Growing up, my parents enrolled me in all sorts of outdoor activities. I learned orienteering, trap-setting, identification of animal tracks and edible plants. You get the idea. I loved it. Every weekend we were hiking, biking, canoeing, rock climbing, visiting the zoo. It left quite an impression on me. I feel strong and capable and connected and creative when I'm outdoors, I get an adrenaline rush and feel like I'm doing something important when I try something new, and each experience helps boost my self-confidence.
My brother and I are eleven years apart. We are each other's only sibling. He didn't focus as much on the outdoorsy stuff. So when he expressed interest in camping, I leaped at the chance to be a model big sister and teach life skills. We had so much fun on that first trip that a tradition began: Adventure Siblings!
Our first summer adventure was a two-day trip to Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins in Toronto, OH. Located 2+ hours southeast of Cleveland, near Jefferson Lake State Park, it was a manageable drive and easy to navigate. Austin Lake Park has a variety of hiking trails and water activities, both of which Sasquatch and I enjoy.
He wasn't quite tall enough to have earned the nickname yet, but there were already signs...
I purchased a dome tent specifically for this trip, so Sasquatch's first assembly and overnight experience wouldn't be in the military tent I usually used. Our primitive campsite was pitched with minimal struggle. I was so proud of him!
I'm still proud whenever I look at this photo!
The true highlight of the trip was Sasquatch's first campfire. It took us over an hour to get the flame to catch. I had never had such problems getting a fire started. Burned finger pads and knuckles later, we were both frustrated and losing hope. And then...then...the tiny flame flared and decided now was its time!
And once it was lit, nothing would put out that fire. A thunderstorm raged throughout the night / threatening to flood our campsite / but our campfire burned strong and bright. We were so impressed with it and ourselves that we stayed awake in the tent watching the fire, letting it burn long overnight. He still talks about that epic campfire!
We had a great time hiking and canoeing at Austin Lake Park. Two days wasn't enough to partake in all the activities, but it was the perfect first trip to launch our adventures. I would absolutely return for a low-key, family-friendly camping experience.
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