Frio River camping, as is the case with camping anywhere along a scenic river, can be quite the experience. Things can change, though, because the “river-centric” adventure of your single days is made very different by virtue of having children. As a parent, your are either the matriarch or patriarch of your family. Your job is to make any trip fun & successful, but you also have to make sure everyone is safe.
Your next camping elicits a little more anxiety because you’re going to be near the Frio River. But do yourself, and the rest of the family, a favor by relaxing just a bit. As long as you can keep the following bits of information close at hand & doing a little prep work ahead of time, you’ll find that you can ease into your trip a little better:
1. Your trip will include working through temps during both day & night. You’ll experience shifts from warm days to cool nights. Being that you’re near the Frio River, remember that the word “frio” means cold in Spanish. Temperatures in the water average 70 degrees. Since you have the kids, you want them comfortable. Rather than packing heavy amounts of clothing, why not make a “climate kit” for the car & one everyone’s bag? Some all-season clothing & long-sleeve shirts can be a good start.
2. The general idea of etiquette for the people around you seems to be a lost virtue. As such, poor camp etiquette from others is something that you may encounter. The Frio River is a popular tubing destination & can attract rowdy groups & alcohol. When making your arrangements, ask about the types of groups that are set to be visiting at the same time as your family. Moreover, when you’re planning your trip, look at available calendars of events to try & avoid certain dates.
3. Camping along the Frio River means you generally won’t have access to the stuff your kids need to survive (or so it seems). Use this trip as an opportunity to take advantage of the area’s fishing, hiking, canoeing, bike trails, and kayaking! You could even experience the Frio Bat Cave in Concan or head to Uvalde to sweeten things up at the “Honey Capital of the World”.
4. Your family will be engaging in some seriously physical activities such as hiking and riding bicycles. You may deal with cuts or scrapes, so keep some bandages and hydrogen peroxide to keep things clean & protected. Also, be prepared to treat a sprain or break. Have some basic supplies to help either provide hot/cold compresses or stability if the injury is a little more serious.
5. The Frio River is known for having clear, fast-flowing water, so if swimming with be a part of your trip’s activities, take precautions. Organizations such as American Whitewater deal in whitewater safety & provide figures on the imminent dangers certain bodies of water pose. The Frio, for example, is fairly safe for all but not without its dangers.
If you’re doing some Frio River camping, you’re stint in the Texas Hill Country will be marked by good times & lifelong memories. With a little homework and planning, your camping trip to this part of the Lone Star State will not be your last.
