Rain can put a damper on a camping trip. A bit of time spent planning the details in advance of the trip will enable you to enjoy yourself regardless of the weather. Certain preparations made before you leave home, before you set up camp at the site and before packing the tent after the trip will allow you to enjoy the trip regardless of the weather.
Make sure your tent is ready for rain before you leave home. Purchase waterproof sealant and spray every seam of the tent. Plan a trial run and set up the tent before you leave so you'll have an easier time later if you have to set up camp in the rain. Pack rain gear for each person in the camping party. This gear should include a rain coat and pants. Include extra tarps to spread over and under the tent. The tarp under the tent will help protect the tent's floor. You can also bring along waterproof plastic to line the inside floor. Make sure the floor liner goes up each wall about six inches to protect leaky spots from saturating the gear and your sleeping area. The overhead tarp should be long enough to create a dry cooking area in front of the tent's opening. Pack all food, supplies and clothing in plastic or rubber containers. Leave most items in the car if possible when expecting wet weather.
Place your tent on a level surface and make sure the tent's location isn't at the bottom of a hill. Run-off from rain will pool under and around the tent if you do so. Tree branches that hang over the tent will allow a place to attach the outer tarp if you're strategic when picking your camp spot. If you're setting up in the rain, put the overhead tarp in place before setting up the tent. Place another tarp on the ground and set the tent up on top of it. Place the tent liner inside the tent before moving in gear. Make sure nothing touches the inner tent sides or roof. Moisture will wick in from the outside and you'll end up with a puddle of water. Air mattresses allow you to sleep up off the ground even if the tent does leak in places.
Bring along games that are easy to play inside a tent or under a tarp at a table to prevent boredom. Board games and cards can provide hours of entertainment. A few favorite books to read aloud will create a cozy, bonding experience. Use the rain gear you brought along and take hikes in the woods if the weather doesn't present a safety issue. A little water shouldn't mess up your plans to get close to nature. If your gear is wet when you pack to return home, wrap it inside the waterproof tarps. The tent will need to be set up to dry as soon as possible after your return home so it won't mildew or mold. Lay the other gear out to dry as well.
