Camping with Small Children

Just got back from camping with my family and it was amazing how different camping was with little ones.  My children are 1, 3 and 5.  I went earlier in July with just the 2 older ones and it was easier but not like it was in the days prior to kids.  The things I learned were:

• Bring a stroller or playpen to lock up the baby when cooking or having a fire.
• Don't expect the kids to eat or sleep like they would at home.
• Bring a canopy in case of rain to give you more space for the children to do their activities as well as provide shade during the hottest times of the day.
• A play tent can provide a nice shady spot for the kids to play.
• Warn the children in advance of what the treat limits are.  Such as '2 treats each; marshmallows, candy, etc.' and let them choose what combination they want.
• Serve raw veggies with every meal.  Saves cooking and cleaning dishes.
• Don't expect any time to yourself if you have a baby with you but as they get older your time will increase.
• Camping at these ages is for the kids not you so enjoy your children's fun and book a spa day after you get home.