Camping with kids

by Hankpac
(Lakeview OR)

Putting a sturdy dishpan at the entrance to the camper or tent will allow you to strip the little ones and clean them up, giving them a quick foot bath. Then hand them off to Mom or Grandma inside for their bath, one at a time.

Obtain a shower tent, and tie and stake it down at the location of the external shower if your RV has one. Keeps from filling the tank, and allows you to clean the older kids off outside. Hand them their PJ's, and carry them or let them walk to the RV door.

Have at least two pair of sneakers and some heavy sandals for each child. One pair will ALWAYS be wet. Or filthy.

Be sure to bring hats and sunscreen.

Bring lots of insect repellent. Try EVERYTHING. What works for one kid might not work for another.

Chapstick, Chapstick, Chapstick. Do not let their lips get away from you. Kids with that huge clown faced reddened area around their mouths are miserable. Keep those lips treated.

Have the kids journal their camping trip each afternoon while dinner is cooking or just after. Draw pictures, etc. You might have to help them.

Get some plastic bug collection containers. The kids can look at bugs close up, then release them.

Get your reference collection in order: bug books, bird books, animal books, and tree and rock books. Bring snake and lizard and amphibian books as well. Stop at the local Forest Service office and look at their book rack. Sometimes there are books specific to the area.

Get the local Area Maps from the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management as well.

Learn the natural history and the human history of the area, so you can teach them what went on in that area 100 years ago. And 10,000.