About the Trip
A First-Time Family Camping Experience in a Raw but Promising Campsite
This was our first time going on a family camping trip, and we wanted it to be something simple, peaceful, and close to nature. After some research and planning, we chose Cool Breeze at THEV Clark, a campsite that’s still under development (around 30% complete) but already offers a relaxing outdoor vibe.
Despite having a small car, we managed to pack just the essentials and make the most out of the space. Setting up our dream tent—the Naturehike Village 6—was a milestone in itself. While the area is still quite raw (limited shade, basic amenities), the staff were incredibly helpful and kind, which made a big difference.
We ended up breaking camp early the next morning since there were no trees above our tent and it got hot quickly, but even with those small challenges, it was an unforgettable experience. We’re definitely excited to return once the site is fully complete.
Camping Gear We Used and How It Helped
Planning a camping trip with a small car meant we had to be intentional with everything we packed. Here are some of the items we brought, and why they worked (or didn’t) for us:
Naturehike Village 6 Tent
This was the star of our setup. We had our eyes on this tent since we started planning, and it truly delivered. It’s spacious, well-ventilated, and has that cozy cabin vibe that made our first night outdoors extra special. Setting it up took us about an hour since it was our first time, but it was worth it. One thing we’d upgrade soon: the tent pegs—they could be sturdier for rougher ground.
LED String Lights & Mini Lantern
Ambient lighting made a huge difference in how the camp felt at night. We used USB rechargeable string lights to hang around the tent and a small lantern for inside. It created a calm, almost dreamy vibe that matched the peaceful surroundings.
Simple Cooking Setup
We brought a basic butane stove, a foldable table, and lightweight cookware. It wasn’t fancy, but it allowed us to prepare a hot meal without hassle. Keeping it simple helped us focus on the experience instead of the logistics.
Foldable Chairs & Ice Chest
Comfort mattered a lot, especially with a kid around. Foldable chairs gave us a place to rest, and the ice chest kept our food and drinks fresh overnight. We didn’t overpack—just enough to make things easy and enjoyable.
Water Drum (with a little help!)
Since the CR and water source were a bit far, the campsite staff were kind enough to help us get a drum of water. This made things like dishwashing and cleaning much easier. Definitely a lifesaver.
What made this trip truly special wasn’t just the place—but the experience of slowing down, being present, and doing something new as a family. The calm, open space gave us a chance to disconnect and just enjoy the moment. It wasn’t perfect, but that’s what made it real.
We’re glad we went with what we had, learned from the process, and created memories we’ll always look back on. And as the campsite continues to grow, we’re excited to come back with an even better setup and a few upgrades in tow.
Explore Our Evolving Camping Setup
Our camping setup is always a work in progress—refined through real trips, lessons learned, and gear upgrades along the way. From tent choices to cooking gear, we document everything so you can follow along or get ideas for your own adventures.