Out is In

So get out there!

The weather is getting better and better, at least in the Midwest. For those of you in cooler climates, use this opportunity to plan for the things to come.

For me, and many others, there is no better way to experience the outdoors than to spend a night or two in it. Camping is rewarding on a myriad of levels: it heightens the senses, simplifies life (if only for a few days), surrounds you with nature, bonds you with your tentmates (sleeping in close quarters has this effect), and gives you opportunities that you simply miss on dayhikes.

That being said, if you're a first-time, or first-time-in-a-long-time camper, it might be a good idea to hone up on a few skills before you hit the trails running. For the first few times, an established campground is a good idea, and if you check your options carefully, it's still usually possible to find a campsite that will offer privacy and nature with your car and flush toilets only a few minutes walk away. Do be sure to check, though, or you may just spend the night cozied up with your 12 less than sober neighbors. Many campgrounds have rules prohibiting alcohol on the premises, and this is often a good way to ensure a quiet, family-friendly evening.

Before you even get to the campground, think about spending a night or two in the back yard, even if yours is a tiny one in the middle of Suburbia. This way the leaky tent missing two pegs that you forgot how to set up can be dealt with before you're forced to rely on it. Similarly, your two-year-old can check out the night time world in familiar quarters, which may just turn out to be a good idea. Troubleshooting goes a long way toward an enjoyable camping trip.

Think about the perks, too. If you have picky eaters, don't spring the freeze-dried ultralight dinners on them yet. You can purchase pre-baked pizza crusts and grill up a homemade pizza for dinner, if that's what it takes to get the family excited. For dessert, make s'mores, or put bananas in tinfoil and sprinkle them with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, pop them in the coals for a few minutes and eat the gooey mess right out of the foil. Whatever the food, make sure it's something that everyone can enjoy.

Finally, plan ahead for the disasters. Take card games for when it rains. Bring extras of the essentials. Make a good first-aid kit. And please, take lots of pictures! This may just be the most fun you've had in a long time!

For more ideas, check out the family camping links at the bottom of the page: you'll be glad you did.