The Texas Outdoor Family program has scheduled outdoor recreational workshops statewide through the beginning of December, according to a press release from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
The workshops offer a low-cost weekend trip where families can unplug, reconnect with nature and learn the basics of camping.
Workshops this month will take place at Garner State Park, Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway and Franklin Mountains State Park among the locations.
The program provides families with all of the camping and recreational supplies that would be needed. A family can test drive camping without investing money buying equipment, the TPWD states.
The only things families need to bring for the weekend are food and bedding.
During the overnight workshop, a park ranger not only teaches basic skills such as installing a tent and cooking outdoors, but also how to kayak, fish and goes geocaching – which is an outdoor treasure hunt on global-positioning devices.
Participants also learn stewardship of the park.
The equipment is new, including durable REI tents and cots. Most stoves for cooking are now propane-based, making it easier than ever to learn the basics, the TPWD says.
The cost of the workshop starts at $65 per family (up to six people), and includes camping fees, instruction and equipment.
For information, log onto the TPWD website at: tpwd.texas.gov.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department