Vaughn Zhao (11): When my parents first brought up the idea of camping, I was a bit reluctant at first. As a pretty sheltered kid, I would have preferred to spend my break indoors in front of a screen, but my mom insisted on a family camping trip. Once I got outside, though, I realized how much fun it was to run around in the woods and see all kinds of wildlife. It was a completely new experience that shifted my perspective on being outdoors.

These days, I go camping in Yosemite with my family once every year or two. Though my family does enjoy hiking, we usually drive up to our camping spot because of the amount of food and gear we bring. We really like camping in bigger tents as they provide shelter from the mosquitos and the colder California nights. 

Camping has also become pretty significant to me as its a way for me to bond with my sister. Since we have a larger age gap between us I was not able to hangout with her as much growing up, so these trips have become a time to reconnect. 

We also go hiking quite often on trails around our camp ground. I am afraid of heights so when the trails get narrow, it can get a bit scary. After every long hike, my family makes instant noodles with veggies on a gas stove. It’s become sort of a tradition that feels very rewarding after a long day of hiking.

I remember one time, I brought my skateboard camping so I rode it down a really steep hill by our camp site. I went way too fast and couldn’t brake in time so I fell on my face and has injuries all over my body. Long story short, my mom had to carry me back to the tent where I kind of just sat inside the whole day when my family went to do all of the fun stuff. It was during the summer so the tent got very stuffy and hot. Though it wasn’t the best experience it is one that I will remember for the rest of my life.

I think everyone should try camping at least once. There’s camping sites in the deep wilderness and some that are more developed, so there is something for everyone. Having a change of scenery every once in a while is great, and gives you an experience where you can just get away from everything and just explore nature.