Kids

words by > Joanne Cronrath Bamberger

For some parents, the word “camp” is synonymous with sending the kids off for the summer. For others, it also conjures up fond memories of their own childhood experiences. As a result, an increasing number of parents are choosing to vacation at family camps, which allow families to reconnect away from hectic daily lives filled with rush hour traffic, jobs, soccer games and stacks of homework.

We’re not talking camping in the traditional sense—no pup tents in the woods or Coleman stoves. Rather, there’s a variety of family camping options with facilities ranging from rustic cabins in the woods to luxurious lodges.

According to John Frenaye, a travel expert at MSNBC.com, one reason families are turning to this kind of vacation is the modern grandparent. With baby boomers—who are more fit and active than prior generations—entering the ranks of grandparenthood, these interactive and intergenerational vacations are appealing.

“Baby boomers want to relive a part of their past [through these camping experiences] and use that as a way to bond with their children and grandchildren,” Frenaye says.

Here are a few family camp options:

Windsor Mountain
If reliving childhood camping memories with the whole clan sounds appealing, the Windsor Mountain Family Camp might fit the bill. Windsor Mountain is located about 90 minutes from Boston on a 2,000-acre New Hampshire wilderness preserve. Families can bunk together in rustic cabins, and campers can hang out with a book by the lake or participate in activities like hiking and mountain biking. Sarah Herman, the director of Windsor Mountain’s International Camp Program, says one of the most popular activities is a game they call “ARGGGHHHH”—their version of the popular game of capture the flag, in the water. www.windsormountain.org

Miami Bombshells:
Want to leave the men at home and unite the ladies of the family? Camp Bombshell offers a back-to-nature experience with just a touch of indulgence. Located in Ocala, Florida, about 90 minutes from Orlando, the camp was founded by a group of women who consider themselves the original Desperate Housewives. Their adult camp was so popular, they now offer a mother/ daughter version. Campers can focus on physical activities, like the climbing wall and zipline, or indulge in a massage or facial. Counselors lead exercises that help campers let go of their everyday worries. In trying to create a relaxed attitude, Camp Bombshell founder Tammi Leader Fuller says she tells campers that “makeup is optional, and sweatpants are required.” www.miamibombshells.com

Glendorn
If your idea of a pleasurable family camp experience includes a lodge and comfy pillows, Glendorn may be the place for you. Self-described as “woodsy, yet luxurious,” this family camp resort has plenty of activities on its 1,000-acre estate, including swimming, hiking and fly-fishing. Or, just relaxing in an Adirondack chair with a cool beverage. Located about 90 minutes from Buffalo, near the New York/Pennsylvania border, Glendorn is a former family estate transformed into a refined camping oasis for those who want to commune with nature during the day and experience fine dining in the evening. And if you have a pup, it’s welcome, too. www.glendorn.com