Not aggressively. Just confidently.

“We’re not really a camping family.”

It’s often said the same way people say they don’t do scary movies or early mornings. It feels like a personality trait, not a preference.

And honestly, for a long time, that made sense.

Camping had a reputation. It meant sleeping on the ground, hoping for the best, and pretending that being slightly uncomfortable was part of the charm.

But here’s what’s changed.

Camping isn’t just one thing anymore.

And that’s exactly why more families, especially the ones who swore they’d never do it, are starting to reconsider.

Camping Has Quietly Evolved

What’s different now isn’t just the gear. It’s the flexibility.

Camping today exists on a spectrum, and most families are landing somewhere in the middle, not at the extremes.

On one end, you still have traditional tent camping. And for many, it’s become far more approachable than it used to be. A simple setup with a tent like the Coleman Sundome Tent and a comfortable air mattress from Intex can feel surprisingly manageable, especially at a well-equipped campsite.

But here’s where things really open up.

If sleeping on the ground still feels like a hard no, there are plenty of other ways to experience camping without giving up comfort.

RV camping has become one of the most popular options for families who want the outdoor experience with a layer of convenience built in. Travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes allow you to bring your own space with you, often including beds, kitchens, bathrooms, and even air conditioning.

For families who don’t own an RV, rental platforms like Outdoorsy and RVshare make it easy to try it out without a long-term commitment.

You can even have an RV delivered and set up at your campsite, which feels a little like showing up to camping… already winning.

Then there’s glamping, which has changed the game entirely. Platforms like Hipcamp and Glamping Hub offer stays that range from safari tents and yurts to fully styled cabins and domes.

It’s still the outdoors, just without the stress of figuring everything out from scratch.

The takeaway here is simple.

You don’t have to do camping the hard way to still count it as camping.

Why It Ends Up Feeling So Different

One of the biggest surprises for families trying camping for the first time is how different the pace feels.

There’s no pressure to constantly move. No rigid schedule. No feeling like you need to plan every hour to make the trip worth it.

Instead, the day unfolds on its own.

Kids find ways to stay busy without needing to be entertained. Time stretches in a way that feels unfamiliar at first, then oddly refreshing. Even simple things, walking a trail, sitting by the fire, cooking together, start to feel like enough.

There’s also something about being outside for extended periods that shifts the energy of the entire family.

It’s quieter. Slower. Less reactive.

And while it may not look impressive on paper, it tends to feel better in real life.

Where Families Are Going

One of the biggest misconceptions about camping is that it requires a big, complicated trip.

In reality, some of the best experiences happen close to home.

State parks are one of the easiest ways to start. Systems like Tennessee State Parks, California State Parks, and Florida State Parks offer well-maintained campsites with restrooms, showers, and family-friendly layouts.

They remove a lot of the uncertainty, which makes them ideal for beginners.

If you’re ready to branch out, there are also some incredible, more unique experiences available.

National parks like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Zion National Park offer a mix of scenery, accessibility, and structured camping options.

For something different, browsing Recreation.gov can lead to hidden gems, from lakeside campsites to forest cabins and scenic overlooks.

And if you’re leaning more toward the glamping side, platforms like Airbnb often feature unique stays like treehouses, A-frame cabins, and converted vintage campers.

What You Actually Do (And Why It Works)

This is usually where people hesitate.

“What are we going to do all day?”

The answer ends up being both more and less than expected.

More time outside. Less structure.

Hiking becomes less about distance and more about exploring. Kids naturally find ways to stay engaged, whether it’s collecting rocks, playing near water, or simply being in a different environment.

Classic camping activities still hold up for a reason.

Making s’mores. Playing games. Sitting around talking without distractions.

None of it feels forced.

And without the constant pull of screens, kids tend to stay engaged longer than you’d expect.

The Small Upgrades That Change Everything

Camping doesn’t have to be complicated, but a few thoughtful additions can make it significantly easier.

Lighting is one of the biggest ones. A lantern from Coleman helps avoid the nightly scramble of trying to find everything in the dark.

Power is another. A portable option from Jackery allows you to keep devices charged without adding stress.

And simple organization, knowing where things are when you need them, can make the difference between a smooth experience and a frustrating one.

These aren’t about overpacking.

They’re about making things easier.

If You’ve Always Said “That’s Not Us”

Here’s the part worth reconsidering.

You don’t have to commit to becoming a camping family. You don’t have to love every part of it. And you definitely don’t have to do it in a way that feels uncomfortable.

Start small.

Try a nearby state park. Book a glamping stay. Rent an RV for a weekend and see how it feels.

Think of it less as a lifestyle change and more as trying something new.

Because for a lot of families, the biggest surprise isn’t that everything goes perfectly.

It’s that it doesn’t need to.

The Takeaway

Camping isn’t about doing it right.

It’s about doing it in a way that works for you.

And once you realize how many different ways there are to make that happen, it starts to feel a lot more possible.

Even if you’ve always been the family that said you’d never try it.

The post So… You Think You’re Not a Camping Family? Think Again appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

This summer, hear the call of the wild and be ready! Make the most of your camping adventures with these fun and creative ideas!

1.  No pizza delivery in your neck of the woods? Repurpose your pie iron to create on-the-go pizzas while camping. To avoid mess, wrap the pie iron with foil, allowing toast, pizza and apple pie to taste exactly as they’re meant to.

2.  No space for a tackle box? Use a Tic Tac box instead.

3.  To be both one with nature and keep the mosquitoes away, add sage to the campfire. It will keep you safe and smelling nice.

4.  Nothing beats a warm s’more, right? Wrong! To truly see the stare, add a roasted marshmallow and melted chocolate to an Oreo. You don’t have to be a kid to love this messy goodness.

5.  Make your own stovetop popcorn out of aluminum foil and kernels. Get the direction here. If you’re not so adventurous, you can still have fun by watching the prepackaged stovetop popcorn dance and expand over the fire.

6.  Use paper bags to make delicious breakfasts. Eggs and bacon, anyone? Get the directions here: http://realfamilycamping.blogspot.com/2011/08/paper-bag-eggs-classic-camping-recipe.html

7.  If you’re ever lost in the woods, put them to good use—use an acorn cap to whistle for help. Get the helpful instructions here: http://www.wikihow.com/Whistle-Using-an-Acorn-Cap

8.  Toasted marshmallows are good, but marshmallows dipped in Bailey’s? Great! This food of the gods will keep you wanting its roasted goodness even when you aren’t camping.

9.  Jell-O shots might be a chapter of your life you’d like to forget, but flaming Jell-O marshmallow shots are something you will never forget! Simply fill a marshmallow with Jell-O mixture and dip it in rum. Get the recipe here: http://www.tablespoon.com/recipes/flaming-marshmallow-jelly-shots/26422420-8e87-4b46-9641-5b85f22cf8e2

10.  Bring all the seasonings you’d like without taking up space by filling straws with the mixture and then burning the ends with a lighter. The great thing is that you can reseal them to use later.

11.  Use stackable pill containers to both carry your condiments and seasonings and keep them organized. You can use a marker to label them.

12.  Looking for a savory s’more? Try this on for size! Stuff a mushroom with blue cheese and wrap it in bacon. That’s right—blue cheese filled bacon-wrapped mushroom s’mores. You have to try it to believe it. Get the recipe here: http://www.laurenslatest.com/blue-cheese-filled-bacon-wrapped-mushrooms/

13.  Have any old mint tins lying around? Use them as emergency supply containers for toilet paper, a lighter or pocket knife. If you’re ever lost in the woods or away from the bathroom, you’ll be glad you did.

14.  Need your egg fix while camping? A 16-ounce plastic water bottle can effectively carry 8-9 large eggs. By scrambling them beforehand, you can transport them easily and avoid an unwanted mess.

15.  Forget what you learned about making fires while in the Scouts? No problem! Corn chips, such as Fritos, can make for a wonderful kindling substitute when building a fire.

16.  Need a little light? Make a lantern with a tuna can and a small candle. The foil will help to illuminate the light.

17.  Tired of lugging around tubes of toothpaste? Well now you don’t have to. Squeeze toothpaste into small dots on a paper plate. Let it sit for 2-3 days, then sprinkle with baking soda. Place the toothpaste dots into a re-sealable bag and you now have portable toothpaste without the fuss of a messy tube.

18.  Use a mason jar to make an amazing sangria concentrate worthy of your camping trip. It’s so good, however, you might want to make it anytime. Get the recipe here: http://www.mightymrs.com/recipe-items/camping-sangria/

The post 18 Creative Tips for Camping Like an Adult appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Summer camps aren’t just for kids anymore, and adults the world over are starting to take note. According to the American Camp Association, an estimated 1 million adults now partake in the summer camp experience each year. And this enthusiasm for camping runs the gamut—as does the age of participants—from nostalgia and summer camp first-timers to adventure hounds and fun seekers.

Some camps seem like an extension of your local sorority, endless alcohol and parties and single adults on the prowl. Others are business- or adventure-minded, and hark back to the days before modern conveniences became such a prominent fixture in our lives.

Regardless of your niche, or your reason for wanting to explore this brave new world of adult summer camps, be sure to do your homework when picking a destination and, above all else, have fun.

Check out this list of adult-themed summer camps. Make new friends. Relive the good ol’ days. Your choice—you’re an adult now. You’ve earned it!

The Graham & Co.

Inspired by the idea of a weekend getaway, this “camp,” located in Phoenicia, New York, will appeal to those looking for secluded old-school charm. Guests can enjoy cozy rooms with Tivoli radios, an outdoor pool, classic films projected on an outdoor screen, and a bar. Guests can also play outdoor games on the grounds, and there are a host of relaxing activities in the surrounding Catskills, such as tubing and swimming. For more information, be sure to visit: http://www.thegrahamandco.com/

Club Getaway

This hot spot camp is located in South Kent, Connecticut. It’s one of the more popular adult summer camps, with fully-stocked bars, dance parties, new friends, and great food. Recreational activities include water sports, team sports and adventure sports, running the gamut from zip lining, rock climbing and trapeze to dodge ball, volleyball and waterskiing. There are dinner parties, happy hours and late night campfires to take full advantage of as well. Club Getaway tends to sell out rather quickly, so be sure to visit the website for more details and reservations: http://www.clubgetaway.com/getaways/

Basecamp Hotel

This upscale camping experience in South Lake Tahoe will have you wishing you camped more often. Basecamp Hotel offers guests a rooftop hot tub, private balconies and excellent, outdoorsy ambience. There’s even a suite available with a tent over the bed, a faux fireplace and glow-in-the-dark stars on the ceiling! Guests can engage in biking, hiking, and water sports in the nearby Lake Tahoe surroundings, then be back in time for food, fun and a bit of sophisticate relaxation. For more information, visit: http://www.basecamphotels.com/

Camp Wandawega

Looking for an old-school camp experience? Well then look no further than Camp Wandawega, located in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. With its “Manifesto of Low Expectations,” the camp reminds all potential campers that it’s not some modern-day luxury camp parading as vintage and old-school. Camp Wandawega is the real deal camp experience! Campers have access to a private beach, as well as many recreational activities, including archery, fishing, biking, boating, and horse shoes, to name a few. There are a number of restaurants, bars and grills nearby that serve tasty treats and American favorites, and outdoor grills and smokers are also available at the camp. Visit the Camp Wandawega website for details: http://www.wandawega.com/

Moab Under Canvas

Located just north of Moab, Utah, this luxury camping experience is also just moments away from the entrance to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Luxury camping, or glamping, as it’s called, is a way for those who want the activities and outdoors mixed with top-notch accommodations and leisure to have it all. The camp even offers suites and upgraded, deluxe rooms. Recreational activities include mountain climbing, hot air ballooning, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Jeep rentals, scenic flights and Hummer tours are also available. For more information, be sure to visit: http://www.moabundercanvas.com/

Camp Grounded

Another popular summer camp that urges campers to reconnect by disconnecting from modern conveniences, Camp Grounded offers two locations of fun-filled activities. Whether campers choose Camp Mendocino in Mendocino, California or Camp Pinnacle in Hendersonville, North Carolina, the theme remains the same: have fun, unwind and leave your problems behind! The camp offers a plethora of playshops and workshops, including archery, laughter yoga, wellness programs, stilt walking, cooking classes, and, yes, basket weaving. There’s live music, sing-a-longs, late night shows, and campfire sessions. For more informations and to make a reservation, visit: http://campgrounded.org/

Wine Camp

Wine camping is a popular way of combining adventure, destination and education all into one event. Though there are many wine camps around, one of the more popular ones can be found in Long Island’s wine country. At Wine Camp in the North Fork of Long Island, campers enjoy four jam-packed days of hands-on experience learning about wines and tasting what the region has to offer. There’s dinner, al fresco lunches, food and wine pairings, and vineyard visits. Campers can also blend their own wines and work with local winemakers as well. And to top it all off? You get to take wine home—an entire case of it! For more information or to inquire, please visit: http://www.winecamp.org/

Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp

Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, this camp offers both wannabe rockers and those with serious musical talent the chance to rock out with top touring artists. Campers can take part in a one-day experience or, for those with a bit more time, a 3-5 day camp experience at one of the destination camps. Campers can learn and/or perfect their musical know-how while writing, recording and performing original music for family, friends or even perfect strangers at a local venue during one of the destination camps’ live shows. So if you’ve always wanted to be in a band, or go to a cooler version of a band camp, now’s your chance! For more information about services offered, be sure to visit: http://www.rockcamp.com/

Great Horror Campout

Imagine going to a haunted house, willingly. Now imagine the house is a tent in the woods, and you have to stay in this wooded camp for twelve hours. If you’ve imagined this without passing out, you just might have what it takes to endure the interactive horror that is the Great Horror Campout in Sherman Oaks, California! This camp is for those obsessed with horror movies, or those who just happen to like a little fright. If you’d just like a mild scare, you can stay in the Chicken Zone, and partake in watching horror movies, sing-a-longs, telling ghost stories, and other arts & crafts. For those wanting full-throttle fright, book a tent outside the Chicken Zone, where you will be fair game for all of the things that go bump in the night! Outside of the Chicken Zone, campers will engage in a hunt for items that will pit them against other campers, as well as dodging horror movie fiends. There’s a safe word as well, in case things get too real for you. For more information, visit: http://www.greathorrorcampout.com/

Zombie Survival Camp

If zombies are your thing, this survival camp will definitely provide you with the tools you’ll need to survive any zombie apocalypse! The camp, located in central New Jersey, has accommodations and dining quarters, as well as a private shooting range for use. It offers daily training, as well as training for special events and weekends. Even if you’re already set for the zombie apocalypse, survival skills are taught that will also apply to catastrophes other than pesky zombies. For more information, or to book your training, visit: http://www.zombiesurvivalcamp.com/

The post Experience Adult Summer Camp and Channel Your Inner Child appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

The quintessential outdoor trip for every family is the camping trip. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a total newbie, you’re going to want to take a tip or two from me, as camping with kids can be complicated – but it’s definitely worth it!

Be Kid-Friendly: Plan ahead and research your destination prior to going. If you’re camping with a small child you likely don’t want to camp in a destination near cliffs, cactus or poison ivy. Additionally, you’re going to want to have games, toys and activities that you brought along just for your child! Make the trip kid-friendly. If you have to drive a far distance to make it to the camping location you probably want to check into any kid-friendly roadside attractions or activities you can all enjoy along the way. Remember, everything changes once you have children, and you’re going to need to modify the way you used to camp, too!

Have an Adventure: Kids love adventure (as do most dads!). An adventure can be as small as collecting pinecones, drawing a picture in the sand, building something out of rocks and sticks, going for a hike, etc. Have fun as you go, and share in the moments of adventure and exploration with your child. Being outdoors and playing in the dirt can be both wholesome and educational. Give your child time to do their thing – learning about trees, plants, flowers and all of nature’s beauty along the way.

Be Prepared: Bottom line – you’re going to want to be prepared for anything – and everything! Bring extra diapers, extra clothes, plenty of warm items and comfort items, too. Have books and soothing toys squirreled away incase your child has a hard time and needs some comfort from home. I suggest going all out and loading your car full of everything you could possibly need, if you do that, chances are you’ll be prepared for every event.

Take Baby Steps: Take it small. Camp in the backyard a couple of times before actually heading out for a “real” camping trip. I also think it’s important to begin your first “real” camping trip in a campground, so you’ll have some amenities and you’ll likely be close to a town should something go wrong – finger’s crossed they won’t. You can build up to a larger multiple night campout in a more secluded location after you develop your child’s camping skills in the yard and at a campground. Trust me when I say learning to camp is an art, and you don’t want to rush it!

Be a Teacher: Use every opportunity you get to teach your child about something. While camping you might be able to teach your child how to fish, to tie special knots, to set up a tent to name a species of bird, etc. The things you teach your child while camping are sure to stick with them and they’ll reflect on the memories with fondness in their later years.

Don’t Push It: Camping just isn’t for everyone, and I totally get that. So my last tip is not to push it too hard. If your child isn’t enjoying camping don’t force them to go. Give it a year and try again. Build a special fort in the living room instead and have a family movie night/slumber party! Everybody is different, and we certainly need to respect that and appreciate each person’s individuality.

Enjoy every moment and treasure the entire journey, because, let’s face it, sometimes the journey can be the greatest adventure, and your kids may even remember the journey better than they’ll remember the destination.

Happy camping and happy parenting!

Sincerely,

Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 7, offers his “5 cents” worth of advice to expectant and new parents.  Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gifts and apparel, and the DaddyScrubs blog where he covers topics about parenting all from a Dad’s perspective.

The post Easy Tips for Family Camping appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Most childhood memories are lost in the haze created by daily routines and school. The memories that stand out don’t come from day to day experiences. My childhood memories are spotty, but I can remember every vacation that we took as a family. Vacations are a fundamental part of childhood. As a parent I can use vacation time to concentrate on my kids away from our daily routines and distractions.  In a tough economy the temptation is strong to cut out family vacations, but we should not sacrifice this important part of childhood. While a cruise or a trip to Europe may not be in this year’s budget, there are some very affordable options that can make for great family fun.

The National Park system has something to offer everyone and there is a park in every state, except Delaware. With so many parks to choose from, there is sure to be one in your area. The parks offer a chance to explore volcanos, swamps, historical landmarks, geysers, hot springs, caves, mountains and coral reefs with your children. Unplug your kids this summer and take some time to go climbing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, camping, hunting, or swimming at a National Park. My family’s favorite National Park is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park combines history with scenic mountain trails plus nearby shopping and museums. My kids’ favorite activity there is looking for salamanders. While they are hunting salamanders in the streams of the Smoky Mountains, we are finding quality family time to build memories that will last a lifetime. Reservations are always a good idea when traveling with children, so visit www.nps.gov to find the park that fits your family or make a reservation today at www.recreation.gov. Entrance fees vary from park to park, and some of the parks are free. If a member of your family has a permanent physical handicap, a free lifetime entrance pass called an Access Pass can be obtained. For more information visit www.nps.gov/findapark/passes.

Whatever your choice is this summer, make sure you include a vacation away from day to day life to give your children some family memories to build their lives on. 

The post Family Memory Making on a Budget appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.