While August traditionally is the worst month to be in Washington, D.C., due to the high humidity, Shenandoah National Park officials hope to entice a few families into the mountains in late June: They're offering a family camping program.

The Basics of Family Camping seminar is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, June 27-28, 2009. This overnight seminar coincides with the national Great American Backyard Campout, a national event that encourages individuals, youth, friends, and families to camp out together for one night.

A camping trip to a national park has been a long-standing tradition for many American families. However, a lot of today’s busy families have not had the opportunity to share a camping experience together. This seminar is designed for those families who have always wanted to learn how to camp but never had the time to learn.

Campers will learn from park rangers and camping experts how to pitch a tent, build a campfire, plan and prepare meals, explore nature with your children, and how to “Leave No Trace,” while creating memories to last a lifetime. Tents, cooking equipment, and food will be provided.

“The Basics of Family Camping” is $50 for one adult and child (5-12 years old) and $10 for each additional family member. Reservations are required and space is limited. Shenandoah National Park Association members receive a 20 percent discount. To register, go to the Shenandoah National Park website and sign up.

Future seminars include Hiking With Children on Sunday, July 12, 2009, a repeat of The Basics of Family Camping, July 18-19, 2009, and The American Chestnut: Restoring Forest Majesty, Saturday, August 22, 2009.

The complete Resource Seminar schedule can be found at this site.

The Shenandoah National Park Resource Seminars are co-sponsored by the Shenandoah National Park Association and ARAMARK, the park’s official concessioner.

For more information, contact the park’s Education Office at 540-999-3500, extension 3489.