One tip I have for those of us with older kids is to let them get more involved. Sometimes kids would rather stay home and hang out with their friends than go on another family camping trip. If you haven’t run into that issue yet, chances are you will. Our sweet children who would follow us anywhere turn into surly, pouty kids who we can’t figure out. Don’t give up though, there are still good trips to be had, they just require a little more work.
Give your child a choice of 3 destinations. (I’m going to go ahead and say “her” since my oldest is a girl, but this could just as easily work for a “him”). If possible give her brochures or websites so she can see everything the campground has to offer. Make sure you include nearby attractions. You may also want to make sure you only include places that you are willing to go. The world’s largest shopping mall may not be your idea of a relaxing weekend !
After she has picked the destination, let her get involved with the details of the trip. Meal planning, mapping out a route, picking out a site if possible. These are things that are useful for all future campers to learn anyway.
While in route, show her how to follow a map. If it is a longer trip, print out a map for her and let her use a highlighter to mark the route as you go. She may even find points of interest along the way that you didn’t know about. If you use a GPS, show her how to use it. She can find restaurants and gas stations for you along the way.
If all else fails and she still isn’t into it, let her bring a friend along. It’s amazing how different our kids can be when with their friends. Bring a tent to pitch next to the RV so they can have a space all their own. Hang in there, these years go quickly and before you know it she will be asking you when you can go camping again.
Anxiously awaiting spring,
Shannone
P.S. Don’t forget the marshmallows. It’s impossible to pout with a S’more in your mouth !