We have a family reunion organized at a state park next May. There are going to be old folks, young uns and everyone in between. We have reserved some screened shelters for overnight camping. They are 12 x 18 with a picnic table inside it, has electricity but otherwise bare concrete floors.

Need suggestions on how to make it work - comfortable and easy enough for grandma and grandpa to enjoy their stay. What if it rains heavily? I know many of you are experienced campers so I'm looking forward to your ideas.

Hey Wooly!

First off, for grandma and grandpa, they're not going to be able to get up and down off the ground easily. I strongly suggest some of the double height air mattresses or something to raise their bedding up off the floor. Also, remember that air mattresses will conduct cold, so when their bed is made, make sure you have a layer under them to keep them warm.... aka, make the bed with them laying on top of one thick sleeping bag, then another sleeping bag over them to keep them warm.

Your screened shelter is going to be great for if it rains. If you have a chance of severe storms and sideways rain, you can get a couple tarps at walmart and have those around the sides.

Since you're going to have electricity, a couple fans in case it gets hot. Also bring some folding camp chairs.

Entertainment - musical instruments, somebody bring a guitar, and a harmonica and y'all have fun. Some of the best music is just "musical doodling" Dominoes are great for camping, as are other board games like Scrabble. Something with plastic tiles that won't matter too much if they might get damp, or hand held card games like Apples to Apples and The Great Dalmuti

For food, do not attempt to outdo yourselves cooking over a big campfire. We just got news that La Nina means we're going to have another dry winter. We've been fighting burn bans and wildfires all over the state. Breakfast is great when its simple. Some breakfast tacos of just eggs, cheese, potatoes and sausage, bacon, or ham. Supper is easy, but again, don't require a campfire to make it work, and keep it simple.

My ex's family did that at Tyler State Park a few years ago. They had several screened shelters and one large patio area reserved for the group gathering. Those that were uncomfortable or unable to camp stayed in motels. There were 50 or 60 people in attendance most of the time. Lots of dominoes, card, and board games. Hiking for the kids. Aslo swimming, kayacking, and canoeing were favorite pasttimes. Try to get close to the toilets. A long hike to the bathroom after dark is no picnic.

Will definitely pick up some extra tarps in case it rains sideways. Raised air mattress or even a cot might be in order too.

Kattelyn's advice is wonderful.

I would add to watch for the projected lows at night, I know as we get older some of us get cold easier than we used to.
A small portable heater if possibly needed could make a big difference.
We take one when camping with electricity and it has really come in handy.
Grandma and Grandpa may want to limit how much they "rough it."
I hope y'all have a wonderful time and please report how it went.