RV Camping with Kids: A Parent's Guide

RV Camping with Kids: A Parent's Guide

Posted on October 18, 2023

So, you’ve decided to take the family on an RV camping adventure? That’s fantastic!

But, before you can dream about the smell of campfires and marshmallows roasting on sticks, you’ve got a bit of planning to do—starting with finding the right campground. When you have kids in tow, not just any campground will do. You need something that’s not just picturesque but also family-friendly.

First and foremost, look for campgrounds that have amenities like clean washrooms, showers, and maybe even a laundry facility.

Trust me, with kids, you'll be grateful for these. Some campgrounds also offer family-focused activities like guided nature walks, movie nights, or arts and crafts sessions. These can be lifesavers when you need a break or when the kids need to burn off some energy.

Safety is another significant concern. Check for well-lit areas and inquire about campground security.

Also, it’s wise to choose a spot that’s not too remote but still offers that ‘away-from-it-all’ vibe. If it’s your first time, you might want to opt for a campground close to a town or a general store. Just in case you need to make a quick diaper or first-aid kit run.

Don't forget to read reviews from other families. They can offer a lot of insights that the campground's website won't.

Is the ‘quiet time’ too early or too late? How clean are the facilities? Are the tent sites too close to RV sites? These are all important considerations.

Packing Essentials for Children

Packing is like a game of Tetris, but with more at stake. When you’re camping with kids, the urge to pack everything but the kitchen sink is strong. But remember, the more you pack, the more you have to unpack. Let's focus on the essentials.

You've got your basics like clothes, toiletries, and first aid, but with kids, you also have to think about ‘what-ifs’. What if it rains? Pack some raincoats and wellies. What if it’s too sunny? Hats and sunscreen are a must. Keep an eye on the weather forecast to make your packing more precise.

Entertainment is another crucial area. While the great outdoors offers plenty of fun, your kids will likely still want some of their familiar toys.

A few board games, books, or coloring materials can keep them occupied during downtime. Don’t forget their favorite cuddly toy for bedtime; a little piece of home can help them sleep better in a new environment.

Snacks, snacks, and more snacks...

Kids have a knack for getting hungry at the most inconvenient times. Pack a variety of healthy snacks like fruit slices, nuts, or granola bars to keep them fueled throughout the day.

And of course, baby wipes. Even if your kids are past the diaper stage, baby wipes are like the Swiss Army knife of parenting—useful for everything from cleaning hands to wiping down surfaces.

Fun and Educational Activities

You've picked a fantastic campground and you've got your packing down to an art. Now, what are you going to do with these energized little humans once you get there? The good news is, the options are endless and can be as laid-back or as structured as you want them to be.

Start with nature walks.

These can be simple strolls around the campground or more organized hikes, depending on the kids' ages and enthusiasm levels. Make it educational by teaching them about different types of trees, birds, and insects.

Bring along a magnifying glass for up-close inspections and maybe a notebook for them to jot down or draw what they see. Nature scavenger hunts are also a big hit; prepare a list of things for them to find, and off they go!

Fishing is another quintessential camping activity that’s both fun and educational. It teaches patience, quiet contemplation, and even some basic biology. Even if you don’t catch anything, the thrill of the chase (or the wait) can be quite exciting.

If you’re near water, activities like kayaking, canoeing, or simply splashing around can offer hours of fun. Remember to always prioritize safety; life jackets are non-negotiable.

And don’t underestimate the joy of a good old-fashioned campfire. This is a prime time for storytelling, singing, and, of course, s’mores making. It’s a magical time that often becomes a cherished memory for many kids (and adults).

Child Safety While Camping

Safety should always be the cornerstone of any family camping trip. And hey, it’s easier to have fun when you’re not constantly worried about scrapes, stings, or worse!

One fundamental tip here: go over the camping rules with the kids as soon as you arrive. Make sure they know the boundaries of where they can and can’t go, and discuss the importance of sticking together.

Sun protection is vital. Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if your little adventurers are running around, sweating, or swimming. Ensure they have sun-safe clothing and hats, and make it a rule to seek shade during peak sun hours.

Keep a first-aid kit handy and make sure it’s fully stocked with everything you might need, from band-aids and antiseptics to tweezers for those pesky splinters or ticks.

It’s also a good idea to get clued up on basic first aid procedures like treating minor burns or insect stings.

Remember, camping often brings you into closer contact with wildlife than your kids may be used to. Educate them on the importance of not feeding or approaching animals and what to do if they encounter something like a snake or a larger mammal. Safety whistles can be a good addition to their adventure gear for emergency situations.

Managing Meal Times and Nutrition

The scent of food cooked over an open flame! It’s part of the allure of camping. But managing meals, especially with picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions, can be a bit of a challenge. Plan your meals and snacks ahead of time, taking into consideration what will be easy to cook on a campfire or portable stove.

Start simple. Hot dogs or veggie burgers are usually a hit and are easy to prepare.

You could also pre-make meals like chili or stew and simply heat them up when needed. Remember to bring plenty of fruits and veggies. They’re not just healthy; they can also be thrown onto the grill for a delicious, smoky flavor.

A pro tip? Involve the kids in meal planning and preparation. They’re more likely to eat something they helped make. Plus, cooking can be an educational activity too, teaching them about measuring ingredients or the science of cooking.

Hydration is critical, especially with all the running around and outdoor activities. Make sure there’s always water available and remind the kids to drink regularly. Consider bringing reusable water bottles that can be refilled as needed.

Incorporating Screen Time Wisely

We all know the eternal struggle with screens! We get it. Screens are a part of life, and there's a time and a place for them — maybe even when camping. The key is to incorporate them wisely so they enhance rather than detract from your outdoor experience.

Say you're camping in a place steeped in natural history or local lore. This could be an opportunity to watch a short documentary or interactive e-book on the subject. It makes the learning experience multi-dimensional and will give the kids a deeper understanding and appreciation for where they are.

Educational apps about flora and fauna can also enrich nature walks. For instance, there are apps that can identify leaves or bird songs. However, ensure these tools don't replace the tactile experience of interacting directly with nature. They should be supplementary.

Then, of course, there’s the long drive to and from your camping destination. A movie or a couple of episodes of their favourite show can be a lifesaver during those last cranky miles. Just remember to download content ahead of time, as you might not have reliable internet in remote areas.

Creating Lasting Family Memories

There's something magical about a family camping trip. The smell of pine trees, the sound of a crackling fire, and the simple joy of spending quality time together—it all combines to create memories that will last a lifetime.

But you know what takes those memories from great to absolutely unforgettable? A little bit of planning and a lot of heart.

One fantastic way to cement those memories is through tradition. Maybe it's a specific campfire song you always sing, or perhaps it's a nature scavenger hunt that becomes more challenging year after year.

Creating and maintaining these traditions adds a layer of anticipation and excitement for everyone, especially for kids who thrive on routine even while adventuring.

Don't forget to document your trip. While it's essential to be present and not live through the lens of a camera, capturing key moments can be invaluable.

Equip your children with disposable cameras and encourage them to take pictures of what interests them— you'll be surprised by their perspectives! Compile these into a scrapbook or digital slideshow and take some time after the trip to go through them together as a family. It’s a great way to relive the experience and deepen those family bonds.

While you’re out exploring the great outdoors, consider geocaching as a fun and educational family activity. It’s like a treasure hunt where you use GPS coordinates to find hidden objects or locations.

Each find can be recorded in a family adventure journal, where kids can also draw, write, or stick mementos like leaves or feathers.

And let's talk about the power of storytelling. Those quiet moments by the fire or under the stars are the perfect times for sharing family stories, be they old or new. It can be a story from your childhood, a local legend, or even a collaborative story that everyone adds a line to.

Stories are the glue that binds, and they take on a special resonance when shared in the wilderness.

There you have it, folks—a guide to RV camping with your kids that we hope will make your next outing as fun, safe, and memorable as possible. So, pack up that RV from Roulottes Desjardins, grab your loved ones, and hit the road for a Canadian adventure that you'll all treasure for years to come.