Once upon a trip in August, Tara and her son Nolan celebrated a milestone birthday with us at Fort Camping in Fort Langley, BC. Tara, who often shares her motherhood journey as she raises Nolan with autism, opened up about what made the weekend so meaningful. Follow her at @all4nolan for more autism friendly adventures.
Nolan’s Favorite Birthday Moments
When asked about his favorite part of the trip, Nolan’s excitement shone through. Tara shared, “He loved our movie night. He loved hearing the trains. He loved the hay wagon ride.” It was a weekend filled with simple joys, each moment adding to the celebration.
Why Camping Matters to Tara’s Family
For Tara, camping has always been more than just a getaway—it’s a tradition and a dream fulfilled.
“Camping has been a wish I had to do for kids since they were born. We gradually bought older trailers and worked our way up to something bigger and more comfortable. I even camped with my step kids at Fort Langley when my youngest was only three months old—we did the Halloween theme weekend.”
She shared that camping is especially meaningful for Nolan.
“It’s memories. It’s a safe place on wheels where he can explore how he wishes, and then come back to the comfort of our trailer. It’s all his favorite things rolled into a weekend of undivided attention for all our kids. It’s our home away from home wherever we make it.”
Tara’s Tips for Camping with Kids
Tara knows that for some parents, the idea of camping with kids—especially those with unique needs—can feel intimidating. Her advice is simple: start small.
“Rent a cabin to start. Take advantage of what your place has to offer—convenience, accessibility, and comfort. I’ve given your campsite name to anyone who is thinking of trying it or says ‘I’m not a camper,’ because your site offers the best of both worlds to the outdoorsy and the homebodies.”
Celebrating Birthday At Fort Camping
For Nolan, it was a birthday filled with adventure, laughter, and family connection. For Tara, it was the joy of seeing her children make memories together in a place that feels safe and welcoming. Stories like theirs remind us why Fort Camping is more than just a campground—it’s a place where families celebrate milestones and life’s special occasions. Over the years, guests have chosen Fort Camping for intimate camping weddings, 25th wedding anniversaries, birthday parties, and so much more.
Whether you’re gathering with a small family or a large group, Fort Camping has the perfect setting. Our group campsite is available for bigger celebrations, while our tent cabins and RV rental units make it easy to include family members who don’t own an RV. No matter the occasion, Fort Camping is here for you—and with you—every step of the way. Book your special trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
