A weekend camp-out can be a great adventure. Sleeping under the stars, getting back to nature, and teaching kids about the great outdoors — wait, kids? Who said anything about kids? While camping with kids isn't exactly a relaxing experience, it can be fun. These tips, ideas, and lists will help you plan and enjoy your next family camp-out.

Packed and Prepared

The best way to avoid problems and make more time for fun is to plan ahead. Know the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. Keep the following lists, along with park maps, websites, and nature guides, packed with your camp gear for future reference.

• Personal Items

  Weather is rarely dependable, so each camper should pack clothes that can be layered. A hat, bandanna, and jacket are items you may also need. It is wise to take closed-toed shoes for hiking and sandals for the shower. There are no dirt-free environments at campgrounds, so pack toothbrushes and soap in plastic bags. Remember, you may have to carry your clothes and toiletries some distance to get to the restrooms, so use a waterproof bag or bucket for easy transport. Every camper should carry a whistle. Whether they get lost in the woods or need to ward off wildlife, a simple whistle can be beneficial.

• Equipment:

  Sleeping Bags and/or Air Mattresses, Blankets, Pillows, Flashlights, Lantern, Extra Batteries, Hammer, Tent Stakes, Rope, Trash Bags, Cook Wear (specifics below), Bug Spray, Insect Repellent (for kids over 6 years of age), Sun Screen, Towels, Matches

• Set Up Tips:

  At the campsite, choose a flat location, free of rocks and debris, and away from trees, to set up your tent. Trees are homes for bugs and animals, and rough ground makes for rough sleep. Kids will want to help, so let them gather small twigs and sticks for fire kindling while you hammer tent stakes. Assemble your tent on a tarp to reduce moisture, conserve heat, and minimize damage to the tent floor. Should your tent incur a tear, a piece of duct tape will control the rip until you can get it patched. A doormat placed outside the door can cut down on dirt tracked inside. Make sure everyone zips up the screens when coming and going, to keep insects and critters from invading your sleeping area. Soap on zipper teeth helps the zipper slide freely. Always leave a campsite cleaner than you found it.

• Entertainment:

  Kids will need games and activities to play around the campsite or in case of rain. Cards, board games, trivia, coloring and activity books, and storybooks are great to have on hand in the car and in the tent. Most entertainment will be in the form of outdoor activities.

• Safety and First Aid

  In addition to plenty of bottled water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, you'll need to pack a first aid kit. These can be purchased pre-assembled, or you can make a basic kit yourself. Be sure to include bandages, rubbing alcohol, and antibiotic ointment. It's also wise to include butterfly stitches, calamine lotion, and allergy medications. Print photos of poison ivy and poison oak from the Internet, and teach kids why they should avoid these plants. Also warn kids to stay a safe distance from wild animals and to blow their whistle if they are scared or lost.