Camping with kids as a Single Dad
Written by David Lewis
I never pictured packing alone. Deciding what route to take, where to stop, and what to eat alone, even the destination. Being a single dad was never in the picture, as I’m sure is the case for many single dads out there.
David and Summit
Camping to me has created some of the most impactful memories I have, and it will continue to create new ones. Summits mother and I traveled in a Campervan, and I am now happy to be able to expose him to one of the most unique ways to see the country and experience the outdoors.
My son is now Five. I have been a split custody parent for about a year and a half. I have been fortunate through all the hurdles to still be able to create incredible and memorable trips with my son and our friends. It’s been interesting to witness him change and grow over the years as we camp. He tries more things; he challenges himself more and is willing to be out of his comfort zone. The kids stay active. The parents get to relax. But best of all, everyone is happy.
Camping with friends can save you.
Summit and I love to get out in the Large Campervan together. The double bunk is perfect so that I don’t have him kicking me all night. Summit of course claims the top bunk. He brings his crew of stuffed animals and toys and it’s almost his own little room up there. He honestly just enjoys time in the campervan more than many other aspects of the trip. The elephant in the room when attempting Vanlife of course is the size of the vehicle and the limitations it brings. Wandervans vehicles really set you up for success when you travel, giving all the gear you need to go camping, you really just need clothes and other basic supplies. However when you add kids, you add in a aspect of complication where you could need many more supplies. We have been lucky to find a great group of camping friends in the CCC (Carolina Camping Club). Camping with other parents is the best. We are able to assist one another share meals, and the kids can play and entertain each other.
Double queen bunk bed in our Large vans can sleep 5-6 people.
Built for families.
Many people won’t understand this, not having spent time in a campervan yet. The large van is honestly overkill for him and I, but it’s nice to have the space.
Each van comes with chairs, a table, the sink and water, a fridge, seats that handle car seats, and many more amenities that set you up for success.
Summit loves to help pack, though a 5-year-old can only do so much. We often take several trips back and forth to load up for a trip, Summit often carries the snacks. Both vans have ample storage for gear, toys, even bikes or paddle boards.
Summit in his favorite place with his favorite camp snack.
South Carolina State Parks
I didn’t have the slightest inclination when moving to the Carolinas that camping would become an even bigger part of my life. Having visited and now camped at several different parks, I have been pleasantly impressed. With many more still to explore and some like Huntington Beach State Park that are top rated in the state. With 47 campgrounds and growing, I love the accessibility we have here.
Our favorite destination in South Carolina hands down is still Devils Fork State Park. I won’t spend time going into detail here, just take my word for it and book a site now.
Campervans create accessibility
Remember those road trips? The ones you dread. The ones you know are going to be long and miserable?
I don't know what that’s like anymore.
One of our favorite things to do is to take a day to travel. Summit and I will get up early and get ready to move even if it’s a 2–3-hour drive.
We can stop whenever. Wherever.
Recent trip to Outside Inn Campground in South Carolina
We will stop at a park and take a break. We will cook a full meal or take a nap.
When we take long trips day 6 hours plus, we never drive that far in a day. We will often camp halfway through the drive unless we are on a timeline. This creates so much less stress, and allows for great quality time between him and I. Summit and I will also stop and see friends and family and not have to burden them staying in their home overnight. Crashing in the van in the driveway.
We do take trips by plane, but we often miss the van in the end. We miss the freedom, the exposure to the outdoors, and of course the bunk beds.
Mean and sad face because we have to leave camping
Are you ready for an adventure? Do you have questions about solo camping or camping with kids? Lets chat! email Dave@wandervans.com for more info!