Charleston Lake Family Camping Trip – Storms, S’mores & Summer Traditions

There’s something comforting about returning to a place that holds so many memories—and this past weekend at Charleston Lake Provincial Park was no exception. It was time for our annual family camping trip, and like always, it gave us the perfect mix of connection, chaos, and pure joy.

Located just over an hour northeast of Kingston, Charleston Lake offers some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Ontario. Towering trees, clear blue water, and the kind of peaceful silence you can only find deep in nature—it’s the perfect setting to unplug from daily life and just be.

This year’s crew included my sister Alicia, my two energetic nieces Kaidy and Mila, and my adventurous little nephew Sully. From the moment we pulled into our site, it was clear the weekend was going to be filled with the kind of memories we’ll talk about for years.

No Signal, Just Real Connection

One of the most unexpected (and beautiful) parts of the trip was that we had zero cell service. At first, it felt a little unsettling—no scrolling, no quick texts, no weather updates—but very quickly, it became exactly what we all needed.

Phones were left in the tents, and without the constant pull of technology, we fully leaned into each other’s company. Fewer photos were taken this year, but the moments were truly lived.

From playing pickle ball to roasting marshmallows by the fire and chasing the kids barefoot through the grass—it was the kind of presence that’s hard to find in everyday life.

It reminded me that sometimes the best memories aren’t captured through a lens but felt in your heart.

Too Hot to Hike, So We Hit the Water

Normally we love to explore the trails, but this weekend's heatwave had other plans. It was far too hot for hiking, so we made the most of our time by spending it where it was coolest—on the water.

We paddled around Charleston Lake for hours, soaking in the sunshine and cool breeze off the water. The lake was calm, the shoreline stunning, and the kids loved spotting turtles and dragonflies. Even Sully had his moment out on the kayak, lifejacket strapped on and eyes wide with excitement. It was the perfect way to stay active without overheating—and it quickly became everyone’s favourite part of the trip.

Campfires, Cousins & Chaos

Back at camp, we were all about those classic camping vibes. Dinners cooked over the fire, sticky s’mores, and nonstop laughter filled the evenings. Sully and Mila were wild with excitement, bouncing between climbing the big hill and going for walks in Mila's stroller. Kaidy was amazing keeping up her energy and being the best big cousin babysitter.

There’s a rhythm to camping with kids—highs, lows, and lots of snack breaks—but the memories we build in these moments are absolutely priceless.

A Storm to Remember

And just when we thought we’d seen it all, Saturday night brought the kind of storm you don’t forget.

As we snuggled into our tents, the skies opened up with a thunderstorm that shook the entire campground. Crashing thunder, strobe-like lightning, and pounding rain made it feel like we were right in the heart of Mother Nature’s power. We huddled close, checked on each other between booms, and rode it out together.

The tents held strong, the kids were brave, and by morning everything was soaked—but the sun came out, and so did our smiles. There’s something about surviving a wild storm in a tent that bonds you like nothing else.

The Beauty of Simple

This weekend reminded me that the best moments aren’t always planned or perfectly documented. Sometimes, they’re found in the quiet of a morning paddle, the crackle of a campfire, or the shared giggles of overtired kids after a storm.

Camping with family isn’t always neat or easy, but it’s real. And that’s where the magic is.

If you’re looking for a park that delivers on scenery, serenity, and solid family vibes, Charleston Lake is one to add to your summer bucket list.

What About You?

Do you have a favourite park, a family camping tradition, or a wild storm story? I’d love to hear it. Drop a comment below or tag me on Instagram @fitnessadventures.ca and share your story!

🌲 P.S.: Planning a trip of your own? Download my Free Camping Checklist PDF—created so you never forget the essentials (like extra snacks, rain gear… and patience!).

Until next time,

Stay wild, stay adventurous,

Liz