First time it'll be just the two of us. We're going to Big Bend area (Texas). He's really into this lately which is great because I was worried he'd get too old for dad stuff. I want to make it memorable without trying too hard if that makes sense? We've camped before with family but this feels different. Anyone done one-on-one trips? What made them work?
The fact that he's into it and wants to go with you is the win already. Don't overthink making it "memorable" - just being present and available is what he'll remember. Maybe one special meal (like cooking his favorite thing over the fire).
Big Bend is amazing for this. Few tips: start fires early while there's still light so he can help gather wood (gives you both something to do), bring way more snacks than you think you need, and don't over-schedule it. Half the magic is just sitting around.
Big Bend is perfect for that age. Definitely pack way more water than you think you need - the desert is no joke. Pro tip: bring a small camping stove even if you're planning to do fires, because wind can be brutal out there and cooking over fire is harder than it looks when you're trying to keep a kid fed.
Bring a book or something for YOU. Not the whole time but like, give him space to explore and chill while you're doing your own thing nearby. Kids need to see dads having their own experience too, not performing entertainment.
This is such a good age for it. He's old enough to actually help and engage but still wants to be with you. Soak it up. Mine's 13 now and getting him to commit to a weekend is like pulling teeth.
Bring a good camera or just your phone ready. You'll want to capture stuff not for social media but for YOU. These solo trip memories are gold when he hits the teenage years.
Question - is he experienced with camping or is this pretty new? I only ask because if he's never done the whole sleep-in-a-tent thing, definitely do a practice run in the backyard first. Nothing kills a trip faster than a kid who's freaked out by sleeping outside.
lol the 'just the two of us' anxiety is real. You got this though. Honestly sometimes kids actually relax more without mom around because they know there's no backup - it's kind of a bonding thing. Bring some good snacks he actually likes and you're golden.
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This is awesome. The fact that he's INTO it right now is huge - you're hitting that sweet spot before he decides gaming is more fun. Don't overplan activities though. Sometimes the best memories are just sitting around the campfire talking.