Babes in the Woods

Pack light: This trip is about getting away, not taking everything with you. (For what to take, see Page 27.)

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Clothing: Remember, the weather can change quickly. Always take rain gear, two pairs of shoes and extra socks. Layered outfits will get you through most temperature changes. Pajamas are easier in a sleeping bag than nightgowns. Teach children to change all clothes before going to bed -- even underwear. Otherwise, body perspiration accumulated in day clothes can cause a severe nighttime chill. On cool nights, a cap will help retain body heat.

Selecting your campsite: Most campgrounds are first-come, first-served, so arrive early to get the best selection and to help children familiarize themselves with the surroundings before dark. (See Page 28 for suggested campsites.)

Help children check your site thoroughly for such sharp objects as sticks, rocks or broken glass before setting up your tent. Look overhead. Make sure there's no deadwood hanging above, ready to drop in the next breeze.

Is there a large group nearby that might be loud until the wee hours of the morning? Quieter sites are usually toward the back of the campground.

Some families with young children like to be close to the bathrooms; others find that location too noisy and too bright at night.

Speaking of bathrooms: Restrooms can vary, from heated bathrooms with flush toilets to portable toilets to old-fashioned latrines. You may want to opt for the first on your initial trip, and be sure to let children explore the setup before urgency calls.

Aim for low-impact camping: Following the mantra "take only photographs, leave only footprints. " Stick to existing trails and keep campfires small and confined to established fire rings. Take out whatever you bring in.

The Tent Is Up. Now What? Time to Build a Fire

It is more environmentally friendly to cook outdoors using a propane camp stove or a charcoal grill, but the art of building a fire is a good skill to have. Most campsites have established fire pits, but many parks prohibit collecting wood from the forest or even bringing your own, so check first.

Be sure that long hair is tied back, loose clothing is reined and no running is allowed near the fire circle.

Instead of using liquid fire starters, kids can make their own by scraping candle pieces with a carrot peeler. Then put a tablespoon of the shavings in the center of a square of wax paper. Fold two sides over the top and twist the ends to make a piece shaped like saltwater taffy.

Keeping these and your matches in a waterproof container with a tight-fitting lid will help you get things going on damp days.