Summertime is for being outside and making memories – and there’s no better way to do that than camping. Near and far, here are some ideas for your family to enjoy this summer.

If you’re ready to try your first family camp trip, here are a few things to consider. Talk to friends who go camping for their lessons learned. Don’t buy everything from the REI display, keep it simple to start and practice using what you buy at home before you go. Make a packing list and include flashlights, extra batteries, sunscreen, paper towel, and hand sanitizer. Be flexible and have fun – you can sleep in the car if you need to.

Local Family Campouts

Join your neighbors for a fun night camping at a local park. Set up your camp site, watch an outdoor movie, and make s’mores under the starry sky!

Don’t worry if you don’t have a tent. Some locations offer rentals. You can even check out your local library to see if they have a tent to borrow from their ‘Library of Things’!

Cool Cabins & Campsites

If roughing it in a tent feels a bit much, here are some cool structures to rent that aren’t too far or too expensive.

*Most of these locations are reserved early each year, save the article and make plans for 2024 if there is no availibility this summer.

Family Camp with The Y

The YMCA’s Nissokone Family Camp offers a northern Michigan lakeside escape for families looking to relax, strengthen relationships, and create unforgettable memories.

At Family Camp you can do as little or as much as you like, the choice of what to do with your time is yours – and your options are limitless, including: horseback riding, sailing, swimming, fishing, archery, paintball, high-ropes course, and MORE!

Family camp is also affordable!

The 4 day experience is only $144 for kids and $269 for adults!

Photo credit: Farmington Hills