My fondest childhood memories were spent in Rosarito, B.C. Mexico. Every summer my family spent time at my grandparent’s humble home by the beach. We had no running water, and we slept in small rooms in their casita (small house). We were completely disconnected from television, our CalecoVision and Atari, and we didn’t mind. We were content with taking hikes and enjoying the splendid nature that surrounded us. We sang, “Vamos a La Playa,” 
as we walked to the beach.
My tios (uncles) sang classic ballads in the evenings as we gathered around the porch. We stared at the stars in the sky, and let our imaginations run free. We told “La Llorana” ghost stories as we sat by a fire. Life was simple, but great.
These treasures are vivid in my memory book, and I want to share this unique experience with my kids. This is why I love camping!
Last month my family went to explore Ventura Ranch KOA Campground in Santa Paola, California. It was only a two and a half hour drive out of Orange County. We stayed in the Park Model RV. It was so nice to get out of the city and relax.
The Deluxe Cabin had had 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. It was the perfect spot for our weekend staycation. This cabin includes kitchen with utensils, dining area, and living room.
Ready to plan a camping adventure of your own? Check out GoRVing.com for info on how to get started, where to find campgrounds with Park Model cabins like the wonderful one we stayed in, what to bring, simple campfire recipes and so much more!
Here are 6 Important Reasons to Go Camping with your Family:
1. Camping bonds families.
Camping allows families to disconnect from the city hustle and bustle and spend quality time together. It’s so important to talk to kids and create a dialog between parents and children.
My family is always on the go. Between work, school, and activities, we rarely have time to talk. It was so nice to hear what was going in each of our kid’s daily lives.
2. Nature is therapeutic.
It’s important to disconnect and enjoy nature. Nature is calming, and research shows that being outdoors in nature significantly reduces stress. (parents benefit too) Kids and teens benefit from their experiences in nature more than any other population, particularly in the area of academic performance.
It’s not always easy to get my teenage daughter out of house. Clarissa said she loved spending Earth Day at Ventura Ranch KOA.
The fresh air and scenic views are incredible. This was our stunning view from the Deluxe 2 bedroom RV.
3. The outdoors inspires creativity.
When children disconnect from technology, they are required to use their imagination. When they explore outdoors, they are surrounded by amazing sights, smells, and sounds. This heightens all senses, which then stimulates creativity.
My 10 year old son felt inspired to take this photograph of a wild peacock that was roaming around in the campground. I loved hearing him tell creative creepy stories, while we sat around our campfire.
Ventura Ranch KOA offers awesome activities for families:
- Bigfoot night adventure walk
- Bigfoot Watering Hole
- Nature Walk
- Tie-dye T-shirts
- Zip Line
- Rock Climbing Tower
and much more…..
4. Nature is a powerful teacher.
Not all classrooms have four walls. Nature is a powerful teacher. There are so many things that kids can learn hands-on outdoors, that they cannot learn sitting in a classroom. Playing outdoors also enhances problem-solving ability, and self-discipline, and cognitive flexibility in children.
My family talked talked about wildlife conservation as we walked on the nature trail. We named different plants and animals that we spotted in the area. We saw hummingbirds, wild peacocks, squirrels, and even encountered a skunk. Yikes! My son also enjoyed learning about the Chumash indians that once resided in this area.
Andrew was thrilled to try on retired Park Ranger, Richard Roja’s from Latino Outdoors official hat.
5. Camping gets the kids outdoors and exercising!
Hiking, rock climbing, and swimming is great exercise. All of these activities will get the heart rate up and blood flowing.
My son broke a sweat when he climbed on this rock tower at the campground.
6. Camping inspires kids to be adventurous!
When kids are outdoors they begin to explore, build confidence, and try new things.
It was so nice to see my daughter off her cell phone and hit the Zip Line for her first time. She was a little nervous at first, then in no time she was boarding a higher zip line. I loved watching her get out of her comfort zone and try something new!
I felt rejuvenated and re-energized after this trip…
We had a fabulous time at the Ventura Ranch KOA Campground in our GoRVing cabin. I look forward to more family travel and exploration with them!
Thank you GoRving and KOA for hosting my family at the Ventura Ranch KOA Campground. All opinions and adventures are my own.
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