I agree with Flapper. The idea of avoiding any potential training issues until he's grown IS a disaster waiting to happen.
My Bat-dog has people issues. I have always taken her camping with me (along with her brother who is a good boy). I've never pretended she didn't have issues, I've never let my attention wander from her, and I've always had a positive experience with other campers in regards to her. Most folks were happy to assist with a little positive reinforcement. When we started, she was a 95 percent problem camper. With a lot of 3 and 4 day trips, she has become a 10 percent problem camper (when she gets tired and cranky she regresses a bit).
Most shepherds are eager to please and a stern "NO" and "the look" can do wonders for them. They don't like having you upset with them.
I would recommend that one adult take on the task of keeping him in line - no trying to handle six kids AND the dog by one parent. Always keep him on a 6ft leash and always have an adult holding onto that leash and paying attention to him.
I squirt bottle with water can help when he gets "excited" and forgets to listen - the squirt of water is enough to break his attention from the excitement and remind him that you're there talking to him.
Exercise is great. A routine is great. A "cuddle" period at night before bed where he can lay down and let the kids touch him and just be calm and relaxed can help settle him for bedtime. A toybox with some special "camping only" toys can help also - you might stay away from tug-of-war and keep away games as those tend to encourage over excitement.
