Planning Summer Adventures

It is somehow already mid-June. I had the best of intentions to plan out summer trips well in advance this year and guess what? Life.

So take it from a pro (at not booking things in time that is) that you should always book your backcountry campsites well in advance!If you're thinking a national park on Canada Day weekend sounds fun, be sure shooting (but don't shoot in a national park without permit) that a billion other Canadians are thinking the same.

So here we are. The backcountry sites at our nearest and dearest national park, Kejimkujik, is booked up for nearly every weekend this summer.

Sooo, now what? Be sure to know that when one adventure doesn't work out, another is just around the corner!

This summer we're looking at some walk-in camping at Porter's Lake, some backcountry camping at Kenomee Canyon, potentially some island camping in the Halifax harbour (aka McNab's), some epic day trips including Admiral Lake Loop, and a very exciting large trip (more on that to come!).

I rejoice every day that I can make time in my life for the outdoors and have a body that is healthy enough to take me deep into the wilderness!

So, what are your plans for connecting with the wild this summer?

Top 5 Favourite Things about Camping with Kids

1. Freedom!!!
I love watching my baby girl run free! It's so good for her and for us. 

2. Teaching them to help.
Even if "helping" doesn't actually make you‒the parent‒more efficient, remember that it's important to take the time to slow down and give them "jobs" to do. Even if it is simply carrying their sleeping bag or walking with you to fetch water, this makes them feel confident while camping and prepares them to help around camp more when they're able to!

3. They learn so much about nature first hand!

4. Enjoy some down time with your partner and/or friends after they're asleep!
Watching the campfire burning is so relaxing, and part of good parenting is taking time to unwind for yourself!

5. Watch the sunrise again!
Either together or while they are still asleep. It's an incredible way to start the day!

Best Spot for Car Camping near Halifax, NS

Our daughter's first camping trip was to Porter's Lake Provincial Park, and it has since become a favourite for car camping--perfect for those weekends when you don't have enough time for a big trip but need to be outdoors. What we love about Porter's Lake is their walk-in campsites. They have several! They are a short walk from the parking area, but far enough that you feel closer to nature and--perhaps most important of all with wee ones--no cars driving past you while your child is trying to run around and enjoy the freedom of the outdoors! And most of them have direct access to the lake from your campsite. Our baby girl loves throwing rocks in the water, so this is a huge bonus! What is better than waking up to a giggling baby who wants to get exploring with the breeze from the water in your face? We love it, and on most 2-day weekends in summer, that is where you are likely to find us!