Tips, lessons, and what to expect when taking your first overnight hike with children near Bend, Oregon.
Why Backpacking with Kids is Worth the Effort
Backpacking with kids may sound daunting—but it can be incredibly rewarding when planned thoughtfully. In this guide, we’ll walk through what an overnight trip in the mountains near Bend, Oregon can look like with elementary to teen-aged children. From trail selection and gear suggestions to handling fatigue and keeping spirits high, this post is packed with real-world tips based on a successful (and at times hilarious) family trek.
Whether you’re a Central Oregon local or planning a summer trip to the Cascades, this is a great intro to family backpacking.
Tip:
Start early in the day and check the elevation gain. Even a short trail can feel tough in the summer heat or with elevation changes.
Choosing the Right Trail: Loop vs. Out-and-Back
When planning our overnight adventure, we chose a moderate 7-mile loop trail with access to a remote alpine lake. Loop trails offer variety and the satisfaction of “completing a circuit,” but if you’re hiking with younger kids or beginners, a shorter out-and-back route (2–3 miles each way) may be more manageable.
Hiking in the Heat: How to Handle Hot Conditions
Our hike began on a 90°F day—hotter than expected for the high desert. Frequent breaks in shaded areas were essential. Each person carried their own backpack, but adults should be prepared to take on extra water weight and heavier gear.
Bring:
- A hydration system or insulated bottles
- Electrolyte tablets or drink mixes
- Hats, sunscreen, and lightweight long-sleeve layers
What to Pack for a Kid-Friendly Overnight in the Wilderness
Tent vs. Hammock: While some backpackers opt for ultralight hammocks and tarps, a small 3-person tent offers better comfort and containment for kids and pets. Surprisingly, a basic $20 inflatable pool float worked well as a sleeping pad and doubled as a lake toy.
Meal Ideas:
- Dinner: Instant mac & cheese (lightweight + easy to clean)
- Breakfast: Oatmeal packets and instant coffee/hot cocoa
- Snacks: Trail mix, jerky, fruit leathers
Essential Gear:
- Headlamps or lantern
- Compact stove and dish kit
- Layers for cool mountain nights
- Pet gear (if bringing a dog)
Dealing with Trail Fatigue and Meltdowns
Fatigue is natural, especially if the trail is longer than kids are used to. When one of our hikers refused to go another step, we adjusted our plan: dropped one pack, walked the rest to camp, and doubled back. Flexibility is key.
Pro Tip:
- Involve kids in choosing snack breaks or spotting wildlife to keep them engaged. A simple “find three different trees” game can make trail time feel faster.
- Bring a sarong – This lightweight cloth is a backpacking MVP: use it as a towel, sunshade, picnic blanket, or even a cozy wrap for chilly evenings.
The Magic of a Wilderness Night
That night, we were unexpectedly visited by a herd of deer drinking from the lake—an awe-inspiring and slightly nerve-wracking moment for first-time campers. Sounds of the forest, no artificial lights, and a sky full of stars made it a truly memorable experience.
Tip:
Reassure kids about nighttime safety. Use a lantern and talk about common animals they may hear (like deer, not mountain lions!). Keep essentials in the tent, and make a plan for midnight bathroom breaks.
Morning at the Lake: Play, Rest, Reflect
The next morning, we swam in the lake, lounged in the hammock, and enjoyed a slow breakfast before hiking the shorter leg of the loop (just 2 miles). This gave us time to reflect, reset, and soak up the beauty around us.
Optional Items to Pack:
A journal or sketchbook
Binoculars for birdwatching
A mini camp game or card deck
Lessons Learned & Final Thoughts
Looking back, the experience was filled with small challenges—but even more moments of connection, growth, and wonder. Backpacking with kids requires patience, flexibility, and a good sense of humor. But with the right prep and expectations, it’s one of the most rewarding ways to experience nature as a family.
Quick Tips for First-Time Family Backpackers:
-
Choose trails under 5 miles with lake or creek access
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Pack light but don’t skip comfort items (pillows, cocoa, books)
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Use pool floats as dual-purpose gear
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Plan for weather swings—mountains cool down quickly
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Know that setbacks will happen, and that’s okay
Planning Your Own Trip?
If you’re near Bend, Oregon, try beginner-friendly overnight trails like:
Have questions about gear, trail recs, or hiking with kids?
Drop a comment below or check out our [Backpacking Checklist for Families] coming soon!
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