Of course we do occasionally take family vacations that are not camping. Sometimes it's nice to drive to the coast and relax on the beach. And it seems every child feels that they are entitled to at least on trip to a Disney theme park so we have done that too. But what I like best about camping is the way we 'get away' from our everyday lives so thoroughly. We have tons of time to talk, laugh and reconnect.

Not all of our summer vacations have been spent camping. There have been trips to Disney and road trips to see grandma, and they have all been fun and memorable. But there is nothing like a camping trip to really slow down the hectic pace of life and bring the family together for some simple fun.

If you are new to camping, start with an easy camp out in your own backyard. This is perfect for younger children who may need to comfort of their own home nearby to have a good time. Just be sure that you focus on games and activities that will bring everyone together.

When the time comes for the first real camping trip, make your life easy by a little pre-planning. Yes, a little work first, makes the whole vacation much more relaxing for you later. First check out if a reservation is required. It's best to know you can stay before you go. Then check out campground facilities to be sure if you need bathrooms with running water, you've got them.

Also realize that getting packed to go camping will take some time. But the more organized and prepared you are the more fun the camping trip will be. Even if you think it will be hot, take warm bedding and clothing. Nothing will ruin a camping trip faster than freezing all night long. Plan your meals ahead of time as best you can. Often it's easier to go grocery shopping once you get to your destination, but if you know what you will need to buy, you can get out of the store and into nature much quicker.

There are all kinds of websites that will give you lists of things to pack. But a few of the must-haves are a pocket knife (they're handy for everything from food prep to tent set-up), a cooler with ice (remember there are no refrigerators in the great outdoors), matches or a lighter to get that campfire going, and a deck of cards. That deck of cards provided our family with hours of fun when we had to sit in the tent while it poured rain outside.

Regardless of where you go or what you camp in, when you go camping, time always seems to slow down, there is usually an adventure or two, and memories are made. What else can you ask of a summer vacation?