There’s nothing quite like the joy of setting out on an RV adventure with your family. But here’s the thing: not all campgrounds are created equal. When finding the best campground for kids, it’s essential to pick a spot that feels more like playground paradise than just a parking lot. Our son is quite active and is always on the move. Looking for something to do or another friend to make. He often asks, “What’s next?” or “What else can we do?”, and my husband and I need to be ready to answer. While we are good about laying out general plans each day, they might not always quench our son’s insatiable thirst for life.
We find it helpful to choose campgrounds that offer a number of activities to provide options for our kiddo. So whether you’re after pools, playgrounds, nature trails, or other kid-friendly amenities, these 5 tips will help you find the best campgrounds for your kids and make family adventures even more magical. 🏕️✨
Start with Family-Friendly Amenities
The first thing to look for? Campgrounds designed with kids in mind. Think playgrounds to burn off energy, splash pads and pools for hot afternoons, and nature trails for curious explorers. Some sites even offer scavenger hunts, mini-golf courses, or planned activities like campfire storytelling and craft workshops. These amenities turn a simple campground into a family fun zone!
💡Pro tip: Check if the campground has a family-friendly layout. Sites that are far from busy roads and close to amenities (like bathrooms and playgrounds) can be a lifesaver when you’re traveling with little ones.
Look for Campgrounds with Pools, Splash Pads, and Water Play
Kids and water go hand in hand! The best campgrounds for families often have pools or lakes where kids can splash around while parents relax nearby. Some RV resorts even offer lazy rivers or splash pads.
When searching, filter your campground results for “family amenities,” and check online reviews. Parents love sharing feedback on whether the pool was clean or if the splash pad lived up to the hype!
One of our favorite campgrounds had an inflatable obstacle course on their lake. It was a lot of fun, but a hot tip for the grown-ups, be sure to stretch and ready to laugh when you slip and fall. We may or may not be speaking from experience…😅 Those courses aren’t for the faint of heart!
Prioritize Nature Trails and Outdoor Play
A campground with hiking trails is ideal if you’re looking to connect your kids with nature. Trails give kids the freedom to explore, observe wildlife, and learn through outdoor play. Many kid-friendly campgrounds have easy, family-friendly trails perfect for tiny legs.
Nature is also the best playground—bonus points if your campground has built-in educational elements, like wildlife signs or plant identification trails!
Find Sites with Organized Kids’ Activities
Some of the best campgrounds for kids offer scheduled activities. Think s’mores by the campfire, nature scavenger hunts, or arts and crafts workshops. #RockPaintingRocks 🎨 These extras help keep the kids entertained and give parents a little time to relax.
When booking your site, check if the campground offers a seasonal activity schedule. These schedules have become a cornerstone for our daily planning. Summer and holiday weekends tend to have the most activities geared toward families.
Choose Campgrounds with Extra Convenience
When RV camping with kids, it’s not just about the fun—convenience matters too! Look for:
- Clean restrooms with showers
- On-site laundry facilities
- Grocery stores or camp stores nearby
These small things make a huge difference when you’re out in the wild with kids. No one wants to be stranded without snacks or face a mud disaster without access to a washing machine!
Check for Family-Friendly Policies
Not all campgrounds have the same rules, so it’s good to check their policies. Look for places that welcome children with open arms (some campgrounds may cater more to adult travelers). Some campgrounds offer discounted rates or free stays for young kids! Family-friendly campgrounds often have quiet hours that match your kids’ sleep schedules, and they may also offer child-safe fire pits or spaces for group play.
Use Campground Apps and Websites
There are several apps designed to help you find the best campgrounds for families with filters for pools, playgrounds, and other amenities. Platforms like The Dyrt, Good Sam, and Campendium allow you to search by kid-friendly features or family-friendly campgrounds, and you can read reviews from other parents to get a sense of what to expect.
💡Pro tip: Look for photos uploaded by other campers—it’s a great way to verify if a campground really lives up to its kid-friendly claims.
Look for RV Parks with On-Site Rentals and Gear
Some RV parks have gear rentals for families—think bikes, kayaks, and even board games! These rentals make it easier to enjoy more activities without packing extra equipment. Parks with sports courts, paddle boats, or fishing gear also offer fun ways to explore and play together. Check if the park has equipment sizes suitable for young kids, like small bikes or life vests for toddlers.
Search for Campgrounds with Pet-Friendly Policies
If your family travels with pets, finding campgrounds that are pet-friendly is a must. Kids love having their furry friends along for the adventure, and some parks even offer dog parks or pet-friendly trails. Having pet-friendly amenities can make the entire family feel welcome—and less stressed!
Consider Proximity to Local Attractions
Sometimes the campground itself isn’t the only draw—check if there are kid-friendly attractions nearby, such as zoos, museums, or theme parks. Being close to fun day trips can enhance your family adventure and give you more options when the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor activities.
💡 Pro Tip: Choose campgrounds within an hour of local attractions so you’re not stuck driving long distances with restless kids!
Bonus Tip: Use Reviews and Community Recommendations
Online reviews from other families are gold. When searching for the best campground for families, pay attention to what other parents say. Are the bathrooms clean? Are the playgrounds well-maintained? Did the activities keep their kids entertained? Fellow RV families are always happy to recommend their favorite spots.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Finding the best campgrounds for kids doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By prioritizing fun amenities, checking for family conveniences, and listening to the experiences of other RV families, you’ll be on your way to creating unforgettable memories. And remember, it’s not just about where you park your RV—it’s about the joy, ease, and intention you bring to the journey.
Happy camping, friends! 🚐
💬 Now It’s Your Turn: Do you prefer campgrounds with pools, playgrounds, or nature trails? Which amenity is a must-have for your family?
Looking for more travel inspiration? Read why RVing might be perfect for your family and start dreaming of your next big adventure.
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