How to Find and Assess Kid-Friendly Campsites
Travelling with Others
Travelling with kids adds an extra layer of fun and adventure to any camping trip, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring their safety and keeping them entertained. When it comes to choosing campsites, not all are created equal, especially if you’re looking for kid-friendly options. From having secure, fenced areas to offering activities that keep little ones busy, finding the right spot can make all the difference in creating a memorable trip for your family.
This guide to finding and assessing kid-friendly campsites will help you identify the best places for your next family camping adventure. We’ll cover everything from safety features to child-friendly amenities, helping you make informed decisions that ensure a safe and fun trip for the whole family.
Why Kid-Friendly Campsites are Important for Family Travel
Travelling with children requires a bit more planning, especially when camping in the great outdoors. Kid-friendly campsites cater specifically to the needs of families, offering essential safety features and activities that keep children engaged. Here’s why choosing the right campsite is crucial for your family trip:
- Safety First: A safe camping environment is vital when travelling with young children. Fenced areas, well-lit facilities, and proximity to help in case of emergencies can put your mind at ease.
- Entertainment for Kids: Boredom can quickly set in for kids if there aren’t enough activities. Campsites that offer playgrounds, shallow swimming areas, or organised activities ensure that children stay active and happy.
- Facilities for Families: Kid-friendly campsites often provide child-friendly amenities like baby changing stations, family-sized shower rooms, and easy access to toilets, making the camping experience more comfortable for everyone.
Finding the right balance between safety, convenience, and entertainment can make camping with kids much more enjoyable for the whole family.
Key Factors to Look For in Kid-Friendly Campsites
Here are the must-have items to ensure a fun and comfortable journey when travelling with children in the outback.
Safety Features
Fenced Areas
Look for campsites with fenced perimeters, especially if they are near water bodies or bushland, to prevent kids from wandering off.
First Aid and Emergency Help
Check if the campsite has first aid services or staff on-site who can help in case of an emergency. Campsites close to medical facilities or ranger stations are ideal.
Tip: If you’re camping in remote areas, ensure you carry a personal first aid kit and know the nearest location for medical assistance.
Child-Friendly Activities
Playgrounds
Many family-oriented campsites offer playgrounds, giving kids a space to burn off energy while parents relax nearby.
Nature Activities
Some campsites provide organised nature activities, like guided bushwalks, scavenger hunts, or wildlife spotting tours that are engaging for children.
Tip: Campsites near shallow swimming areas or creeks can be great for supervised water play, but always check for safety rules before letting kids in the water.
Proximity to Facilities
Toilets and Showers
Campsites that are close to toilets and showers make things easier for families, especially with young children who may need frequent bathroom trips.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Look for features like family-sized shower rooms, baby changing stations, and laundry facilities. These extras can make a big difference when travelling with kids.
Tip: If your children are younger, consider booking a campsite that is within easy walking distance of the bathroom facilities to avoid long night-time trips.
Campsite Environment
Shaded Areas
Campsites with plenty of shaded areas can provide relief from the sun, particularly important for kids who are prone to sunburn and heat exhaustion.
Ground Conditions
Flat, grassy sites are ideal for families as they offer safer surfaces for kids to play on and reduce the risk of tripping or injury.
Tip: Avoid campsites that are too close to steep cliffs, rocky terrain, or deep water unless there are clear safety barriers.
Child-Friendly Amenities
Entertainment Options
Some campsites offer outdoor cinemas, games rooms, or craft stations for kids, especially during school holidays.
Family-Friendly Events
Many family-oriented campsites host special events like campfire singalongs, storytelling sessions, or kids' clubs that help children make friends and stay entertained.
Tip: Look for campsites that offer seasonal activities, such as organised Easter egg hunts or Christmas events, to make your trip even more memorable.
User Tips from Experienced Family Campers
Tip from Emma, Melbourne:
"We always look for campsites with playgrounds or pools. It keeps our kids entertained for hours while we can relax knowing they’re in a safe space."
Tip from Jacob, Sydney:
"Flat, grassy campsites are a must for us. It’s safer for the kids to run around, and it’s much more comfortable for setting up tents and sleeping at night."
Download the Kid-Friendly Campsite Checklist
Make your next family camping trip a breeze by downloading our Kid-Friendly Campsite Checklist. This downloadable, fillable checklist helps you assess campsites for child safety, available activities, and family-friendly amenities. Save it on your phone or print it out for easy reference when booking your next campsite.
Join the Outstyler Community for More Family Camping Tips
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Have a Tip for Kid-Friendly Camping? Share Your Feedback!
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