Whether this is your first time or you’re a camping pro, camping is always an adventure. The great outdoors is waiting to make lasting memories for the whole family. There are likely to also be a few twists and turns along the way. It's all part of the plan, right? Below are 5 tips for your family camping trip. 
1. Extra Clothes Are Your Friend
Many people make the misconception that camping means packing light. Don't be that person, especially if your family has little ones in the group. Kids love to play in the dirt, be messy eaters, and jump back in the lake (or river) as soon as they get out. A happy child is a warm child, make sure they have plenty of clothes to change into. Also, bring things that are easy for the whole family to stay bundled. An extra blanket or two and some more towels will go to good use.
2. Be a Good Neighbor When Camping in Indiana
The great outdoors do have a few rules. Be sure to explain to the kiddos about campground etiquette– quiet hours, bug spray, staying close to the campground, etc. Make sure everyone knows how to get back to the camp in case anyone gets lost. Also make sure to always pick up trash to keep mother nature happy. It’s important to leave the camping area cleaner than when you found it.
3. Safety Matters
Safety first, kids. You can turn camping in Indiana into a classroom. Teach your kids about things like fire safety or building a tent with the weather in mind. Animal safety is particularly important. Leaving things unattended on your picnic table leaves it to to the mercy of squirrels and birds. Never allow food in the tent. More importantly, make sure you have a good method of storing food overnight away from the bears.
4. Big Family, Big Appetite
Nothing puts a damper on enjoying the family vacation like being hungry. Make sure there is enough food to go around from your children's favorite snack to plenty of water. A great tip for camping is to freeze water bottles and jugs to keep everything fresh in the cooler instead of ice. The water then melts for everyone to drink. Foil meals also make camping and cooking a breeze. You can cook practically any combination of protein and veggies over the fire and dig in. Oh, and don't forget the s'mores, of course.
5. Remember to Have Fun
Planning your camping trip can be a little stressful, but it will be worth it. There are plenty of fun things to do and being well-prepared makes everything easier once you are at camp. A few extra toys for the little ones or a deck of cards for the adults is helpful, but remember the real entertainment is right in front of you.