Schafer State Park

As the final days of July were upon us, we set out to enjoy another great camping adventure. This time we went with my parents and they headed out early on Friday to assure us a spot - and a great one at that. We drove only about an hour out of town to Schafer State Park where we set up camp for 2 full nights.

Apparently Schafer State Park was where I made some of my early childhood camping memories. Except I remember the camping part, but honestly had no recollection of the campsite all these years later; not even once we arrived on Friday night. It is a wonderful little camp right on the Satsop River. Even though the weather was unseasonably cool, it was pleasant enough to enjoy the outdoors, especially hiking, which we did in the surrounding woods at our own campground and then around Lake Sylvia (a short drive away from camp). We were also fortunate not to have any rain.

Peyton is a very happy camper. He loves the outdoors and is very adaptable on these adventures. I think the fresh air and unlimited outdoor play time bring out the best in him. He talks about camping often and how we sleep in a tent. Peyton also enjoys eating outside and begs to do this at home, even on a cold, foggy, Pacific Northwest summer morning, like today. Peyton: "Eat outside, Mama. Eat at picnic table." Me: "Uh, outside? No thanks, son. Maybe another day." Peyton: "Yeah, maybe."

Sleepy times around the campfire.

Grandpa holds the record for the longest cuddle time
with the Little Dude - ever (at least 15 minutes).

But why sit still when there are new things to see and do?

Like collecting rocks, digging in dirt, checking out the foliage,

and climbing trees, of course!

While he likes to do most things by himself these days,
he was willing to accept a boost from his Mommy to get just a little higher!

He fearlessly headed down any path into the woods...

...down the road...

...to the river...

...for a dig...

...and an early morning wade!