When I was a child I used to go camping with my dad. I have very fond memories of our camping trips. My dad and I would take our tent, sleeping bags, and fishing poles and head down the local lake for a camping trip. Camping is an excellent activity for the whole family. On the other hand it can become a disaster if you do not prepare or don't know what to expect.



If you're not experienced a camping the best place to start is probably with a commercial campground. These campgrounds are sometimes listed in the Yellow Pages. They don't cost very much and usually of showers, bathrooms, and electrical hookups, and running water. Commercial campgrounds also usually have activities for the whole family which include summing pools, hiking trails, paddle boats and fishing lakes.

Once you get some experience with camping you may then decide that you want to rough it out in the woods on your own.

Regardless of where you decide to go camping it is very important that you are prepared. Here's a list of some things you should consider to make sure that you're prepared for an enjoyable camping trip.

Camping inventory

1. One of the most important things you will need is a tent. You can find tents in various sizes depending on a number of people in your family.

2. Sleeping bags and an air mattress if needed.

3. Flashlights with plenty of extra batteries.

4. Matches

5. Because you'll be cooking on an open fire make sure that you bring some old cookware. You can also purchase camping cookware sets.

6. Firewood. If you are not camping at an established commercial campground you may need to bring your own firewood.

7. First aid kit. This is a given.

8. Drinking water

9. Trash bags. Regardless of where you decide to go camping one of the most important things is that you leave the area just as he found it. Pick up your trash and take everything with you that you brought. Don't ruin the experience for the next person.

Camping can be a wonderful activity for the whole family. By taking a little time to prepare for the unexpected you will ensure a great time for your family.