I know not everyone likes camping, but when done properly, family camping trips can really check all the boxes required for the physical and mental development of children and create special memories that will last a lifetime. I can still remember all the amazing times I had camping with my young kids. Our camping trips weren’t always fun all of the time but the memories overall are positive and happy, and that’s because kids best remember the best times they have!

There are many benefits to camping for both kids and adults, including getting fresh air and sunshine, being exposed to good germs in the dirt that help boost the immune system, being active without exercising, bonding with family members, relieving stress and reconnecting with nature.

If you’re thinking you couldn’t actually go camping because you didn’t as a kid and aren’t sure how, or you did go when you were younger but you’ve forgotten how… I’d like to reassure you and tell you that you certainly can do it now! As the Outfitter at the Club, we have a full line of camping gear for you to rent. If you camp on the Ranch in the river park, we also have a full set-up and strike service at the five campsites available through the CR Property Owners Association. 

Things have changed a lot since I camped as a boy a long time ago. Tents are much easier to put up, lighting options have become safer since LED lights have replaced the old gas lanterns, bedding has become more comfortable and compact, and the chairs are as comfy as your lounge at home. There are also far more location options — whether you want complete bush camping with no amenities to a fully catered park — there’s a camping option to suit every family.

So, now that you’re convinced you can actually go camping with the family, you’re probably looking for some ideas of what you can do when you’re out there for the weekend. Here are a few ideas! 

1. Explore, explore, explore! Whether you’re at the beach or in the forest, there is always somewhere new to explore. 
2. Play board and other games. This a great option for downtime with the whole family, or when the kids have gone to bed.
3. Slow down and talk to your children. You don’t need to be busy and doing activities the entire time. The conversations you have around camp may seem meaningless to you at the time, but may be important and helpful to your children.
4. Go spot lighting at night. Grab a torch, go for a wander away from the lit-up campgrounds and try to spot owls in trees, fish in waterways and other wildlife out and about.
5. Light and maintain a campfire. Fire is a fantastic experience for every member of the family and creates an environment for everyone to gather around and enjoy. 
6. Climb trees. You and the kids can go climbing and get a different perspective on your environment as well as creating a special bond because kids absolutely love it when an adult climbs trees with them!
7. Learn about the local flora and fauna. Before you head out, print some info or grab a book on the local wildlife so when you’re exploring you can spot animals and plants and know what they are.
8. Enjoy some downtime yourself and let the kids play with the other kids. By encouraging the kids to go and meet other kids, you get some time to yourself, which is always important, and they’ll be improving their social and play skills, which is just as important.
9. Campfire cooking. From toasting marshmallows to camp oven-cooked meat and veggies, nothing beats campfire cooked foods!