Photos courtesy of Arizona State Parks and Trails

Arizona Family Campout Program weekends are designed for families with kids that have little or no experience camping. Arizona State Parks and Trails staff introduce families to camping through hands-on activities. You will learn how to set up a tent, get an introduction to cooking outside, plus you will get to try some fun activities you can do while camping.

Registration is now open for this popular learning program that helps families of all ages enjoy a variety of outdoor activities during a weekend camping experience.

Register now for campout dates starting in March. Events sell out quickly, so early registration is encouraged. The Family Campout Program teaches families the basics of tent camping, as well as various outdoor activities such as kayaking, archery, geocaching, astronomy, and more! Plus, Arizona State Parks and Trails provides the equipment, including tents! Each event also includes a service project to teach conservation and preservation at the park. This is an exciting experience for kids to discover the joy of time spent outside.

New this year is a weekend at Alamo Lake State Park, where families will learn camping, outdoor meal prep, and fishing at this popular destination. Families who are interesting in learning more about reeling in a big one will gain fishing knowledge and experience.

Family Campouts offer valuable lessons to any family interested in learning more about the outdoors for just $90 for a family of four. Children must be over 5 years old. Families can register for one event per season. The activities vary depending on the park, participant ages, and weather conditions, but all guarantee a fantastic outdoor adventure.
• March 11 – 12: Alamo Lake State Park, Wenden
• March 18 – 19: Catalina State Park, Tucson
• April 1 – 2: Patagonia Lake State Park, Patagonia
• April 8 – 9: Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, Show Low
• April 22 – 23: Red Rock State Park, Sedona
• May 6 – 7: River Island State Park, Parker
• May 20 – 21: Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood
• June 3 – 4: Lyman Lake State Park, St. Johns

To learn more about the program, see reviews from previous families, and register for a spring date, visit azstateparks.com/family.