Second thoughts on festival with 8 and 11 year old

[ozonetipper]

Hi all, on a whim we decided we'd drive from New Orleans to Telluride for Bluegrass festival. We got tickets and camping at High School. But now I'm wondering if we're all going to be miserable. We love Bluegrass, and took our eldest when she was about 2, but we were also staying in a condo. And honestly, we've only camped a couple of times.

Any others who have been there with kids this age?

[Maple Al]

You will only be miserable if you come unprepared, if you are too cold,wet, hot you will not have a good time. If you are prepared for whatever the mountain throws at you you and the rest of your family will be fine and be able to enjoy the festivities.

[landshark]

Hi all, on a whim we decided we'd drive from New Orleans to Telluride for Bluegrass festival. We got tickets and camping at High School. But now I'm wondering if we're all going to be miserable. We love Bluegrass, and took our eldest when she was about 2, but we were also staying in a condo. And honestly, we've only camped a couple of times.

Any others who have been there with kids this age?

Well camping is not a condo that is for sure. But camping is pretty close, and the shuttle is free. It is a Fest so your not alone lots to do and see and no car required. The kids will have a blast. Are U kidding? You on the other hand will as well but just be prepared as mentioned. Rain, cold, heat all are fun to play in if you have the correct attire .

There are also special activities for kids. No daycare, parent supervised. And you can hear the music as well from that space. Sounds like a great adventure.

[Rob_from_Ohio]

As already mentioned, the key to being happy on any camping trip to is stay warm and dry.  If you've got the right tent, sleeping bags, etc., you'll be fine. 

Expect the days to be warm and sunny with the sun pounding down on you making it feel 10 degrees warmer than it actually is (or chilly, windy and rainy - it's the mountains and anything is possible).  Bring plenty of sunscreen and your rain gear!

It gets cold at night.  Be prepared with hats, gloves, long underwear, etc.  I always go with the "It's better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it" philosophy, especially when traveling with my kids (12 years old and almost 8).

As for the actual camping, remember - you're "camping" on the high school athletic fields in the middle of a town.  You'll have plenty of neighbors that will most likely be happy to assist you if assistance is needed.  If you find that you forgot to pack some camping essentials, just walk to the hardware store and you'll probably be able to find whatever you need.  My point is that you won't be camping in the backcountry and cut-off from civilization.  You'll be sleeping in a tent in the middle of one of the most beautiful towns in America. 

Enjoy your trip.  Drive safely. 

[Pilgrim99]

Hi all, on a whim we decided we'd drive from New Orleans to Telluride for Bluegrass festival. We got tickets and camping at High School. But now I'm wondering if we're all going to be miserable. We love Bluegrass, and took our eldest when she was about 2, but we were also staying in a condo. And honestly, we've only camped a couple of times.

Any others who have been there with kids this age?

Hey ozone,
We've been attending fest since our girls were 5 and 1, now aged 12 and 8. There's so much to do in and around T-ride as well as the fest. We've camped at Illium and in Town Park, and lately have been in condos. Doesn't really matter where you stay as long as you're ready for the weather--any weather. My girls have always had fun (even when it's snowed, rained, been hot/cold/inbetween). They always find new friends to run around with, too (kind of like their parents). Don't worry, they'll love the experience.