Thanks to Insights El Paso, in partnership with the Texas Outdoor Family Program, our family was chosen to enjoy a weekend trip to explore Hueco Tanks State Park. This trip came with all the food, camping gear, and activities planned and provided.
While my mom and I are no strangers to tent camping, this was a trip of many firsts for Aubrey (my 7-year-old niece) and Oliver (my 4-year-old nephew).
Here are some highlights from our adventure and tips that may help in planning your own camping with kids trip:
Guided Tour
Ranger Nicole took us on a fun 3-mile hike through the park mountains. We explored pictographs found in caves and on mountainsides along the way. We spotted a Diamondback Rattlesnake and learned about the Auodads, an invasive species of wild goats from North Africa, that call the mountains home. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the plants, animals, and history of Hueco Tanks, making it easy for Aubrey and Oliver to stay engaged throughout the hike, despite the soaring temps.
**Tip for your Trip: The hike was quite long (we spent 3 hours!). My tip? Consider a shorter self-guided tour if you have concerns about little ones, older family members, or those with medical conditions. Remember to pack plenty of water and stop for breaks frequently where shade is available, too.**
» » » RECOMMENDED READ: 8 Road Trip Tips for Traveling with Kids « « «
Campgrounds & Amenities
Although Hueco Tanks does not allow campfires, we did not miss out on a great camping experience. Ranger Lydia showed us how to use a propane stove. This allowed us to cook spaghetti for dinner, which we feverishly gobbled up after a long day in the heat. We were even able to roast marshmallows for smores, too!
Hueco Tanks State Park has twenty campsites, sixteen of which have both electricity and potable water with nightly fees of just $16. Our campsite was conveniently located close to the bathroom facilities which have stalls and a shower.
**Tip for your Trip: If a propane stove is not your jam, consider bringing an electric griddle and an extension cord. We have used our griddle consistently on camping trips in the past, even at sites that allow campfires. It makes grilling hot dogs, sizzling some grilled cheese sandwiches, or cooking up pancakes and bacon in the morning a breeze!**
Kid-Friendly Activities
Ranger Wendy challenged the kids to become Junior Rangers by completing activities in the Junior Ranger Journal. This encouraged the exploration of the outdoors. Ranger Lydia hosted a Sounds of the Night presentation. This familiarized the kids with sounds they might hear at night on the campgrounds. Both Aubrey and Oliver loved guessing who the sounds belonged to!
» » » RECOMMENDED READ: El Paso Escapes: 3 Kid-Friendly National Park Day Trips« « «
Together we went on several short walks (Oliver called them “adventures”) throughout the campgrounds. We ensured to notice animals, birds, and insects that crossed our paths. We also looked for opportunities to teach and involve the kids. Activities like setting up and disassembling the tent. Lastly, we brought a bucket of budget-friendly toys/activities for the kids to enjoy during our downtime.
**Tip for your Trip: To keep the kids busy without an iPad or TV nearby, we packed a Box O’ Fun that included playdough, a beach ball, electronic push-button games, and a foam rocket launcher that provided hours of outdoor fun. Other budget-friendly suggestions for your own box: coloring/activity books, jump ropes, a toss-and-stick game, puzzles, yarn, and cardboard to make kumihimo bracelets, and glowsticks for nighttime fun.**
Though our camping with kids experience was quick, and not without its fair share of meltdowns, grumpiness, and tears, I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside other families.
I am grateful for the funding of programs like these. Programs that encourage families to learn new skills and explore the beauty of the outdoors. I’m especially grateful knowing that Aubrey and Oliver will be fondly talking about this trip for years to come.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of El Paso Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
