Why camping is wonderful.

A family camping - let the good times roll.

The best thing about camping is that it brings people together.  The nature of your shelter doesn't really matter.  Although nice weather is preferred, it is amazing what fun you can have when it is wet, cold, or even both.  With homework and household chores being forgotten, there is time to engage in other activities.  And there is nothing like exploring a new area together where the adventures are a shared pleasure.

Outdoor living encourages even the pickiest eaters to clean up their plates.  An afternoon of frolicking will whip up anyone's appetite.  A young person who may reject certain foods at home is much more likely to ravenously consume them when camping.  Besides, stores are typically limited and the nearest fast foodery is typically a few hours drive away.  Going hungry when there is so much to experience is just not an option. 

Then there is the typical freedom from homework and household chores.  No piano to practice, no baths to take, and no bedroom to keep clean.  There is just so much time to do other things, like go on social media - wait - what do you mean there is no internet?  OH NO!  There is also no power, no electronics, no giant TV screen.  What are we going to do?

Isn't it wonderful how camping allows a family to spend time together?  Board and card games mean face time - in the real way.  Hiking, swimming, bike riding, and campfires, all with the family, together, in one place.  Connecting and reconnecting.  Memories of good times and unusual events. 

Another advantage is the relatively low cost.  Compared to a trip to Disneyland or Mexico, camping is a bargain.  A tent and some sleeping bags represent the main capital expenses.  Camping fees can be pricey, but there are also many places where the cost is low or altogether absent.  Of course, you can go in style with an RV of some sort, but the expense is prohibitive for many.  A used tent trailer may be just the ticket for those who want to sleep off the ground and want shelter that is a little more substantive than a tent.

I like the image I chose for this blog.  It tells a story about a family who has just spent a tremendous amount of time together doing wonderful things.  Their absence from the shot is also suggestive of their current status - busy doing something - together.  That's the beauty of camping.


 I have camped in lean-tos, tents, among the stars, tent trailers, travel trailers, and motor homes.