I'll add my .02 as a minority who is half black and latino and looking to do some "camping"
I grew up in the county outside NYC and my wife grew up in the city. She had more overall outdoor experience than me! I was in a smart kid camp around 12 years old and we went camping. Tying our food and watching a classmate sh*t in a hole was not my idea of fun so I never really gave thought to doing it again.
Years later, we went to a campground with friends and rented a "cabin". Hanging out on the property, swimming in the pool, and sitting around the fire was cool. Our kids had a great time. Knowing I had a a real bathroom and and bed waiting for me made it even that much more enjoyable. Fast forward to today, we're in the market for a travel trailer so we can enjoy glamping. My wife and I won't ever do tent camping but my daughter loves it. Moreso it seems than her white boyfriend from PA does. Maybe because it's new to her and old to him, who knows. Point being, it all comes down to personal preference. I like the outdoors more these days but i still have my limitations. We'll go hiking, hit trails, look for swimming holes, waterfalls, etc. I might try fishing or hunting soon. No running water, no electricity, bugs............not very enticing to me.
I do agree that exposing kids is probably the #1 factor but general life experience and willingness to try new things is almost just as big. My niece from NYC was visiting over the summer and was mesmerized by the stars in the sky she was able to see standing in the driveway. She went bike riding with us, a drive in movie along with some other things, and basically said it was the best time of her life. I'm glad to see programs that help expose kids and families to activities they might not normally get to see/do. Sports, art, etc. Where I work they have plenty of programs and centers that do just that.
As for going somewhere full of white people....I can do it and be ok though i know others who may be hesitant. Heck, I can go just about anywhere full of people who are not like me and look to learn and enjoy aspects of their culture. My wife tends to feel a little more out of place but will deal with it. Mind you, she's latina and could be mistaken for white! I notice the looks and side talk but i pay it no mind. I'm there for my service whatever it may be. If the people there take the time to set aside any preconceived notions, they might find themselves pleasantly surprised in making conversation. If i go to a campground, I'm not so much of a social butterfly where i'll go up to anyone and everyone. However i won't hesitate to have a beer or conversation. Just like at work, I'll stay away from certain topics that have no reason to be discussed in that setting. The kids just being kids and playing is the best icebreaker and proof that a lot of what we think is learned behavior anyway. I don't discount experiences that others have had and past generations of my family had to endure. I try to do my part in teaching my kids their culture and history while also teaching them to work towards a better future.
PS.... i can be paranoid sometimes but spotting a tick on me isn't the easiest! that alone give me pause about being in my yard let alone the woods :B
