Why Conservation

It is where we are at our best

The state parks are a home away from home for our family. One of the first things we bought for the baby was a screened camping bassinet. Our vacations have almost always included camping, making those family times rich with memories of planned AND unexpected adventures. One year, each of the kids had their own little tent, and we looked like a great troop making camp around one fire pit. Once we went without tents, and fell asleep counting stars overhead. And never forget the time it rained so hard we were wet to the bone, but still laughing.

The kids have a greater sense of freedom when we are camping. They can explore and experience and imagine propelled by their own initiative. We all relax from schedules, routines, and lists of things to do to a pace controlled by more natural rhythms. Yet the time spent together outdoors brings us closer as a family, sharing in all the activities of making camp, hiking or fishing together. We become a team where everyone plays an essential role.

My favorite place in Nebraska is anywhere we are together outdoors. It is where we are at our best.

- The Erickson Family