Could we really go through the year without a single camping trip? No. That would be wrong.  Human beings need to get away from the comforts of a climate controlled house and experience the outdoors.  Tents force us to do that.

We love Steamboat Lake State Park in Routt County, Colorado.  It’s a beautiful lake not far from the Wyoming border surrounded by mountains and forests and not a lot else.  It has a marina that rents kayaks and paddleboards. 

Of course we kayaked.  We also tried fishing.  No bites.  But I was happy my 11-year-old wanted to try it and we’ll give it a go at another lake. 

We also cooked every meal at the campsite.  Usually we have a couple meals and then drive into town for a restaurant meal.  This time we tried making cast iron skillet pizza and brought a portable charcoal grill for steak and chicken, as well as our gas stove for pancakes and to heat water for morning coffee.

The Milky Way was visible in the night sky and I did my best to photograph it with my phone, along with numerous critters large and small.

Overall we enjoyed it a lot.  We all need to disconnect more.  Tent camping means dealing with freezing nights and hot days and making due with whatever tool works because you forgot something.

I definitely don’t feel done getting out into the mountains this year.  And hopefully camping.  The weather is going to change so we’ll  have to go soon.  I always feel good coming back to regular life after roughing it or challenging myself on trails.  That’s the reason we do it.