At its heart, “family-friendly” means every generation feels welcome, known, and cared for—whether they come to hunt, fish, or simply relax and explore. A lodge earns the Family Expeditions “family-friendly” stamp of approval only when hospitality, safety, and thoughtful activity options for all ages are consistently evident.
The criteria we look for
Respectful, welcoming teams.
Think handshakes that feel like old friends, names remembered at breakfast, and staff who genuinely light up around multi-generational groups. From grandparents to first-time adventurers, every guest—hunters and non-hunters alike—is treated with patience, kindness, and the sense that they truly belong.
Comfortable, right-sized lodging.
Spaces that invite you to linger: big tables for card games, cozy fireplaces for story time, quiet nooks for nap time. Rooms are thoughtfully arranged so families can spread out, rest well, and feel safe—without losing that “all together” feeling that makes a trip special.
Great options for non-hunters.
Because not everyone heads into the field, we look for destinations where the off-the-rifle day is just as memorable—wildlife viewing, scenic touring, boating, spa afternoons, charming towns, and local culture could be options. A supportive team helps plan these moments so non-hunters feel just as seen, celebrated, and engaged.
Kid-friendly, professional guides.
The best guides are calm coaches—clear communicators who know when to teach, when to encourage, and when to step back so kids and first-timers can shine. They set the tone in the field: confident, safety-minded, and always creating an environment where younger participants feel capable and excited.
Age-appropriate safety.
We tailor pace and activities to your family’s season of life. That means smart supervision, clear expectations, and itineraries that fit your vision of the adventure—knowing each day is built with age, attention spans, and comfort levels in mind.
Flexible, custom itineraries.
No one-size-fits-all here. We blend field time with unhurried touring, pockets of downtime, and celebratory meals so everyone ends the day smiling—ready to swap stories around the table and wake up eager for what’s next.
How lodges make the list
We personally visit and evaluate destinations worldwide. Only properties that consistently demonstrate warm hospitality, professional guiding, diverse activities, and comfortable accommodations make our roster—and receive the Family Expeditions “family-friendly” designation.
Planning a multi-generational adventure—or a trip where hunters and non-hunters are equally thrilled? We’ll match you with the right lodge, tell you exactly what to expect, and handle the details from start to finish.
*A quick caveat
We vet every single lodge for the same level of expertise, ethics, and overall experience. However, not all of our lodges are designated “family-friendly.” Some hunts are inherently rugged or intense and better suited for seasoned adults—for example, an Alaska brown bear hunt, which involves challenging conditions and is typically not ideal for younger children or non-hunting family members.
