My husband really wants to take the kids camping this summer. I am 22 weeks pregnant and we have 2 daughters. Our girls our 3 and 16 months. I think they would love it but Im not sure about it. I think Im nervous to take them not knowing what to expect. We would be sleeping in a tent or possible cabin if we could find one at a decent price. I guess Im looking for someone to say that it would be fun and also give suggestions on what to do. Since we have never done this before is it better to stay close to home in case it doesnt work out? We have thought about Lake City because it is within an hour and we could drive home if we had to. What do you recommend? Do you have any good places to capming with kids?
My daughter's always been fine with camping but she's a easy going adaptable child.
My only recommendation is to get a air mattress for your husband and you if your sleeping in a tent.
I would try it, you'll have fun.
It sounds like you might have your hands full. Considering this sounds like your first time camping with little kids, I guess I'd be more worried about whether you and your husband are comfortable and ready to safely manage two toddlers in an open setting. Will you have other family there that can help out? What about your kids' temperments?
While most campsites have areas for kids to play (usually swings/park type stuff and sometimes an indoor pool or gameroom), camping outdoors is camping outdoors. If there's open fire/firepits, open water nearby, or heavily wooded trails will your husband be helpful in keeping the kids close, or will he expect you to chase them down and keep an open eye?
Other things to consider; you'll be sharing the area with others (strangers). Camp lots are very close together, and unless you are camping with others who are reserving lots next to you, you will be more than likely camping with strangers. Campsites have minimal security especially if you'll be sleeping in a tent. Are your little ones good about staying close and not running off with people they're not familiar with?
I hate to be a wet blanket, but I'd think carefully if you're not going with others.
We just took our 1.5 and 3.5 year old up north for the day and our oldest has always been mild in temper and very tolerate and our youngest is cranky and hard to please. We had issues with our youngest the last part of the day. She even napped for two hours. She wouldn't listen to us and would wonder off a bit. She didn't want to leave things that she was doing. It was just too much work and the comforts of home and play were missing. Before we took them up north today my husband was wanting us to camp overnight and I was all for it and last week I told him that I think our youngest is just too young for it. Well, today proved that to be correct. We'll wait to do an overnight trip. I think if you have enough activities and if they are mild mannered you may be okay. I'd suggest staying close to home this first time and if things go well maybe consider going farther away.
We camped with young kids and pregnant as well. I'd recommend going somewhere close. The Taylor's Falls/St. Croix Falls area is really nice.
When we are camping alone as a family, we often go somewhere where we can go into town and have a meal or 2 so we don't have to do all the cooking. It's fun to bring outside toys - bubbles, balls, trikes, etc. Go easy on yourself - have a plan B if the weather is horrible (close to a hotel with a pool or other fun indoor family activities?).
Our kids have always loved camping from birth. You'll have a great time! Good luck!
