Ultimate Guide to Camping with Kids

Everything families need to know about gear, safety, and making camping trips memorable for kids of all ages

Ages 0-12+Updated January 202625 min read

Why Camping with Kids is Worth Every Challenge

There is something magical about watching your child discover the wonder of the natural world for the first time. The crackle of a campfire, the symphony of crickets at dusk, the first glimpse of the Milky Way away from city lights - these experiences create memories that last a lifetime and shape how children view their place in the world.

Camping with kids offers benefits that extend far beyond a simple vacation. Research consistently shows that time spent in nature reduces stress and anxiety in children, improves attention spans, and fosters creativity. When families disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other around a campfire, something remarkable happens - conversations flow more naturally, relationships deepen, and children develop a sense of adventure and self-reliance that serves them throughout life.

Teaching kids outdoor skills is an investment in their future. Setting up a tent together becomes a lesson in problem-solving and teamwork. Cooking over a camp stove teaches patience and basic life skills. Navigating trails with a map develops spatial awareness and confidence. These are not just camping skills - they are life skills wrapped in adventure.

Many parents feel intimidated by the idea of camping with children, especially young ones. Questions swirl: Will they sleep? What if it rains? What do we even pack? This comprehensive guide addresses all these concerns and more, providing expert recommendations for gear, age-appropriate strategies, and practical tips that transform potential chaos into cherished family adventures.

The truth is that camping with kids does require more planning than adult-only trips. You need the right gear, realistic expectations, and a flexible attitude. But the rewards - watching your toddler discover pinecones, teaching your eight-year-old to build a proper campfire, sharing s'mores under the stars - make every bit of preparation worthwhile.

We have partnered with Backcountry to bring you expert-recommended equipment from trusted outdoor brands. Whether you are planning your family's first camping trip or looking to upgrade your gear for more comfortable adventures, this guide covers everything from choosing the right tent to keeping everyone fed, entertained, and safe in the great outdoors.

Key Benefits of Family Camping

Reduced screen time and improved sleep quality
Enhanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Stronger family bonds through shared experiences

Appreciation for nature and environmental awareness
Physical activity and improved coordination
Affordable family vacations with lasting memories

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Choosing Your First Family Tent

Your tent is your family's home away from home, and choosing the right one makes all the difference between a comfortable adventure and a frustrating experience. For family camping, bigger is almost always better - kids need room to move, and you will want space for gear, diaper changes, and rainy-day activities.

As a general rule, choose a tent rated for two more people than your family size. A family of four should look at 6-person tents, which provides space for sleeping plus a gear vestibule or changing area. Look for tents with peak heights of at least 6 feet so adults can stand while getting dressed, and consider models with multiple doors so midnight bathroom trips do not require climbing over sleeping family members.

Tent Selection Tips

- Practice setting up your tent at home before your first trip
- Seam-sealed floors prevent water intrusion during rain
- Color-coded poles make setup easier with helping hands
- Consider a tent with a vestibule for muddy boots and wet gear

Best Family Tent

Kelty Rumpus 6P Tent: 6-Person 3-Season

$319.95

Spacious 6-person tent perfect for family car camping. Easy setup, great ventilation, and room for the whole crew plus gear.

6-person capacity
Quick setup poles
Great ventilation
Gear pockets

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Best Value

Kelty Tallboy 6 Tent: 6-Person 3-Season

$131.97

Tall dome-style ceiling for plenty of headroom. Large door makes entry easy for kids and parents alike.

Tall dome ceiling
Easy X-pole setup
Shark-mouth duffel
Budget-friendly

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Easiest Setup

Kelty Discovery Basecamp 6 Tent: 6-Person 3-Season

$179.95

Spacious and straightforward design makes this tent easy to setup and take down. Perfect for beginning campers.

Beginner-friendly
Quick setup
Spacious interior
Stress-free camping

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Best Quality

Marmot Limelight Tent: 3-Person 3-Season

$358.95

Premium tent with painless pole system and double-walled design for excellent weather protection.

Easy pole system
Double-walled
Mesh ventilation
All-season ready

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Sleep Systems for Kids

Getting kids to sleep outdoors is often parents' biggest concern, but with the right sleep system, children often sleep better in the fresh air than at home. The key is creating a comfortable, familiar sleep environment that keeps them warm throughout the night.

Temperature regulation is critical - kids lose body heat faster than adults, so err on the side of warmer sleeping bags. For children under six, consider sleeping bag options that allow zipping two bags together, letting a parent sleep alongside a nervous first-timer. Sleeping pads are equally important as insulation from the cold ground - even in summer, ground temperatures can sap body heat quickly.

Tips for Getting Kids to Sleep Outdoors

Bring a favorite stuffed animal or blanket from home
Maintain bedtime routines (stories, songs, etc.)
Use a small nightlight or leave a lantern on low

Dress kids in layers they can adjust themselves
Position sleeping bags so kids are near parents
Tire them out with activities during the day

Sleeping Bags

Best Overall

Therm-a-Rest Questar Sleeping Bag: 32F Down

$206.97

Down-insulated mummy bag with extra room for multiple sleep positions. Insulated foot pocket keeps toes warm.

Down insulation
W.A.R.M. fit
Toe-asis foot pocket
Under 2 lbs

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Best for Car Camping

Therm-a-Rest Parsec Sleeping Bag: 32F Down

$224.98

Lofty Nikwax Hydrophobic goose down provides 5-star sleeping comfort for weekend camping trips.

Hydrophobic down
Sleek nylon shell
Excellent warmth
Great for car camping

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Best for Side Sleepers

Big Agnes Sidewinder SL Sleeping Bag: 35F Down

$155.97

Built specifically for side sleepers with added insulation on hip and feet for comfort.

Side sleeper design
Fireline synthetic
Reduced pressure points
Comfortable fit

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Best Budget

Therm-a-Rest Space Cowboy Sleeping Bag: 45F Synthetic

$115.47

Synthetic insulation that performs even when damp. Perfect for summer camping or warm sleepers.

Synthetic eraLoft
Water-resistant
Zoned insulation
Budget-friendly

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Sleeping Pads

Best Overall

NEMO Equipment Quasar 3D Sleeping Pad

$111.96

Rippled design keeps you centered on the pad even while tossing and turning. Quick twist valve for easy deflation.

3D rippled design
Stay centered
Twist valve
Refreshing sleep

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Best Closed-Cell

Therm-a-Rest Z Lite SOL Sleeping Pad

$49.95

Ultralight closed-cell foam pad with heat-reflective layer. Bombproof and perfect for kids.

Heat-reflective
Ultralight
Fast fold
Indestructible

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Eco-Friendly

Big Agnes TwisterCane BioFoam Sleeping Pad

$69.95

Lightweight, tight-rolling pad made from sugarcane-based foam. Carbon-negative construction.

Sugarcane foam
Carbon-negative
Tight rolling
Layer with inflatable

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Ultimate Comfort

HEST Sleep System

$499.00

Thick memory foam mattress for home-like sleep quality. Perfect for car camping families who prioritize rest.

Memory foam
Temperature controlled
Truck bed compatible
Home comfort

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Camp Kitchen Essentials

Meal times at camp can be highlights of the trip or major stress points - the difference is preparation. Kids need regular meals and snacks to maintain energy and mood, so having a well-organized camp kitchen with the right equipment makes feeding the family outdoors almost as easy as at home.

For car camping families, a two-burner stove provides the versatility to cook pancakes while heating water for coffee. Bring familiar foods for the first few trips - camping is not the time to introduce new recipes to picky eaters. Pack plenty of easy snacks like trail mix, fruit, cheese sticks, and granola bars for hiking breaks and between-meal hunger.

Easy Camp Meals Kids Love

Breakfast

- Pancakes & syrup
- Scrambled eggs & toast
- Oatmeal with fruit
- Bagels & cream cheese

Lunch

- PB&J sandwiches
- Hot dogs on sticks
- Quesadillas
- Trail wraps

Dinner

- Foil packet dinners
- Campfire pizza
- One-pot pasta
- Grilled burgers

Best Family Grill

Coleman Roadtrip 285 SU Grill

$424.99

Three independently adjustable burners with built-in thermometer. Rugged wheels and trolley handle.

3 burners
Built-in thermometer
Nesting side tables
Trolley wheels

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Best Compact Stove

Coleman Peak1 2 Burner Stove

$334.99

Compact two-burner with powerful output. Wind protection keeps things cooking in any conditions.

2 powerful burners
Wind protection
Compact size
Individual adjustment

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Best for Backpacking

Jetboil MiniMo Stove

$125.99

Efficient 1-liter cooking system perfect for quick boiling. Ideal for dehydrated meals.

1-liter capacity
Fast boiling
Compact design
Efficient cooking

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Best Value Cookset

MSR Trail Mini Duo Cook Set

$26.98

1.3-liter pot that nests fuel canister and stove. Perfect for couples or small families.

1.3L capacity
Nesting design
Space-saving
Budget-friendly

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Keeping Kids Entertained at Camp

One of the beautiful things about camping is that nature provides endless entertainment - but a few planned activities help fill slower moments and prevent boredom-related meltdowns. The best camp activities engage children with their surroundings while burning energy for better sleep.

Nature Exploration

Scavenger hunts with nature lists (pinecone, smooth rock, etc.)
Bug catching and observation (with magnifying glass)
Bird watching with a simple field guide
Leaf and bark rubbing art projects
Star gazing and constellation identification

Campsite Games

Flashlight tag after dark
Card games and travel board games
Campfire stories (age-appropriate!)
Building fairy houses from natural materials
Rock painting (bring washable paints)

Camp Chairs & Comfort

Best Overall

Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair

$249.95

Tall back and wide seat accommodates various body types. Packable design perfect for car camping.

Tall back support
Wide seat
Packable design
Comfortable camping

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Best Lightweight

Helinox Sunset Camp Chair

$169.95

Ultralight with neck support for long days. Stuff sack doubles as a pillow that straps to the chair.

Neck support
Stuff sack pillow
Lightweight
Concert & park ready

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Best Add-On

Helinox Personal Shade

$89.95

Clip-on shade canopy for Helinox chairs. Adjustable design keeps the sun at bay.

Sun protection
Adjustable
Easy clip-on
Packable

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Most Versatile

Therm-a-Rest Trekker Lounge Chair Kit

$41.97

Converts your sleeping pad into a comfortable lounge chair. Perfect space-saving camp furniture.

Uses sleeping pad
Packs small
Dual purpose
Saves space

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Lighting for Fun & Safety

Best Kids Lantern

Black Diamond Moji+ Lantern

$35.00

150 lumens with color-changing capability. Rainbow rotation mode for kids nighttime fun.

150 lumens
Color-changing
Rainbow mode
Frosted globe

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Best Family Lantern

Black Diamond Apollo Lantern

$45.47

250 lumens of non-glaring light. Fold-down legs for elevation and battery meter included.

250 lumens
Fold-down legs
Power meter
Adjustable dimming

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Best Rechargeable

Coleman Classic Recharge 400 Lumen Lantern

$58.99

Classic style with modern rechargeable battery. Impact-resistant and easy to hang or carry.

400 lumens
Rechargeable Li-ion
Impact-resistant
Classic design

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Best Tent Light

Big Agnes mtnGLO Gear Loft

$59.95

Illuminated gear loft for tent interior. Soft glow for reading or card games without headlamps.

Built-in lights
Gear storage
Soft glow
No headlamp needed

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Safety & First Aid Essentials

Safety should never be an afterthought when camping with children. Preparation and awareness prevent most incidents, and having the right supplies handles the rest. Every family camping trip should include a well-stocked first aid kit and knowledge of how to use it.

First Aid Kit Essentials

Bandages in multiple sizes (lots of them!)
Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
Children's pain reliever and fever reducer
Hydrocortisone cream for bug bites
Tweezers for splinters and ticks
Allergy medication (Benadryl)
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent (kid-safe formula)

Camp Safety Rules for Kids

Stay within sight of adults at all times
Never approach or feed wildlife
Use the buddy system for bathroom trips
Keep safe distance from fire (3 feet minimum)
Know the campsite boundaries
Wear closed-toe shoes around camp
Never eat plants or berries found in nature
Know what to do if separated (stay put)

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Clothing & Layering for Camp

The key to comfortable camping is layering. Temperatures can swing dramatically from hot afternoons to chilly nights, and kids who are too hot or too cold will let you know about it loudly. Pack layers that can be easily added or removed as conditions change.

Always bring more clothes than you think you need - kids get dirty, wet, and muddy much faster outdoors. A good rule is one complete outfit per day, plus two extras. Do not forget rain gear even if the forecast looks clear; weather in camping areas can change quickly.

The Layering System

Base Layer

Moisture-wicking materials next to skin. Avoid cotton which stays wet and cold. Synthetic or merino wool works best.

Mid Layer

Insulating layer for warmth. Fleece jackets or down vests trap body heat while remaining breathable.

Outer Layer

Wind and water protection. Waterproof rain jacket and pants for wet weather or dewy mornings.

Best Fleece

Columbia Steens Mountain II Fleece Jacket - Boys

$44.99

Super soft MTR fleece perfect for campsite mornings. Durable for playground roughhousing too.

MTR fleece
Zippered pockets
Machine washable
Layers well

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Best with Hood

Columbia Steens II Hooded Fleece Jacket - Boys

$44.99

Midweight fleece with hood for extra coverage. Soft feel kids love to wear all day.

Hooded design
Midweight warmth
Tall collar
Cozy feel

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Best Layering

Patagonia Down Sweater Vest - Toddlers

$99.00

700-fill recycled down for warmth without bulk. DWR coating sheds light moisture.

700-fill recycled down
DWR coating
Arms free
Reflective pulls

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Best Warmth

Patagonia Down Sweater Jacket - Toddlers

$109.00

600-fill down for real warmth in a lightweight package. Perfect for cool camping mornings.

600-fill down
Lightweight
Raised collar
Zippered pockets

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Car Camping vs Backpacking with Kids

Car Camping

Perfect for beginners and families with young children. You can bring all the comforts of home since weight is not a concern.

Advantages:

Bring comfort items (big tents, chairs, coolers)
Easy access to vehicle if plans change
Usually have bathroom facilities nearby
Abundant food storage options

Best for: First-time campers, families with children under 5, those who value comfort

Backpacking

More adventurous option for families with older, experienced campers. Requires careful gear selection and physical fitness.

Considerations:

Weight becomes critical - every ounce matters
Kids need their own child-sized packs
Limited food options (dehydrated meals)
Access to more remote, pristine locations

Best for: Families with children 8+, experienced campers ready for adventure

Day Hiking & Child Carriers

Best Child Carrier

Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Signature 26L Backpack

$369.95

Child carrier with adjustable PerfectFIT system for both parents. Wide seat with adjustable foot stirrups.

PerfectFIT system
Wide child seat
Adjustable stirrups
Share between parents

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Premium Carrier

Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite 26L Backpack

$399.95

Elite child carrier with sunshade included. Five-point harness and multiple handles.

Integrated sunshade
5-point harness
Multiple handles
Storage pockets

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Best Day Hike

Evoc Hydro Pro Hydration 3L Backpack

$112.00

Ergonomic hydration pack for day hikes. Flexible fit contours to back for comfort.

Ergonomic fit
Hydration compatible
Chest & waist straps
3L capacity

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Best Versatile

Evoc Ride 8L Backpack + 2L Bladder

$130.00

Versatile backpack with 2L bladder included. Excellent ventilation and pocket organization.

2L bladder included
AIR-PAD ventilation
Smart pockets
8L capacity

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Age-Appropriate Camping Guide

Infants & Toddlers (0-3 years)

Camping with babies and toddlers is absolutely possible with the right preparation. Keep trips short (one or two nights), choose campgrounds with facilities, and maintain nap schedules as much as possible.

Key Tips:

- Pack portable cribs or co-sleeping arrangements
- Bring familiar sleep items from home
- Plan for frequent diaper changes (bring extra bags)
- Baby-proof the campsite area

Activities:

- Sensory play with sand, water, leaves
- Short walks in carrier or stroller
- Splashing in shallow water
- Watching animals and insects

Preschool & Kindergarten (4-7 years)

This age group is ready for more active participation in camping activities. They can help with simple tasks like gathering kindling, setting up sleeping bags, and preparing simple foods.

Key Tips:

- Assign age-appropriate camp chores
- Bring bikes or scooters for campground exploring
- Plan for bathroom accidents (bring changes)
- Keep first trip distances short

Activities:

- Nature scavenger hunts
- Fishing with supervision
- S'mores making
- Simple hiking (1-2 miles)

School Age (8-12 years)

Older kids can be true camping partners. They are ready to learn real outdoor skills, can handle more challenging activities, and often become enthusiastic helpers around camp.

Key Tips:

- Teach fire safety and proper fire building
- Let them help plan meals and activities
- Consider their own tent for independence
- Introduce map and compass basics

Activities:

- Longer day hikes (3-5 miles)
- Fishing and basic fish cleaning
- Campfire cooking responsibilities
- Night hikes and stargazing

Campsite Selection Tips

Choosing the right campsite dramatically impacts your family camping experience. For trips with children, prioritize convenience and safety over scenic isolation, especially when starting out.

What to Look For in Family-Friendly Campgrounds

Flush toilets and showers - Much easier with kids than pit toilets
Flat tent pads - Easier setup and comfortable sleeping
Shade trees - Protection from sun during hot afternoons
Near water source - Lake or creek for water play

Distance from road - Away from traffic noise and danger
Cell service or ranger station - For emergencies
Kid-friendly trails nearby - Easy hiking options
Junior ranger programs - Many national parks offer these

Extra Camp Comforts

Best Hammock

Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest Print Hammock

$84.95

Luxurious size for sharing with a friend or dog. Packs to grapefruit size.

Fits 2 people
Compact pack size
Durable nylon
Quick setup

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Best Blanket

NEMO Equipment Victory Patio Blanket

$89.98

Reinforced bottom protects from sand, wet grass, and dirt. Extra insulation for rooftop tents.

Reinforced bottom
Beach & campground
Extra insulation
XXL size

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Best Shelter

Kelty Noahs Tarp 9ft

$79.95

Lightweight shade and weather protection. Multiple configuration options for any situation.

Camp kitchen cover
Beach shade
Fast setup
Multiple configs

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Best Sit Pad

Therm-a-Rest Z Seat

$34.95

Fold-up seat cushion weighing just 2 ounces. Comfortable cushion for lunch breaks.

2 ounces
Closed-cell foam
Folds flat
Cold/wet protection

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Frequently Asked Questions

What age can kids start camping?

Children can start camping at any age, even as infants. The key is adjusting expectations and preparations based on age. For first-time camping families, starting around ages 3-4 when children can communicate needs and walk independently often provides the best experience.

How do I get my child to sleep in a tent?

Maintain familiar bedtime routines, bring comfort items from home (stuffed animals, favorite blanket), use a small nightlight, and tire them out with activities during the day. Consider doing a practice night in the backyard first to familiarize them with tent sleeping.

What if it rains during our camping trip?

Rain does not have to ruin camping! Bring a tarp for a covered outdoor area, pack rain gear for everyone, have indoor tent activities ready (cards, books, games), and embrace puddle jumping. Some of the best camping memories come from weathering storms together.

How do I keep food cold without electricity?

Use a quality cooler (keep it in shade), pre-freeze meals before leaving, use block ice instead of cubes (lasts longer), pack cooler tightly, and keep it closed as much as possible. Consider having a separate drink cooler to reduce opening the food cooler.

What should I do about bears and wildlife?

Store all food and scented items in bear canisters or lockers provided by campgrounds. Never keep food in your tent. Teach children not to approach or feed wildlife. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals.

Is camping safe for children with allergies?

Yes, with proper preparation. Pack all necessary medications including epinephrine if prescribed. Inform other adults about allergies and emergency procedures. Choose campsites with cell service or close to ranger stations. Consider medical alert bracelets.

How much should kids carry on hikes?

A general rule is children can carry about 10-15% of their body weight. Start light with snacks and water, and let them gradually carry more as they build strength and interest. Never force kids to carry more than is comfortable.

Should I rent or buy camping gear for family trips?

For your first few trips, renting makes sense to ensure your family enjoys camping before investing. Once committed, owning quality gear pays off through multiple trips and provides better fit and comfort than rental equipment.

What about screen time during camping trips?

Camping offers a natural break from screens. Set expectations before leaving that devices stay in the car except for emergencies. Bring alternatives like books, games, and nature guides. If needed for entertainment during travel or emergencies, keep devices charged.

How do I handle potty training at camp?

Choose campgrounds with bathrooms nearby, bring a portable potty for nighttime, pack extra underwear and clothing, and be patient with accidents. Nighttime pull-ups can provide peace of mind. Make bathroom trips part of the adventure.

What is the best tent size for a family of four?

A 6-person tent is ideal for a family of four. This provides sleeping space for everyone plus room for gear, changing clothes, and rainy-day activities. Tent capacity ratings assume adults sleeping in bags; families need extra space.

Related Resources

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Plan your family camping trip budget

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Skiing with Kids Guide

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