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Family vacations with teenagers can be a juggling act. Between sports schedules, part-time jobs and a growing social life, it can feel nearly impossible to carve out time together. That’s why local camping trips are such a great option. You don’t have to go far to get away—just far enough to slow things down and reconnect. And if your teen needs to head back early for a game or a shift, it’s no big deal.
Bringing along family friends with kids the same age is another smart move. It gives everyone someone to hang out with, and let’s be honest—boredom is the quickest way to tank a family trip with teens. When they’re having fun, the whole trip goes smoother.
Give Them a Role
Teens may act like they want to be left alone, but they still like feeling useful and included, especially when the job comes with a little responsibility.
- Help Set Up the Site – Let them hook up the trailer, guide the driver while backing in or level the camper. These skills come in handy later in life.
- Gear Crew – When the inevitable rainstorm rolls in, teens are great at hustling to grab chairs, lower canopies and make sure your gear (and Mom) stays dry.
- Camp Chef Assistants – Team them up with Dad (or Mom!) at the grill. Outdoor cooking is the perfect mix of fire, food and bonding.
Things to Do While Camping with Teens
Thankfully, camping is not all chores and setup. Here are some ways to make sure your teens stay engaged and actually enjoy the trip:
- Play Games – Card games, dominoes and strategy games like Codenames or Uno Flip work great around the picnic table. Bonus points if they invite the adults to join in.
- Hammock Time – String up a hammock and let them hang out with a book, earbuds or just a good view.
- Campfire Time – Teens might stay up later than everyone else, and that’s okay. Campfires are made for lingering, telling stories and soaking in the stars.
- Take a Hike – Challenge them with a trail that has a view at the top—or let them take the lead on navigation.
- Explore Local Attractions – Visit a small-town museum, stop for ice cream or check out quirky roadside spots. And if you manage to snap a goofy photo? That’s a parenting win.
- Fishing or Kayaking – Older teens might enjoy more independence on the water. Just be sure they know the rules and are equipped for safety.
- Read or Journal – Not every moment has to be social. If your teen is introverted or just needs some solo time, let them decompress with a book or notebook in hand.
Make Space and Be Flexible
Teenagers are still figuring themselves out, and that often comes with mood swings or quiet spells. That’s okay. The goal isn’t constant entertainment—it’s connection. Give them space to be themselves, offer choices instead of forcing participation, and celebrate the moments when they choose to join in.
Camping might not be their favorite thing today, but these trips plant seeds. One day they might look back and remember not just the s’mores or the view from the overlook—but how it felt to sit around the fire with people who loved them.
Looking for more camping content? Check out these articles.
Planning Your Camping Trip in Arkansas
Camping with Kids: Enjoying Arkansas Outdoors as a Family
Camping During a Burn Ban
Packing for Your Arkansas Camping Trip
Photos courtesy of Katie Hartis.
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