Camping with young children can be a simple way to disconnect, enjoy quality time, and introduce kids to nature, but choosing the wrong campground can bring challenges.
Long distances to restrooms, a lack of activities, or noisy neighbors can turn a fun family outing into a stressful experience. Knowing which campgrounds cater best to families with young children is crucial. Below are five recommended campgrounds and five to avoid.
The 5 Best Campgrounds For Families With Young Children
These five locations consistently meet the needs of families with young children.
1. Kampgrounds of America
KOA stands out for families with young children due to its numerous activities. Many sites offer swimming pools, playgrounds, jumping pillows, mini golf, hiking trails, and seasonal events, ensuring kids can explore and stay active outdoors.
There are also quieter activities to enjoy, such as teaching children to fish, cooking over a campfire, or sharing stories and s’mores in the evening.
Key Features
- Many locations allow pets and feature dedicated play areas for them.
- Online booking simplifies trip planning.
- A variety of camping options are available, such as Glamping Tents, Airstreams, and Yurts.
2. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park
For kids who enjoy packed schedules and themed fun, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park offers more than just traditional camping. These parks provide extensive daily entertainment.
Families can enjoy pools or water slides, and then head to activities like laser tag or obstacle courses. Young children will love the photo opportunities, games, and stories with characters like Yogi Bear and Boo Boo.
Key Features
- Themed weekends are available year-round, such as Chocolate Lovers Weekend.
- Interactive children’s activities like foam parties and wagon rides are included.
- More than 75 locations are spread across the U.S. and Canada.
3. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground combines the charm of a woodland retreat with the benefits of being part of Walt Disney World Resort. Set within 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, families can start the day by spotting deer and rabbits and then enjoy the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool. The fun continues with archery, horseback riding, canoeing, and evening campfires.
Key Features
- Use the My Disney Experience app to manage check-in and room access.
- Certain campsites are pet-friendly and offer access to Waggin’ Trails Dog Park.
- RV rentals are available and can be set up before arrival.
4. Ocean Lakes Family Campground
Ocean Lakes Family Campground offers beachfront camping with ample activities to keep children busy day and night. Its mile-long Atlantic coastline with 20 beach access points means a short walk to the sand. Off the beach, Sandy Harbor Family Fun Center is the action hub with pools, a lazy river, water slides, mini golf, and a game center. Amenities are also well-equipped.
Key Features
- The Nature Center Discovery Lab educates children about local marine life.
- Bicycle rentals allow for easy exploration of the campground.
- Camptown Center offers a grocery store, restaurant, and laundry facilities.
5. Bethpage Camp-Resort
Bethpage Camp-Resort provides families with various ways to have an active vacation on its grounds. Located near the Chesapeake Bay, the resort features five pools, a waterslide, playgrounds, and daily activities like arts and crafts. While kids enjoy hay wagon rides, adults might kayak, crab, or relax by the water. The Poolside Cafe and Bethpage Miniature Golf & Ice Creamery offer convenient spots for meals or treats.
Key Features
- Bike rentals provide another exploration option within the resort.
- Waterfront sites are available.
- The campground is conveniently located near many of Virginia’s attractions.
Criteria For The Best Campgrounds For Families With Young Children
Each campground was chosen based on family-centered criteria, ensuring an easier and more enjoyable experience for parents with young children. Considered features include:
- Family-friendly activities and recreational facilities
- Clean restrooms and showers
- Safe layouts with space for children to play
- Variety of accommodation options
- Easy booking and helpful customer service
- Positive feedback from families
Quick Comparison
The following table provides a comparison of the campgrounds based on their accommodations and family-friendly features.
| Campground | Best For | Accommodation Options | Family Highlights |
| KOA | Overall family camping | Tent Sites, RV Sites, Camping Cabins, Deluxe Cabins, Glamping Tents | More than 500 locations, playgrounds, pools, jumping pillows, family activities, flexible camping styles |
| Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park | Kids who love entertainment | Tent sites, RV sites, cabins, yurts, treehouses | Character meet-and-greets, water attractions, themed weekends and daily activities |
| Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground | Disney-loving families | Tent campsites, RV campsites and cabins | Fort-themed water play area, archery, horseback riding, canoeing, woodland setting |
| Ocean Lakes Family Campground | Beach camping | Tent sites, RV sites, beach houses | Direct beach access, water park, lazy river, playgrounds, family recreation |
| Bethpage Camp-Resort | Activity-packed family vacations | RV sites and cottages | Five pools, waterslide, mini golf, arts and crafts, movie nights, kayaking and fishing |
5 Campgrounds You Should Avoid When Camping With Young Children
While a scenic location can be appealing, it doesn’t always translate to a family-friendly camping experience. Here are campground types to avoid when traveling with young children:
1. Primitive or Backcountry Campgrounds
Primitive camping involves staying at campsites with minimal amenities, often lacking running water, toilets, and showers. This experience can be difficult for young children who need regular breaks and comforts.
2. Adult-Oriented Party Campgrounds
Some private campgrounds cater to groups seeking vibrant weekends with music and social events. Such environments can make it challenging for families with young children who need early bedtimes.
3. Campgrounds With Limited Family Amenities
Not all campgrounds offer playgrounds or open spaces for children. If your kids need space to play between activities, a lack of family-friendly amenities might lead to restlessness.
4. Remote Campgrounds Far From Basic Services
While remote camping can be appealing, families with young children often benefit from proximity to grocery stores, fuel stations, and medical facilities, offering peace of mind if plans change.
5. Campgrounds With Busy Roads or Unsafe Layouts
Before booking, review the campground map. Sites near busy roads, steep slopes, or unfenced water bodies may require constant supervision.
Have S’more Fun
The campgrounds highlighted here offer activities, accommodations, and amenities that enhance the camping experience for families with young children. Conducting some research beforehand can help create memorable family camping trips.
Author Bio
Oscar Collins is the editor-in-chief at Modded, where he writes about health and fitness. Follow him on Twitter @TModded for regular updates on his work, and subscribe to Modded Minute for more!
