Camping and you

Not many activities get you closer to nature - and your family - as does camping. Camping gets you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Instead, you're enjoying nature's beauty and having fun swimming, hiking, canoeing, tubing and so on. Plus, you see countless stars that you can't see when in the city or suburbs. You'll probably work up a good appetite camping, so be prepared to make some yummy meals by campfire. (Especially, don't forget s'mores fixings.)

Family around the campfire. Camping's also a great way to learn outdoor skills, such as safely building a fire or using a compass. It's primal, quiet, healthy, affordable and pet-friendly. And modern camping gear is easier than ever to use. But the best reason to camp is that it brings friends and families together in the sweet outdoors.

Virginia State Parks have plenty of safe campgrounds ranging from state-of-the-art to primitive. There are more than 1,800 campsites throughout the parks. Whether you seek a site overlooking a tranquil lake or one in Virginia's unmatched mountains, you'll find one at a nearby Virginia State Park.

For first-timers, camping can seem daunting. One way to ease into it is to rent a camping cabin, basically a wooden tent. Located in the campground, most have one room, two sets of bunk beds, a table and an electrical outlet. Guests use a nearby bathhouse. Try a camping cabin and talk with other campers to learn about their experiences and get advice on equipment.