Taking kids camping can expose them to some dangers. Between unpredictable weather and curious toddlers who want to explore everything, parents often worry about keeping their children safe outdoors. With proper preparation, family camping trips can be fun and safe.
These camping safety tips for families with young kids will help you protect your children without limiting their sense of adventure.
Choose a Family-Friendly Campsite
Selecting a campsite that works well for children is the first step. Look for spots with level ground, away from steep drop-offs or fast-moving water. Many families find that the advantages of van camping over tent camping include better protection from wildlife and weather, plus easier access to supplies during emergencies.
Check if your campsite has clean restrooms, potable water, and cell phone coverage. Private campgrounds often provide more amenities and security than dispersed camping areas, making them ideal for first-time family campers.
Pack a Comprehensive First Aid Kit
Your first aid kit should go beyond basic bandages. Include a thermometer, instant cold packs, and any prescription drugs your kids need. Add extra items, such as children’s pain relievers, anti-itch cream, and electrolyte packets for dehydration.
Store the kit in a waterproof container and make sure all adults know its location. Consider packing a smaller portable version for day hikes or trips to the lake.
Establish Clear Boundaries and Rules
Set visible boundaries around your campsite using bright rope or cones. Strive to teach your kids that they must stay within these limits unless accompanied by an adult.
Even trips to the bathroom should involve at least two kids together. Simple rules, such as “Never leave the campsite alone” and “Always tell an adult where you’re going,” can prevent them from getting into dangerous situations.
Prepare for Wildlife Encounters
Teach your children to never approach wild animals, even small ones such as squirrels and raccoons. Have a whistle handy for each child to use if they become separated from the group. It’s also helpful to explain that staying calm and slowly backing away from most animals they see is usually safer than running.
Plan for Weather Changes
Weather can change quickly, so pack extra clothing layers for each child, including rain gear and warm items even during summer trips. Check weather forecasts regularly and have an evacuation plan if severe weather approaches.
Consider setting up a designated shelter area under which everyone knows to gather during storms. Avoid low-lying areas that could flood during heavy rain if you’re tent camping.
Master Nighttime Safety
Darkness brings new challenges when camping with children. Provide each child with their own flashlight and teach them how to use it properly. Mark tent guylines with reflective tape to prevent tripping and so they have something to hold onto.
Following these camping safety tips for families with young kids transforms potentially stressful trips into confidence-building adventures. Each camping experience builds your family’s outdoor skills and comfort level, leading to even better trips ahead.
Sam Hopes is a 37-year-old mom of two living in Portland, Oregon. She works as a freelance graphic designer and part-time yoga instructor, juggling creative projects with playdates and PTA emails. Known for her warm personality and dry humor, Sam loves hiking in Forest Park, thrifting on Mississippi Avenue, and weekend visits to OMSI with her kids, Ella and Milo. She’s the kind of parent who forgets sunscreen but always remembers snacks—and a good laugh.