1. Campsite less than an hour away-- The Malibu Creek State Park group camp site is perfect. It's tucked behind a beautiful meadow where deer hangout! We spotted several and they appear to be more used to people than the average deer as they didn't bolt at the first sight of our screaming children. The site is equipped with a large grill -- perfect for bbq and s'mores too. And, the bathrooms have hot water! Plus, plus! But, the best thing about this site is it's proximity to home-- so you know you could go home easily if anyone has a meltdown -- little ones or working mom! Definitely a psychological comfort.
2. Go in a group of experienced campers - we went with several families who we've camped with before-- it was awesome! The kids entertain themselves and if you forget an essential item; someone in the group is bound to have thought of it! Also dividing and conquering meals makes for a more delicious feast than you would have dreamed up solo--- back in the day we'd have mac cheese and hot dogs for dinner-- but the camp stoves are better now or something because we've graduated to steak, grilled veggies, and gourmet salads! YUM-- who knew camp food could be soo good.
3. Be prepared - of course-- isn't that the boy scout motto or something? Seriously though-- if you are prepared for cold weather or very hot weather whatever the case may be life will be much better. We knew it would be cold so I packed thermals, turtlenecks, warm jackets, gloves, hats (I wore them all!) and extra blankets. Since we were ready for freezing weather, we were all able to stay warm and almost toasty.
4. Remember your kids are not you -- don't project how you're feeling onto your kids. Just because you're freezing doesn't mean your kids are.... remember they have smaller bodies their blood doesn't have as far to circulate around! You may need 5 layers of clothes, but they might only need 2-- or maybe they ONLY want to wear their thermals... Just because you feel like you want a shower, doesn't mean your kids do. So put on a happy face-- the kids will tell you what they need, and they'll definitely take cues from you on how to react to the outdoors-- you don't want no wimpy kids, right?!
5. Go with the flow - this is probably the most important thing-- if you're not a "total camper" like me, you have to go with the flow and be supportive of your kids enthusiasm for the outdoors. I can remember loving camping as a kid!! Maybe you did too? If so, you don't want to rob them of that joy just because you're cold or would rather be in a hotel right? Plus, where's the adventure in always staying comfortable.... if you don't camp you may never get the experience of spotting constellations from the dinner table, pitching your own shelter or having a blast outdoors with the kids with only each other and the great outdoors for entertainment -- no electronics-- it's awesome!
I had so much fun that now, I would actually say I love camping!!! (but I'm still not a "camper" )
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