Well, last year for our road trip we spent 7 days going around the perimeter of the lower peninsula in Michigan, our home stomping grounds. I don't know what I would have done if my teen (14 at the time) hadn't come with us. We did tent camping in a couple different locations, Tawas Point State Park, and Traverse City. At both locations he set up the tent, and started the fire. I think partially he really enjoyed the "family trip" because we did a variety of activities, so there was something for everyone. Plus, the camping we did allowed him to show off some of his camp skills. This year, we did 11 days through Canada, New York, Massachusetts, and Maine. We did have one day where he opted not to go to the beach with us....but I think that had less to do with avoiding family time, and more that he just didn't want to spend the day out in 90 degree weather. It did catch me by surprise though, and I did ask him to reconsider. It was fine though...and all of us(from 23months to 38) enjoyed our trip.

Thanks for sharing about your family vacations. We'd love to hear more about your 11 day trip this year. I'm with you about it just not being the same if all the family isn't along.