Vacations to far-flung destinations may not be in the cards for your family this year, but that doesn’t mean staying home is the only option.

Camping is a low-cost, relatively low maintenance, family-friendly getaway, and all across Canada we’re lucky to have some of the most beautiful parks in the world in which to camp.

Where to get started? Well first you’ll want to book your site, especially if you have your eye on popular parks such as Algonquin and Sandbanks. Camp Canada has information on campgrounds across the country, as well as an online planner.

A provincial parks site is probably your best bet when it comes to actually making your reservation, which you can often do either online or by phone. These sites will also post availability, fees and information, as well as photos. (eg. Ontario Parks, British Columbia Lodging and Campgrounds Association, Alberta Parks, Manitoba Parks and Natural Areas)

Once you’ve booked your site, make sure you have everything you need for your outdoor adventure, particularly if you’re bringing small children. You may find it easier to trailer camp your first time taking the little ones. While you likely won’t forget the big things, such as a tent, sleeping bags, pillows, and flashlights, there are a number of items that may not occur to you to bring, including rain ponchos, an emergency repair kit for your tent (in case it gets torn), and insect repellent. Camping Canada has a good checklist here.

Of course one of the most enjoyable parts of camping is deciding on what food to bring! The main rule of thumb here is you want it to be simple to pack, and simple to prepare, with minimal cleanup. Chef Randy Feltis shares his Campfired Stew recipe with CityLine.ca, and it meets all these requirements — check it out here.

You’ll also want to pack plenty of snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, and fresh fruit. If you’re not a fan of boxed granola bars, take the time before your trip to make these delicious homemade ones from Chef Jason Parsons. Jason also has a recipe for Baked Apples that’d go over well as a camp-friendly dessert. Rather than the oven directions, wrap well in foil and place over the coals for a few minutes, until apples are cooked through. You’ll also find a recipe for trail mix here.

Planning the menu in advance will help make things easier once you’re there, plus you won’t pack extraneous items that could go to waste.

Other camping resources:

Ontario Camps Association

Campsource.ca

Parks Canada