We drove 40 minutes east, pitched a tent we'd practiced on exactly zero times, and learned a lot about ourselves.
I'd been promising the kids a 'real campout' for two summers. This June we finally did it — packed the van, drove out toward lakes country, and set up at a campground close enough that bailing at midnight was still on the table.
What went right
Going close to home was the best decision we made. Twenty-five minutes from the driveway meant low stakes. We weren't committed to a three-hour drive if things went sideways, and that took all the pressure off.
Letting the kids own jobs was the second win. My six-year-old was in charge of 'firewood inspector,' which mostly meant carrying one stick around proudly, but he felt like part of the crew.
What I'd do differently
Practice the tent in the backyard first. I've now said this to three different dads and I'll keep saying it: you do not want to learn your tent's quirks in fading light with two tired kids asking when dinner is.
Bring twice the snacks you think you need, and a backup light source for everyone. A headlamp per kid turned the after-dark bathroom walk from a meltdown into an adventure.
Would we do it again? We already booked a second weekend. Start small, stay close, and let it be a little chaotic. That's the whole point.
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