No RV? No Problem! When you hear the word camping, you might picture a shiny RV parked lakeside, complete with twinkling string lights and lawn chairs around the fire. But what if your family doesn’t own an RV—or even a small camper? Does that mean camping isn’t for you? Absolutely not.
I’m here to tell you that some of our family’s most cherished camping memories have been made without owning a rig of our own. Instead, we’ve leaned into the joy of cozy cabins, rustic campgrounds, and adventures that remind you why getting outside matters more than what you bring with you. Our first camping trip with our son was when he was eight months old in an old cabin at a nearby state park. We lasted only a day and a half before heading home early, but it’s still one of my favorite memories.
Recently, we packed up our six- and seven-year-old kids, tossed suitcases in the SUV, and headed to Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort in Freedom, New Hampshire, for a trip that reminded me exactly why I love this style of travel.
The Cozy Cabin Life
Our home base was a rustic cabin tucked into the trees with views of Danforth Bay just a stone’s throw away. Its warm, wood-paneled interior smelled of pine and adventure. A full-sized bed was a welcome sight after days of hiking and swimming, while the kids reveled in the bunk room—two sets of bunks with soft bedding from home. Both chose top bunks, their dream come true!
Our cabin didn’t have all the bells and whistles of an RV—running water and a half bath, yes—but no kitchen or shower. So, we grilled outside, carried flashlights to the showers, and leaned into the slower rhythm that makes camping special.
The Beauty of New England
The campground itself was nestled into a postcard-perfect landscape: rolling wooded hills, towering trees, and majestic boulders. We loved morning walks with camp coffee in hand, the kids racing to scramble up rocks. By midday, the sunlight filtered through the canopy of trees, dappling everything in warm golden light. It was the kind of place that makes you feel both small and connected, like nature is wrapping its arms around you.
And the sunsets—oh, the sunsets. Each evening, we paused to watch the sky blaze pink, orange, and purple, reflecting on the water. Even the kids fell silent, awed by the view.
Pools, Beaches, and Lake Views
One of the best surprises was the variety of ways to enjoy the water: two sandy lake beaches, two heated pools, plus kayak and canoe rentals. The kids’ pool was their paradise, with slides and a mushroom fountain. They spent hours making friends and shrieking with laughter.
Meanwhile, the larger pool offered lap lanes and lounge chairs with mountain views. When we wanted something quieter, we headed to the lake, its cool glacial water and gentle waves creating the perfect soundtrack.
Everyday Comforts
Let’s be honest—family camping with kids isn’t always smooth sailing. Someone forgets goggles, someone else runs out of socks, and mom needs coffee or a glass of wine. That’s where the gift shop shines. Stocked with bug spray, sunscreen, marshmallows, and a selection of local wines, it saved the day. One evening, the gift shop hosted a wine tasting led by Sue, a friendly employee who quickly became a familiar face. She poured samples, shared stories about local restaurants, and even gave me a tip about The Sap House Meadery, a town favorite. It felt like a mini grown-up treat in the middle of our family adventure.
Clean Showers and Fresh Starts
I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous about the communal showers before our trip. But this campground had some of the cleanest facilities I’ve ever seen. Spacious stalls, plenty of hot water, and bright, well-maintained spaces made the daily routine easy. For me, it was the best of both worlds: wild adventures during the day, just enough comfort at night.
Family Fun and Community
One of the best parts of camping, whether you’re in a tent, cabin, or RV, is the sense of community. Danforth Bay leaned into that with events that brought everyone together.
There are activities every weekend during Danforth Bay’s open season. While we visited, there was a flag football game, a chili cook-off, and a glow pool party. The campground offers a unique scavenger hunt for kids that is tailored to exactly what they will see at Danforth Bay. The campground also offers a season-long photo contest to win a week’s stay to the person who submits the best picture on their grounds with a sign that says, “I Love It Here!”
And when we wanted to explore beyond the campground, the surrounding area was full of charm. Local shops and farm stands gave us plenty to do on a rainy day. Our kids were most excited when we climbed to the top of Mount Mary. She may have been a quaint mountain, but she offered us the most extraordinary views of neighboring mountain ranges.
Why Cabin Camping Works for Us
Cabin camping is the perfect balance: coziness with young kids without the cost or upkeep of a camper. We pack, show up, and dive into adventure. More importantly, it strips camping down to its essentials: time together, outdoor exploration, and memories that linger long after the marshmallows are gone.
So, if you ever thought camping wasn’t for you because you don’t own an RV, let me assure you—there’s another way. Whether it’s a rustic cabin, a canvas tent, or a yurt in the woods, the magic of camping has never depended on what you drive or own. It’s about your kids’ faces lighting up on a waterslide, the taste of a perfectly toasted s’more, and the hush as the sun dips behind the lake.
And for this mom, that’s more than enough.
Written by Guest Writer Christina Thompson
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