This cooler weather we’re having has been great for wearing cute boots and scarves, sipping on peppermint mochas, getting in the Christmas spirit, and…camping with kids. Yep, camping. It is a fun, inexpensive activity where you can spend quality family time outdoors, make memories, and even see stars! My husband has taken our 3 year old twice this year on a daddy daughter camping trip, and she loved it both times. They are really looking forward to the next one. And hopefully we can go as a whole family one day when we don’t have a baby in tow!
If your kids have never gone camping before, put it on your bucket list for next year. Get some friends together because it’s always fun to have more people. You don’t even have to spend the night. A day trip would be a lot of fun too. There are a number of great parks that are just a short drive from Houston. So if you are thinking about planning a camping trip, here is a helpful guide on where to go, what to bring, and what to do. {Thanks to the hubby for helping out with this!}
Where To Go
- Brazos Bend State Park {Southwest}
- Galveston State Park {Southeast}
- Huntsville State Park {North}
- Lake Livingston State Park {Northeast}
- Stephen F Austin State Park {West}
If you’re looking for others, check out a map of Texas State Parks. Make sure and call ahead or look online to make reservations for your campsite. Peak times of the year can fill up quickly.
What to Bring
- Tent
- Tarp {for under the tent}
- Hammer
- Lawn chairs
- Sleeping bag & blankets
- Air mattress & pump {or is that just me?}
- Firewood {you cannot gather at the park}
- Matches
- Flashlight & headlamp {and a small kid flashlight too}
- Cooking stove
- Cooler with food & drinks
- Plates/cups/forks/knives
- Snacks
- Wire coat hangers {for s’mores!}
- Paper towels
- Water bottle
- Hand sanitizer & wipes
- Trash bags
- Clothes & shoes
- Towel
- Toiletries
- First aid kit
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Fishing supplies
- Frisbee/sports balls
- Bike & helmet
- Other kid toys
- Kite
- Camera
- Portable phone charger
What To Do
- Fish in the lake
- Hike along the trails {bring a hiking backpack carrier if you have a little one}
- Rent a canoe or kayak
- Go on a bike {or trike} ride
- Take part in the world’s largest treasure hunt
- Ride horses
- Roast s’mores
- Fly a kite
- Find the perfect spot for a picnic
- Read stories by the campfire
- Go on a scavenger hunt {free printable}
- Study the stars & constellations
Once you plan a trip, you can really talk it up with the kids and get them super excited. You could even take them to Academy to pick out some some fun camping items like a kid sized chair, a small fishing pole, a flashlight, and of course, a princess {or superhero} sleeping bag. Or maybe Santa could bring some of those items!
If you have any tips and tricks for camping with kids, we would love to hear!
