What age to start camping?

[MHM]

I know we could take the kids camping at *any* age, but I want them to have fun and enjoy it too.
They are 2 1/2 and 3 1/2 right now. Would you take kids this age camping?
One of my bigger concerns is that they might be afraid of sleeping in a tent at night.
Anyone here have experience with little kids and camping?

We're taking them on their first day hike this week- that should be fun!

[todolist]

My son is 20 months and he likes to camp. But I like to camp so it rubs off.

It never hurts to try. If they really don't like it then you don't have to go again till they are older.

I can say the 5 year old we had one time didn't like to camp because his parents wouldn't let him do anything. And it sucks ass to have to stay in camp ALL the time.

[Revvie]

I am taking the 2 kidlets camping Friday night for the first time!

If you're worried about their reaction, and if you have a yard, why not pitch the tent in your backyard at first to see how they cope in the dark? Not that I did this :D

We're just going for one night the first time, and if it goes over well, we'll build up to more. Mine are 3 & 6. I know people who always camp, w/ newborns and up so it depends on your comfort zone.

[mamashack]

I am 38 and i do not feel that i am old enough to start camping yet.

[MHM]

:lol :lol Mamashack!

Good idea about pitching the tent in the yard.
Yet another reason for our neighbors to think we're freaks. lol