(page content)
Some of my most cherished childhood memories are of falling asleep under stars so bright they almost hurt my eyes, and awaking to bright sunshine, the crackle and smell of a campfire, and the sight of my Mom leaning over the campfire preparing breakfast.
I knew there would be fresh fish for breakfast because I’d heard happy shouts from my Dad and brothers running their trotlines during the night.
I was warm and cozy and happy and I’d snuggle down into my sleeping bag to try to capture the memories of the brilliance of the stars of the night before.
Later, my Dad built the first RV I’d ever seen. It wasn’t an RV like those of today; it was an old hay wagon with a canvas top.
I know now that we children surely didn’t ride in that wagon as we went down the road, but that’s the way I remember it… rolling down the road behind my Dad’s car in a wagon with canvas on top.
The first campground I remember was at Eureka Springs, Arkansas, and to this day I can see the sparkling clear water and hear the tinkle of the sparkling clear water running over multi-colored rocks in the brook.
One time, the water ran over the road, and Dad has all get out and wade across the stream in our bare feet.
Adults cavorting around and splashing in bare feet, and a wonderful “togetherness”…that’s what I remember.
That family “togetherness” is, I think, one of the best things about camping with children.
Check the Left Sidebar for stories and tips about camping with children.
Family Camping in South Africa
