6 Reasons Why Camping is Important for Kids

Key Takeaways

• Busy schedules and technology can make genuine family time difficult.
• Camping can help kids build confidence, develop new skills, and engage in more physical activity. It also helps kids build stronger relationships with family and friends.
• Get your camping essentials and find a kid-friendly location to start camping as a family.

We’re always busy – even kids. They’re occupied with after-school activities, friends, schoolwork, and of course, technology. Between their jam-packed schedule and yours, genuine family time is next to impossible. But it’s important for everyone to disconnect and experience the beauty of nature. Learn more about why camping is important and how to start camping as a family with Army Surplus World!

1. Develops New Skills

Developing survival skills is a big reason why camping is important. Most people don’t learn these skills amidst their busy schedules. But a basic survival skill set can help your child manage challenging situations – in the wilderness and life – because they encourage problem-solving and critical thinking. Some survival and outdoor skills they can learn include:

• How to build a fire
• How to pitch a tent
• Fire safety
• Which plants are and aren’t edible and safe to touch
• First aid basics

2. Increases Physical Activity

Increased physical activity is also why camping is important, helping to improve physical health and overall well-being. Camping provides almost non-stop physical activity: setting up the tent, gathering firewood, hiking the trails, and swimming in the lake. This also increases their appreciation for nature!

3. Improves Confidence and Self-Esteem

Confidence-building is another reason why camping is important for kids of all ages. With every skill they develop, they build a sense of accomplishment and reinforce their belief in their own abilities. It also helps kids get comfortable with stepping out of their comfort zones!

4. Builds Stronger Relationships with Family 

Any quality family time is beneficial, but few things compare to the uninterrupted time camping provides. It creates meaningful connections through shared challenges and experiences. Stronger bonds can be built from a variety of activities! You can learn to fish or build a fire together. You can involve the kids with the tent set-up. You can even just sit around the campfire and tell stories – real or imagined. This bonding time is one of the biggest reasons why many want to learn how to start camping as a family.

5. Allows Everyone to Unplug

Why else is camping important? It allows everyone (even you) to unplug and get away from screens – phones, tablets, televisions, everything. Hiking, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and bike rides are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy without technology. Electronics aren’t necessary for anything in the great outdoors, even navigation. You can read paper maps and military compasses – another basic survival skill.

6. Teaches Respect 

A stronger connection and respect for nature are other reasons why camping is important for kids. They have the chance to (safely) encounter wildlife, see the stars away from the bright city lights, and explore the beauties and dangers of nature. All of this helps them learn how to be respectful in the outdoors. This includes:

• How to Respect Wildlife – Observe wildlife from a distance to avoid disturbing their natural behavior, and do not feed the animals.
• How to Respect Other Campers – Be respectful of their space and avoid loud noises, especially at night.
• How to Respect Nature – Leave no trace is the golden rule of camping. They’ll learn not to litter and learn which items are not to be disturbed or touched.

How to Start Camping as a Family

Now that you know why camping is important, you’re likely wondering how to start! The good thing is, it’s not too difficult. It just takes a little preparation.

Find the Right Location

Do you want to camp near the mountains? Do you want to be by a lake? Do you want good hiking trails? Ask yourself these questions to determine the best place to camp. Ask the kids for their input! 

You may also want to consider amenities. Some families prefer more developed campgrounds for amenities like restrooms and showers, especially for their first family camping trips. You can work your way up to more remote locations. 

Plan Some Activities

Family activities are a big reason why camping is important for kids. Make sure you have plenty of activity ideas to combat their declarations of boredom. Options include:

• Nature scavenger hunts
• Hikes and nature walks
• Stargazing
• Canoeing and kayaking
• Swimming
• Board games

Plan Meals in Advance

Having meals planned leaves you more time to enjoy your camping trip and less time figuring out what to eat. Bring various snacks and ingredients for meals, even if you plan on fishing. This ensures you’ll have food ready if you don’t catch anything.

Gather Camping Gear

Camping equipment is an important consideration when learning how to start camping as a family. Start with the essentials – tents, sleeping bags, blankets – and create a packing checklist of your other camping equipment. Consider these items:

• Multi-tool
• Cord or rope
• Matches/firestarter
• Cook pots
• Eating and cooking utensils
• Stove
• Can opener
• Military canteen
• Army field manuals
• Navigation tools
• Military clothing – kids’ camo clothing, BDU shirts and pants, lightweight jackets, etc.
• Comfortable Army surplus boots or shoes

Plan Your Family Camping Trip

There are many reasons why camping is important for kids and adults, from stronger family bonds to improved self-esteem. That’s why it’s crucial to learn how to start camping as a family – they’ll have memories and skills that last a lifetime. Start planning your next adventure with the latest gear from Army Surplus World!