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Camping trips are becoming more and more popular. In fact, an estimated 13 million U.S. households plan to camp this year!

Family Camping trips are an awesome way to bond with each other. Roasting marshmallows on a campfire, making shadow animals on the walls of the tent, and catching fireflies are all “must have” experiences for your first camping adventure.

But if you’re a camping newbie, where do you start? Keep reading for some tips for camping for beginners.

Gather Your Camping “Must Haves”

First things first, you need a good tent. When buying a tent, check if it’s easy to assemble. Make sure you pick one with enough floor space for you, the kids, your gear and possibly even your pet dog. A tarp or ground sheet is also needed to place under the tent before you set it up.

Air mattresses and well-insulated sleeping bags will keep you cozy in the cooler months. But you may be able to get by with sheets and blankets in the summer.

Take along an extra pair of shoes to wear around the campsite, just in case one pair gets wet. And make sure they are easy to slip on and off as you go in and out of the tent.

To keep you out of the dark, you’ll need flashlights and a battery-operated lantern to hang from the ceiling of the tent. Be sure to bring extra batteries! Other necessities, such as plastic cups, plates, utensils, a portable clothesline, a bin, and towels are all needed to make your tent a home.

Most campsites have flushing toilets, but you may need to improvise in some situations, such as when nature calls you out on a hike. Make sure to pack extra toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer.

To keep those hungry bellies full, you should take a portable cook stove or make sure that there is a BBQ waiting for you at the campsite. In addition to your main meals, don’t forget to pack lots of simple snacks too.

These are just a few of the essentials that will prepare you to enjoy your camping experience. For a complete checklist, you can download one from our “Tent Sites” page.

Find the Best Location

Are you looking for a pristine, serene setting? Or are you looking for a fun, social resort? The goal of your camping vacation will determine where you decide to set up.

Modern campsites generally include hot showers, flushing toilets, and electrical outlets. Semi-modern campsites usually have flushing toilets, cold showers, and electrical hookups. Rustic campsites only feature the basics, such as hand water pumps, pit toilets, fire pits, and a picnic table.

Family campsites can be lots of fun. With a variety of activities available, such as adventure climbing, swimming, dancing, karaoke, fishing, laser tag, and scavenger hunts, your vacay at North Texas Jellystone Park™️ will be jam-packed with family bonding action.

While you’re researching campsites, you should check any campsite limits they have. For example, how big can your tent be? What is the maximum amount of people per campsite? Can you bring your family dog along?

Be Prepared

Being prepared means you definitely need a first aid kit. You might need to add a few extra items specific for camping too, such as soothing cream for bug bites, sun lotion, and antihistamines.

Make sure to know where the nearest clinic or hospital is. If you’re on a family campsite, you will get all the support you need from the staff.

Always have your phone charged. Even if you do want to be totally off the grid, it’s helpful to have in case of emergency.

The best way to be totally prepared for your camping experience is to do a trial run.

You can set up and have an overnight practice in your backyard. This will give you the best opportunity to test out your gear and figure out if anything is missing. You can also see if you’re warm and comfortable enough with your sleeping arrangements. It’s a great chance for the kids to get introduced to camping too.

Have Fun!

By taking these steps to be prepared, you are now ready for a fun family camping trip! You and your family will enjoy the time to bond while hiking, playing games, watching the sunset, roasting marshmallows, and sleeping under the stars.

For an unforgettable family camping vacation, come and visit us at North Texas Jellystone Park™️!

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Plan your stay at North Texas Jellystone Park™ and experience endless fun, from family-friendly activities to relaxing cabin getaways.