Every time we pull into a new campground, one of the first things I do is scout for a good takeoff spot. The kids get excited — "Daddy, fly the drone!" — and within minutes we're seeing our temporary home from 400 feet up.
It started as a hobby. Now it's one of our favorite family traditions.
Why We Fly
Campground Scouting
A quick flight shows us the full layout — where the playground is, which sites have shade, where the quiet section is. It's saved us from several bad site choices.
Family Memories
Drone footage of our RV parked next to a mountain lake, the kids running across a field, sunset over the campfire — these are the shots that make the best memories.
Education
Our 8-year-old is learning to fly (with supervision). It teaches spatial awareness, responsibility, weather reading, and FAA regulations.
Our Drones
DJI Mini 4 Pro
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is our primary drone. Under 249g (no FAA registration required for recreational), shoots 4K, has obstacle avoidance, and folds down to fit in a jacket pocket. About 34 minutes of battery life.
DJI Avata 2
The DJI Avata 2 is our FPV drone. I fly it with goggles and it's the most fun I've ever had with a piece of technology. The kids love watching the goggle feed on the phone.
Landing Pad
A foldable landing pad is essential. Campground surfaces are dirt, gravel, and grass — all terrible for drone motors and cameras.
Rules and Etiquette
- Check airspace — many campgrounds are near airports or in restricted zones. Use the B4UFLY app.
- Respect privacy — never fly over other people's campsites.
- Early morning is best — less wind, fewer people, better light.
- Keep it brief — 10-15 minutes max per flight.
The Footage
We've built up hundreds of clips from campgrounds across the country. Mountains, deserts, lakefronts, forests — each captured from a perspective our kids will be able to look back on someday. That's the real value.
Keep Reading
- RV Cooking: 10 One-Pot Meals Our Kids Actually Eat
- Homeschool on Wheels: Our Curriculum, Schedule, and Honest Review
- Melissa's Mobile Craft Studio: Creating on the Road
- Faith on the Road: How We Keep Our Family Grounded While Moving
🎒 Curious what gear we use? Check out our complete gear guide — every product tested over 200+ nights on the road.
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