There are some people that say this is the perfect weather for camping. The sunny days and crisp cool nights make for just right conditions for outdoor living. While I’m not completely onboard with sleeping outdoors I’m all for enjoying nature and the beauty of the world around us.
While I prefer the kind of camping that comes with an RV and warm shower I know my family likes to pitch a tent and live more simply for a few days. Doing this requires some planning. Camping requires some gear and tools that not only makes your life easier much enjoyable.
First off let’s talk about food. Campfire hot dogs are delicious but that isn’t all you have to live on. There are so many recipes and food ideas out there that you could actually eat much more gourmet than originally thought. These are some of the more tasty ideas I’ve seen lately that make camping a more likely idea before the snow starts to fall.
let’s not forget about dessert. Sweets that are melted and gooey are the best part about campfires
Roasted Strawberries with Marshmallow Fluff
Every meal doesn’t need to be very elaborate or involve many ingredients. While big breakfasts are fun fruit, cereal, milk and yogurt are plenty nutritious to get through the mornings. Keeping it simple homemade granola and dry milk reconstituted as needed also saves on space. Milkman low fat powdered milk is the only cream-containing low fat powdered milk easily available to consumers in the United States. This gives the milk a better flavor and texture than other brands on the market. Making a quart at a time as needed is easier to store and carry when space and refrigeration is a luxury.
Having the right camping gear is key to being comfortable and safe. Families often have to pack more as there are more scenarios that could arise. The opportunity for a child caught in a mud puddle would require extra clothing and maybe clothes washing/drying equipment.
HickCounty.com has this comprehensive check list of just about everything life can throw at you.
The most important part of a family camping trip is to make sure everyone is safe, happy and having fun. The point of getting away and disconnecting is spending quality time with each other. Keep the activities fun and easy. Hikes are first on the list of course. Swimming is a must when the weather is warm. Don’t forget card games, simple craft supplies and lots of glowsticks for Tic Tac Toe or a ring toss game.
image via vastateparkstaff flickr
What are your family camping trips hacks, must-dos or essential recipes?
*forest image via
