Host a Backyard Campout

Backyard camping is a great way for families to have fun together. If your kids want to have a few friends over to join in on the fun, send out the invitations early so you’ll know exactly how many people will be at the campout.

When the big day arrives, pack up everything you need as if you were going away for the camping trip. This includes extra clothing, food, sleeping bags, flashlights and so forth. Set the ground rules and begin your adventure. For example, to make the campout more realistic no one should go back inside the house to get anything left behind once the backyard campout officially begins.

Pitch the tents first, then get the sleeping bags ready to use. This way, if you run into any problems you can take care of them right away. It will also give the tents a chance to air out some. Find ways to stay entertained while waiting for nightfall. If you live in a county setting, explore the woods near your home, climb trees, explore nature and play games together.

Cook your meals on a BBQ grill and use a portable fire pit to keep warm and to roast marshmallows. If it’s safe to do so in your area and you don’t have a fire pit, you can build a campfire. Just make sure the water hose is nearby, just in case you need it. Keep things simple and enjoy spending a night outside camping in your own backyard.