If you want to take your family camping but aren't sure where to start, Arizona State Parks' Camping 101 Family Campout Program is the activity for you. And registration for events this fall and next spring is now open, the department announced recently.
For a $70 fee, a family of up to four people can learn how to set up a tent, build a fire and cook outdoors. You also can enjoy activities such as fishing, archery, mountain-biking, hiking, geocaching and more. Families also will get to work on a service project, which varies depending on which park is hosting the weekend event.
The program provides tents, sleeping mats, camp chairs, first-aid kits, all activity equipment and some snacks. Participants must bring sleeping bags, pillows, food for meals and other personal items.
Parks hosting the programs include Red Rock State Park near Sedona and Lost Dutchman State Park east of Phoenix. For the full list and for other details of the program, visit www.azstateparks.com/family.
Photo: Families at a recent Camping 101 event at Catalina State Park in Tucson. | Courtesy of Arizona State Parks