A first taste of camping for kids
We brought our three small granddaughters—ages 8, 6, and 4—for a "first toe in the water" intro to camping. They are city bred and nervous of the dark, non-flush toilets, and possible crocodiles. Santiam Serenity was perfect for them. The shallow water of the river sideslip was safe for play and the smooth stones fun to build with. We saw minnows, a garter snake, and deer, but nothing that roared or stung. I made an expedition with the oldest (Balboa in Panama!) to discover the wider river. If we came again we might try fishing.
The cabin made a cozy retreat from too much camping. It is more commodious than it appears in the photos. Our host, Michelle, has provided pretty much everything a visitor could require, as well as thoughtful extras like boxed games and a vase of fresh flowers. We were a fairly large group (7 people) but, honestly, I think a couple could arrive with no more than their toothbrushes and a change of undies and be perfectly comfortable.