Hi all!
I’m a single mom to a 4 year old little boy. My family was NOT a camping family growing up. But my son is DYING to go and loves the outdoors.
I’m intimidated 
I need ALLLLLLL the advice and tips. We are in the Midwest and was thinking first weekend in October so hopefully the weather will permit.
I do not know how to pitch a tent. Or build a fire. I don’t even know what gear is needed. And do not sleep much if not in a bed 
but I really want to give him this experience and us both enjoy.
People have suggested cabin camping but it feels like cheating lol. Backyard camping first maybe?
Help me!!
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Actually a backyard campout is a great way to start. A tent, sleeping bags, toiletries, first aid kit, cooler, and whatever you might choose to cook and eat is about the bare minimum. I suppose these days you add a solar charger or battery pack for keeping the cellphone charged. Plenty of water too.
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Yes, it’s far easier to learn that sleeping on a mat is not an option when you can simply run back inside. The hardest part about camping is when your mental switch to “I don’t want to do this anymore” flicks, leaving you miserable and stranded in the forest. It makes a world of difference to approach things with confidence and readiness.v
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honestly, this is the way for you to start. pretend like you went somewhere else aside from the restroom. after doing this once or twice you’ll see what you need and don’t need when you go camping. in order for YOU to enjoy it more i would also add a sleeping mat of some sort to get you off the ground when sleeping whether that’s an air mattress that you just put blankets on or a good one. graduate from this to a local public camp ground, and then it’s off to anywhere you want!
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Plug for headlamps! They’re generally pretty inexpensive and kids love them.
1 Like
Ranger advice: try starting in your backyard first. If it doesn’t work, get in touch with your state and federal parks. Under certain state parks’ “let’s go camping” program, you can set up camp among a group of inexperienced campers; all you need to bring is some clothing, snacks, and sleeping bags. The park provides the tents and other necessary gear.