Learn to Family Camp (8/2-4)
Time in nature is one of the best ways families can bond; removed from the stress of everyday life (and their screens) and undistracted in a beautiful, natural setting. But planning a family camping trip can be intimidating: should you camp at a campground or in the backcountry? What meals are easy to cook and what tools do you need? How do you handle wildlife, filtering water, etc.? Allow us to remove the stress of planning your campout so you and your family can enjoy the time together and learn how to camp as a family in the future.
Our co-owners Dave and Jessica have two daughters and can’t wait to share their camping expertise gained from years of teaching countless families to camp, including their own kids. Their three-year old embarked on her first 4 night, 5 day canoe-camping trip in the backcountry at just a year old, and their one-year old spent her first night in the forest at just 4 months old. Even as experienced guides, they quickly learned new tips and tricks for camping with their little ones (camping chairs for toddlers = a MUST).
This camping trip is ideal for families who want to learn more about camping, but may not know where to get started. We’ll hike a gentle mile or so before setting up our basecamp for the weekend. You can simply enjoy the time with your family, or learn essential skills like:
- Choosing a campsite
- Setting up and testing new gear, like tents and sleeping bags
- Filtering water
- Ideal on-trail snacks for all ages
- Backcountry cooking
- Fire building
- Basic survival skills in an emergency situation
- And much more!
This trip will focus on quality time together, with a moderate hike ideal for little feet, berry picking, s'mores around the campfire, stargazing, and a chance to decompress and enjoy each other’s company.
Most trips will depart at 6:30am near the Barclays Center and 7:00am near Grand Central. You will be notified in advance if departure times and locations differ for your trip.
Yes! Your adventure includes a breakfast of fresh fruit and donuts and a selection of coffee and tea for the drive to the trailhead. During your overnight trip, we’ll provide healthy, gourmet meals for lunch, dinner, and breakfast. We pride ourselves on serving delicious dinners cooked from scratch in the backcountry. We often hear from our adventurers that they eat better in the outdoors than they do at home! We offer vegetarian and vegan options, and we’re happy to accommodate any dietary and allergy needs.
We will provide a detailed packing list based on conditions before your adventure. Below is a sample packing list:
- Backpack (45L minimum, with hip belt)
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Mess kit (fork, spoon, bowl and cup)
- 2, 1-liter water bottles
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Clothes: extra layers, top and bottom, 3 pairs of socks
- Wear: Comfortable, breathable clothes. Standard workout clothes are great for hiking
- Footwear: Sturdy sneakers, trail runners, or hiking boots. We’ll let you know well in advance if conditions call for special footwear.
Your guides will provide all group gear (water filter, cooking gear, etc.). You do not need to spend much money on gear for our trips! We have gear available to borrow, and we have partnerships with local gear shops to provide reasonable rentals. We’re happy to answer questions and offer advice to ensure you have everything you need.
You will receive a confirmation email for your adventure within 24 hours of booking. Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a suggested packing list, and more.
Visit our FAQ page here.
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