Are you wondering why you should go camping? Or worried about ‘what ifs’…?
If you’re in doubt about taking your family on a camping trip, learn about the benefits and how to deal with fears of the unknown below.
Why go camping with family?
Experience new things together and create lasting memories.
Your whole family can learn about nature together.
- Especially if it is your first family camping trip, you will be surrounded by unfamiliar sights that pique your interest. Your child's curiosity may inspire you to look at familiar things in a brand-new way or ask questions you'd never considered before. You might be reminded of your own childhood experiences outdoors. No matter what, there will be plenty of opportunities for you and your family to learn about the world around you.
- Bring a local field guide to learn about the plants and animals in the area.
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It's healthy!
- Camping means you will be outside and breathing fresh air
- Daily activities require a bit more work, and exploring nature will give you plenty of exercise.
Children learn responsibility
- Take the opportunity of being out in nature to teach your kids responsibility through “leave-no-trace” ethics (learn more about Leave No Trace) and giving them responsibilities for taking care of the camp
Bonding
- Camping is a great way for the family to bond and create memories.
What if? Questions and answers about common camping fears
If you prepare, you are likely to have a fun and memorable trip. Click on each question to reveal the answer.
What if someone gets hurt?
The chances of a big injury occurring are slim, but take necessary safety precautions when camping (see our Camping Safety page). Bring a good first-aid kit, which can treat most injuries that happen while out camping, and know where the nearest place to get medical attention is before your trip.
What if someone gets lost?
Getting lost rarely happens, but go over with your family what to do if it does! Make it clear that everyone needs to stay together. Go over where camp boundaries are. Tell your kids to "hug a tree" and stay where they are until someone finds them. Read more about what to do when you get lost here.
What if it rains?
Rain and cold can make or break a trip depending on how you prepare. Check the weather forecast, and bring the right clothes and shelter. See our Camping Gear List for other things to bring.
What if we encounter a bear?
It is normal for new campers to be afraid of bears, but your chances of running into wildlife are low. Most wild animals will run in the other direction from you. To keep raccoons or bears from getting into your food, keep a clean camp and put your food in animal-proof containers away from your sleeping area.
Let us know if you have a question we didn't answer for you, and email us at [email protected]