Leave Seattle after a quick breakfast and aim for a scenic stop at Deception Pass State Park for a short shoreline stroll and bridge photos to stretch legs; kids will love exploring tide pools and the easy boardwalks. Continue north with a lunch break in Bellingham's Fairhaven Historic District, where you can wander the waterfront, grab sandwiches from a local deli, and let the children burn energy on the small parks before crossing the border into Canada.
After lunch, take a relaxing drive into British Columbia with a stop at Aldergrove Regional Park for an easy nature loop where kids can spot birds and splash in shallow creek edges; the park has picnic shelters perfect for a snack break. Continue toward Vancouver with a short detour to Steveston Village - stroll the historic fishing docks, sample fish-and-chip cones, and let the children explore the waterfront playground before checking into your campsite near the city for an easy rooftop-tent setup.
Settle into a family-friendly campsite near the city and take a twilight stroll along Kitsilano Beach, where kids can play in the sand and you can enjoy views of the city skyline at golden hour; grab casual dinner from a nearby food truck or pack a simple BBQ. Afterward, head for an easy evening outing to Granville Island Public Market - explore the market stalls, pick up local treats, and let the kids linger at the Granville Island Kids Market before returning to your rooftop tent for a relaxed night under the stars.
Start the day with a family-friendly breakfast near English Bay, then rent bikes or a surrey and cruise a portion of the Seawall for gentle ocean views and playful stops at the rock installations; there are plenty of spots to pause for photos and a playground break. After pedaling, head to Vancouver Aquarium inside Stanley Park for hands-on marine exhibits and daily animal feedings that delight kids aged 5-11 before a picnic on the park lawns.
Cross over to nearby Granville Island after a picnic in Stanley Park for an afternoon of hands-on fun-browse the Granville Island Public Market for snackable treats, watch local artisans at work, and let the kids romp through the Granville Island Kids Market with its toy shops and play zones. From there, take a short water taxi to False Creek waterfront and wander the family-friendly seawall toward Olympic Village, stopping at playgrounds, public art, and an ice cream shop before returning to your campsite for rooftop-tent setup and an easy lakeside dinner.
After your Seawall and Granville Island adventures, take a relaxed evening to explore the riverside charm of Yaletown-wander the renovated dockyards, let the kids play at the leafy David Lam Park and watch paddleboarders drift by as the sun softens. For dinner, head to Gastown for family-friendly eateries (try a casual pasta or wood-fired pizza) and finish with a stroll to see the steam at the Gastown Steam Clock before returning to camp for rooftop-tent bedtime stories under the city lights.
Leave Vancouver after breakfast and take the Sea-to-Sky with a first stop at Shannon Falls Provincial Park for an easy boardwalk to the impressive waterfall-kids can run the short paths and feel the spray. Continue to Sea to Sky Gondola near Squamish for a family-friendly ride with panoramic viewpoints, a suspended walkway, and easy interpretive trails perfect for exploring with children before completing the drive into Whistler for lunch.
After lunch in Whistler, head for easy family fun at Lost Lake Park, where kids can splash in shallow swim areas, rent a paddleboat, or ride the gentle trails that loop through shaded forest. Later, take a short drive to Whistler Village Stroll-browse toy and outdoor shops, grab a treat from a local gelato stand, and let the children play at the lively Village Green while you scout an early rooftop-tent campsite nearby for an easy evening setup.
Wind down the day with a gentle lakeside evening at Rainbow Park, where kids can play on the beach while parents relax with mountain views; bring a picnic or pick up takeaway from a nearby café and enjoy a sunset paddle in a rented canoe or SUP. After dusk, head to Whistler Olympic Plaza for a relaxed wander-there are often street performers or casual family-friendly events in summer-and finish with s'mores back at your rooftop-tent campsite near Nesters RV Park or another family campground for an easy overnight under the stars.
Wake up early and drive a short way to Rainbow Trail for a shady, stroller-friendly loop with wildflower meadows and gentle creek crossings where kids can spot frogs and skip stones; pack a thermos and enjoy a picnic at the scenic knoll. Afterward head to Function Junction for a stop at a local bakery and then let the children burn energy at the creative outdoor play structures in Myrtle Philip Community Park before boarding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola later in the morning for breathtaking alpine views and an easy high-elevation walk on arrival.
After a relaxed lakeside morning, spend the afternoon exploring the family-friendly trails at Nita Lake-rent a tandem kayak or paddleboard for gentle on-water time and picnic on the shore while kids hunt for smooth stones. Later, head to Vallea Lumina (early-evening family-friendly light walk timing permitting) for a short, story-driven illuminated trail through forested sculptures that delights younger children, then finish with playground time and snacks at Moe's Town Square before returning to your rooftop-tent campsite for an easy evening.
As twilight falls, take a short drive to Whistler Sliding Centre for a family-friendly evening stroll along the upper trails and a chance to watch the floodlit luge track from the viewing areas while kids imagine the speedy rides; follow with a relaxed picnic on the grassy knoll nearby. Later, head to Nicklaus North Park to let the children play on the waterfront playground and skip stones along the marshy shore, then finish the night with hot chocolate and pastries from Purebread while wandering the lamp-lit alleys of Whistler Village before returning to your rooftop tent.
Leave Whistler and take a leisurely drive up the valley with a first stop at Alexander Falls for a short, stroller-friendly lookout and waterfall photos that thrill kids; follow with a hands-on visit to Nairn Falls Provincial Park, where an easy boardwalk leads to tumbling rapids and shallow creek edges perfect for splashing little feet. Continue toward Pemberton for a farm stop at Nairn Falls Farmstand or Pemberton Farmers Market (seasonal) to pick fresh berries and picnic supplies, then stretch legs on the gentle loop trail around One Mile Lake before heading east toward Lillooet in the afternoon.
After your morning stops, take the scenic Duffey Lake Road with a lunch break at Seton Lake Lookout-kids will enjoy stretching on the lakeside pebbles while you soak in the alpine-blue water views. Continue into the Cayoosh and Fraser valleys with a gentle stop at Duffey Meadow for a short, kid-friendly wildflower walk and rock-hopping; finish the afternoon exploring the historic riverside boardwalk at Lillooet's Bridge of the 100th Meridian and let the children watch rafts and kayaks drift by before settling into a nearby family-friendly campsite.
After settling into camp, take a short drive to Seton Portage for a calm twilight stroll along the lakeshore and a chance for kids to spot swallows and watch the evening fishing boats glide past; there's a small sheltered beach perfect for skipping stones. For dinner, head to the cozy riverside picnic tables at Merritt Creek Day-Use Area (or a similar local day-use spot) for a campfire meal and marshmallows while parents enjoy views of the valley as the sun dips; finish with a quick stargazing session near Mile 0 viewpoint where low light makes constellations pop for curious young astronomers.
Depart Lillooet and stretch legs with a riverside stop at Pavilion Lake, where kids can scramble on warm rocks and look for small aquatic life while you enjoy mountain-and-lake panoramas; there's an easy flat trail along the shore perfect for little hikers. Continue toward Kamloops with a family-friendly detour to Kenna Cartwright Park for a short loop on shaded, wide trails and a picnic at a viewpoint, then roll into the Kamloops area mid-morning ready to pick a riverside campsite along the Thompson River for afternoon swimming and camp setup.
After a riverside morning, head into the Kamloops foothills for a family-friendly stop at Riverside Park where kids can splash in shallow edges, explore playgrounds, and feed the ducks while you picnic on the grassy banks. Later, take a short scenic drive to Secwepemc Museum & Heritage Park for a gentle, kid-accessible cultural introduction-wander the outdoor interpretive trails and see traditional dwellings-then settle into a campsite along the Thompson River with easy access to evening wading, a simple campfire, and sunset views.
After settling into your riverside campsite, take a short drive to Paul Lake Provincial Park for a gentle evening paddle or rental canoe where kids can spot dragonflies and shallow-water minnows along the protected shoreline. Follow with a twilight nature walk at Kenna Cartwright Lookout Trail (choose the lower loops you haven't used earlier) to catch sweeping sunset views over the valley, then return to camp for a campfire cookout and a bedtime story session under the stars beside the Thompson River.
Pack up camp and drive toward Jasper with a first stop at Mount Robson Viewpoint for a short, stroller-friendly lookout where kids can stretch legs and spot the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies; follow with a hands-on break at Kinney Lake-an easy flat trail to a bright turquoise lake perfect for skipping stones and a picnic on the shore. Continue into Jasper townsite mid-morning and visit Pyramid Island Park for a gentle boardwalk stroll and playground time while you grab lunch supplies from a local deli and scout nearby rooftop-tent friendly campgrounds for an afternoon setup.
Settle into the Jasper townsite after lunch and take a gentle drive to Maligne Canyon for an easy, stroller-friendly loop across several dramatic bridges-kids will love peering into the rushing gorge and spotting small cascades from the viewpoints. Later, head up the short paved road to Funeral Ridge Lookout / Whistler's Bench for sweeping valley views and a relaxed picnic while the children explore nearby meadow trails and hunt for wildflowers before a low-key rooftop-tent setup at a nearby family campground.
As the day cools, drive a short way to Miette Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the warm pools where kids (check age/height rules) can splash while parents enjoy mountain views; afterward stroll the nearby easy Astoria River Trail for a calm creek-side walk and good low-light wildlife spotting. Finish with a family picnic at Pyramid Lake Beach-let the children paddle at the shore and hunt for smooth stones while you watch the sunset over the peaks, then return to your campsite for an early night with roasted marshmallows and stories under the stars.
Begin with a gentle sunrise walk along the boardwalk at Pyramid Falls where shallow pools and mossy boulders make a fun spot for kids to explore and spot trout; follow that with a hands-on visit to the interpretive exhibits at Jasper Ecology Centre to learn about local wildlife and leave the children eager for animal-spotting. Before lunch, take the short, family-friendly loop to Old Fort Point for sweeping views over the valley and a picnic on the lookout while watching for elk or bighorn sheep grazing below.
After lunch head to Maligne Valley for a family-friendly cruise on Maligne Lake (book in advance) to see the famed shoreline and Spirit Island; children will love the boat ride and the chance to spot waterfowl and distant mountain goats on the slopes. Later, explore the easy, interpretive Mary Schäffer Loop near the lake for short boardwalks and pebble beaches where kids can hunt for colorful stones, then drive up to Signal Mountain Viewpoint for sweeping valley vistas and a relaxed picnic before returning to your campsite for an early-evening fire.
As twilight falls, take a slow drive to Pyramid Island for a calm shoreline stroll and marsh-edge wildlife watching where kids can spot beavers and listen for loons while the light softens; bring headlamps for an easy dusk bug-spotting lesson. Finish with a lakeside picnic and gentle paddle in a rented canoe at Pyramid Lake Beach, then return to camp via the scenic Whistlers Campground road for a cozy campfire, s'mores, and constellation storytelling under dark-sky views.
Leave Jasper early and drive the Icefields Parkway with a first stretch-stop at Sunwapta Falls for a short boardwalk viewing where kids can feel the spray and watch thunderous water churn below; follow this with a gentle stroll to the turquoise shallows at Mistaya Canyon, where smooth rock steps and shallow pools make for safe stone-skipping and quick exploration. Continue onward to the dramatic viewpoint at Athabasca Glacier Skywalk (book ahead) for a family-friendly interpretive platform and cliff-side views before completing the scenic drive into the Lake Louise area for a lakeside lunch.
After lunch, pull over for a family-friendly wander at Bow Lake / Herbert Lake shoreline where kids can toss pebbles into crystalline water and spot tiny fish while you enjoy glacier-framed views; the short flat trails here are perfect for little legs. Continue to the dramatic moraine and viewpoint at Peyto Lake Overlook for easy photos and a quick snack-kids will love the bright turquoise water-and finish the afternoon with a gentle lakeside stroll and paddle at Waterfowl Lakes Day-Use Area, an ideal spot to unpack a thermos, watch waterfowl, and stretch before arriving in Lake Louise for camp setup.
After arriving near Lake Louise, take a gentle lakeshore stroll along Lake Agnes Tea House trail (lower access)-kids will enjoy spotting chipmunks and dipping toes at the shoreline while parents sip takeaway tea from the historic stop-and settle for an easy lakeside picnic at Lake Louise shoreline as the light softens. Later, drive a short way to Bow Falls picnic area for a sunset riverside walk and wildlife watch (elk and mule deer are common at dusk), then return to your campground for a warm campfire, marshmallow roast, and quiet stargazing above the valley.
Wake early and catch calm waters with a family canoe rental at Moraine Lake Canoe Dock (arrive early to beat the crowds), letting kids take turns paddling amid the Valley of the Ten Peaks and hunting for smooth turquoise stones along the shoreline. After a gentle paddle, stretch legs on the easy, stroller-friendly Saddleback Pass connector for short wildflower views and a picnic at a scenic overlook, then head back toward Lake Louise for a riverside walk at Moraine Creek Day-Use Area where children can explore shallow riffles and spot dragonflies before a lakeside lunch.
After your Moraine Lake morning, drive down to Lake Louise Lakeshore for a relaxed paddle in a rented canoe and a shoreline scavenger hunt for colorful stones and tiny water creatures that the kids will love; pause at the lakeside boathouse for photos with the Chateau in the background. Later, take the family on the short, shaded Fairview Lookout trail for sweeping valley views without steep climbs, then descend to picnic and splash at the calm shallows of Johnson Lake Beach, where children can wade safely and families can enjoy an easy evening paddle before returning to camp.
As the light softens, head to Bow River Boardwalk in Banff for an easy, stroller-friendly riverside stroll where kids can watch trout and spot river otters while you enjoy mountain-reflected waters; pause at the interpretive signs to turn the walk into a short nature scavenger hunt. Afterward drive to Cascade Ponds for a relaxed lakeside picnic and playground time-shallow shores are perfect for little ones to paddle safely and feed the ducks-then finish the night with a twilight soak at Banff Upper Hot Springs (check child-friendly hours) for warm pools and starry views before returning to your rooftop-tent campsite.
Start the morning with a serene walk and easy boardwalk exploring the wetlands around Vermilion Lakes, where kids can spot waterfowl and skip stones while you enjoy mirror-like mountain reflections. Afterward, drive up to Sulphur Mountain Trailhead (lower access) for a short, family-friendly section of the trail or take the Banff Gondola partway and explore the summit boardwalks and interpretive exhibits-perfect for panoramic photos and a gentle alpine snack before heading to a nearby campsite for a relaxed midday setup.
After a morning on Sulphur Mountain, take a gentle drive to Bow Falls Viewpoint for a short boardwalk stroll and picnic with dramatic river-and-waterfall views, then head to Cascade Gardens where kids can run among flower beds and explore shady paths while parents relax. Later, visit Tunnel Mountain Family Picnic Area for an easy, stroller-friendly loop and a mellow late-afternoon hike with panoramic town and valley views before returning to your rooftop-tent campsite for an early evening wind-down.
As evening falls, take a short drive to Vermilion Lakes Boardwalk for a calm lakeside stroll and sunset reflections where kids can hunt for smooth pebbles and watch canoeists glide past. Follow with a relaxed family dinner picnic at Two Jack Lakeside Picnic Area, letting children play on the shallow shore while parents enjoy mountain views, then finish the night with a gentle twilight walk through Fenland Trail-an easy, lantern-friendly loop through forest that's great for spotting owls and winding down before camp.
Leave Banff early and drive toward the prairie foothills with a breakfast stop at Canmore Nordic Centre for a short family-friendly loop on packed trails where kids can scooter or bike and burn energy before the highway leg. Continue east with a scenic detour to High River Heritage Park for a picnic among historic barns and a shady playground, then head south to explore the wide vistas at Chief Mountain Viewpoint-a photo stop and easy stretch where children can hunt for wildflowers and you can spot the route toward Waterton Lakes or the Crowsnest Pass crossing into Montana.
After a hearty lunch, take a scenic drive through the Crowsnest Pass with a stop at Frank Slide Interpretive Centre to stretch legs and let the kids explore the outdoor interpretive trail and interactive displays about the massive 1903 rockslide. Continue south to Porcupine Hills Provincial Park for an easy afternoon loop where children can splash in shallow creek pools and hunt for pinecones, then arrive at Waterton Townsite in the late afternoon to check into a family-friendly campground and enjoy a relaxed shoreline walk around Cameron Lake with chance for a short paddle or rock-skipping session before dinner.
After arriving in the Waterton area, take a calm lakeside stroll along Waterton Lakeshore Trail toward the sheltered coves near Cameron Falls, letting kids splash at the shallow edges and hunt for smooth stones while golden-hour light softens the peaks. Follow this with a family-friendly dinner at the picnic tables by Townsite Beach - watch for loons and boat silhouettes as you eat - then finish the night with a short, torchlit walk through the nearby Blakiston Falls Trail approach for gentle waterfall viewing before returning to camp for stories and stargazing.
Start your morning with a gentle shoreline wander along Red Rock Canyon Trail, where colorful cliffs and shallow pools make for an easy, kid-friendly scramble and great photo stops; bring a small bucket so children can collect smooth stones and search for tiny tadpoles in protected pools. Afterward, board a short family-friendly cruise from Prince of Wales Hotel dock (or the Waterton boat launch) to explore quiet coves, watch for ospreys and mink, and disembark for a picnic at Cameron Lake day-use beach where little ones can paddle in calm water while parents relax with mountain views.
After your morning cruise, take a gentle hike along the shoreline to Akamina-Kishinena Trailhead for a short family-friendly section where kids can spot wildflowers and watch for marmots while you enjoy sweeping valley views; pause at a quiet riverside bend for a snack and pebble-skipping lesson. Later, drive to Blakiston Creek Picnic Area for an afternoon of sheltered wading and creek exploration-build a small rock dam with the children, scan the banks for dragonflies, and finish with relaxed lakeside play at Townsite Bay before returning to camp for an early evening dinner.
As dusk settles, take a short drive to Red Rock Canyon Overlook for an easy family sunset stroll among the colorful cliffs and shallow pools where kids can hunt for pretty stones while the light softens. Afterward, head to Townsite Beach Picnic Area for a relaxed shoreline dinner and marshmallow roast, then finish with a gentle night-walk along Bear's Hump Trail (choose the lower switchbacks) to catch panoramic twilight views over the lake before returning to camp for stories under the stars.
Cross the border into Montana and stop for a picnic breakfast and short riverside play at Kootenai Falls Trailhead (the kids will love the swinging bridge and rocky shore exploration), then continue south for a family-friendly nature break at Glacier National Park's West Entrance Visitor Center to pick up maps and a kid-oriented Junior Ranger booklet. Mid-morning, stretch legs on the easy, shady Avalanche Creek Trail boardwalk for creek-side splashing and wildlife spotting before rolling on toward Missoula with hopes of arriving for an afternoon campground setup near Flathead Lake.
Drive toward Flathead Lake and stop for a lakeside afternoon at Kalin's Marina & Park in Polson where kids can splash on the pebble beach while you rent a family paddleboat or take a short guided cruise to spot waterbirds; nearby picnic tables make an easy snack break. Later, explore the charming downtown of Whitefish with a stroll down Central Avenue-grab ice cream, browse toy and outdoor shops, and let the children run at Depot Park before checking into a nearby rooftop-tent friendly campground for an easy evening setup.
After settling into your campground, take a short drive to Wayfarers State Park for a calm shoreline stroll and shallow-water play where kids can build sandcastles and you can watch sailboats glide at dusk. Follow that with a relaxed family-friendly dinner at The Raven Café in nearby Polson (casual menu and outdoor seating), then finish the night with flashlight marshmallow roasting back at camp and a gentle walk under the stars along the Flathead Lake Trail for easy wildlife listening and quiet lake views.
Start with a sunrise stroll and tidepool-style exploration at Lake McDonald Lakeshore, where kids can hunt for colorful stones and watch early birdlife while you enjoy glassy mountain reflections; follow with a short, stroller-friendly ramble along the Trail of the Cedars to marvel at ancient trees and teach children about moss, fungi, and forest rooms. Mid-morning, drive the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road for a family photo stop at Wild Goose Island overlook, letting the kids stretch their legs on the easy viewpoint trail before heading toward the Bigfork area for lunch.
After a lakeside lunch, drive the scenic North Fork Road for a family-friendly stop at Two Medicine Lake where kids can paddle shallow edges or rent a canoe for calm water time and pebble hunting; the short lakeside loop is perfect for little legs. Continue to Apgar Village for an easy ranger-led program or lakeshore nature walk, then head into Lakeside Trail toward the West Glacier picnic areas for an afternoon of birdwatching, rock-splashing, and a relaxed golden-hour shoreline picnic before returning to camp.
As dusk falls, settle into a relaxed shoreline evening at Lone Pine State Park where kids can play on the grassy beach and parents enjoy calm Flathead Lake views while you grill a simple camp dinner; bring a net for easy pond-dipping at the park's small wetlands. Later, take a short twilight drive to Bigfork Summer Playhouse (check schedule) for a family-friendly outdoor performance or community event, then finish with a peaceful stargazing stop at Echo Lake Overlook-perfect for roasting marshmallows and listening to loons as the children drift off under wide Montana skies.
Cross into Idaho and head straight for a waterside morning at Harrington Beach on the north shore of Lake Coeur d'Alene where kids can build sandcastles and explore shallow swimming coves while parents enjoy mountain-reflected views; rent a family paddleboard from Northwest Outfitters for a gentle glide together. Afterward, take a short drive to the nearby Tubbs Hill Nature Trails for an easy coastal loop with rocky beaches and picnic spots perfect for a lakeside snack before continuing west toward your next campground.
After a lakeside morning, head to Coeur d'Alene Resort Boardwalk for a relaxed stroll, grab an ice cream at the marina, and let the kids play at the nearby City Park Playground while you enjoy sweeping lake views. Later, drive a few minutes to Higgins Point Trail for an easy, shady loop along the shoreline with rocky beaches perfect for skipping stones and a calm spot for a family picnic and short paddle with a rented kayak from a local outfitter.
As the sun softens, drive to McEuen Park for playground time and a riverside stroll where kids can run the splash fountain and you can enjoy views of the lake and surrounding hills; grab casual dinner from nearby vendors or pack a picnic to eat on the green. Later, head to Harrison Slough for a quiet sunset paddle in calm marsh channels (rent family kayaks from a local outfitter) and finish with s'mores back at your rooftop-tent campsite near Blackwell Island Park while the children watch boats glow on the water.
Roll into Bend with a hearty breakfast and head straight to Pine Nursery Park for playground time and a shady riverside stroll, then rent family bikes to pedal the easy, paved Deschutes River Trail with calm water views and kid-friendly bridges. Mid-morning, stop at Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint for a short, stroller-accessible climb to panoramic town-and-mountain vistas and let the kids explore the lava-rock outcrops while you plan an easy picnic at Drake Park beside the river.
After lunch, explore the shady trails and river eddies at Shevlin Park, where easy loops, a kid-friendly creek crossing, and interpretive signs make for relaxed nature play and short scavenger hunts. Later, head to The Old Mill District for waterfront strolls, a riverfront playground, and casual riverside patios-finish with a sunset gondola-style ride on the scenic Tumalo Creek Trail spur or a gentle paddle at Mirror Pond (boat rentals nearby) so the children can watch trout and riverboats as you prepare to continue westward the next morning.
As evening settles, enjoy a relaxed riverside dinner and play at Farewell Bend Park, where kids can splash in the shallow Deschutes eddies while parents fire up a small picnic or grab takeout from nearby food carts. After dinner, wander the gentle boardwalk at Riverside Natural Area for sunset birdwatching and a short interpretive trail perfect for little explorers, then finish with an ice-cream stop at Backporch Coffee Roasters before returning to camp for bedtime stories under the pines.
Start with a sunrise stroll and rock-hunting at Newberry National Volcanic Monument - Lava Lands Visitor Center to see interpretive exhibits and short volcanic trails that fascinate kids, then head to the shallow, paddle-friendly Tumalo State Park - Lower Falls for a riverside picnic and safe wading spots where children can splash and search for smooth stones. Finish the morning with an easy, family-accessible loop at Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint, where short paved paths, picnic shelters, and river overlooks offer dramatic canyon scenery without a long hike-perfect for topping off energy before the afternoon at Smith Rock.
Drive the short scenic road to Smith Rock State Park and tackle the family-friendly portion of the River Trail for easy rock-hopping and close-up views of towering cliffs where kids can spot climbers; pause at the shaded picnic tables near Cataract Canyon for snacks and wading in shallow pools. Later, head to Bivy Ridge Overlook (a quick switchback stop) for panoramic valley photos, then return toward Bend with a detour to Drake Park for a riverside paddle or playground time as the light softens before campsite dinner.
As dusk falls, drive to Tumalo Falls for a short, family-friendly boardwalk stroll to the lower viewpoint where kids can splash in the shallow pools and watch the cascade glow in golden light; linger for photo ops and a quiet snack on the rocks. Afterward, head back toward Bend and stop at Hixon Crossing Wetlands for gentle birdwatching and a torch-lit bug hunt along the flat trails before finishing with hot cocoa and bedtime stories at your rooftop-tent campsite near Shevlin Park.
Leave Bend and head west with a refreshing first stop at Smith Rock State Park's quieter River Trail (arrive early to beat crowds) for easy rock-hopping and close-up views of climbers while kids explore shallow pools; pack a picnic to enjoy on the riverbank. Continue through the high desert toward the Willamette Valley with a hands-on orchard visit at Bend's Tumalo Farms (or similar farmstand) where children can pick berries and meet farm animals before stretching legs at the family-friendly Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint for short paved paths and dramatic canyon overlooks en route to Portland.
After your high-desert morning, roll into the Willamette Valley and stop for a hands-on farm visit at Oregon Garden in Silverton-kids can explore themed gardens, play in the shady Discovery Garden, and enjoy the splash pad. Continue toward Portland with a playful detour to Enchanted Forest for short, whimsical rides and storybook trails perfect for 5-11-year-olds, then arrive in Portland in time for a riverside stroll and casual dinner near Tom McCall Waterfront Park before checking into your rooftop-tent friendly campsite.
Settle into Portland with a relaxed early-evening visit to Washington Park-let the kids race through the Portland Japanese Garden's peaceful paths (short, stroller-friendly loop) while parents enjoy the curated views, then grab picnic-style dinner at the nearby Hoyt Arboretum picnic lawns where shaded trails and wooden play sculptures entertain little ones. Finish with a twilight treat at Pittock Mansion (grounds only if timed late) for sweeping city-and-mountain sunset views and a calm, stroller-accessible stroll before returning to your rooftop-tent campsite for bedtime stories under Portland's soft evening glow.
Start the day with hands-on discovery at Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)-kids can tinker in the science playground, watch a short planetarium show, or climb through the interactive exhibits-then stroll the adjacent Eastbank Esplanade for riverside views and public art installations. Follow with a playful stop at Sellwood Riverfront Park, where children can splash at the sandy shore, explore small tidepool-like edges, and burn energy on the playground before grabbing brunch at a nearby food-cart pod along Southeast Division.
After brunch, wander through the hands-on exhibits at Children's Museum of Portland where little ones can build, splash in water play, and rotate through maker tables while parents relax in the shady courtyard; follow with a short walk to Laurelhurst Park for kite-flying, playground time, and a calm paddle in the park's small pond. Finish the afternoon with a sweet stop at Salt & Straw for adventurous ice cream flavors and a stroll along nearby Alberta Street to browse quirky shops and street murals that keep kids entertained before an early evening food-cart dinner.
As evening settles, wander the lively waterfront at Tom McCall Waterfront Park where kids can chase fountains and you can catch street performers, then head for family-friendly bites at the nearby Cartopia food-cart pod to sample everything from mac 'n' cheese to wood-fired pizzas while dining picnic-style. Finish with a twilight climb up to Pittock Mansion grounds for sweeping city-and-mountain sunset views and a gentle lantern-lit stroll through the manicured terraces before returning to camp for bedtime stories.
Drive south from Portland-area stops into the coastal town of Heceta Head Lighthouse for a short, family-friendly shoreline walk and tidepool exploration beneath the cliffs, then continue to Klootchy Creek Park where kids can run on sheltered beach sands and parents enjoy a picnic with ocean views. Mid-morning, arrive at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Visitor Center in Florence to pick up a kid-oriented dunes map and try a gentle sand sledding session on the nearby dune slopes before cooling off with shallow wading and shell-collecting along Horseshoe Cove.
After a morning of tidepooling and dune sledding, head south to explore the sheltered estuary at Siltcoos Lagoon where kids can paddle shallow waters in rentable kayaks or try a guided family canoe tour and watch for terns and herons along the reed edges. Later, visit the child-friendly driftwood playground and wide sands of Heceta Beach State Recreation Site for sandcastle building and a calm late-afternoon swim, then finish with a short sunset stroll across the boardwalk at Bob Creek Wayside to spot migrating shorebirds before returning to camp for a beachside dinner.
As the sun softens, head north of Florence for a relaxed shoreline dinner and tidepool hunt at Horsfall Beach, where kids can search for hermit crabs and parents enjoy wide views of the surf; follow with a short twilight walk through the sculpted driftwood groves at Cleawox Lake Day-Use Area for gentle paddle-board or canoe play in calm water. Finish the night at Siuslaw River Front RV Park (or a nearby family campground) with a firepit marshmallow roast while watching fishing boats return and listening to the river meet the sea.
Start your coastal morning with a breezy stroll and lighthouse climb at Cape Meares Lighthouse, where kids can peer from the cliffside viewpoint and explore the short interpretive trail through spruce forest; follow that with a hands-on stop at Netarts Bay for clam-digging (tidal schedule permitting) and shoreline rock-pooling that delights younger explorers. Before crossing into Washington, pause for a picnic and gentle beach play at Cannon Beach's Tolovana Park-the kids can chase gulls and hunt for heart-shaped driftwood while you enjoy Haystack Rock views, then pack up for the scenic drive north toward the Columbia River crossing.
After your Cannon Beach morning, drive into Astoria and stretch legs with a climb (or gentle stroll for kids) up the historic Astoria Column for panoramic river-and-ocean views, then head down to the waterfront to explore the interactive exhibits and kid-friendly displays at the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Later, take the family on a short ferry across the Columbia to Ilwaco (seasonal schedule) or stroll the fish-cleaning docks at Astoria's Riverwalk, grab fresh seafood at a harbor-side market, and finish the afternoon with playground time and tidepooling at Fort Stevens State Park before crossing the bridge into the Longview area for campground setup.
As evening settles, drive upriver for a relaxed waterfront dinner at Pier 39 Restaurant in Astoria, then stroll the riverfront esplanade to watch tugboats and fishing vessels glide under the evening sky; kids will enjoy spotting the historic ships lit up along the quay. Finish with a short night visit to Flavel House Museum grounds for a lantern-lit walk around the Victorian gardens before crossing into Washington and settling into a nearby family-friendly campground in the Longview area.
Leave your coastal leg and head north with a breakfast stop and playground break at Snoqualmie Falls Park-kids will love the thunderous falls and the easy trails along the viewpoint, while parents grab coffee at the nearby lodge. Continue with a hands-on science-and-nature stop at Heritage Park in Renton for paddleboard rentals on the gentle lake and a picnic by the water, then cross I-5 toward the border with a scenic leg-stretch at Point Ruston Waterfront Park in Tacoma where children can explore tidepools, splash at the shoreline, and run along the promenade before continuing toward Abbotsford.
Cross northbound and stop for a playful afternoon at Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge for easy, stroller-friendly boardwalks and kid-friendly birdwatching (bring binoculars) before continuing to Fort Langley National Historic Site where children can try a short costumed-history program, explore the riverfront trails, and watch heritage demonstrations. Finish the leg with a late-afternoon picnic and riverside play at Derby Reach Regional Park - easy swimming edges, a playground, and flat trails make it perfect for settling the kids before you push on toward your Surrey/Abbotsford campsite.
After crossing into the Fraser Valley, unwind with a riverside stroll and playground time at Mill Lake Park (Coquitlam) where kids can splash in the shallow fountain, ride the mini train (seasonal), and burn energy on the timber playground while you spread out an easy picnic. Later, head to Castle Fun Park in Abbotsford for family-friendly go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade games that appeal to 5-11-year-olds, then settle into your nearby campsite with a quick BBQ and stargazing to round out the day.
Leave the Fraser Valley and take a scenic inland drive with a first stop at Harrison Hot Springs for a family-friendly dip in the warm pools and a shoreline walk on the lake's pebble beach to stretch kids' legs. Continue up the valley to explore the interactive outdoor exhibits and riverfront playground at Roderick Haig-Brown Provincial Park-perfect for a picnic-then head toward Cache Creek with a short hike along the gentle creekside boardwalk at Bonaparte River Provincial Park to spot trout and stretch before the afternoon push toward Kamloops.
After your Bonaparte Creek stroll, drive into the Cache Creek corridor and stop for a hands-on break at Hat Creek Ranch Heritage Site, where kids can roam historic cabins, meet heritage animals, and try simple pioneer-era activities before a picnic on the shady lawn. Continue east with a short scenic detour to Marble Canyon Provincial Park for an easy boardwalk and suspension-bridge viewpoint over turquoise pools that thrills children, then roll into the Kamloops area with an afternoon riverside paddle or wading session at Savona Beach to cool off and set up camp for the evening.
Settle into a family-friendly campground near Heffley Creek and take a gentle dusk paddle on Heffley Lake where kids can watch dragonflies and parents enjoy calm mountain reflections; many lakeside sites have picnic tables and shallow edges perfect for little swimmers. Afterward, drive a short way to Pritchard Beach Provincial Park for a shoreline scavenger hunt and a campfire dinner, then finish the night with a lantern-lit stroll through the campground to spot bats and constellations above the Thompson Valley.
Rise early and take a scenic detour to Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area for a short, family-friendly loop where kids can explore alpine meadows and finger-guess wildflowers while you enjoy sweeping mountain vistas; pack a thermos and breakfast picnic to eat at the summit viewpoint. Continue with a playful stop at Darke Lake Provincial Park-rent a canoe or paddleboard for shallow-water paddling and shoreline rock-hunting, then let the children burn energy on the grassy beach before rolling toward Merritt for afternoon adventures.
After your Coquihalla and Darke Lake morning, drive into the Fraser Canyon with a riverside stop at Hells Gate Airtram-ride the tram for dramatic views of the Fraser River's narrow gorge and watch the whitewater while kids marvel at the gondola crossing. Continue west with a picnic and short exploration of Hell's Gate Provincial Park's interpretive trails and fish ladder exhibits, then roll into Merritt for an easy evening setup at a family-friendly campground near Nicola Lake where children can paddle, skip stones, and explore the lakeshore.
As the sun lowers, settle into a family-friendly campsite and take a short drive to Guichon Creek Trail for an easy twilight stroll where kids can splash in shallow riffles and hunt for skipping stones while you enjoy valley light. Follow with a picnic dinner and a marshmallow roast at Nicola Lake Waterfront Park, then finish the night with a gentle owl-spotting walk along the campground boardwalk near Coalmont Historic Site to introduce the children to local history under the stars.
Leave Merritt-era landscapes behind and head east toward Terrebonne with a refreshing stop at Parc régional de la Rivière-du-Nord for a riverside picnic and an easy flat walk where kids can paddle shallow edges and hunt for smooth river stones; the paved trails are perfect for scooters or a short family bike ride. Continue into town and stretch legs at Parc de la Rivière-des-Milles-Îles-launch a rented canoe for a calm family paddle through beaver-lined channels or explore the boardwalks and interpretive panels before checking into your campsite and unpacking the rooftop tent for a relaxed afternoon settling in.
Drive into town and park for a relaxed exploration of Vieux-Terrebonne Historic District, where cobbled streets, artisan shops, and the scenic riverfront make a gentle first stop for kids to scoop gelato and stretch their legs; follow with a hands-on visit to Musée d'histoire de Terrebonne to introduce the family to local history through interactive exhibits and preserved heritage buildings. Finish the afternoon with a riverside picnic and easy paddle at Parc de l'Île-des-Moulins, letting the children play on the lawns and along the gentle millrace while you pick a nearby campsite to set up the rooftop tent and settle in for your first evening in Terrebonne.
After unpacking, enjoy a relaxed riverside stroll and playground time at Parc de la Pinière, where kids can run on the grassy play areas and parents can watch sunset views over the Rivière des Mille Îles; grab sandwiches from a nearby bakery for a casual picnic. Later, take a short drive to Boisé Saint-Martin for an easy family-friendly boardwalk walk through wetlands-look for frogs and herons-and finish the night with crepes or poutine at a local family bistro in Place Terrebonne before settling into your rooftop tent for a peaceful first night in town.
Ease into the last day with a slow breakfast and gentle unpacking at your campsite, then take a restorative stroll through Parc de l'Île-des-Moulins to watch the millrace and let the kids explore grassy play areas and historic waterwheels. Mid-morning, visit Jardin des Patriotes for shaded paths and a calm spot for a picnic and light games, followed by a short hands-on stop at Centre d'interprétation de la rivière des Mille Îles where children can learn about local wildlife and take part in a simple nature-activity station before returning to camp to finish tidying the rooftop tent.
Head to Parc de la Rivière-des-Milles-Îles for a gentle riverside paddle in a rented canoe or kayak-kids can watch for beavers and birds along calm channels while parents relax on the water. After paddling, stroll the shaded trails of Parc du Domaine Vert where a short nature loop and picnic shelters give the family room to stretch, sort gear, and enjoy a slow, unpacking-friendly afternoon before returning to camp for a relaxed dinner.
Wind down the day with a leisurely riverside walk and playground time at Parc des Moulins-de-Terrebonne (different paths than the morning), then enjoy an easy picnic dinner from the market while kids play on the lawns and you organize gear. Later, take a calm sunset stroll through Île-des-Moulins boardwalk extension to watch the waterwheels turn and finish with crepes or hot-chocolate at Le Petit Bistro de la Rive for a cozy family treat before bed.