Family Adventures in Nature: Top Backpacking Destinations for Parents and Children in New England and Mid-Atlantic Regions
The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) has unveiled a list of ideal backpacking destinations for young hikers in New England and the Mid-Atlantic regions. These recommendations, detailed in AMC's Best Backpacking in New England, 2nd edition, and AMC's Best Backpacking in the Mid-Atlantic, cater to hikers seeking manageable distances and appealing natural features.
In New England, Acadia National Park in Maine stands out. Hiking routes around Hull’s Cove, Sand Beach, Otter Point, and the Cadillac Mountain Loop offer a combination of forested trails, coastline views, and accessible campsites suitable for younger or less experienced backpackers. Cape Cod is also highlighted for family-friendly beach camping options, kayak and bike rentals, and state parks with pristine beaches like South Cape Beach State Park and Scusset Beach State Reservation.
Assateague Island National Seashore, situated between Maryland and Virginia, offers two backcountry sites (Tingles and Little Levels) that are 2.3 miles and 4 miles away from the Barrier Island Visitor Center, respectively. Camping at these sites requires permits for campers and vehicles, which can be picked up on the day of camping for a modest fee. Walking on the beach at Assateague Island presents unique challenges, and it's recommended to time the visit to avoid excessive heat and insects.
For those in Connecticut, the Pachaug State Forest offers a backpack area at the Dry Reservoir, which is less than half a mile from the trailhead. The camping area is free, but the process to reserve a space in advance is somewhat elaborate and requires at least two weeks' notice. The trail to the 13 Falls AMC backcountry tentsite largely follows an old railroad bed, making it relatively wide and easy to hike.
The Arcadia Management Area in Exeter, Rhode Island, offers the only backpacking option in the state, with more than 30 miles of hiking trails. The camping area has a "giant red barn-like backpacker shelter" and space for tents. Reservations are required for camping at Arcadia Management Area and can be made by calling 401-539-2356; permits must be picked up at the park office before heading out.
In the Adirondack Mountains, Keene Valley, New York, the Johns Brook Lodge offers various overnight staying options, including a lodge with coed bunkrooms and prepared meals, for young backpackers.
Matt Heid, author of AMC's Best Backpacking in New England, recommends both Arcadia Management Area and the Pachaug State Forest for young hikers. Before heading to the campsite in the Pachaug State Forest, you may want to do the short steep hike from the trailhead to the top of nearby Mount Misery.
Before embarking on these adventures, it's always a good idea to check with the relevant visitor centres for up-to-date information and any changes in regulations. For instance, the Lincoln Woods Visitor Center in White Mountain National Forest can provide more information about the 13 Falls AMC backcountry tentsite.
Camping at Arcadia Management Area is free and open year-round. The Wolf Gap Recreation Area in Wardensville, West Virginia offers developed camping ground for families looking to ease into backpacking, with hikes to Tibbet Knob and Big Schloss that are approximately 1.5 miles and 2 miles, respectively. Both locations feature primitive campsites with astounding views, but they are dry, so water must be brought.
While specific Mid-Atlantic backpacking routes from AMC’s Best Backpacking books are not detailed in the search results, the Mid-Atlantic region generally offers a variety of trails and backpacking loops. For young hikers, AMC’s guidance often emphasizes trails with manageable distances and appealing natural features like ponds, scenic forests, and historic recreational areas. Information about Mid-Atlantic routes such as the "Chinese Wall High Route" appears referenced in map listings but without detailed descriptions.
So, grab your backpack, lace up your boots, and embark on an unforgettable adventure at these top backpacking destinations for young hikers!
- For those who enjoy outdoor-living and home-and-garden, the Arcadia Management Area in Rhode Island offers a backpacking experience with a giant red barn-like backpacker shelter and space for tents.
- In addition to challenging hikes, Pachaug State Forest in Connecticut offers an ideal lifestyle for hikers seeking a combination of forested trails, a relatively easy hike along an old railroad bed, and camping at a free backpack area, just a short hike from the trailhead.
