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Tips for Waterside Camping with Pets and Children

Camping with children and pets near water is a blast, but we have to watch out for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

There’s a certain joy in taking your children and furry friend on a camping trip. Sitting around a campfire with your children, the family dog snoozing at your feet, and playing games or telling jokes creates lifelong memories.

A family camping trip should be an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for everyone. You’ll be busy taking care of your children, but there are a few more considerations to make when taking your pet camping, particularly at campgrounds where everyone uses the same facilities. That being said, if you’re planning on taking your pet camping with you, here are a few things to remember.

If you’re planning a vacation with children and pets, here are some helpful hints to keep everyone safe and happy.

1. Plan the trip together

The first thing to do is get the children involved in planning the camping trip. You can enlist their assistance in deciding on a camping spot and possible activities they would enjoy during their stay. Some of their suggestions might be better than yours.

2. Pack wisely

Efficiency is paramount. You should probably make a list and cross items off as you put them in your bag. You can download numerous checklists from the internet to start your process. To make the lists work for your household, feel free to make adjustments. Get the children involved while you’re packing. Let every kid have their own bag. An excellent starting point would be a rucksack. Before you book your campsite, make a list of all the amenities they provide. You can save space in your luggage by not bringing as many children’s garments if they have laundry facilities.

3. Pack “Boredom Busters”

When the inevitable “I’m bored” moment comes, have some fun things planned for the children to do. To help you and the children get through those “bored” moments, bring along some inexpensive, fresh things for them to play with. Make sure you’re ready for your trip by stopping into a store the day before. A new activity, like a set of bubbles or a board game, will give children something enjoyable to do when they’re bored.

4. Plan for bad weather days

In case it rains or is cold, be sure to carry heavy clothing and rain gear. If you’re planning a vacation to a nearby town, museum, indoor amusement park, or greenhouse, these days are ideal. Before you leave on your trip, check to see what local activities might be good for rainy days.

5. Water safety

Make sure your children and pets know not to run or swim alone near bodies of water. When playing in or near water, make sure your children wear life jackets.

6. Shade and hydration

Make sure there’s enough shade for everyone at your campsite. Children and pets alike require a cool place to unwind. Make sure everyone has access to plenty of water, particularly on hot days.

7. Keep wildlife in mind

Remember, pets might get curious and want to chase after wildlife. Be mindful of the local animals and insects, and keep pets at a safe distance.

8. Child entertainment

Gather the children together for some imaginative playtime by planning nature scavenger hunts, storytelling, or easy games. Children will have a great time at camp if you keep them busy and entertained.

9. Nature education

Educating children about the local flora and fauna is important. It’s a wonderful chance for children to gain knowledge and love for nature.

10. Quiet time

Spending time in bed can be both exhilarating and exhausting. Get the children and pets to bed at a reasonable hour so they can recharge for the day ahead. Taking a nap during the day is also a good idea.

11. Leashes and supervision

When you are near water, your pet should be on a leash. This will prevent them from becoming lost or putting them in danger. Additionally, it’s crucial to constantly monitor children, particularly when they’re near water.

12. Pet-Friendly gear

Accompany your four-legged friend with pet-friendly items, such as a foldable water bowl, insect repellent that is safe for pets, and a cosy bed or blanket.

13. Pet ID and microchips

Ensure your pets have proper identification tags with your contact information, and consider getting them microchipped for added safety.

14. Pet waste and clean up

Maintaining a clean campground and reducing your influence on the environment is as simple as picking up after your pet. For convenient disposal, bring biodegradable waste bags.

15. Take A tour

After you and the children have settled into your campsite, take a short tour of the surrounding area. When children of all ages, from pre-schoolers to elementary schoolchildren, know their way around, they feel considerably more at ease. Show them the local landmarks, introduce them to your neighbours, and help them memorise your campsite number. Make sure they have a flashlight if they’re old enough to go on their own adventures to the playground or campsite store.

Camping with children and pets near water can be so much fun when you follow these simple tips and rules. The charm of being near water, though, comes with its own share of difficulties. There may be an increase in the number of bugs and insects, as well as an increase in the activity of local species, such as snakes.

Be ready for anything—changes in weather or rising water levels—and keep your wits about you. In order to preserve the ecosystem and your campground, it is important to maintain a safe distance of around 50 metres from the edge of the river.

Finally, don’t overlook the tranquilly and serenity that can be found near water. It’s a perfect chance to relax, take in some fresh air, and admire the natural splendour in your surroundings. Be sure to book your camping adventure with OppiDam at Vygeboom Dam near Badplaas in Mpumalanga. Go and check out their website at www.oppidam.co.za.

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