There are so many wonderful reasons to get your kids to a campground this summer.  This is an experience that is affordable, fun, and provides adventure for young families.  There are also far fewer expectations for kids sleeping under the stars than there are in the standard hotel.  Kids can be kids in the great outdoors, and that is a wonderful thing.  However, camping can be a bit different when bringing a toddler along, which is exactly why we offer up the following tips to make your camping trip a stellar success, and a memory worth remembering for your youngster.

Bring a Tent Even if you are renting a camping cabin for the week, there is good reason to bring along a tent, even if it is just a small one.  Kids love tents.  He or she may not sleep in it, but throw a few pillows, blankets or an air mattress in there and it will be like a personal play space for the kids.  Forget the Pack and Play, this will provide a much better experience, and one that kids want to take part in.  Add some toys, books, and other playthings, and let them have at it, while you enjoy some adult company. (Or, crawl in there with the kids.  You may be surprised at how much fun you can find within the soft walls of a tent.)

Pack Up the Stroller, Tricycle, or Wagon Depending on the age and capabilities of your child, you can choose between the three, but short walks around the campground will go much more smoothly when a child has something to ride on or in.  Plus, most parents will agree that kids are often more easily put to sleep at naptime when they are moving.

Also Bring a Child Carrier There are a lot of different backpacks, front packs, and side carriers available today, for parents who want to hike or walk with young children.  This will make it easier for you to explore the hiking trails, streams, and other areas of the campground.

Pack Extra Clothes and Washcloths One of the best things that you can do for your child, when camping, is allow him or her to get dirty.  Kids love to dig, play, and explore.  When they do so outside, they get dirty.  So, pack extra clothes, washcloths, towels, and other essentials, so you don’t feel the need to interrupt the fun, but you can feel good sending them to bed clean at the end of the day.