest.

One of the defining characteristics of Shi Shi Beach is its untamed and wild atmosphere. As families venture along the trail that winds through lush forests and reveals breathtaking coastal panoramas, they’ll find themselves immersed in a pristine natural setting. The beach’s rocky outcroppings, towering sea stacks, and driftwood-strewn shoreline create an otherworldly ambiance that sparks the imagination. 

This place is simply awesome for backpacking on the beach with kids. The adventure one can find on this beach is never-ending! Exploring the Point of Arches is INCREDIBLE! Just wait till you see all of the sea life to ogle. Endless rocks to climb. Did I mention the caves? It is really something! 

But the adventure of this beach starts before you even get to the beach (actually, this is applicable for every beach on this list). From the ferry, the drive along the coast, to the hike out to the beach, everything about the trip is amazing.  The hike itself to this beach is just magic. It is so lush and green, with several winding boardwalks and bridges. Our kids loved skipping along the boardwalks. 

Backpacking logistics at Shi Shi Beach

The hike comes up as 8 miles roundtrip (4 miles each way), although, this is a little deceiving. You don’t need to hike the entire 4 miles as you can set up camp as soon as you hit the beach or soon thereafter. I definitely recommend going a little further down the beach, closer to all the tide pools. Although, it works equally well to set up camp and go explore without all your gear.

There is water to filter at this beach, and plenty of driftwood to burn, too. We noted a few campsites off the beach but decided to set up right there on the beach, in the sand. We love that sand can double as a pillow or a contoured bed. Just shape it to how you feel comfortable, then set your gear on top!

Lastly, in order to camp on this beach, you will need a few things. A permit from Recreation.gov, the Makah Recreation Pass (both described above), and you will also need to purchase parking. Parking at the trailhead is for day use only. You will need to park 1/2 mile down the road in a front yard that you pass before you get to the trailhead. There is a slot to pay for parking on the front porch. It sounds odd and confusing, but it makes sense when you see it. We backpacked here with another family, so I dropped the kids and the gear off and parked the car myself. This was a lifesaver! 

3. Second Beach 

Nestled along the pristine coastline of the Olympic Peninsula, Second Beach is a picturesque and family-friendly destination that embodies the essence of a Pacific Northwest beach getaway. Located within the boundaries of Olympic National Park, this enchanting beach offers a unique blend of rugged beauty, dense forests, and stunning coastal vistas. With its sandy shores, towering sea stacks, and tranquil ambiance, Second Beach beckons families to embark on unforgettable adventures in one of nature’s most breathtaking settings.

Second Beach also holds a special place in my heart. We took my mother-in-law camping here, and it was the first time in many years she had slept in a tent. It ended up being the perfect place for a multi-generational backpacking trip!

Backpacking logistics for Second Beach

The hike to the beach is 4 miles round trip (2 miles to the beach) with a minimal 310 ft of elevation gain. This is definitely one where you can run back to the car fairly easily. So easily, actually, that you can bring some comforts from home if you want.  We ended up packing in a full-sized 6-person tent and queen air mattresses to make my MIL’s stay extra comfortable! It was easy peasy to do, being such a short distance from the car.

Our two favorite things about Second Beach are the rocks to climb and the wide-open beach. My kids ran and ran and ran! It was glorious! If you happen to get a clear day, the sunset on this beach is quite incredible. There are also lots of tide pools at low tide. Starfish and anemone heaven!

This beach has a mix of off-and on-the-sand campsites. We nestled ourselves up in the woods just above the beach. We brought a hammock which we set up overlooking the ocean. What an amazing place to chill and listen to the waves. One important thing to note about this beach is it does not have access to fresh water. You will want to pack in plenty (again, being close to your car helps, so bring extra). 

Second Beach is a gem that you should definitely add to your list!

Getting started backpacking with kids

If you have never been backpacking with your kid, these beaches are definitely a great place to start. If you are looking to get into it for the first time, I recommend checking out these two articles by other Run Wild My Child mamas. Both these awesome articles will get you started and give you lots of helpful tips! And, don’t forget about the RWMC camping with kids digital guide, which (while not specific to backpacking) will give you a great overview of camping gear, expectations, advice, etc. 

• A Mother’s Guide to Backpacking with Kids
• What I Learned from My First Backpacking Trip with Kids
• Camp Like A Champ – Digital Guide to Camping with Kids

Olympic beach backpacking with kids

Beach backpacking with kids in the Olympic Peninsula is a gateway to a world of adventure, discovery, and cherished memories. The benefits of exploring these kid-friendly coastal destinations are unlimited. From the physical activity and outdoor immersion that promote healthy development to the educational opportunities embedded in the region’s rich history and diverse ecosystems, beach backpacking offers an unparalleled way for families to bond and grow together.

Beach backpacking in the Olympic Peninsula is an opportunity for families to unplug from the distractions of daily life and immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. From the thrill of spotting a bald eagle soaring overhead to the joy of running barefoot on the sandy shoreline, each moment is infused with a sense of excitement and adventure. Parents and children alike can revel in the simple pleasures of beachcombing, splashing in the waves, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in hues of gold and pink.

So, pack your backpacks, gather your little adventurers, and set off on an unforgettable journey along the beaches of the Olympic Peninsula. Embrace the beauty, history, and enchantment that await you, and create memories that will forever hold a special place in your hearts. The wonders of the coastline are calling, and it’s time to embark on a family beach backpacking adventure of a lifetime.

And although it might seem like a lot to consider, when broken down, backpacking on the beach can be a totally doable epic adventure. I hope this helps you to get out with your kiddos and spend the night on the beach! And when you do, please share any lessons learned. I would love to hear your stories!

About the author

Teri is the mama of 2 adventurous kiddos (ages 7 and 9), living in Washington State. She loves to explore the outdoors, and her kids often tell her she has a “crush” on the mountains (she agrees). Teri is an avid hiker and backpacker, who enjoys getting out on solo trips as well as trips with her kids. She has been taking her kids camping, hiking, and backpacking since before they could walk. Teri loves to unplug with them, be fully present, and immerse themselves in the outdoors. She has traveled a lot of the world with her kids, they lived in China for a while, but she keeps finding herself most excited about her own backyard. Teri is passionate about inspiring other families and moms to get outside and explore the outdoors with and without their kids.

You can find more from Teri online in the following locations:
Instagram: @the.trekking.mama
Website: www.thetrekkingmama.com
RWMC posts: Teri Walzenbach

The post Best Kid-Friendly Beach Backpacking Locations on the Olympic Peninsula appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Our first backpacking with kids experience

Here’s an idea…why don’t we take our three young kids camping deep in the woods, with just the stuff we can carry on our backs?

Well, why not?!!

My husband and I love nature, love camping, and we love a good challenge. We have always wanted to take our kids backpacking, but until recently, it seemed too daunting. Particularly with three kids (ages 5, 3 & 1).  What if we forgot something important? What if there was an emergency? What if…what if…what if.

But…what if we did it?! 

We prepped and researched as much as we could to get us to a point where we felt very comfortable taking this leap. Leveling up our outdoor adventures isn’t new to us. We started cabin camping before progressing to car camping, then primitive camping. Backpacking felt like the next logical (albeit much more challenging) step, and we couldn’t wait to give it a try! 

We checked our schedules and found we had an open weekend in March and decided to go for it! This would not only be the first backpacking trip for my daughters but for me, as well! We can do hard things together. 

Hiking to our campsite at Cuivre River State Park

Choosing a backpacking campsite

One of the first things we did when we were ready to go backpacking was start researching backpacking campsites near us. When you’re choosing a backpacking site for a family, there are several factors to consider, including safety, accessibility, and amenities. Here are some tips from our experience. 

Start close to home

We searched our state park website for sites that offered backcountry camping within an hour of us. We chose to stick a little closer to home for our first time because those are the trails and areas we’re most familiar with. Plus, if we needed to bail for any reason, we’d be relatively close to home. For those familiar with the St. Louis area, we chose Cuivre River State Park (one hour NW from St. Louis). We chose this location because we were familiar with the park, knew there was cell service if we had an emergency come up, and we were close to a city. 

Consider making reservations

Some backcountry campsites are first-come-first-served and some allow you to make reservations to reserve your location. If you’re a serious planner or backpacking during peak season, I’d recommend starting with a campsite that you can reserve so that you’re guaranteed your space. If you’re up for being spontaneous or camping in places where they’re not much of a crowd, you can be more flexible when selecting a site. The campsite we chose did not take reservations in advance, but was available when we arrived (it’s not peak camping season here yet). We were thankful the site was open! We learned to search for future backpacking sites that we are able to reserve ahead of time.

Choose a location within a doable distance

Because you have to hike (with all your gear!) to your campsite, we chose a site down a trail that was just 1.5 miles from the trailhead. It was a great distance for all of us with what we were carrying and doable for even our youngest child. We carried everything we needed, but also had extra supplies (food & water) in the van (only 1.5 miles away), just in case. 

Could we have hiked a longer trail? Totally! But, our goal was to test out our gear and the backpacking experience. We were glad we went with a shorter trail because we didn’t feel rushed at all. We could enjoy our time in the woods with the girls.

This also was a more rustic trail (limited trail markers), so it was helpful that it was shorter to locate the correct backpacking site. Before we planned our trip, we kept in mind what distance our kids could confidently hike based on prior experiences. Our family hikes normally vary between 0.5 miles to 5 miles, so we were happy to find a backcountry trail this distance that all three of our daughters could hike independently. 

Enjoying a granola breakfast around the campfire. Our girls are wearing Merrell hiking shoes from Laurie’s Shoes, which we loved for traction on the trail!

How to get your kids involved in backpacking

Getting your kids involved in backpacking can be a fun and exciting for them. Kids are natural helpers and love getting to be involved in the process. Here are some tips to help you get your kids interested in (and excited about) backpacking:

Let them make choices

Our kids helped us choose our backpacking site and how we got there. They had fun looking at the park map to find out what route we should take to get to our campsite. Once we arrived, we let them help pick the spot for our tent and where we’d set things up. Giving them choices throughout the process made them more excited about the adventure and invested in it. 

Meal plan

Our kids also helped choose our weekend meals They each brought their own hiking backpack that carried a family meal, their spork, and their water bottle. This added to their excitement, as they had more responsibility and helped our family. We usually bring a large cooler for our previous camping experiences but were not able to when backpacking, so this was a different experience. We all felt empowered by carrying everything on our backs, including our food and water. 

Packing help

We prepped our kids that we are bringing only the bare necessities, and then got them involved in the packing process. When we car camp, our kids are used to bringing toys, many baby dolls, doll clothes, picture books, etc. But for backpacking, we all agreed ahead of time that they would each be able to bring one lovey. They had fun choosing that one special item and were excited to take it on our adventures. The girls did surprisingly great throughout the trip with limited toys. It was so neat to see their imagination blossom when playing in the woods. A huge fallen tree became the Polar Express train, and a pile of leaves and sticks became a chef’s kitchen to feed their loveys. 

Starting our 1.5 mile trail to the site, sporting our Deuter backpacking packs

Hiking to the campsite

The hike to our campsite was only 1.5 miles, but it can still be challenging to keep kids entertained and moving down the trail. Here are a few tips and tricks we implement when hiking with kids to keep their spirits high and their little feet moving!  

Search

Our daughters were in charge of finding the trail markers, which is always a fun “I Spy” game. The trail markers were limited on the trail to our campsite, so it was really helpful to have a few more eyes searching! From the “I Spy” of trail markers, we also transitioned to search for animals, flowers, trees, and animal tracks.

Sing songs

Dancing and singing always seem more fun in the woods. My husband and I brought back ALLLLLLL the scout songs when we entered parenthood. Princess Pat, Boom Chicka Boom, or Alice the Camel, anyone? We also like to make up songs from what we see on a hike (nature, animals, weather, etc). Singing and dancing definitely keep us moving!

Carry ultra-light backpacking gear

I highly recommend ultra-light gear when you’re backpacking. 1.5 miles might not sound like a long distance, but heavy gear can make any distance feel grueling. As this was our first family backpacking trip, we did have to make some purchases of ultra-light items, and I was thankful for the light weight of our gear. My husband carried 45 pounds in his pack, while I carried 35 pounds in my pack. (Normally, I carry my 30lb daughter in a hiking backpack on hikes, so this wasn’t too different for me!) If you’re not used to a hiking with a heavy pack, the shorter distance and ultra-light gear can make a huge difference. 

Involving our kids in setting up our tent

Tent setup

Include your kids in the setup process

We let our girls help figure out where the best spot to set up the tent would be and got them involved in each step of the process. Do you want the tent on a slope or flat? Why do we need a tarp under the tent? All of these questions helped the girls be more invested in our tent setup. Their favorite part was snapping the tent poles together!

Organize the inside of your tent

Inside our tent, our girls were thrilled to play “Tetris” to figure out where everyone should sleep. They helped blow up our insulated sleeping pads and roll out our sleeping bags (my husband and I had sleeping bags, while our daughters wore Morrison Outdoors wearable sleeping bags). We were camping in the spring and the temperature got down to 40 degrees at night. I was a little cold at one point, but everyone else was warm enough. While we had a 4-person tent with 5 people, we were all on one side of the tent by the morning, snuggling. 

Vestibule

Our tent has a vestibule (an outer room) we could use to set things up before entering the tent. Our girls thought this was the coolest thing to have a “tent porch” and were excited to lay out our hiking shoes there. This helped to keep our gear dry, as it rained a bit throughout the night. 

Cuddling as the sun rises

Our first-time backpacking tips and takeaways

Lower your expectations

As with anything with kids, be flexible and lower your expectations! Did you lower them? Now lower them again! Don’t set yourself up for failure thinking that this will be an easy, peaceful, restful experience. Backpacking (and all camping) is work, and anytime you get kids out of their comfort zone, there will be hiccups.

My husband and I went into the trip knowing that we would probably not get much sleep, and that helped (because we didn’t). Our two older daughters slept through the night, but our youngest was very excited and had a pretty hard time sleeping. This meant she was climbing over us and all through the tent all night long. At one point she went over to her older sisters, tapped their heads, and said, “Sisters, awake?” In our previous tent camping experiences, we brought a pack n’ play for her to keep her contained and provide some familiarity. With all the space (and us!) I don’t know she knew what to do with herself! For us, lowering our expectations helped because the experience was so worth the limited sleep! 

Next time, we’ll make reservations

As I mentioned above, some backcountry campsites allow you to make reservations, and we already reserved our next campsite for our next adventure! This one will have a little longer trail (at Hawn State Park for Missourians) and a water source available, so we can filter our own water and not have to pack in so much (you go through more water than you realize). 

Keep it simple

Our biggest takeaway was just how much fun it was to unplug, live simply, and have fun. One of the most unexpected benefits of backpacking is how you realize just how simply you can live and that you really don’t need that much stuff. We could only bring the most absolute essentials on our backs, so we didn’t have the option to overpack. And it was wonderful!

Although, I will admit that I splurged and brought s’mores fixings (because it’s not really camping without s’mores, right?). I put the graham crackers in a Tupperware container so they didn’t crumble. This luxury item was totally worth the little extra weight!

Peace in the woods at night!

Making the leap to backpacking

Camping as a family is my favorite outdoor activity because it allows us to unplug and spend real quality time together, just the five of us. No technology (except the occasional phone photo), no laundry, no home projects…just special time together bonding, playing, and adventuring. 

There is something for everyone in the outdoors, whether it is a family walk in the neighborhood, hiking in the woods, or camping. If camping is something you also enjoy, but you’re unsure about taking the leap to backpacking, I highly encourage you to go for it! Start small and give it a try! The family memories are well worth it!

Have you ever gone backpacking?
Where will your family adventure together next?

About the author

Steph lives in St. Louis with her husband, Mark, their three daughters (ages 5, 3 & 1), and their funny pup. Steph taught elementary school for five years and became a stay-at-home mom when her first child was born. When the pandemic hit and the playgrounds were closed, she started taking her kids hiking on a different trail each day. Steph is also a NICU mama (her 2nd daughter was born 3 months early). The outdoors has been so healing for her and her family, not to mention fun!

Since the pandemic started, their family has visited over 175 parks and hiked over 200 trails around St. Louis and Missouri. Their family also loves to tent camp, canoe, and bike. Steph has a passion for exploring the outdoors, helping start a free, weekly nature playgroup, and sharing adventure tips with others. When she is not hiking, she loves baking, reading, and dreaming of being a Survivor contestant. 

You can find more from Steph in the following locations:
Instagram: @explorestlparks
RWMC posts: Steph Hampton

The post What I Learned From My First Backpacking Trip with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Camping food ideas kids will love (beyond hot dogs)

Many people think that camping food for kids begins and ends with hot dogs. And although we consider a crispy hot dog cooked over an open fire a delicacy hard to beat, our family also has many other yummy campfire favorites. 

Pretty much anything can be cooked over a campfire, with the proper tools and a little patience! Frying homemade donuts, baking bread, cooking steaks—you name it, you can cook it over an open fire. If you think about it, you’d have a hard time coming up with a food that can’t be cooked outside or wouldn’t taste better over an open campfire! You can cook things in a skillet, on a grate, on a camp stove, or in a foil packet directly on your campfire. With so many ways to cook, it can be overwhelming even to know where to begin. 

Today, we’re focusing on easy camping meals and simple recipes that your kids will love helping with AND eating. The camping foods for kids below, include meals, snacks, and desserts. These recipes are our tried-and-true favorites and are destined to become the stuff of magical memories made by my kids over the campfire. I hope you’ll add a few of them to your camping menu on your next camping trip! Because the best camping food is made and enjoyed together, outside. 

Cooking that involves the whole family

I’ve learned that if I try to do all the camping food on my own, I quickly start to feel stressed and overwhelemed. Everyone else is relaxing and enjoying themselves, while I’m busy trying to cook food over an open fire without burning it, balancing utensils on a nearby log, keeping things from falling in the dirt, and making sure no one gets burnt. Campfire cooking is a juggling act for sure.

But, one of the ways to make camping meals easier is to have help from the rest of the family! Many hands make light work, and if you include your whole family in the meal prep and cooking, it makes a huge difference.

Luckily, this doesn’t take a lot of prodding or begging for help on my part. Kids naturally love to help, and they love to try food that they’ve made themselves. Even if it’s a new food or one they don’t eat regularly, they’re much more likely to be excited about eating it if they’ve helped prepare it. It’s a win-win! 

Safety first

Just like with any other kind of cooking, the most important thing is to make sure everyone is safe when you’re campfire cooking with kids. Make sure all your children understand the importance of being careful around a campfire and know what to do in case of an emergency. Remind them of some basic safety rules: no running near the fire, be careful of any hot pots or utensils, keep a respectful distance from the fire, and no waving the hot dog sticks in the air. (There are few sights more terrifying to me than several children waving flaming marshmallows on hot sticks around a campfire!)

It helps to have a strong visual boundary around your campfire, like a metal or rock fire ring. As adults, we have to remember that our kids are often unaware of potential dangers. Part of the beauty of cooking together is that you can teach them these things firsthand. Kids are more than capable of learning how to safely function around even potential dangers like a campfire.

Basic equipment for camping food

When you’re gathering equipment to cook camping food and assemble your camp kitchen, you want to keep your supplies and equipment as simple as possible. Everything we’re sharing today can be made with three key items: (1) a hot dog stick, (2) a cast iron Dutch oven, and (3) a hobo pie iron. These three pieces of equipment have become our go-to campfire cookware. Let’s take just a minute to look at these three items and all the possibilities they represent.

Cast iron Dutch oven:

From bread to soup and everything in between, the Dutch oven is a camping food workhorse. Make sure to get one with a lid and a handle, if possible. You can hang it from a tripod over the fire, set it on top of a grate, or nestle it among the coals. With a dutch oven, you can cook biscuits, then bacon, then scrambled eggs for breakfast – all in one pot. You can simmer soup in it for lunch, and then cook our delicious kielbasa, beans, and red potatoes dish in it for supper.

A cast iron dutch oven really makes any kind of cooking possible over an open fire! I’m still working on consistently not burning the biscuits…but one day, I’d really like to master them and move on to bread!

Hobo pie iron

Hobo pie irons are an incredibly fun way to cook camping food and make the perfect kid-friendly camping meal. They elevate any sandwich to an experience of crispy, melty goodness. They can also be used as mini skillets to reheat leftovers, cook hashbrowns, make pancakes, and much more.

If you have a large family, it’s nice to have a couple of pie irons in order to keep the hobo pies flowing. We currently just have one double pie iron for our family of six, and it makes for a slower meal experience, but it’s still doable. Sometimes our extended family makes hobo pies for large family gatherings, and it’s a bit of a hectic event, with multiple irons in the fire and assembly-line sandwich prep going on. But it’s always a ton of fun.

Hot dog stick

I feel like these go without saying. If you’re planning camping food, you’re going to want some sticks to roast hot dogs or marshmallows on at some point! They’re certainly the tool that’s easiest to improvise out in the wild. All you need are some straight sticks and a knife to sharpen a point at one end. A wooden skewer could work, but you’ll want something with a large handle that won’t burn. It’s nice to have these sturdy wood and metal ones that can balance your hot dogs better and cook multiple marshmallows at once.

Other equipment for camping food

There are so many different ways to cook when you’re camping. We like to bring a foldable cooking grate when we’re camping because it makes it a lot easier to cook over a fire. Some campgrounds provide a fire ring with a grate built in, but not all of them. Foldable grates are fairly compact when folded up, lightweight enough to carry around easily, but reasonably tough and sturdy.

Some thick hot mats or cooking mitts are also important for camping food, especially when you’re handling cast iron or if you’re letting your children help with hot items. It’s nice if they’re extra-durable because cookware can get REALLY hot over a fire.

You want to be sure to pack some sturdy cooking utensils, preferably ones with long handles for cooking over a campfire. You don’t need a bunch, but I always bring some cooking tongs, a spatula, and a couple wooden stirring spoons.

Lastly, tin foil is great to have on hand when camping over an open fire. Foil-wrapped meals can be customized to suit all tastes and make great healthy meal options. You can make your own aluminum foil packs for quick and easy meals with zero clean-up! 

Breakfast hack for camping mornings

There’s nothing quite like waking up in the morning to singing birds and the relaxing sounds of nature all around. Slow mornings camping are one of my favorite things. But, we all know that mornings with kids just don’t stay slow for long! It’s inevitable that someone is asking for breakfast before you’re even out of your sleeping bags. Suddenly that vision of peacefully sipping your coffee around the campfire evaporates, and you’re scrambling to assemble breakfast ingredients before the water is even hot enough for coffee.

So, before we even discuss breakfast, here’s my best morning camping hack: pack a bag with a variety of granola bars, protein bars, breakfast biscuits, etc. While you’re getting the fire going and making that coffee, let the kids grab a snack from the bag. Mom and Dad get a few minutes to enjoy their coffee, and no one starves before the bacon is cooked. You can thank me later for that one. 

Breakfast over the campfire

I really believe that simple is best when you’re camping. At home, I typically make most of our food from scratch and emphasize healthy meals. But, that requires plenty of ingredients, time, and dishes. If you’re able to juggle that all on a camping trip, I commend you! But, in order to make our camping food easy and fun, I often rely on more pre-made foods when we’re camping for ease and convenience. 

For breakfast, one of our favorite meals is cinnamon rolls, sausage, and hash browns. These are all favorites for the kids to help with. (Other favorites include make-ahead breakfast burritos, but we’ll save that recipe for another day.) 

Campfire cinnamon rolls

Cinnamon rolls are a great camping food for kids. Refrigerated cinnamon rolls are a great way to experiment with Dutch oven baking over a campfire and are one of my favorite easy breakfast ideas. When we’re camping with limited prep space and trying to keep ingredients as simple as possible, pre-made cinnamon rolls straight from the can make everything soooo much easier! Let your kids open the package and separate the cinnamon rolls into a greased Dutch oven. Give them a little space to rise and allow some room in between them to flip them.

Put the lid on the dutch oven and set it over a hot section of slow-burning coals on a grate or a tripod. You don’t want these over open flames or they will burn very quickly! We’ve found that the best way to not burn them at first is to check the bottoms often. Of course, they bake better if you keep the lid on. But, if you aren’t confident with your fire’s temperature, just keep an eye on them. When they are golden brown on the bottom, use a spatula to flip each one over. Then watch the bottoms again. 

Learning to cook over the fire by trial and error

If your fire has a pretty nice spread of coals, they will probably take about the same amount to brown the second time. This whole process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Every fire is different, and the kind of wood you are using affects how hot it is…which is why campfire cooking is such a trial-and-error thing.

Remove them from the fire and let your kids spread the icing on them (remember, cast iron holds heat for a long time, so you may want to set the cinnamon rolls on a plate first if you’re concerned about small hands brushing the hot pan) and enjoy! Even when we’ve burnt the bottoms a little, these little treats have been a huge hit around our campfire.

Camping breakfast sausages and hash browns 

While the cinnamon rolls are cooking, pull out the hot dog sticks and the hobo pie irons. If your kids are old enough to handle a hot dog stick safely, let them cook their own sausage links just like a hot dog. This is such a fun activity for little people.

Pro tip: buy precooked sausages! This easy food takes all the fear out of making sure the sausages are cooked enough. All the kids have to do is get the sausage heated through. And they can munch on them as soon as they are cool enough to eat.

Meanwhile, separate the halves of the hobo pie iron and let the kids lay the hash browns on them. Lay these across a grate or prop them between rocks to use them as mini skillets to cook the hash browns. Once again, minimal prep and fuss involved! You can remove them from the fire and let an older child flip them once one side is browned.

Let everyone help with camping food

I’ve discovered that letting our kids help with simple tasks like these has really increased their confidence and ability to work safely around a campfire. They know things are hot and take care not to burn themselves. Each time they try, they are a little more capable of flipping things, handling things with hot pads, and working safely around a fire.

Lunchtime around the campfire

Easy, adaptable, and delicious, hobo pies are our family’s favorite campfire meal! They require minimal cooking skills and very basic ingredients. Our favorites are sandwich hobo pies: the pizza sandwich (mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and pizza sauce), the classic sandwich (all varieties of lunch meat, cheese, and condiments), and the dessert sandwich (any flavor of canned pie filling, topped off with marshmallows).

Once the flavors get melted together in a sealed pie iron over a campfire, the taste is unforgettable! Making an entire meal of hobo pies is entirely acceptable. So is eating the dessert pies for breakfast. But, we usually round out hobo sandwiches into a healthy meal by adding fresh veggies and fresh fruit, like grapes or apples.

Making hobo pies

Get your kids involved in the process of making hobo dinners and lunches by letting them help build their sandwiches. Set out the ingredients and let them create! Kids have so much fun layering on their chosen meats and cheeses for hot sandwiches or smearing a piece of bread with pie filling to create an amazing camp pie. Just remember to help them not fill their hobo pies TOO full (especially the fruit ones), or they will be hard to eat! 

Cooking with pie irons with kids

After you assemble your sandwiches, cooking them is pretty simple. Preheat your pie iron over the fire, grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray, and then center your sandwich on the iron. Close the pie iron tightly and be sure to clip the little clasp on the handle closed, so the pie iron seals shut. We like to use a knife to trim off any bread crusts hanging off the edge before we start cooking them.

Then, cook the hobo pie until it is lightly browned on each side and the center is nicely melted. You have to pay attention to the heat of your fire to get it right—but it’s not hard. It works best to cook them slowly over a moderate fire or section of coals. When they’re finished, be sure to have a plate or clean surface ready to flip them on to (not styrofoam or plastic, because it will melt!) so they can cool before everyone dives in!

Snack time: kid-friendly trail mix

Whether you’re spending your day hiking, swimming, or just hanging around the campfire, the kids are sure to be ready for a snack before too long. Before you head out on your camping trip, have your kids help you put together this super easy, kid-approved trail mix to add to your stash of camping food! This is the easy way to make camping snacks ahead of time. 

My favorite part about trail mix is that it’s totally adaptable to your kids’ tastes and preferences. Even picky eaters can customize their trail mix to their exact likings. You can even just open your pantry cupboards and add whatever you find. The idea is to add enough nuts for protein, some dried fruit for nutrition, and some sweets, just for fun.

Kids’ trail mix recipe:

• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup honey-roasted peanuts
• 1 cup cashews
• 1 cup peanut butter chips
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup M&M’s
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 2 cups Cheerios

Mix together and store in an airtight container, or divide into snack-size bags for individual portions to stash in backpacks.

More kid-friendly camping snack ideas

• Tortilla chips and salsa
• Beef jerky
• Granola bars
• Fig cookies
• Cheese, sausage, crackers
• Fresh fruit
• Pre-cut veggies
• Mixed nuts

Camping supper idea: kielbasa, beans, and red potatoes

After a full day of outdoor adventures, everyone is always starving for dinner! Make-ahead meals and foil-pack meals are great for camping. But, my favorite camping supper is this one-pot meal because it’s so quick and easy to throw together, and then you can relax while it simmers over the campfire. In my opinion, it’s the perfect camping food. It requires a minimum of refrigerated ingredients and can feed large groups of people, which makes it perfect for camping, too. The yummy sausage-like meat is always a favorite of kids everywhere.

Memorable camping food

This was the meal I packed for our family’s first-ever camping trip, when our oldest was a toddler, so it’s a personal favorite. We were traveling home from somewhere and planning to stop over for a night in a campground in the Appalachian Mountains. I stashed a couple of cans of beans and a bag of potatoes in the back of the car somewhere and a package of kielbasa in our cooler. We arrived at our campsite in the middle of nowhere right at suppertime, with the ominous rumbling of thunder across the mountains. 

Somehow, in the midst of gathering firewood, building a fire, and trying to set up our borrowed tent, we also managed to chop the potatoes and meat and get this meal cooked over the campfire. We burrowed into our tent with our pot of kielbasa just as the storm broke loose. It was a long day and this meal hit the spot. It has remained a favorite meal for our family over the years, and one I often rely on when traveling or camping because it’s so easy. Sometimes a great camping meal will bring back memories and make you smile. 

Kielbasa, beans, and red potatoes recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 package (1 lb) Polish kielbasa
• 6 large red potatoes (or feel free to swap out a few for sweet potatoes)
• 2 cans of green beans
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt, pepper, and seasoned salt (I use the Bearded Butchers Blend Original seasoning. It’s a local favorite, made right up the road from our home, but its great flavor and clean ingredients have made it popular everywhere!)

Instructions:

Mince garlic and saute in 1 T. butter or olive oil in a Dutch oven. Wash and cut potatoes into medium-sized cubes, then add to Dutch oven. Slice kielbasa and stir in. Add green beans and salt/pepper to taste. Saute for approximately 5 minutes, then add a cup of water and put the lid on the Dutch oven. Let simmer on the hot coals until the potatoes are tender. You want to make sure to keep just enough liquid in the pan to keep everything from sticking to the bottom, but not too much (this isn’t a soup). When it’s finished cooking, there shouldn’t be excess liquid in the pot.

Add some biscuits to any meal

Freshly cooked biscuits go perfectly with any good camping meal (and are sometimes the best part of the meal!). If you’re ambitious, you can make biscuits from scratch. Sometimes I mix my dry ingredients together before we leave to create my own “just add milk” biscuit mix. Other times, it’s WAY easier just to use canned biscuit dough! The good news is that both options taste great!

You can bake biscuits in the Dutch oven the same way you do the cinnamon rolls—check them often and flip them when the bottoms are browned. If you only have one Dutch oven, it’s a good idea (and probably easiest) to bake the biscuits before you do the Kielbasa, Beans, and Red Potatoes. Just wrap them in a towel to keep them warm until supper is ready…if they last that long!

Camping dessert: s’mores buffet

Let’s be honest – you just can’t beat s’mores for a favorite campfire dessert for every age! S’mores are the classic camping food for kids. This easy crowd-pleaser is the quintessential campfire dessert. But, in case you’ve gotten a little tired of the classic version, or if you’re just looking for an extra-fun variation, try a s’mores buffet!

Mix and match to try all kinds of new flavor combinations, and be sure to add your own favorites, too!

The base:

• Classic graham crackers
• Chocolate graham crackers
• Round chocolate cookies
• Round mint chocolate cookies
• Oreos
• Fudge stripe cookies

The middle:

• Basic marshmallows
• Square marshmallows
• Flavored marshmallows

The toppings:

• Milk chocolate bars
• Reese’s Thins
• Peanut butter
• Sprinkles
• Mini chocolate chips

Mom hacks for s’more fun

• Set all your ingredients out on a tray, so they’re easy to access! Every parent knows how quickly s’more-making gets out of control once the marshmallows start melting.
• Even if your kids can toast their own marshmallows, keep at least one adult with both hands-free until all the kids’ smores are made. That way, someone is available to help when a kid’s marshmallow is slipping off their stick or catches on fire.
• Always have a wet cloth or a bucket of warm soapy water handy before you start making smores with kids! It makes all the stickiness just So. Much. Easier.
• Don’t give in to the temptation to buy the giant “campfire” marshmallows. I know they look amazing and fun. But they’re just too big to fit into a s’more, and the mess that ensues is EPIC. Ask me how I know…
• If you want to make s’more even more fun, put your marshmallow and toppings inside ice cream cones, wrap them in foil, and cook slowly over the campfire for a warm, melty delicious treat. Great option for little kids that aren’t ready to cook over the fire on their own. 

Camping meals made simple

And there you have it! One full day of fun, easy campfire meals that you can make with your kids and that they will love! Some of our family’s best camping memories are centered around simple meals like these and the time spent cooking them together. I hope your family will enjoy them as much as we do!

What’s your family’s favorite camping food?

About the author

Leslie is an Ohio farm girl and chaser of light, children, and sometimes chickens. She’s a lover of Jesus, wife to her high school sweetheart, and a homeschooling mom of four wild rascals who love the great outdoors as much as she does. As a family, they love hiking, camping, fishing, and just about any outdoor activity. She and her husband are just beginning the process of building a homestead from the ground up, doing most of the work themselves. Leslie has a lifelong obsession with writing and capturing everyday life from behind the lens. Follow along with their homesteading, homeschooling, and everyday adventures on her Instagram account.

You can find more from Leslie in the following locations:
Instagram: @c_l_allofus
Leslie’s RWMC posts: Leslie Alvis

The post Camping Food Your Kids Will Love Eating & Making appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

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The appeal of RV camping

So, you want to travel and experience the great outdoors, but you’re not quite ready to sleep on the hard ground and wash your dishes in the creek? Then RV camping might just be the way to go for you! From compact pop-ups to luxurious fifth-wheel trailers, not to mention full-sized RV’s, this kind of camping provides options for every family and budget.

From state and national parks to dedicated RV campgrounds, when RV camping, you can stay at locations around the world for a fraction of the price of a hotel or vacation rental. RV camping also gives you a lot of flexibility to camp during seasons when the weather is not ideal for camping in a tent. RV camping also allows you to carry some of the comforts of home with you while embracing the adventure of traveling and experiencing the great outdoors. 

Considering an RV for your family?

When our family began considering camping as a more affordable way for us to travel, we weren’t entirely sure if tent camping was for us. But sleeping (basically) outdoors, staying in gorgeous natural locations, and waking up to fresh air and the birds singing all around? Absolutely! That’s when we began to research the concept of RV camping.

We found a cheap little pop-up camper off Craigslist and took off on an eight-day camping trip several states away, cold turkey. There was definitely a bit of a learning curve involved, but over the years we’ve learned a lot about how to make RV camping a success. Today the six of us are living full-time in a 27-ft RV trailer while we build our home, so we’ve got a good bit of RV camping experience to draw from.

Tips for RV camping with kids

RV camping may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! It’s easier than you think, and with this post, we’ll make sure it’s your best family camping trip ever. The tips and advice in this post have been tried and tested by our team of expert RV moms. We’ve each spent significant time RV camping with our kids and have learned a lot in the process. So, whether this is your first trip out in an RV with your family or you want to make sure your next trip is a big success, here are the things you’ll want to consider when RV camping with kids. 

Tip #1: How to choose the right RV for your family

If you’re thinking of getting started RV camping, you’ve probably already learned the options for RVs are endless. How do you ever choose what rig is right for you? Frankly, I think a lot of it will boil down to two questions: (1) your preferred style of camping, and (2) budget.

RV camping style and budget considerations

The first thing you’ll want to consider when choosing the type of RV to purchase (or rent) is your camping style. Ask yourself what kind of RV camping is most appealing to you and your family. Do you want to be close to nature and have more of a traditional tent camping experience? Or do you want all the luxuries and conveniences of home wherever you travel? 

The second main factor in selecting an RV, for many of us, is budget. How much do you want to spend on your camper? The vast array of RV campers on the market today is astonishing. Ranging from questionable older models to shiny luxury homes on wheels, there is an RV camper option in every price range. Pop-ups are pretty affordable (based on what we saved for vacation accommodations, ours paid for itself in two years), while some full-sized RVs can cost more than a house. 

Pop-up campers

If you prefer to be as close to nature as possible, but still have a solid bed to sleep on, a sink to wash dishes in, and some storage, then a pop-up camper might be a good option. A pop-up camper is basically a trailer that folds out into a tent. Pop-up camping comes with a lot of perks. Most pop-ups have 2-3 roomy beds, which easily sleeps 4-6 people. They have an interior kitchen table with seating, cabinets for storing dishes and food, a battery-operated power system, and water tanks/hookups with at least a sink inside.

One downside to pop-up camping is that set-up and tear-down are a bit labor-intensive. Also, you’re still at the mercy of the weather. If it’s hot, you’re sweltering. If it rains, you may discover leaks. And if it’s cold, you will be chilly! However, pop-up campers are a great way to still enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and experience nature, while still having some major conveniences and accommodations. 

Dealing with weather when pop-up camping in a storm (a night to remember)

I’ll never forget one blustery, stormy night we spent in our pop-up camper in the mountains of Tennessee. Between listening to the wind trying to blow us away and trying to adjust a space heater to keep our kids from freezing, we didn’t get a whole lot of sleep. At some point, though, we drifted off and woke at dawn to find out we were all in one piece still. My husband triumphantly shouted, “We made it!” and thrust an arm into the air in victory.

However, my husband has remarkably long arms, and his fist connected quickly with the canvas over our bed, which had been gathering condensation all night as we tried to heat that little camper. A shower of water droplets rained down on us and I shrieked in dismay, waking the kids at the other end. They, of course, thought the condensation rain was hilarious and started showering each other in their bed. But we did make it, and the story is now a fond part of our family camping memories.

Full-sized RV campers

On the other hand, if you want an RV camping experience that is more like your own custom AirBnB on wheels, with a solid roof overhead, a bathroom, a full kitchen, and bedrooms with doors that close, you may want to look into a full-sized RV trailer. Full-size RV campers come in a variety of sizes and styles, with 1-2 bedrooms as well as convertible sleeping areas. The size, style, and newness of your RV will depend a lot on your budget.

Setting up a full-sized RV is a breeze—some campers even have self-leveling jacks to make it even easier. Just plug in your electric cord and your water hose, and you’ve got all the comforts of home, anywhere you choose to park. Other than the hefty price tag, the only downside of a full RV is the need for a towing vehicle and hauling skills. But, if you have a heavy-duty vehicle and some backing-up skills, you’ll be just fine!

Photo credit: Katie Fox @hiking.motherhood

Pro tips for choosing the right RV for your family

The Run Wild My Child team is filled with quite a few moms with significant RV camping experience. Tips and advice included below come from me, Leslie Alvis, Katie Fox (@hiking.motherhood), and Kathleen White (@faithboundfamilyadventures). Our team of experts weighed in with their tips on how to choose the right RV for your family. All of our experts are current or former full-time RV moms, with multiple kids that have traveled extensively in their RVs. Here’s what they had to say…

Rent an RV before you buy one

Pro tip from Kathleen: Honestly, if you’re an RV camping newbie, you won’t know exactly what you’ll want or need in an RV until you start RVing. When choosing an RV, there are so many factors to consider like family size, travel style, budget, RV type, etc. There’s no one right answer for your family, and if you’re just getting started, you may not know what you want, need, or will use.

I highly recommend trying a few different varieties and options of RVs before you commit to buying one. You can rent an RV from a local RV dealership/rental place or through a website like Outdoorsy. Outdoorsy lets you rent RVs directly from the owner (like VRBO for RVs!). You can search by RV type, price, location, size, and date available. They also provide 24-hour roadside service. Some will even deliver the RV directly to you! If you already own an RV, you can even list it on Outdoorsy for rent and earn extra income! 

Take an RV trip before purchasing to get a feel for your style and the amenities that you like and/or need. Maybe try a few different types of RVs. Once you figure out some of those things, you can determine the best option from there.  Start where you are with what you have, and you’ll figure it out as you go. 

Photo by Kathleen White @faithboundfamilyadventures

Set your budget and choose your non-negotiable features

Pro tip from Leslie: When it comes to choosing the right RV for your family, the decisions and options can be really overwhelming. I suggest starting by deciding on your budget and non-negotiables, then stick to them. For instance, our budget and non-negotiables were: (1) we weren’t willing to spend more than X amount of money on an RV, and (2) for full-time living, we had to have bunk beds for all our kids, not just convertible sleeping areas, (3) we needed a full kitchen. Once we knew exactly what we needed, we started looking and were able to find something used in our area that met all those requirements.

If you take your time in RV shopping, you will find something that meets your needs in your price range. Many used RVs are in great shape and much more affordable, so don’t be afraid to shop used. RV dealers have entire catalogs of used and new campers for sale in every region. If you’re willing to do your homework and know how to check over a camper for problems (or know someone who does), consider shopping private sellers through sources like Marketplace and Craigslist.

Pick an RV you have the ability to tow

Pro tip from Katie: This may sound like an obvious tip, but when you are out looking at travel trailer RVs at a dealership (or when the perfect RV pops up in Facebook marketplace), it is so easy to forget that you are actually limited to what your tow vehicle can safely tow. Not abiding by tow vehicle weight restrictions is a huge factor in RV-related accidents. Make sure to research what your vehicle can safely tow and search for RVs that meet this requirement. 

Some things to keep in mind regarding RV weight and towing

The dry weight of an RV (the weight of an RV as it is sold off the lot brand new), does not include the weight of water or waste in your tanks. It also does not include all of your camping gear, clothing, food, etc. And the amount your tow vehicle can safely tow also depends on how much weight is in the tow vehicle as well. In general terms, you must include all added weight to your tow vehicle (people, pets, car seats, bikes, etc.) and the weight of the RV and the gear inside it. 

Tip #2: Make RV camping reservations

Many campgrounds stay pretty busy during peak camping season (May through September). In order to be sure you have a place to stay when you reach your destination, you’ll want make reservations in advance! Making campground reservations for your RV is quick and easy to do online through the campground’s website. And one of the best ways to be guaranteed a good site is to make your reservations as early as possible.

Booking the best RV campsite locations

When we first started RV camping, we learned quickly that the best sites—the ones closest to the lake or river, the bathhouse, and the ones with the most space—get reserved earliest. Any RV park or campground we’ve ever stayed at has the best spots filled the whole time we’re there! There may be sites available for spur-of-the-moment camping trips, but they are often the least desirable ones. They may have less shade, be tighter to get into, or have less room between neighboring campsites. Sometimes this can lead to a slightly uncomfortable camping experience, and sometimes it’s just fine! We try not to let the campsite keep us from having a good time. Because even a less-desirable campsite is better than not camping at all! 

Size matters

The larger your RV rig is, the fewer options you will have when choosing an RV campsite. Our little pop-up can sneak into some non-electric camping sites, but a full-sized RV trailer is a lot more limited in its site options. When you go to the campgrounds’ website, you will enter your rig’s size. Then, they will show you the available campsites that meet your RV’s specifications. Some campgrounds have all the full-sized RVs lined up in rows; others spread them out more naturally among the trees.

Hookups and more

The campsite you choose should depend on what you’re looking for and need during your trip. An easy parking experience and full hookups are usually available, but you might not have as much shade or privacy. The good news is that a larger RV has its own creature comforts, such as a bathroom and air conditioning, so you aren’t quite as dependent on nature for comfort (or need easy access to campground bathrooms). If you want a more nature-oriented environment, you might have to look through a number of campground maps to get a feel for what is available, then make your reservations early.

Pro tips for making RV campsite reservations

Use Google Earth to scout your site

Pro tip from Leslie: When making RV campsite reservations, use the campground map alongside a Google Earth satellite image of your campground. The campground map gives you the location of each site and shows you its proximity to the other campsites and amenities. Some campgrounds will even show you a photo of your potential campsite from the road, but not all of them.

Google Earth satellite shows you what the actual natural surroundings look like. Are there trees on your campsite? How close is it to the road? Will you be able to walk down to that lake, or is it thick woods with a sharp drop-off down to the water? Depending on what season the satellite image was taken in, you may be able to get a pretty good idea of what your campsite really looks like.

Tales from a terrible campsite

One summer, during the busy family camping season, we made a desperate attempt to get away last minute. Every state park campground in our state was booked full, but we finally reserved one spot in the non-electric portion of a campground. It wasn’t far off the lake and seemed like it would work.

What we didn’t realize was that there was not a speck of shade on that entire campsite. It was 95 degrees each day that weekend, and our little pop-up camper was like an oven. The trees that ran between our campsite and the lake were dense woods full of poison ivy, the beach at the lake was suffering from a crazy algae bloom, and the weekend was very nearly a total disaster. We only salvaged that camping experience by packing our crew up and driving to one of the Great Lakes for the last day. Lesson learned: use Google Earth to make sure your campsite is actually a comfortable place to stay! Just because there’s a parking space on it doesn’t mean it’s where you want to spend the weekend.

Read campground reviews

Pro tip from Katie: If you have the time, browse campground reviews on sites like Campendium or even Google to see what others have said. Often people will complain about noise, sloped sites, crowded sites, etc. Or, they may share some positive things about the campground that you didn’t know. These reviews may reference certain campsites or be more general, but either way, they help you gather information about the campground to help you make an informed decision on when, where, and whether or not to book. 

Pro tip from Kathleen: RVing now is so different than when we first started a few years ago. The pandemic has pushed more people outside and camping (traditional and RV camping) are much more popular, so campgrounds are full. We used to book things on the fly and be okay. Now however, depending on where you’re going, you may need to book far in advance (and by far, I mean months). State parks are one of our favorites and often have more openings. Apps like Campnab can alert you when booked campgrounds have openings too! 

Photo by Katie Fox @hiking.motherhood

Tip #3: Stocking your RV

Now that you have your RV and booked a campsite, here comes the fun part! You get to stock up your RV with every comfortable, fun, and convenient household item you like! There are so many benefits to vacationing in your home on wheels. If you’re planning to use your RV frequently, I highly suggest having some items that you keep in the camper, so it’s easier to just toss some clothes in a bag and go! 

Every parent knows that packing for a trip with kids can be stressful. Especially when you’re camping and bringing all your food and gear, it can feel like your packing list is never-ending. However, having your RV already stocked with towels, extra blankets, sleeping bags, and some basic kitchen items makes it so much easier!

Make stocking your RV affordable

It might sound like you need a lot, but you don’t have to run out and buy everything brand new. Getting your RV ready to go camping doesn’t have to break the bank! I stocked our camper with our older towels, some recently replaced pots and pans, and some extra food storage containers. We added a few old blankets from the back of the linen closet, along with the sleeping bags (which I store in the camper). I keep small containers of dish soap, hand soap, and items like ziplock and trash bags in a drawer. 

I thrifted some like-new plates for our camper so we could go through fewer single-use paper goods. I also up-cycled some glass jars for large drinking glasses and food storage. These simple and eco-friendly choices for our camper only cost a few dollars. Knowing that all those basic items are already packed and ready to go always make camping trips easier.

Pro tips for stocking your RV

Use different colored towels

Pro tip from Leslie: Use a different color bath towel for each member of your family. Unlike at home, where every member of the family probably has their own towel rod or hook in the bathroom, camper life is a bit more crowded. Towels end up anywhere and everywhere, or all mixed up on a clothesline. Having a different color for everyone makes towel ID a breeze. Stash a clothesline and clothes pins in one of your outdoor compartments to use for quick, easy towel drying on a daily basis. As a bonus, towels that are air- and sun-dried smell fresher longer, so you can go longer between washings!

Don’t be afraid to use real dishes

Pro tip from Katie: A lot of the time, people bring disposable dishes (like paper plates and plastic utensils) camping, and this continues in RV camping as well. It can be much easier to use disposable dishes, but it is far more cost-effective and eco-friendly to purchase plastic or sturdy dish sets or use something you already own. Yes, you will have to wash the dishes regularly. Yes, it may seem lame to do this while on vacation. But, having RV or camping-only dishes saves you a ton of money and makes prepping for a trip so simple. The dishes are already in place and ready to go. Target has BPA-free plastic plates, bowls, and cups that are perfect for camping gear and a great addition to your RV checklist. 

Photo by Kathleen White @faithboundfamilyadventures

Tip #4: Understanding the tanks in your RV

Perhaps the biggest learning curve to RV camping is dealing with the tanks. Freshwater, gray water, black water—these tanks become the foundation for your daily water usage. Gray tank= sink water and shower water. Black tank= all other waste. Knowing how much each tank holds and how to empty and/or fill them is a vital part of RVing.

I certainly never wanted to know so much about waste water! But, once you understand your tanks and get used to taking care of them, it becomes second nature. If you’re camping with full hookups, you don’t have to worry too much about how much fresh water you use. This is great for long trips. But, it is important to realize that what goes into your waste tanks must be emptied! So, if you don’t want to empty your tanks until you’re done with your stay, you may have to be conservative with your water usage. This really depends on how many people are in your family. Our family of 6 can go through a fair amount of water on a daily basis, even if we’re being careful.

Different parks have different hookup methods

Some RV parks provide wastewater hookups at each campsite, which makes all of this easy! You hook up your hoses, and you’re good to go. All the state parks that we’ve camped at just offer dump stations, where you can empty your tanks as you leave. Or, if you want, you can hook everything up and drive over to dump your tanks mid-stay. But, that’s a bit of a hassle – once you’re parked, it’s nice to be able to stay put. Some people carry portable waste tanks that they empty their tanks into and haul over to the dump station. Other campers use water very conservatively and use the park bathrooms as much as possible to avoid having to empty their tanks during their stay.

A side note about those tank sensors

As a side note, tank sensors are notorious for going bad in an RV. Much like driving a vehicle without a working fuel gauge, it’s entirely possible to live without them. But, you’d better have some idea of the amount of water you’re using and the state of your water storage system. Currently, none of the sensors in our RV work, which means we need to keep track of our water usage, so we don’t run out of water mid-shower or discover the bathtub full of gray water. (But who are we kidding? The bathtub gets used as an overflow tank fairly often. It’s just better if it doesn’t happen while all the dirty laundry is piled in it!)

Once you’ve been RV camping for a while, you get a rough idea of how much water your family uses and how long it takes to empty/fill the tanks. Or…just replace the sensors!

Photo by Kathleen White @faithboundfamilyadventures

Pro tips about RV tanks

Know your black tank info

The black tank absolutely must have liquid in it to function. I know, you really don’t want to think about it. (I didn’t, either!) But what goes in, must flow back out. For the toilet waste to decompose and drain properly, you must start with 5 gallons of water in the black tank. We learned this lesson the very, very hard way. So just trust me and add the water.

Even if you’re boondocking and trying to conserve water, the black tank is not where you want to skimp on water usage. Pour in the five gallons of water. Then add these easy treatment pods to eliminate odors, or else dissolve 1 cup of borax into a gallon of hot water and add 1 cup Dawn dish soap. Either treatment helps with odor control.

Also, make sure to use RV toilet paper or a readily-dissolving toilet paper. These tricks will keep everything working the way it’s supposed to, so you can go have fun and not have to worry about unclogging a very nasty mess!

Conserve water while washing dishes

Camping in an RV often lends folks to use sinks and showers/bathtubs like they do at home. And if you have full hookups (power, water, and sewer), you can absolutely use water the same way you do at home. But, if you do not have a sewer hookup or if you are using water from your freshwater tanks, you need to use a lot less water than you do at home. 

One tip to help with dishes is to have a dish tub that fits in your sink and fill it 1/4 of the way with warm soapy water. Use this water to wet and wash your dishes and then rinse them with a low trickle of water right above the tub. The clean soapy water goes into your dish tub and fills it slowly, giving you more and more water to wash with after each dish. It also gives you a visual of how much water you are using, which helps you get better at using less. You can either dump this in your sink where it will go to the grey tank, into your black tank (if you need to add more water into it), or you can take it to the campground wastewater disposal site. 

Tip #5: Meal planning for RV camping

One of the economic benefits of traveling by RV is that you can easily meal plan ahead of time and then prepare meals for your family, right there in your camper. Even our tiny pop-up has a sink, a little fridge, and an indoor/outdoor two-burner propane stovetop. Full-sized RV’s have very functional kitchenettes that include ovens and microwaves. The convenience of an RV kitchen on a road trip gives you a lot more flexibility (and affordability) with meals than eating out or cooking strictly over a campfire. And it’s not weather-dependent, either! A lot of RV’s have an outside propane burner for outside cooking, but you can also cook in the camper whenever the weather is bad.

But, planning and packing for all your meals when camping can feel a little overwhelming. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be! My number 1 camping meal planning tip is to keep it simple. Stock your fridge and cupboard with basic condiments and seasonings that you will use for multiple meals. Both prep and storage space in a camper are limited. Think of some of your family’s favorite easy meals that call for few ingredients.

Don’t be afraid to use some convenience foods, even if you normally cook from scratch. This is supposed to be a fun time for you, too! You don’t want to spend the whole time camping cooking. When we go camping, we like to include “fun” foods that we don’t normally eat at home. The way I figure it, we’re still saving a ton of money and eating healthier than if we were eating out. The kids are thrilled, and it helps keeps meals fun and easy.

Pro tips for cooking when RV camping

Use cast iron

Bring a cast-iron skillet or dutch oven that you can use in the oven, on the stove, or over a campfire. Cast iron is incredibly versatile! It’s worth the extra weight because it’s just so useful in all kinds of camping cooking. I can use my cast iron for baking biscuits in the oven, cooking eggs over the campfire for breakfast, making macaroni and cheese on the stovetop, and baking a pizza for supper. Fun and easy food for a whole day, all in one dutch oven.

Tip #6: RV packing list, storage, and organization

Once your RV is packed with your basic kitchen and household essentials, it makes packing everything else so much easier! You just have to consider clothes, personal items (soap, shampoo, medications, etc.), gear for activities, and food items. One great thing about RV camping is that it’s so easy to pack everything up inside! Similar to car camping, you’re not limited by space. You’ve got room to stow everything you want or need — just make sure it’s securely packed for traveling.

I like to pack food items up in small plastic totes. I fill one with breakfast and snack foods, one with non-perishable ingredients, and one with kitchen supplies I’m bringing from my home kitchen. These fit right into the cupboard, and they’re out of the way while we travel.

Make a list of the outdoor activities you’re planning and the gear you need for them. Warm weather activities will be different (and need different gear) than outdoor winter activities. The outdoor storage compartments on an RV are a great place to store outdoor gear. Hiking gear, baby carriers/strollers, colder weather clothing, life vests, swimsuits, and extra gear can all be stashed away in the outside storage areas. They’re out of the way of your immediate living quarters but handy to reach when you need them.

Photo by Katie Fox @hiking.motherhood

Pro tips for packing your RV 

Use stacking plastic drawers

For packing clothes, use stackable plastic drawers that work with your small space. These fit right into most bedroom cabinets/closets and make packing and keeping clothes organized so easy. No suitcases or duffel bags piled on the floor or beds! Give each person 1-2 drawers (based on how much space you have), and voila! Clothes are packed. Even in a pop-up camper, which doesn’t have as much cabinet space, plastic drawers or packing cubes are a great solution to the chaos of having multiple people’s clothes/bags lying around.

Entertainment for the kids on rainy days

Another RV packing list you should definitely make is for rainy day games and easy activities to do close to the RV. Let’s face it: everyone who camps knows that sometimes the weather will NOT cooperate! And sometimes, you just need something to keep the kids occupied at the nearby picnic table while you’re busy. By planning ahead, you can have an entire collection of fun activities for everyone to do in or near the RV while the rain pours down outside. I like to pack a tote just for this with things the whole family can play together. I include some favorite board games, coloring books, crayons, play dough, cards, and some special toys or crafts from the dollar store. The very novelty of having a bin full of games that don’t come out unless it rains adds a certain allure to some very ordinary and familiar items.

Family camping checklist

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. I highly recommend you start with our family camping gear checklist as inspiration, but make your own master copy of your camping packing list and update it with your family camping essentials every time you go camping. Keep track of all the items you have packed and stored in the RV already, then add your clothing items and other camping gear.

Your camping packing checklist will change quite a bit over the years as you think of things that would make camping better, as your kids grow, as the seasons change, and as you get more comfortable camping. Making your own list will trigger your brain to remember things that may be important to your family. When packing, make sure to check each item off your list as you pack and then double-check your camping checklists (just in case you got distracted when packing) so you don’t forget any important items.

Tip #7: RV must-have items

RV camping is so flexible that there aren’t too many things you absolutely have to have, but we’ve found a few items that are invaluable for making your RV camping experience fun and easy.  Here are a few of our RV must-have product recommendations to add to your RV essentials checklist: 

Command hooks: You can use these anywhere and everywhere. From hanging clothes and bags to kitchen utensils, to towels and shower items, we’ve stuck them all over the camper and use them constantly! The best part is that they cause no damage to the wall and can be removed entirely when you’re finished!

Stick vacuum: No one really wants to clean while you’re on vacation. But camping with kids = messes, no matter how you do it. Whether you’re at the lake or in the woods, you’re sure to find your floor covered with sand, dirt, leaves, and (of course) crumbs. Our cordless stick vacuum is an absolute lifesaver. It’s small enough to fit into a side compartment and useful enough to make it worth the space it takes up! With one easy tool, I can sweep the linoleum floors, the rugs, and the carpet, and get the edges of the room with the wand. The floor goes from gritty and disgusting to clean in just a few minutes.

Stainless steel cups: Lightweight, unbreakable, and stackable, these cups solved our drinking cup problem and are a great addition to any camp kitchen. I wanted something reusable and plastic-free that would hold up to indoor-outdoor camping life and also stack to save cupboard space. These cups have been perfect! Even better, you can write names on them with a permanent marker so the kids can use the same cup all day long, reducing dishwashing and water usage.

First aid kit: The more time you spend outside with your kids, the more likely we all are to encounter some sticky situations. Cuts, scrapes, burns, and bruises can happen. Even when we’re being careful. A first aid kit is an essential item for your RV, as well as anytime you’re out adventuring with kids. 

Duct tape: You won’t believe how many uses you’ll find for duct tape. From patching holes to hanging items, repairing rips and sealing seams, duct tape is a super versatile tool that every RV owner should have on hand.  

Magnetic knife strip: This is a great way to keep your sharp knives off the counter, out of the way of small fingers, and still easily accessible! Ours has been invaluable for handy knife storage. The only thing is that you might want to tuck the knives into a drawer on travel days. 

Photo by Katie Fox @hiking.motherhood

RV camping with kids

RV camping and RV travel with kids can sound overwhelming when you’re first getting started, but it’s worth it. I hope this post has made the process a bit more manageable so you know what you’re getting into. Whether you’re hitting the road full-time in your RV or just heading out for a long weekend in your pop-up, I know you’ll have a great time making lifelong memories with your children. The learning curve isn’t nearly as steep as you might think – just remember that the most important thing in RV life is to have fun! 

About the author

Leslie is an Ohio farm girl and chaser of light, children, and sometimes chickens. She’s a lover of Jesus, wife to her high school sweetheart, and a homeschooling mom of four wild rascals who love the great outdoors as much as she does. As a family, they love hiking, camping, fishing, and just about any outdoor activity. She and her husband are just beginning the process of building a homestead from the ground up, doing most of the work themselves. Leslie has a lifelong obsession with writing and capturing everyday life from behind the lens. Follow along with their homesteading, homeschooling, and everyday adventures on her Instagram account.

You can find more from Leslie in the following locations:
Instagram: @c_l_allofus
Leslie’s RWMC posts: Leslie Alvis

The post RV Camping with Kids: Tips for Success from Full-Time RV Moms appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

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Ultimate camping gear list for families

Is a camping trip with your family on your summer bucket list? Are you planning to visit one of the national parks or even just a small-town campground? Camping is an amazing outdoor experience for the whole family and totally worth all the work. (Yes, it’s work.) It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you start thinking about everything you need to bring when camping with kids. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!

Let this post filled with family camping essentials and our downloadable ultimate family camping gear list be your guide! Whether you’re a camping expert or a camping newbie, having a list is a great way to stay organized and not forget any important items and start making some family memories! We’ll help you get started making your family camping packing list with everything you need to have a fun and well-stocked experience! 

Photo credit: @roaminggonzalez

Before you pack, do your research

The first thing to do before you ever start packing is to research your campground/campsite and make yourself familiar with what’s there and what’s available. Campgrounds can vary widely in the amenities that they offer. Basic amenities at most established campgrounds include bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, water spigots, trash/recycling, and firepits. Beyond that, you may also find campgrounds with 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 so much more! 

Check to see if your local campground has information online about the layout of your specific campsite so that you can see how much space you’ll have and what is already there. For example, some campgrounds have water access, a fire pit, a picnic table, and electricity! Some sites have none of the above, so you’d be “roughing it” and will need to bring more in order to be best prepared. Either way, you’ll still need to bring various items for a successful trip. 

Photo credit: @wildstokefam

How to acquire your camping gear affordably

Camping gear can be expensive, so it’s worth trying to find your items below retail price. Gently used equipment can be just as good as brand new at a fraction of the cost. Whatever works for your family’s budget and needs is the best option. Here are some ways to save money while still acquiring everything you need:

• Check your local “buy nothing” or yardsale sites on Facebook. 
• Look for camping gear rental services near you; by renting, you can test a product to see if you like it before taking the plunge on a purchase. 
• Buy in the off-season or during big sales; prices are sometimes better.
• Borrow from friends.
• Ask for camping gear as gifts from family or friends for holidays or birthdays.
• Check thrift stores; this is where we found our cooler & camp chairs.
• You local “dollar store” should have inexpensive utensils, tablecloths, flashlights, and snacks.

Camp packing tip: make your own list

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. We’ve done our best to provide you with a family packing camping list that you can use as a starter to make your own. We’ve  included all the basics, but we’ve also added a ton of optional items you may (or may not) want to bring. You don’t need to bring everything! Camping is all about the simple life, so just bring what you need to feel comfortable.

We highly recommend you start with our list as inspiration, but make your own master copy of your packing list and update it every time you go camping. It’ll change quite a bit over the years as you think of things that would make camping better, as your kids grow, as the seasons change, and as you get more comfortable camping. Making your own list will trigger your brain to remember things that may be important to your family. When packing, make sure to check each item off your list as you pack and then double-check (just in case you got distracted when packing).

Camping gear for babies and toddlers

Any age child is old enough to go camping. However, as parents, we know that babies and toddlers tend to be more high-needs than elementary-aged kids and above, and that goes for the camping gear we need to bring too! Whether this is your baby’s first camping trip, or 10th, there are some specific items that you may want to bring for your babies and/or toddlers while camping. Here are a few of our top recommendations:

• Pack and play – This can be a safe spot for your child to play in outside at the campground and can also serve as a bed inside your tent.
• Outdoor gate – An adjustable play gate can allow your child to play safely on the ground while still being enclosed within a safe area. 
• High chair – If your baby or toddler is used to eating in the same high chair daily, you may consider bringing it. This will make mealtime easier for everyone!
• Kid carrier – A hiking backpack or carrying sling can be helpful, especially when you go on adventures. 
• Sound machine – If your campsite has electricity, a sound machine can be helpful to drown out the extra noise during nap time or at night. 
• Stroller – Besides being a great way to transport your little one, a stroller can also help carry gear.
• Comfort items – If your child is used to sleeping with a special baby, stuffy, toy, or blanket, be sure to bring it! 

What to bring when camping with dogs

Dogs love to camp! If you can take them, camping can be a great experience for your family and your pup! Here are some things to remember if you’re bringing your canine friend along for the adventure:

• Dog bed – If your dog is used to sleeping on a bed every night, don’t leave it at home! You want them to feel comfortable while camping and have a place to rest during the day.
• Leash and dog lead – Even if your dog is the “goodest-boy ever” you still want to have a leash and even a dog run for your campsite. This is for your dog’s safety as much as anyone else’s.
• Dog food – You’d think this would be a given, but sometimes, I forget it if it isn’t on a list!
• Dog bowl – Always keep a bowl of fresh water out for your pup, especially in hot weather.
• Outdoor dog pen – Sort of like a playpen for dogs, this small but helpful pen will keep your dog contained. 

Camping gear you actually need

There’s a lot of gear you can take with you when you go camping. However, you don’t always need all that stuff. If this is your first time camping with kids, you’ll probably significantly overpack, and we’re here to tell you that’s ok! We know that sometimes having everything you just “might” need with you means that you’ll feel more confident going. And if that’s the case and gets you out the door, by all means, pack away! 

However, with a little experience, you’ll quickly realize that you don’t need nearly as much stuff for an overnight camping trip as you might think. And actually, the less
stuff you have, the easier it is to get out of the house, and the more creative and resourceful you (and your kids) will learn to be. But again, that takes time (something to look forward to, right?).

For now, we’ll go over the basics of what you need and give you plenty of suggestions for optional items you can also bring to make camping more comfortable and help you feel more prepared.

Photo credit: @kristcx

Basic camping gear list

Let’s start with the basics of traditional tent camping. Here’s what you will need most of these items for even a bare-bones camping trip. 

Tent

You’ll want to be sure you have a tent that is the appropriate size for your family. Tents run on the small side – the number of people that your tent says it’ll hold is only that, leaving you no extra room for gear, luggage, mattresses, spreading out, etc. We recommend upsizing when possible. For example, we have an 8-10 person-sized tent for our family of 4. Having room to move around inside the tent and our sleeping space is key. Also, make sure your tent has a rainfly for protection from the elements. You can leave it off for extra fresh air when it’s not raining.

Here’s a great post on the best way to choose the right tent for your family and our top family tent recommendations.

Tarp or footprint

This item is to lay underneath your tent as a moisture barrier and protect against abrasions and punctures. Not all tents come with a footprint included, so this is something that you may need to find or purchase separately. Make sure the footprint is a bit smaller (up to 2 inches smaller) than the outline of your tent. This may sound counterintuitive, but if the tarp/footprint extends out from under the tent edge or is the same size, it can cause water to pool between the footprint and your tent floor in the rain. 

Sleeping bags 

Sleeping under the stars is always a great idea, unless you can’t get comfortable and stay warm. One key element to this issue is a well-fitting, cozy sleeping bag. For kids, a bag like the Kids Kelty Mistral that keeps kids toasty in temperatures below 40-degrees, is a great investment. For the smaller ones, a sleeping sack/bag made for babies, like this one from Morrison Outdoors, might be just the right fit. If you’re camping in the summer, it may be enough to just bring extra blankets and sheets and sleep on top of your sleeping bag. 

Sleeping pad or cot

Every good camping sleep system also includes a sleeping mat or a cot. Mats are a great option because you can buy them a little big to last a longer. A self-inflating sleeping pad like the REI Kindercamp is nice and worth the extra cost because the kids can help set up their own sleeping spot and you don’t need to bring an additional air pump. If you want something bigger (for multiple kids or kids plus an adult, we love the REI Co-op Camp Dreamer Double Self-Inflating Deluxe Bed. If you’re looking for something that gets your little one off the ground, or if you have multiple kids and are tight on space, check out the Kid-O-Bunk bunk bed cots.

Photo credit: @coleyraeh

Illumination – headlamps, flashlights, lanterns

You’ll want to be able to see in the dark when camping. Headlamps offer a perfect hands-free illumination option. Once placed on the head your kid can freely move about without worrying about dropping something or shining it in the right place. We love these high-quality adjustable Petzl Tikka headlamps. Flashlights are a classic option and come in so many fun colors and sizes. Small flashlights like these EverBrite Flashlights come in multiple packs for the whole family. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, these LED tactical flashlights are bright, rechargeable, magnetic, and waterproof. Lanterns come in all shapes and are made from a variety of materials. One style to consider is an ultra-lightweight inflatable lantern like these LuminAid lanterns, that can also charge your phone! 

Rain shelter

A rain shelter is a great way to provide sun and rain protection over any area of your campsite. Sometimes these are called easy-up tents or pop-up shelters. We put one up over our kitchen space, so I have shade and rain protection to prepare meals. A rain shelter isn’t 100% necessary every time we go camping, but it’s a blessing if we’re expecting any rain or need some additional shade for little ones. It’s also an excellent purchase for picnics, ballgames, tailgating, and other events.

Outdoor/indoor rug

An easy-to-clean outdoor/indoor rug or small carpet is an excellent addition to your campsite. Set it right outside the entryway into your tent to minimize dirt, leaves, debris, mud, and sand tracked into your tent. It can quickly be swept or hosed off to clean. The last thing you want to feel when you slip into your sleeping bag is dirt or sand. 

Photo credit: @kristcx

Trash receptacle

A trash can/barrel is a must-have for any campsite. Sometimes campgrounds will provide these for you, but not always. We have one where the lid clicks closed so no raccoons, squirrel, or skunks can get it. However, if you have bears in your area, you might want to avoid keeping any trash on your site if possible. Be sure to check your campground’s local rules and regulations regarding trash storage and disposal. 

Camp table

Some campsites have picnic tables available at every site to provide a space for eating, cooking, playing games, etc. If yours does, that’s great! However, if it doesn’t, you’ll want to consider bringing one. I suggest a collapsable lightweight table crafted for outdoor use. 

Camp chairs

Collapsible, comfortable, lightweight, waterproof chairs are the best for camping. Some models have cup holders, headrests, or overhead shades. Pick one that suits your needs! We also recommend small camping chairs for little kids. A chair that’s just the right size like this  Coleman Kids Chair is a great option. (Although that’s not to say they still won’t steal your chair!) It’ll give them a safe (and just the right size) place to sit around the fire and feel like part of the group. 

Camp kitchen gear & essentials

Your camp kitchen gear essentials will depend a lot on the type of food that you’ll bring with you and how you want to cook it. If you do all your meal prep ahead of time or like cooking directly on an open fire, you may need less gear than if you were planning to prep, assemble, and cook your meals onsite. Before you start making your kitchen gear list, consider the food, snacks and meals that you’ll be eating (and how many of them), and then come up with a list of kitchen items that you’ll need (step-by-step ) when making and cooking the food.

When planning your meals, you’ll want to be sure to pick your  “hot” meals around the type of heat source you’ll have available at your campsite. You’ll probably have easy access to a campfire. Cooking over a  campfire isn’t hard, but you may need a few basic items to be most efficient, such as an over-fire grill grate. Another option is a portable camp stove. Some campsites may have charcoal grills for you to use, and in that case, you’ll need to bring your own charcoal. 

Stove or grill

If you’d like to eat a hot meal while camping, you’ll need something to help you cook your food. As mentioned above, some campsites have fire pits perfect for over-the-fire cooking. If you’re cooking directly on a flame, consider a grill grate or some roasting sticks or pie irons. However, you might also want to bring a small grill or cooktop. This will allow you to cook nearly anything without needing a steady fire going (and can be used in the rain). 

Wash bins, dish soap & sponge

Plastic or metal wash bins for holding and cleaning dirty dishes are a must-have. Finding nesting bins is a space saver; one can be used to wash, while the other can be used to rinse. Make sure your soap won’t harm the local wildlife – many campgrounds require use of biodegradable soap. Also, check with your local campsite regarding how to properly dispose of all food scraps, and any special areas to dispose of grey water (used dish washing water). 

Tablecloth

While not essential, a  plastic tablecloth with fabric backing is great for use on a picnic table. This allows for super easy cleanup and splinter prevention!

Photo credit: @coleyraeh

Pots and pans

If you’ll be camping at an established campsite near your vehicle (as opposed to hiking in to a backcountry campsite with only the stuff you can carry), you’re not limited on space for the kitchen cookware you bring. Full-sized pots, pans, knives, utensils, and the cast iron skill from your home kitchen will work great! No need to buy specialty camping cookware. Depending on what you’re cooking and how (size of cooking surface), bring the appropriate size. 

Pot holders, dish towels, wash rags, and cloth napkins

Choose something you don’t mind getting dirty. Second-hand shops are the place to look for these items that you can put into your camping kitchen storage and use exclusively for this purpose. 

Plates, cups, utensils

Sturdy plastic is a good choice for these items. You can use paper or plastic for convenience, but if you can choose something more sustainable and reusable, the better. Again, you can find inexpensive ones at the dollar store. 

Cutting board & sharp knife

If you’ll need to chop veggies, cut meat or slice anything for your meals, bring a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife. Remember to keep the knife in a sealable container or with a sheath on it when not in use for safety. 

Cooler(s)

The number and type of coolers you bring camping will depend on how much (and what) you bring for food. A basic cooler with ice packs is essential for keeping perishable food and drinks cold. We usually use the reusable ice blocks from Yeti in a Yeti cooler for our food. That keeps the ice from melting and having your food swimming around in melted ice water. We do use regular ice for keeping drinks cold. And if we need ice for drinks, we’ll bring a separate special cooler for that. 

Photo credit: @kristcx

Water dispenser

Instead of using single-use plastic water bottles, we opted for a 5-gallon water dispenser on our camp table. This is not only for easy water storage, but the kids can refill their water bottles independently as needed. We can also use this water for cooking, brushing teeth, washing hands, etc. as needed. Depending on the length of your tip and access to water, you can bring your own water from home or fill it at the campsite. 

Paper towels/napkins

A roll of disposable paper towels is always a good idea for quick and easy clean-up. However, if you want to cut down on your waste, consider bringing tea towels or clothing napkins. The soiled towels get thrown into the laundry bag after use and reused for each trip. 

Tin foil

Tin foil has a number of uses and is so helpful and handy to have when cooking at the campsite. Foil can be used for both cooking or food storage. We like to make tin foil meal packets to cook on the grill or directly in the camp fire for easy dish-free clean up. 

Cooking utensils

Think about the food you’ll be cooking and consider what utensils you’ll need for cooking. A mixing spoon, spatula, tongs, and measuring cups are all basic needs for a camping trip. You may also need some specialty utensils like a can opener, wine key, whisk, or strainer for cooking some items. 

Refillable water bottles

These can be used in conjunction with your water dispenser to cut down on the amount of waste and plastic you’re using on your camping trip. Be sure to stay hydrated when camping, and bring your water with you on every adventure. 

Coffee pot/french press

It’s a proven fact that coffee tastes better when camping! And after a possibly long night, you may need some extra java in the morning. If you’re camping at a site that has an electrical plug in there’s no rule that says you can’t bring your coffee pot from home! This way, you’re sure to have coffee made just the way you like it, and plenty of it. Be sure to bring an extension cord to stretch where you need it to in your campsite. Don’t forget your coffee grounds and filters (or k-cups, or whatever you use). If you don’t have electricity, consider a french press coffee maker or a pour-over method. 

Camping food items to pack

Of course, you can bring whatever food you’d like, but here are some typical camping foods that are easy to bring, store, make and eat to add to your camping gear list! There’s no need for fancy meals when you’re camping. Just be sure to bring enough food! And be prepared for it to taste great, because everything tastes better when you’re camping!  

• Eggs 
• Bacon or sausage
• Bread
• English muffins
• Deli meat 
• Peanut butter
• Jelly
• Hot dogs
• Hamburgers
• Chicken breasts
• Fish fillets
• Rice 
• Potatoes
• Veggies 
• Fruit
• Protein bars
• Pretzels
• Trail mix
• S’mores fixings – chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers
• Gatorade or a similar hydrating drink
• Salt & pepper
• Seasonings & spices
• Condiments
• Cooking spray
• Coffee & filters

Personal care items

Just because you’re out in the wild doesn’t mean you must stop taking care of yourself. So here’s a list of personal care items to add to your camping gear list. Remember that a standard first aid kit might include some of these items. 

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Floss
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Soap
• Medications
• Vitamins
• OTC pain relievers
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Lotion
• Aloe vera gel
• Burn relief cream
• Thermometer
• Moleskin for blisters
• Band-aids/bandages
• Antibiotic cream
• Hairbrush
• Deodorant
• Contact lens solution
• Feminine products
• Bath towels & face cloths
• Razor
• Toilet paper (depending on your campsite set-up)
• Diapers, wipes, pull-ups if needed

Photo credit: @kristcx

Clothing for your camping gear list

Depending on the season and where you are camping, you will want to bring different clothing items for you and everyone in your family. What you transport your clothes in is up to you! We used a clear tote that we kept in the car. It was easy to transport and didn’t take up much room. Other options include a suitcase, duffel bags, backpacks, re-purposed laundry bags, or a laundry basket. For adults and teenagers, one change of clothes or a shirt and pants/shorts for each day should suffice. However, kids tend to get dirty quickly when camping (especially if there’s water around), so consider bringing two outfits for each day for the younger kids and babies. But, also know that a little dirt won’t hurt and wearing dirty clothes when camping isn’t the end of the world!

Here are some clothing items for your camping trip that you may consider packing:

Base layers

Merino wool base layers are fantastic options for almost every season. The wool is lightweight, not scratchy, and warm. Woold pieces can be used alone on warmer days or can add a much-needed layer of comfort on those chilly winter escapades. One of our favorite brands that makes beautiful, soft layers is NUI Organics. We love their collection of soft merino wool, which comes in a variety of beautiful solid gender-neutral colors (so they can be passed down kid to kid). This company, in particular, is great because they carry layers for the entire family (adults included). 

Check out our post on the Best Merino Wool Layers for Kids for a comprehensive list of the best wool brands, clothing options, and price points. 

Socks & underwear

I might be the wrong person to ask this question because my formula for the number of pairs of underwear to bring on a trip goes like this. # of days you are gone X 3 = # pairs of underwear to bring. Is this too much? ALWAYS! But I’d rather be overprepared in this department. The same goes for socks, and wool is always a good option. Our favorite brands are Smartwool and Bombas. 

Rain gear

No matter the weather forecast, I would recommend bringing rain gear with you. A rain jacket for every family member, or even better, rain suits! The REI Co-op Rainwall Jacket and Rainwall Pants are great options for a two-piece set. For the younger kids, full-body rain suits are a great choice because there is little to no worry about their underlayers getting wet when the weather turns. Our longtime favorite rain suit for everyday wet adventures has been the Oaki trail suit, but we also really love the Polarn O. Pyret Rain Shell with interior fleece-lining for colder rainy day adventures. 

Photo credit: @kristcx

Swim suits

If you’re camping during the spring and summer, don’t forget to bring a swimsuit. If you’re lucky, your campground will include a body of water suitable for swimming. We like rashguards for the kids because it adds an extra layer of protection from the sun and bugs. 

Gloves & hats

If it’ll be cold, bring a warm hat for each family member and warm waterproof gloves in the winter. If it’s sunny out, consider bringing a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection during the rest of the year. Check out our full gear review post for a breakdown of the best kids’ gloves and mittens for outdoor play. 

Pajamas

Remember that the temperature can vary significantly from day to night, and you are less protected from the elements while sleeping outside. Most of the time, your wool layers can double as pajamas or serve as your base layer (underneath clothes) to keep you and the kids extra toasty warm on cold nights or when camping in cooler temperatures. Light weight layers will help keep kids cool when camping in the hot summer months.  

Shoes

Bringing an extra pair of shoes for each family member is a good idea. In the winter, be sure to bring your warm boots. In the summer, a sturdy pair of sandals is a good idea. If you’re planning on doing some hiking, biking or creeking, remember to bring your best shoes for that activity. Also, a pair of shower shoes or flip-flops if you’ll be using a public shower while camping. 

Sunglasses

You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors; let’s protect those eyes! A polarized pair will give you a clearer view too! For little kids, we love these Babiator sunglasses that come in 2 styles (the Navigator UV and the Aviator) and a variety of colors. Frames are made from rubber, making them strong and flexible, shock and impact resistant.

Laundry bag

Don’t forget something to hold all of your dirty clothes. A large laundry bag with a drawstring top works well for us. In a pinch, you can also use a trash bag or designate one empty duffle bag or suitcase to hold all the dirty laundry. 

Campsite fun

Camping with your family should be a fun experience, and while being out in nature is a form of entertainment all on its own, sometimes you need a few other ideas of things to do or bring from home to help the play. There are a ton of fun activities you can play around the campfire and inside a camping tent to make your camping experience a memorable one. Here are some suggestions for games and enjoyment you can bring along with you. 

Walkie-talkies

Walkie-talkies are perhaps one of the best outdoor toys you can purchase for your kids! Not only are they fun to use and can be a catalyst for hours of imaginative play, but they are also a helpful device for keeping track of our busy independent kids when they’re out exploring or running around the campsite. These Topsung rechargeable walkie-talkies are great because they are long-range and come in packs of two or three.

Binoculars

My binoculars go with me on every outdoor adventure, so this is on my essentials list. But, if you aren’t a birder like I am, you might want to think about bringing a pair of binoculars to get an up-close look at some of the natural wonders you might find. A good pair of high-resolution, waterproof binoculars like these Occer compact binoculars will make sure your kids don’t miss a thing (but they also won’t break the bank). 

Field guides

Bringing a field guide relevant to the area you are visiting will be a great way to engage your kids in their environment. We all know about the fantastic apps for identifying plants, birds, and even bugs, but a good old-fashioned guidebook is an unplugged version perfect for your camping trip. 

Books

Hopefully, you will do some relaxing on your trip, and what’s better than sitting down with a good book? Scroll down below for some great kids camping books for kids. 

Games

Bubbles, chalk, jump ropes, frisbee, card games like UNO or Skip-Bo, activity books, board games, sketch pads, fishing gear, and bicycles with helmets are all options for your family to bring for some entertainment.

Outdoor string lights

Solar powered string lights can add extra light and ambiance to your tent or even your whole campsite. They make your whole campsite feel a bit more magical!

Bluetooth speaker

Bring a waterproof Bluetooth speaker with you if you want to listen to some music while camping. 

Hammock

These are not necessary unless this is your chosen method for sleeping, but they can be fun and relaxing. Many kinds are easy to pack away and lightweight while still sturdy. A hammock can easily provide my kids with hours of fun and entertainment. If your kids are anything like mine, a hammock can become a swing, a fort, or the perfect spot to ask mom for a gazillionth snack. Whatever way your kids prefer to make use of this classic camp item, you can’t go wrong with something like the ENO SingleNest Hammock.

Photo credit: @coleyraeh

Helpful extras to add to your camping gear list

• Trash bags
• Ziplock/stasher bags
• Duct tape
• Zipties
• Batteries
• Toolkit
• Portable potty
• Waterproofing spray
• Backpacks for day hikes or adventures
• Cash for the camp store
• Clothespins and a clothesline (we used this one, but a rope works well too!)
• Phone chargers
• Broom
• Camera
• Utility gloves
• Hatchet/saw
• Beach blanket
• Extension cord
• Koozies
• Tent repair kit
• Extra tent stakes
• Rubber mallet
• Fly swatter

How to store your camping gear

Now that you’ve got a good grasp on everything you may ever need to bring with you when camping, what do you do with all that gear after your epic camping trip with your family? Make your life easier by staying organized for your next camping trip, with a few of these solutions. 

Clear bins

Clear bins work really well for storing camping items. You can see all or most of the contents from the outside, if you are ever unsure of what is on the inside. Each bin can be labeled on the outside with the gear it contains, or you could even keep a master list inside the container of all the contents. This will help you make sure that things are returned to the appropriate bin and restocked when necessary.

For example, a bin with kitchen items, another for lanterns, flashlights, and string lights, a container with bedding, sleeping bags, sheets, etc. Store these bins in an out-of-the-way place like your basement, attic, or garage. If you plan correctly, you will have perfectly packed bins ready for your next adventure, making it that much easier to go camping! 

Pegboards 

Pegboards are great to hang in garages, storage closets, and basements. These are highly-functional and really helpful when hanging all kinds of items such as backpacks, headlamps, axes, hydration bladders, and even sleeping bags. Pegboards are great use of space when you are already short on space.

How to store your tent

Make sure that your tent is completely dry before storing, and don’t store it in a cramped or tight space. If it’s too tight, it can put unnecessary tension and stress on your tent fabric and poles. Your tent should be stored loosely in a cool dry place. Consider rolling the tent up and placing it inside of a large pillowcase. Avoid folding it, packing it up too tightly, or packing it in hot or humid places that can trap moisture inside. 

How to store sleeping bags

If you’re low on storage space, sleeping bags can be rolled up and stored in their original bags or inside of pillowcases. However, if you have room, you could also hang them in a closet or on a pegboard. We store ours hanging from hooks in our dry attic. 

Camping books for kids

One of my favorite camping activities is relaxing with a good book. Here are some camping-themed children’s books you can add to your camping gear list and bring along for your kids to enjoy!

• The Camping Trip by Jennifer Mann
• Llama Llama Loves Camping by Anna Dewdny
• Curious George Goes Camping by H. A. Rey
• When We Go Camping by Margruit Ruurs
• A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen
• The Little Book of Camping by Zack Bush 
• Pete the Cat Goes Camping by James Dean 
• Amelia Bedelia Goes Camping by Peggy Parish

Photo credit: @kristcx

Additional camping resources

If you’re looking for even more info on how to camp with kids, we’ve got you covered. Check out these great camping resources below for your next camping adventure:

• Camp Like A Champ Digital Guide
• Beginner’s guide to camping with kids
• Overnight camping made simple
• Top Tips for backyard camping with kids
• Winter car camping
• Pop-up camping with kids

Printable camping gear lists for families

To make it easier for you to get started on your next family camping trip, we put our ultimate camping packing list for your family in a free printable 2-page PDF for you! Use this as the perfect start to create your own master packing list. You’ll also be signed up to receive our  AMAZING weekly newsletter, filled with fun outdoor activities and inspiration for getting your kids and family outside! You can opt-out anytime (although we’d hate to see you go). 

PRINTABLE CAMPING GEAR LIST

Happy camping!
What would you add to this camping list for families?

About the author

Lissy Perna lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod”. Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors, and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

The post Ultimate Camping Gear List for Families appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*This post contains affiliate links. 

Outdoor gear for kids

We’ve all heard the saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” And we know that quality outdoor kids’ gear will last longer and do better in extreme circumstances. But what gear is worth spending money on for your kids? What makes the most sense to invest in for the whole family? 

You certainly don’t need a garage packed with all the latest and greatest in the outdoor industry, but a few well-made key pieces will ensure an endless supply of family fun. From water bottles to day packs, sun hats to rain jackets, and everything in between, this is your ultimate list of gear for your outdoorsy kids. 

Best outdoor clothing for kids

You might be asking yourself why your kids need special clothes when going on adventures outdoors. The short answer is…they don’t (or at least not always). Your everyday outdoor trip to the park or neighborhood stroll isn’t going to require anything fancy. However, the more time you spend outdoors, the more adventurous your outings will become and the more your kids will be in the elements. And sometimes adventures call for special outdoor gear. 

Just like all our outdoor gear listed, these clothing items each have a specific purpose. The right clothing is the best way to keep your kids comfortable when adventuring outside. I always look at buying good quality outdoor clothing as an investment in our fun. The more comfortable we are outside, the longer we can play and the more time we can spend outdoors. And it’s always good to remember that just a few key pieces can keep us outside all year long.  

Best base layers (merino wool)

The first clothing items I always make sure to have on hand (for both kids and adults) are a couple of good sets of wool base layers. These pieces can be used alone on warmer days or can add a much-needed layer of comfort on those chilly winter escapades. One of our favorite brands that makes beautiful, soft layers is NUI Organics. I love their collection of soft merino wool, which comes in a variety of beautiful solid gender-neutral colors (so they can be passed down kid to kid). This company, in particular, is great because they carry layers for the entire family (adults included).

Check out our post on the Best Merino Wool Layers for Kids for a comprehensive list of the best wool brands, clothing options, and price points. 

Best outdoor shirts for kids

When it comes to what my kids wear on top, I like to keep a few quick-dry athletic shirts ready to grab, especially for those warmer months. A shirt that allows sweat to wick away from their bodies means more comfort and less complaining. Good options for athletic shirts are merino wool or synthetic materials. Most of our athletic t-shirts come from the All In Motion line at Target.

Another top layer I like to keep in our closets is a quality long-sleeve sun-shirt. A good sun-shirt means this mama knows my kids are being protected from UV rays, and I get to worry less about the last time I applied sunscreen. Our favorite sun-shirts are the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Sun Hoodie, the REI Co-op Sahara Sun Hoodie, and the Veyo Kids Sun Hoodies. 

Pants/ shorts (or a combination thereof)

Living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, I’ve learned that clothes that serve a dual purpose are the ones I reach for the most. And that goes for the pants and shorts that I buy my kids. My favorites are those that are great for more than one activity or are convertible. A good pair of convertible hiking pants means I don’t have to pack shorts for when my son says he’s too hot or wants to go splashing in rivers or lakes.

My favorite convertible hiking pants for kids are the ones with zippers by the ankles so that we don’t have to worry about taking off shoes during the transition. These Sahara pants from REI are great because they also have an adjustable waist. In addition to pants, it’s great to have shorts that our kids can wear hiking on the trails, and go straight to jumping right in the big blue lake. One brand that our whole family wears is the Patagonia Baggies. 

Kids’ rain gear

If your kids are anything like mine, a little rain never deters the need to get outside and play! It’s actually even better because puddle jumping is one of their greatest joys. Using both feet to generate the perfect splash can mean hours of fun. But, once they get wet and the chill starts to set in, then the adventure is over.

When picking out rain gear that will last through it all, I like to look for three things. (1) The items must be waterproof, not just water resistant. Water resistant is great for a light drizzle, but will not be able to handle a full soaking. (2) I like jackets that are breathable. This allows the child’s perspiration to wick away from their body so that they are not wet inside and out. (3) I like gear that has closures on the wrists, ankles, hood, and hems. Adjustable closures help to seal in the warmth, and keep the rain out.

For all our recommendations on rainy day kids gear, check out our full post on the Best Rain Gear for Outdoor Kids. 

Best rain jackets, pants and rain suits for kids

The REI Co-op Rainwall Jacket and Rainwall Pants are great options for a two-piece set. For the younger kids, full-body rain suits are a great choice because there is little to no worry about their underlayers getting wet when the weather turns. Our longtime favorite rain suit for everyday wet adventures has been the Oaki trail suit, but we also really love the Polarn O. Pyret Rain Shell with interior fleece-lining for colder rainy day adventures. 

Best outdoor kids rain boots 

If you’re going to spend any time outside in the rain (or live in a wet/damp place like the PNW), rainboots are essential gear for kids. Rainboots allow our children to splash around and keep their feet nice and toasty throughout the day. Over the last 22 years of purchasing boots, the Bogs Classic insulated boots continue to prove they are a wise investment. These boots truly stand up to the tough demands of kids, don’t leak, and last a long time. They’re some of the only boots we’ve been able to pass down to the next kid after wearing through a season or two. 

For a more budget-friendly option, check out Lone Cone’s classic rain boots with handles and their all-weather neoprene mud boots. All three of my kids have Lone Cone boots and love them!

Best jackets, coats, and insulating layers for kids

When those summer months start to turn cool, it’s important to keep a warmer layer close by. A good mid-layer like a fleece or puffy jacket (synthetic or down) will add just enough warmth to keep the play going well into those chilly temps. The insulating layer retains the heat your child is generating, keeping them nice and warm. One style that we have gone back to time and time again is a classic fleece from Columbia that features fun designs and bright colors that all kids are sure to love.

We also love the Performance Eco Wind Fleece from Polarn O. Pyret for a light layer that keeps the heat in and wind out. If you want something warmer that can take you into winter, a soft down jacket is nice. The Patagonia Nano Puff is a great option, as is the Polarn O. Pyret Lightweight Puffer. 

Best footwear for outdoor kids

Shoes and footwear fall into the category of outdoor gear for kids that you’ll want to have on hand for all your adventures. If your kids are anything like mine, it really doesn’t matter to them what shoes they throw on. They will still jump, run and climb all the things in any shoe they have available. And we really could let them continue that way, but what they put on their feet does make a difference when venturing outdoors. A good pair of shoes suited to the day’s activity means they stay comfortable, with their feet protected, and the day can last longer. 

Outdoor kids’ tennis shoes and kids’ hiking shoes

When it comes to shoes for outdoorsy kids, I like to purchase a pair that can be used on outdoor adventures as well as during P.E. After testing multiple brands and styles I find I reach for the same brand time after time. The Salomon Speedcross Jr. is a lightweight, breathable, quick-dry shoe that has a sole with great traction. 

Sometimes a waterproof hiking boot is a better option depending on the type of outdoor adventures your family prefers. If you’re going to hit a hiking trail, a good hiking boot offers ankle stability, a flexible sole, and good traction. If hiking boots are more your style, you can’t go wrong with one like the Merrell Greylock Waterproof Hiking Boots. 

Best water shoes for kids

A good pair of water shoes are great for summer adventures. They’re great for exploring creeks, playing in splash pads, and adventuring anywhere your kids will be in and out of water. If you’re looking for a lightweight amphibious shoe, the Vivobarefoot Kids Ultra Bloom is a fantastic option. They’re made from bloom foam which takes harmful algae blooms out of waterways, reversing the effects of water pollution. They’re also super light, bendy, and fast-drying for adventures over land and water. If you’re looking for something that does better in sand, we’ve had good luck with the Speedo Surf Knit water shoes for kids. 

Best socks for kids

Socks are another one of those items that you might be asking yourself why your kids need a “special” kind. But, just like the shoes we put on our feet, a good pair of socks can be the difference between a comfortable long walk in the woods or the need for bandaids and blister care. We often go for a good pair of wool socks that help wick sweat, provide cushion, and are long-lasting, like these hiker socks from Darn tough. 

Best  hiking gear and equipment for families

Often when we think of outdoor adventures, we think of wandering down dirt paths, watching as our kids stop to explore under rocks and roots. Getting outside and hitting the trails can be one of the best ways to spend a day with our outdoorsy kids. Whether it’s a day hike at one of our national parks or just a stroll around your local park, hiking and exploring go hand in hand. But, sometimes that can be hard to do with really little kids, or multiple kids. However, with the right hiking gear and equipment, we can enjoy our outdoor time together with them at any age. Here are some of our favorite tried-and-tested recommendations for outdoor gear for kids (and adults) that will help you get outside and down the trail with your kids easier! 

Best outdoor and off-road strollers

A good off-road stroller is a great investment for a family that loves time outdoors. An all-terrain stroller means even the littlest family member can join in the fun, and no one has to be left behind. A stroller with mountain bike suspension and a handbrake makes even the roughest terrain easier to navigate. A great option is the BOB Revolution Pro.

If you’re looking for a stroller that serves a dual-purpose as a bike trailer, the Burley Encore X is a fantastic option. It’s a double biking trailer that comes with a stroller kit (handlebar and front wheel). This makes it super easy to go from biking the trails to strolling the streets with your kiddo(s) in tow. The trailer has comfortable seating for 1 or 2 children,  plenty of room for snacks, toys, and other gear, plus a variety of other awesome features (reclinable seats, extra suspension, etc.). For more info, check out our full review of the Burley Encore X trailer. 

Feature image credit: @somerpickel

Baby and child carriers

Child carriers are also a great way to get your whole family out for a day on the trails. Once your tiniest family member is sitting up on their own, a child carrier is essential hiking gear that will keep the adventure going. Features to look for when selecting a structured child carrier are a well-padded hip belt, and shoulder straps and an adjustable torso fit so that both parents can easily use the carrier. Other features to take into account are the child safety harness system and an adjustable seat so your kid can sit comfortably no matter how long the ride is.

Our top two choices for child carriers for young kids are the Ospry Poco Plus and the Deuter Kid Comfort Carrier. You really can’t go wrong with either of these fantastic carriers – check them both out and decide which one is a better fit for you. If you have a teeny tiny newborn baby, we recommend the Ergo Baby 360. For older kids and toddlers, check out the Trail Magik toddler carrier. 

For more details on how to choose the right baby carrier for you and more recommendations, check out our full post on the Best Baby Carriers for Hiking and Outdoor Adventures. 

Best backpacks for kids

Purchasing your kid’s first backpack almost feels like a right of passage in the outdoor adventure world. Their own space to carry snacks, a new water bottle, and all the treasures they can handle. It’s true they could probably get away with a regular backpack, but one made for hiking will make trail time more enjoyable for everyone.

Good kids packs include a hip belt, chest strap, big interior storage, and a mesh pocket on the outside. Other features that can be handy are a sleeve for a hydration bladder and a whistle on the chest strap buckle. One nice day pack that fits all these criteria is the REI Tarn which comes in 12 liters for little kids and 18 liters for big kids.

First aid kit

As parents, we know accidents are bound to happen. Scrapes and bruises are just part of it all when you live an outdoor lifestyle. That’s why it’s important to keep a first aid kit on hand when venturing outside. A good wilderness first aid kit should include bandages and gauze, antibiotic ointment or wipes, sting care, and medications such as antacids, aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and allergy relief.

For a simple day hiking kit, this one from HART is great. If you’re looking for a larger kit for the whole family, check out this one from Adventure Medical Kits. In addition to carrying a kit for the family, I’m also a big proponent of teaching our kids about safety and being prepared when outdoors. One of the easiest ways to do this is to let your kids carry a simple first aid kit. This Coleman Mini First Aid Kit is great for little packs. 

For more information on first aid, check out our full posts on Hiking Safety & First Aid (which includes a list of exactly what should be in your first aid kit) and this post on Teaching First Aid to Kids. 

Best lights, lanterns, headlamps, and other illumination

A key piece of gear that every outdoor kid needs is a good source of light for when adventures last well past dark. Kids love being able to navigate their way down a darkened trail or read a beloved nighttime story in the tent before bed. There are lots of options out there for ways that kids can illuminate the night. Three of the best options are a headlamp, flashlight, or lantern. 

Headlamps: Headlamps offer that perfect hands-free option. Once placed on the head your kid can freely move about without worrying about dropping something or shining it in the right place. If you have toddlers or small children, a child-sized headlamp like the Black Diamond Wiz is a great option made for smaller heads. For school-aged kids through teens, jump up to an adjustable regular headlamp like the Petzl Tikka headlamp. 

Flashlights: Flashlights are a classic option and come in so many fun colors and sizes. A small flashlight like these EverBrite Flashlights come in multiple packs for the whole family. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, these LED tactical flashlights are bright, rechargeable, magnetic, and waterproof.

Lanterns: Another great illumination option is a lantern. The lanterns of today are not like our parents’ old oil-filled versions. Lanterns now come in all shapes and are made from a variety of materials. One style to consider is an ultra-lightweight inflatable lantern like these LuminAid lanterns. The Max 2-in-1 Power Lantern is a solar lantern that can also charge your phone! No batteries required, super bright, easy to use, and totally waterproof. (Use the code RUNWILD for 10% off any product.)

Best kids’ water bottles and hydration bladders

Water is an essential item on any outdoor activity, and how you choose to let your child carry it is just as important. Maybe they want to carry their own new bottle in their pack or maybe they want to use a hydration bladder so they can drink without stopping. Either option is great, so long as it’s not too heavy or burdensome for them. Here are a few of our favorite hydration options.

Water bottles: When it comes to water bottles, there are just a couple of key things to keep in mind. A good kids-sized water bottle should be able to hold anywhere from 12 to 16 oz. Nothing too big, or it will weigh their pack down. Another thing to consider is how the bottle opens and closes. A bottle that doesn’t leak and is easy to open are always at the top of my wish list. Both the Kleen Kanteen classic and the CamelBak Eddy are great durable options that should last your child for years.

Hydration bladders: Hydration bladders are a great option for carrying water on a long hike or a day out adventuring. A hydration bladder consists of a BPA-free plastic bladder with an attached straw for easy use. You can either purchase a bladder with the attached straw that can be used with your backpack of choice or get a hydration pack, like the Camelbak Mini MULE, which is a bladder and backpack in one. 

Best camping gear for kids and families

Some of our greatest memories come from camping adventures. Family camping trips usually include bike riding around the campground, playing rounds and rounds of UNO, roasting marshmallows over a fire while looking for the big dipper. And at the end of the night, crawling into our sleeping bags and sleeping under the stars. While a lot of our camping gear can be shared among the family, there are a few key items that kids need of their very own. Here’s a short list of a few of our best recommendations for family and kid-friendly outdoor gear for kids when camping. 

Best camping tents for families

When camping, your tent is your home away from home. It’s where you’ll spend your evenings when you sleep and possibly hang out during rain or bouts of bad weather. Tents provide privacy, room to hang out, and most importantly, protection from inclement weather, cold, wind, and rain. Your tent can make or break your camping experience and needs to be accommodating for your family and your needs.

We love the North Face Wawona 6 tent. It’s a bit pricey, but really well-made and durable. It’s a good all-around 3-season tent, with 2 doors, a hybrid double-wall construction, extra interior height, large vestibule, and multiple interior storage pockets.

For our full guide on how to choose the right tent for you family and tent recommendations based on your family’s size, check out our post on the Best Tents for Families. 

Photo credit: @kristcx

Best sleeping bags for kids

Sleeping under the stars is always a great idea, unless you can’t get comfortable and stay warm. One key element to this issue is a well-fitting, cozy sleeping bag. A bag like the Kids Kelty Mistral that keeps kids toasty in temperatures below 40-degrees, is a great investment. For the smaller ones, a sleeping sack/bag made for babies, like this one from Morrison Outdoors, might be just the right fit.

Sleeping pad or cot

Every good camping sleep system also includes a sleeping mat or a cot. Mats are a great option because you can buy them a little big to last a little longer. A self-inflating sleeping pad like the REI Kindercamp is always nice because the kids can help set up their own sleeping spot. If you’re looking for something that gets your little one off the ground, or if you have multiple kids and are tight on space, check out the Kid-O-Bunk bunk bed cots.

Best kids’ camping chairs

Camp chairs might be another one of those items that you’re wondering if the kids really need their own. But, everyone loves having their own camp chair to sit in by the fire. Adult-sized chairs may be too high and large (and therefore could be dangerous) for little kids. A chair that’s just the right size like this  Coleman Kids Chair is a great option. (Although that’s not to say they still won’t steal your chair!)

Bug protection for kids

There are plenty of ways to keep the bugs at bay during a camping trip, but our family favorites are the ones that don’t stink and don’t need to be reapplied over and over. Great choices for protection are bug bands, like these BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets, or little stickers like the  Buzz Patch bug patches that you kids can apply themselves.

Camping hammock

Who doesn’t like to lay back and relax in a hammock and let the breeze gently rock you? Or, if your kids are anything like mine, a hammock can become a swing, a fort, or the perfect spot to ask mom for a gazillionth snack. Whatever way your kids prefer to make use of this classic camp item, you can’t go wrong with something like the ENO SingleNest Hammock.

Best biking gear and options for kids

One of the best activities to get families out is bike riding. Whether it’s on a paved trail near home, or off the beaten path, hopping on a bike is a great way to get outdoors, get active, and spend some quality time together as a family. If you’re interested in biking, we’ve got some great biking gear recommendations for you and your little ones.  

Best bikes for kids

A balance bike is a bike without pedals and it’s a perfect way for little kids and toddlers to learn how to ride a bike. It has most of the essential elements of a traditional bike (frame, fork, handlebars, wheels, etc.), but instead of pedaling, they push off the ground with their feet to move forward and place their feet down to stop. Since they’re in control, kids can develop their balance and coordination first, before progressing to a bike with pedals. Our top balance bike recommendation is the Woom 1. But, there’s no one size fits all and lots of things to take into consideration when choosing a balance bike. Here’s our full post on the Best Balance Bikes for Kids. 

Once your kids are ready, something like the REI Co-Op Rev Bike is a great option for bikes that have a few grown-up features but are just the right size.  

Photo credit: @kristcx

Biking trailer

If your little adventure partner isn’t ready for a bike quite yet, another great option is a bike trailer. We absolutely love the Burley Encore X bike trailer (and double-stroller), which allows families to still get out on the trail knowing the littlest one is tucked safely inside with all the necessities. The Encore X has comfortable seating for 1 or 2 children, plenty of room for snacks, toys, and other gear, plus a variety of other awesome features (reclinable seats, extra suspension, etc.).

Best bike helmets for kids

No matter where you’re riding, safety is a top priority. A bike helmet is an important piece of outdoor gear to protect their noggin. When selecting a helmet, look for those that are Mips certified, providing impact protection on all sides. The Bern Nino Helmets are certified and also come with a built-in sun visor.

Biking accessories for kids

Bike accessories are a great addition to add a little flair and function to your kids’ ride. A classic item like the Nutcase Bike Bell lets our kids add little fun and personalization to their bike; plus, it’s an added sense of safety so they can ring out as they pedal away. Another fun biking accessory is a water bottle and holder. Most kids’ bikes are too small to use the more common bottle cage, so this Po Campo Water Bottle Bag is a great option. Check out our full post with 30+ Fun Biking Accessories for Kids for more!

Photo credit: @meghavelaarphoto

Best water gear for kids

In my experience, one activity that kids of all ages love spending time on or near the water. Whether it’s at the beach, fishing along the river, exploring a creek, or jumping off the dock, kids love water! They love to get their feet wet, splash around, and play in water. No matter where you’re headed, here are a few gear recommendations that will keep the kids safe and happy when on the water.

Best sunhats for kids

When heading out to spend a day on the water, a good hat that provides protection from the sun is a must. There are lots of styles and options out there, and if your kids are like mine, they will have an opinion on what they like the most. For a full coverage hat that protects both their face and neck, you can’t go wrong with something like the Sunday Afternoons play hat or the Veyo Kids sunhat. If your kids prefer a baseball hat, you might reach for the  Outdoor Research Kids Swift cap or a snapback from Headster that both offer bright colors or cool designs.

Photo credit: @meghangarriott

Best life jackets for kids

Whether you’re kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing from a boat, a quality and well-fitting life jacket or PFD (personal flotation device)  is needed to keep kids safe when on and around water. When choosing the right life jacket for your child, make sure to pick one according to their current size and weight. This ensures it won’t slip over their head when in the water.

For babies, infants, and little ones in the 8-30lb-range, check out something like the Stohlquist Infant Jacket or the STEARNS Infant Puddle Jumper Hydroprene Life Jacket that both provide head support and full arm movement. For larger kids in the 33-55 lb rant, we like the Full Throttle Child Rapid Dry Neoprene Life Jacket. For the super sporty kids, the NRS Vista jacket looks just like mom’s, but is made especially for kids.

For a more detailed list of life jacket recommendations by size, activity, and style, check out our post on the Best Life Jackets for Kids, which includes all the info you need to pick the right life jacket for your child. 

Water shoes for kids

Atrip to play in or near the water generally means that our kids will get their feet wet. If you’re headed somewhere besides a sandy beach, a good pair of shoes that they can wear means they are less likely to hurt their feet. These Keen Newport sandals are great because they provide tow coverage and stay snuggly on their feet. If your kiddo wants a little more room in their sandal, try something like this  Teva Hurricane. 

Best sunscreen for kids

Keeping our kids’ skin safe is just as important as anything else. So having quality sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30+ is essential when we head out for a day near the water. Some sunscreens can have a lot of chemicals added and can be tough on kids’ sensitive skin, so we recommend Countersun Mineral Sunscreen from Beautycounter (comes in spray, stick, and lotion), which provides full coverage protection without harmful effects. It’s also reef-safe, which is recommended anytime you’re in wild water.

Best sunglasses for kids

Protect your children’s eyes while they’re outside playing with sunglasses. My own kids love these Babiator sunglasses that come in 2 styles (the Navigator UV and the Aviator) and a variety of colors. Frames are made from rubber, making them strong and flexible, shock and impact-resistant. Whether your child twists, bends or treads on these sunglasses, they will not break! In addition, these UV400 lenses stop all UVA and UVB rays and protect the eyes of your child against the bright sunlight. Available in baby and toddler sizes and polarization.

Best outdoors toys for kids

Whether playing in the backyard or taking your adventures on the road, it’s always nice to have a few activities around that our kids go for time and time again. There are thousands of things to do outside, but here are a few of our all-time tried-and -tested highly-recommended favorite outdoor toys, activities, and inspiration for getting outdoors.

Slackline: Slacklining is a great activity for kids because it requires concentration, balance, and core strength, plus all you need is a kit like the ZenMonkey Slackline Kit and two trees for hours of fun. If you need info on how to get started, check out this Beginner’s Guide to Slacklining with Kids. 

Kites: If you’re looking for another activity that is portable and provides endless amounts of outdoor time, a kite is a perfect solution. These Pocket Flyer Kites can even be put in a kid’s backpack to fly anywhere the wind strikes. Before you head out, be sure to read our post on Kite Flying with Kids. 

Binoculars: All explorers need a good pair of binoculars for adventuring. A good pair of high-resolution, waterproof binoculars like these Occer compact binoculars will make sure your kids don’t miss a thing (but they also won’t break the bank). 

Photo credit: @arevook

Walkie-talkies: Walkie-talkies are perhaps one of the best outdoor toys you can purchase for your kids! Not only are they fun to use and can be a catalyst for hours of imaginative play, but they are also a helpful device for keeping track of our busy independent kids. These Topsung rechargeable walkie-talkies are great because they are long-range and come in packs of two or three.

Bait nets: Whether you’re at the beach, in a creek/stream or next to a pond, kids love playing in the water and catching things. These Promar Aluminum Bait Nets are the very best bait net on the market – trust me, we’ve been through a million. Most nets have the netting on the outside of the basket, which means after a while of scraping on sand and rocks, the net wears thin and rips. This one has a metal framing (net guard) and a super durable handle, ensuring it lasts years longer than the others. A bit more expensive, but totally worth it. Perfect for scooping rocks/shells and catching minnows, crabs, crawdads, etc. 

Wagon: A classic little red RadioFlyer Wagon is a multi-purpose outdoor toy. This wagon has been a staple in my kids’ childhoods, and we use it more than we ever could have imagined. Use it for taking the kids for a walk around the block (they’ll not only love riding in it, but pulling it as well) or use it for transporting gear and equipment. The uses are endless, and it’s a ton of open-ended fun.

Best outdoor activity books for kids

We all have days when the motivation to head outside is hard to find. Even our outdoorsy kids need a bit of inspiration sometimes. Here is a list of books with fabulous activities, games, and ideas for getting everyone out the door.

• • Kids’ Outdoor Adventure Book: 448 Great Things to Do in Nature Before You Grow Up
  • 100 Days of Adventure
  • Backpack Explorer: On the Nature Trail
  • Tiny Explorers: Into the Wild
  • Campfire Stories

Best outdoor gear for kids

Phew! I think we covered nearly everything you could need to fuel your outdoor adventures for years to come! You certainly don’t need this entire list of gear, but hopefully, this will be a good starting place to find just the right gear for your outdoorsy kids. Let us know if there’s any category of items we missed! And in the meantime, here are a few more posts on gear and activities you might enjoy!

• Best Rain Gear for Kids
• Best Outdoor Toys and Activities
• 75+ Non-Toy Gift Ideas for Outdoorsy Kids
• Best Gloves & Mittens for Kids
• Fly Fishing Gear for Kids
• Best Gifts, Gear, and Experiences for Outdoorsy Moms
• Creative Toys that Inspire Outdoor Play

Printable camping gear lists for families

To make it easier for you to get started on your next family camping trip, we put our ultimate camping packing list for your family in a free printable 2-page PDF for you! Use this as the perfect start to create your own master packing list. You’ll also be signed up to receive our  AMAZING weekly newsletter, filled with fun outdoor activities and inspiration for getting your kids and family outside! You can opt out anytime (although we’d hate to see you go). 

PRINTABLE CAMPING GEAR LIST

About the author

RyAnn is a mom of four (20, 18, 15, 6) that loves exploring her home in the Pacific Northwest. She works as a youth outdoor program instructor for the Mountaineers Org. in Washington state. RyAnn also loves getting out and adventuring with her family as much as possible. They enjoy traveling around the PNW in their converted Sprinter campervan. On her days off she generally loads up the van and hits the trails for hiking, mountain biking, skiing, or climbing. RyAnn is passionate about instilling love and respect for outdoor spaces in her kids and the youth she is lucky to work with.

You can find more from RyAnn in the following locations:
Instagram: @mountain_mama4
Website: Mountain Mama
RWMC articles: RyAnn

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