Wanna Go Camping Sooner?

Apr 16, 2010 Going Green

Well, you don’t have to go camping necessarily. I suppose you could just make a day trip of it. From April 17-25, 2010, all National Parks are offering free admission. Sounds like a lot of fun to me, and visit the link to get all the details.

The various parks may have different activities. Saturday April 24 is for kids to learn to be Junior Rangers at certain locations. There are a variety of projects for volunteers and other events. you’ll have to check to see what’s happening in parks in your range.

Even if you don’t decide to go camping, this is a great chance to head out to one National Park or another. For some parks this is a pretty significant savings; others are normally pretty inexpensive to visit, but free is free!

Tags: camping

Wanna Go Camping?

Apr 12, 2010 Going Green

I got an email today from the National Wildlife Federation about the upcoming Great American Backyard Campout on Saturday, June 26, 2010. I think the name just about says it all.

The timing quite amused me. My husband was going to take our older two camping in the backyard this weekend, but changed his mind when he realized the temperatures were going to be in the high 30s to low 40s F all night. The baby and I weren’t going to do it because I have enough trouble getting her to sleep as things stand. Something about camping out with a baby who is teething molars really didn’t appeal to me. Not with a bed at hand.

The goal is to encourage kids to get outside more. So many kids these days spend very little time outside. They’d rather watch TV or play on the computer or with video games. They’re missing out on the amazing things they could be seeing outside.

If you register for the Campout, the site will provide you with recipes, information on nocturnal wildlife, plus songs, games and activities you can do.

You don’t have to stick to your backyard if you’d rather camp elsewhere, of course. Just get out and camp for at least that night!

There’s a lot to be said about getting kids outside. It helps them be more creative, helps them be healthier, and even helps in academic performance. Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder is a great pick if you want to learn more about why kids need to get outside more.

I’m pretty sure we’ll be doing this. I can’t imagine my husband declining the chance to camp. Anyone else?

Tags: backyard, camping, Great American Backyard Campout, kids, National Wildlife Federation, outdoor time