Exploring Bandelier National Monument with Kids: History, Hiking, and a Camp Stove Hack


 

Exploring Bandelier National Monument with Kids: History, Hiking, and a Camp Stove Hack

Our family recently visited Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico, and it was one of those trips that checked all the homeschool mom boxes—history, nature, hands-on learning, and memories made.

If you're looking for a destination that combines ancient Native American culture, beautiful trails, and interactive experiences for kids, this one’s a must.



First Stop: The Visitor Center

We began our adventure at the Bandelier Visitor Center, where the rangers were welcoming and full of helpful information. Two of our daughters jumped right into the Junior Ranger program, which was the perfect way to engage them in the history and natural beauty of the area. The activity booklets were age-appropriate, and the sense of accomplishment when they received their badges was priceless!



Hiking to the Ancestral Puebloan Homes

From the Visitor Center, we followed the Main Loop Trail, which is an easy, well-marked hike even for younger kids. Along the way, we saw cliff dwellings, kivas, and petroglyphs carved into the rock. The best part? We climbed a ladder up into one of the homes!

Watching the kids step into a real Ancestral Puebloan dwelling sparked so many questions—and led to a great car ride conversation later about how families used to live, cook, and survive in this very land.



Mom Hack: Camp Stove Beef Stew

After our hike, everyone was hungry so we pulled out our camp stove and made a super simple, hearty lunch right in the parking lot picnic area.

Mom Hack Alert!
We heated up canned beef stew and stirred in a couple cans of green beans to stretch it and add some extra nutrition. Quick, warm, filling—and no one complained!

Pro tip: Keep a can opener and a pot in your camping kit, and you’ll always have a meal ready to go.

Why This Trip Was Worth It

  • ✅ Outdoor learning at its best

  • ✅ Kids were active, engaged, and curious

  • ✅ Easy trails and clean facilities

  • ✅ Educational + adventurous = homeschool win

Tips for Your Visit

  • 🚶‍♀️ The Main Loop Trail is stroller-friendly up to a point, but you’ll need to carry littles if you climb ladders.

  • 🎒 Bring water and sunscreen—it can get hot even in cooler months.

  • 📚 Stop at the Visitor Center first to get Junior Ranger books and trail maps.

  • 🥫 Pack simple camp stove meals and make it part of the experience!

  • 🕰️ Plan for 2–3 hours minimum, more if you hike the longer trails.

Want to see more of our adventure?
I shared snippets from our day over on Instagram at @ministry.of.mothering, where I post faith-filled encouragement, practical mom hacks, and behind-the-scenes of our homeschool journey. Come join me!

#BandelierNationalMonument #JuniorRangerProgram #HomeschoolFieldTrip #Roadschooling #ChristianHomeschool #FamilyHikingAdventure #MinistryOfMothering #HomeschoolingWithHeart #MomHacksOnTheGo #FaithFilledMotherhood #EducationalTravelWithKids

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