You don't mention the ages or your kids, or which region you wish to visit, so we'll just pass along a couple of our favorite all-inclusives for families.

• A grand hotel set amidst 15,000 acres of wilderness--that's The Balsams in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire (the White Mountains region). Built just after the Civil War--except for the "new wing" built in 1918--this destination resort offers all the outdoor fun you could wish for. Amenities include two golf courses, six tennis courts, a heated outdoor pool (set alongside trout-stocked Lake Gloriette), paddle boats, canoes, fly-fishing, a network of mountain bike trails, and, the best part, we think: access to wonderful hiking trails, about 44 kilometers of glorious mountain wilderness. And there's more: a peek at the bulletin board in the lobby reveals natural history programs, nightly live entertainment, and first-run films in a 200-seat movie theater. Plus, the food is gourmet-quality. A children's camp is offered daily during July and August for kids 5 to 13, grouped according to age.

Activities include swimming, hiking, crafts, and--we like this one!--manners classes. Everything's included. Summer rates vary according to room size. Call (800) 877-225-7267 or visit The Balsams.

• The Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York, is a sprawling Victorian manor house oozing with historic charm. (Do you see a pattern here?) The 20,000-acre property, set alongside a lake in the Shawangunk Mountains, offers lots of recreation options, including swimming, boating, golf, tennis, and group activities like softball games, cookouts, and outdoor movies. Kid's programs are included in the fee. Little Tykes is designed for children ages two to three, while the Children's Program is geared to ages four and up. Activities include croquet, ice-cream-making, and nature walks, or theme activities befitting Mad Hatter Tea Party day or Western Roundup day. Kids' programs are available daily, mid-June through Labor Day, and on most weekends and holidays during the rest of the year. Rates vary. Call (800) 772-6646 for up-to-date rate information. Ask about Kids Stay Free packages (for kids 4-12) offered Sunday-Thursday. For more information visit their Web site or call 845-255-1000.

• Also worth investigating: The Homestead in Hot Springs, Virginia. A big draw here: the little ones make pottery or take nature hikes with new pals at the Kid's Club while you hang in the spa and hot springs. There are fun activities to do as a family, like horseback riding, bowling, biking, fly-fishing, and swimming. This historic inn is set in the Allegheny Mountains. Summer rates vary and include breakfast and dinner; children's program extra. Call (800) 838-1766 or visit The Homestead.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Originally published in March 2001. Updated April 2006.