Texas, with its sweeping vistas, massive size and varied terrain, offers innumerable opportunities for families with children to get up and get out camping. Most state parks have hiking trails rated specifically for the younger legs of children and several parks offer programs to teach kids and families the basics of camping.
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend is one of the largest in the U.S. National Park System. Located on land stretching from the Rio Grande to the Chisos Mountain Range, the park occupies in excess of 801,000 square acres. With this much land and topographical variation, there is sure to be something to interest campers of all ages. Of special interest for kids may be the many programs offered by the park service itself. Offerings range from exhibits on natural and national history to a Junior Ranger Program. In addition, according to StateParks.com, it is a good idea to "get kids involved in ranger-led programs. These include guided hikes, slide programs, bird walks, and guided explorations of various park features."
Fort Parker
For those not used to camping with kids or lacking the tools required to do so, parks such as Fort Parker offer programs to help more families acclimate to the camping lifestyle. According to the Corsicana Daily Sun website, "The overnight camp out and outdoor education workshop at Ft. Parker is one of a number of TPWD sponsored outdoor family workshops being held throughout the state this summer to try to eliminate barriers to families wishing to share the outdoor experience together." Park staff teach young and old many necessary skills for camping and enjoying outdoor recreation in general.
Choke Canyon State Park
Choke Canyon State Park, located in South Texas, offers a similar program for families. Families can learn the basics of camping, explore the park's bird trails and explore the park's kayaking and fishing opportunities. Most camping essentials are provided by the program, but families should bring sleeping bags, food and toiletries.
Lake Arrowhead Campgrounds
Many children enjoy swimming, especially in the relatively calm waters of a lake. Lake Arrowhead in northwest Texas offers a camping experience with a lake for swimming and programs geared specifically for younger campers, including a kid's fishing contest. Like many campgrounds with an eye toward attracting families with children, there are public bathroom facilities in the park as well a group dining hall should the primitive lifestyle of outdoor living become overwhelming for younger campers.
Kids' Outdoor and Camping Safety
While camping is a fun and often bonding experience for many families, there are some risks to camping with children. For example, children may wander off, become disoriented and get lost. Children could innocently approach a wild animal looking to make a friend, but instead become injured. Children also don't always know when they are in danger of becoming dehydrated, especially in the summer. It is important that adults are mindful of where their children are at all times, that they teach children about wilderness and camping safety and that they monitor children's food and water intake. The Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife has dedicated sites to help campers of all ages camp safely. These can be found by visiting the deparment's home page at www.tpwd.state.tx.us/.
Member Comments