Paddles and Packs

Because the best family memories are made outdoors.

Family Camping Guide: Build Confidence, Adventure, and Outdoor Memories

Watercolor-style family camping together outdoors near their tent.
Start Exploring

Camping Adventures Without the Stress

Whether it’s your very first night in a tent or your next family tradition, these camping guides help you start simply — and enjoy the experience.

Start Here — Camping Basics for Families

New to camping? Start simple! These beginner-friendly guides will help you build outdoor confidence one step at a time.

Whimsical illustration of a pirate ship, a red apple, a dinosaur and a fairy door, representing roadside stops in Ontario, a guide to Unforgettable Ontario Detours from Paddles and Packs.

Make your drive part of the adventure.

Heading to Algonquin, Killbear, or Sandbanks? Make the drive as fun as the campsite itself with our free guide to 40 Ontario Roadside Wonders — perfect for kid-friendly detours on your next trip. Get the Free Guide →

Easy First Camping Destinations

Ready to pitch a tent beyond your backyard? Discover beginner-friendly campgrounds and parks perfect for young adventurers.

Take It Further: National Parks and Backcountry Adventures

Family Camping Tips and Easy Camping Meals

From peaceful mornings to starry nights, little details can make a big difference. These tips, tricks, and simple meal ideas will keep your camping trips fun and stress-free.

Looking for More Adventure Inspiration?

Grab your copy of Natural Escapes: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Stress-Free Family Adventures — and discover how small outdoor adventures can lead to a lifetime of memories.

Building Lasting Camping Traditions

Make memories that last a lifetime! Discover fun, simple traditions that will become the heart of your family camping adventures.

  • 10 Fun Family Camping Traditions That Build Lifelong Memories

Stay Inspired

Join the free Paddles and Packs newsletter to get new outdoor ideas, free resources, and family adventure tips delivered straight to your inbox!

We’ve compiled a list of 5 essential tips for camping with young kids and we’ve made it easy for you to Pin it so you won’t forget!

List-style Pinterest graphic titled '5 Essential Tips for Camping with Kids' with imagery of a tent and tow-behind camper trailer, sharing simple strategies for a successful family camping trip

Final Thoughts

Family camping adventures aren’t about flawless trips or picture-perfect campsites.
They’re about campfire giggles, muddy shoes, messy pancake breakfasts — and stories you’ll tell for years to come.

Every night under the stars builds confidence, connection, and memories your family will carry forever.

Let’s make your next outdoor adventure unforgettable.

Ready to Explore Even More?

Whether you’re dreaming of cozy campouts, paddling adventures, or growing outdoor confidence, there’s a whole world waiting for you. Explore the full Outdoor Adventure Launchpad and keep your family’s adventures rolling!

Hiking Adventures

Discover scenic trails, waterfall hikes, and kid-friendly routes that make hiking a joy for the whole family.

Explore Hiking Guide →

Paddling Adventures

Ready to get on the water? Our family paddling guides make it easy to plan simple, safe outings by canoe or kayak.

Explore Paddling Guide →

Adventure Mindset

Small steps. Big memories. Find encouragement, simple mindset shifts, and tips for embracing everyday outdoor adventures.

Explore Mindset Guide →

Family Day Trips

Discover Ontario one day trip at a time. Our city-based guides make it easy to find fun, fresh-air adventures close to home.

Explore Day Trip Guide →

Do you want to read this again later? We’ve made it easy for you to save this to your Family Camping Board on Pinterest.

Vertical graphic for Paddles and Packs camping hub. Welcome message featuring family camping destinations, easy camping meals, nature play ideas, and tips for first-time campers. Encourages meaningful outdoor stays with kids.