u/ksmile5

Hi- I haven’t camped in 10+ years but would like to get back to it and bring my 4.5 year old along to introduce her to the wonders of being in nature. We are based in northern Westchester, NY. Thinking about going for a Sept weekend. Would love suggestions on campgrounds that are within a few hour drive that are great for an introduction to camping, aka running water/showers, short but pretty hikes either at campground or nearby, perhaps ability to rent a kayak on a pond, restaurants nearby as I do not have a camp stove (though could explore getting one). I do want it to feel sufficiently like we are out in the wilderness and not overcrowded by people, though. Not sure what else I should be thinking about…we have a tent, sleeping bags, pads, etc. Would love ideas!

I’m trying to figure out how much layover time I need to allow for different legs of my trip. Traveling round trip in October Poughkeepsie to Chicago (in roomette for this leg both ways) and then Chicago to Minneapolis. While on the way out we are scheduled to arrive at 10:12am in Chicago, there is then an 11:10am or 3:05pm to MSP. I would rather not get to Chicago at 11pm, but an hour layover feels maybe tight given Amtrak delays on a long haul trip? If we were late would they just rebook me on the next train? Same for return, the train departs Chicago 9:30pm and I can be on a train that leaves Minneapolis at 8:50am and gets me to Chicago 4:45pm or one that departs 11:49am (better time for me) but gets me to Chicago for my roomette leg at 7:21pm. Would love any advice from frequent travelers/train watchers!

I’m looking to get a Priority bike to use by the beach (aka flat roads, but also salt/ocean air) and it will need to be stored outside all summer. From what I can tell it seems these will be able to last much longer in these environs, is that accurate from those who have actual lived experience? Won’t be riding on sand, all roads.

Hoping to go with used at first, so also wondering if $200 is a good value for a four year old step through beach cruiser I found on marketplace, or if I should keep looking. Thanks!

I’ve decided to pick up a Marmot Limestone during Mem day sales, but am torn between the 4p and 6p. I like the height of the 6p but am not sure if it’s too much tent to set up as one person, since most of the time it’ll be me and my (currently) four year old (though there may occasionally be a second adult). Would want to comfortably fit a full or queen size mattress and gear, and use it for years to come. Car camping only. If difference in cost isn’t a concern, would the 6p be our best bet?