Oak Trace residents and their families were "pitching in" for a good time during the community's first ever family campout, and the event was, literally, in tents.
A Campground in the Courtyard
For one special night, the central courtyard became a campground complete with tents, campfire treats, music, games, and happy campers. Seven families signed up for the adventure. Five families pitched tents in the courtyard, while two opted for a slightly more "glamorous camping" experience by setting up tents inside their apartments.
To get everyone trail ready, Oak Trace provided tents, air mattresses, and goody bags packed with camping essentials including water, snacks, bug spray, and phone chargers. After all, even modern explorers need to keep their devices charged.
Campfire Classics and Family Fun
The evening included classic camp fare from the Culinary team, who provided grilled cheese sandwiches and corn dogs. Campers gathered around the fire pit, where sticky fingers and smiling faces became the dress code while everyone enjoyed s'mores.
Grandparents, parents, children, and grandchildren teamed up for traditional camping games and activities minus the presence of bears, mountain lions, outhouses, or swarms of mosquitos. Live camp-themed musical entertainment was provided by popular artist Rick Pickren.
Making Memories Under the Stars
For many residents, the evening brought back treasured memories of camping trips from years gone by. For younger family members, it may have been their first
experience of sleeping ‘under the stars’ and gathering around a fire with loved ones. No matter their age, everyone seemed to agree that making memories together is the best thing to pack for any camping trip. The event proved that sometimes the best adventures happen right in your own backyard.
