Make the Most of the Mountains as an
Adventurous Family
Getting outside with kids is rarely hard for the reasons people expect. It’s the small stuff that gets you: where to park when the lot fills by 9am, whether the campground has water, what altitude does to a four year old at bedtime, whether the trail everybody raves about is realistic for short legs. This is where I write all of that down. Campground reviews, family hikes, packing lists, and the logistics that decide how a trip actually goes.
The Family Camping Packing List
It’s free, and it’s the one I actually use. Shelter, layers, first aid, kid gear, and the kitchen things that are easiest to forget. I print it, clip it to a clipboard, and check it off while I load the car.
Where To Start
I’ve lived in Breckenridge for over ten years, which mostly means I’ve already made the mistakes: the trailhead that fills by 8am, the campground with no potable water, the afternoon storm that rolls in at 2pm like clockwork. Everything I’ve written down since is below, sorted into where to camp, what to do, and what to sort out before you leave the house.
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The Best Family-Friendly Fall Hikes in Breckenridge and Summit County
Fall in Summit County is short. Really short. The aspens turn gold somewhere in the back half of September, and then one hard freeze comes through and the leaves are on the ground within a week. If you are planning a trip around the color, you are planning around a window that is maybe ten…
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Ruby Mountain Campground near Nathrop, Colorado
Tucked right along the rushing waters of the Arkansas River, Ruby Mountain Campground is one of Chaffee County’s best-kept secrets for a quick mountain getaway. Perfectly positioned between the vibrant mountain towns of Buena Vista and Salida, this scenic spot offers front-row seats to world-class rafting and stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks. Whether you…
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Sylvan Lake State Park near Eagle, Colorado
Wondering if that highway turn-off near Eagle, Colorado, is actually worth the drive? After years of passing the signs, we finally scored a weekend reservation at Sylvan Lake State Park to see what the buzz was about. From incredible wildlife sightings to the best campground loops for families, here is our honest review of tent…
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Paddle Boarding at High Altitude: Cold Water Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Paddle boarding on an alpine lake looks beautiful in photos, but paddling at 9,000 feet and above demands respect. High-altitude waters introduce physical and environmental challenges that can quickly turn a casual afternoon into a stressful situation if you are unprepared. To have a safe day on the water, you need to understand how the…
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Pinon Flats Campground in Sand Dunes National Park
Every visit to the Sand Dunes National Park is a surreal experience and Piñon Flats Campground is the closest place to stay. The heaps of sand are a stark contrast to the steep mountain range and this is only more dramatic in the spring when the mountains are still snowy. The snowmelt river only adds…
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Prospector Campground near Dillon, Colorado
The Prospector Campground is one of three campgrounds located on the shores of Lake Dillon Reservoir. It is located about 10 minutes from Keystone and 15 minutes from the Dillon/Silverthorne and Frisco town areas. There are multiple loops with over 100 sites total. This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small…
