When summer rolls around, there’s nothing better than packing up the car, loading the kids in, and heading out for an unforgettable adventure at a national park. As a dad, I’ve realized these trips aren’t just about seeing breathtaking landscapes—they’re about creating memories that will stick with your kids forever. Whether it’s spotting wildlife, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, or conquering a hiking trail together, these moments are what summer is all about.
The Road to Adventure
The trip always starts with a bit of chaos—getting everyone’s bags packed, finding that one missing shoe, and triple-checking that we didn’t forget the s'mores supplies. But as soon as we hit the road, the excitement takes over. The kids stare out the window, pointing out every cow, mountain, or oddly-shaped cloud, and it’s like the adventure begins before we even get there.
We usually crank up a summer playlist (think “Life is a Highway” on repeat) and play car games like “I Spy” or “20 Questions.” It’s the kind of simple fun that reminds me of my childhood road trips. By the time we spot the entrance sign to the park, the kids are practically bouncing in their seats.
Setting Up Camp
For us, the first big milestone is setting up camp. I’ll admit, it’s not always smooth sailing. There’s usually a moment when I’m fumbling with tent poles, one kid is asking for snacks, and the other is trying to catch a bug the size of a small dog. But once the tent is up and the sleeping bags are rolled out, it feels like a mini victory.
The kids love being hands-on during setup—they’ll hammer in tent stakes with the enthusiasm of lumberjacks and argue over who gets the “coolest” camping chair. And when the sun starts dipping below the horizon, we light the campfire. That’s when the magic really begins.
Campfire Tales and S’mores
There’s something about a campfire that brings out every kid’s inner storyteller. My youngest usually kicks it off with a wild, made-up tale involving dinosaurs and fairies, while my oldest tries to top it with a "scarier" ghost story. I’ll throw in a funny story from when I was their age, and just like that, we’re in a storytelling loop that lasts until the marshmallows are perfectly toasted.
Speaking of marshmallows, let me say this: s’mores are an art form. The kids just jam their marshmallows into the fire and pull them out looking like charcoal lumps, but they’re proud of them anyway. And honestly, it’s hard to complain when you’re sitting under a sky full of stars, sticky fingers and all.
Exploring the Trails
The next morning is all about hitting the trails. After a quick breakfast (usually something easy like granola bars or instant oatmeal), we lace up our shoes and head out to explore. The national parks are like nature’s playground, and the kids can’tget enough of it.
I try to pick trails that are family-friendly—nothing too strenuous but still exciting enough to keep their attention. Every hike is a mix of curiosity and discovery. One moment, they’re climbing over rocks, pretending to be adventurers; the next, we’re stopping to watch a chipmunk dart across the path or marveling at a waterfall.
I always bring a small backpack with plenty of snacks and water because, trust me, hungry kids on a trail are no fun. And pro tip: point out interesting facts along the way. “Did you know this tree is over 300 years old?” It’s a great distraction when little legs start getting tired.
Wildlife Encounters
One of the highlights for me—and the kids—is spotting wildlife. Whether it’s a herd of deer grazing in the distance, a bird with vibrant feathers perched on a branch, or even a bear far off the trail (thankfully, always at a safe distance), these moments feel like something out of a nature documentary.
The kids get so excited they practically whisper-shout, “Dad, look!” while pointing wildly. These little encounters are a reminder of why national parks are so special—it’s nature in its purest form, and it’s incredible to see it through their eyes.
Water Adventures
On especially hot days, we always make time for water activities if the park offers them. Whether it’s a calm lake or a shallow stream, my kids turn into water-loving maniacs. They’ll spend hours skipping rocks, splashing around, or trying to build little rock dams.
One time, we rented a couple of kayaks, and it turned into one of the most memorable parts of the trip. My oldest paddled like a pro, while my youngest mostly drifted around, laughing every time a fish jumped near the kayak. It’s moments like these that make the effort of planning the trip so worth it.
Learning Moments
National parks aren’t just about fun—they’re also a fantastic way for kids to learn without even realizing it. Every park has its own unique history, geology, and ecosystem, and the park rangers are incredible storytellers.
We always stop by the visitor center to check out the exhibits or join a ranger-led program. One summer, my kids learned about the stars during a nighttime stargazing event, and they’ve been obsessed with constellations ever since. Another time, we joined a wildlife tracking session and spent the rest of the trip looking for animal footprints everywhere we went.
Disconnecting to Reconnect
One of the best parts of these trips is the chance to unplug. With no Wi-Fi and limited cell service, the kids aren’t glued to screens, and I’m not distracted by work emails. Instead, we’re fully present with each other, whether it’s laughing over a burnt pancake at breakfast or sitting quietly and watching the sunset together.
These moments remind me of what’s truly important. It’s not about having the perfect itinerary or capturing the“Instagram-worthy” photo—it’s about spending time with my kids and being there to watch them experience something new.
Wrapping It Up
By the end of the trip, we’re usually a mix of tired and happy. The car ride home is a lot quieter than the drive out, with the kids dozing off in their seats, faces still smudged with dirt and smiles.
When we get home, they’ll talk about the trip for weeks—how they spotted a deer, how “epic” the s’mores were, and how they can’t wait for the next adventure. And honestly, neither can I.
National park trips aren’t just vacations—they’re a gift. They’re a chance to teach your kids about nature, to show them the beauty of the world, and to create memories that will stick with them long after they’ve grown up. So, if you’relooking for an unforgettable summer adventure, pack up, hit the road, and let the national parks work their magic. You won’t regret it.
