Backyard camping can be a fun and convenient way to enjoy the outdoor experience without leaving the comfort of your own home or having to even pack the car. It also lets you change things up and do something different with your backyard and it’s a great opportunity to bond with family and friends and create lasting memories. Here’s how you can set up a family backyard camping adventure:
Plan and Prepare
Decide on a date for your camping adventure and check the weather forecast to ensure suitable conditions.
Make a checklist of camping essentials you’ll need, such as a tent, sleeping bags, pillows, camping chairs, lanterns, and insect repellent. Plan your meals and snacks, and gather the necessary ingredients. You can cook on a portable camping stove or a barbecue.
Set Up Your Tent
Choose a flat and clear area in your backyard for setting up the tent. Read the instructions for your tent model and assemble it according to the guidelines. Make sure to secure the tent properly using stakes or weights to prevent it from moving in the wind.
Even setting up the tent can be a fun group project to do with your family. If it’s a big, or complicated tent, enlist the whole family so that everyone has a part to play and feels like a contributing member of the team.
Create a Cozy Sleeping Area
Set up sleeping bags or air mattresses inside the tent. Arrange pillows and blankets for comfort. Go ahead and go a little glampy, it’s not like you have to fit it all in the car first. Bring along that extra toy that usually wouldn’t make it into the trunk. And bring a bed for the pets if you are including them in your adventure. And good luck trying to keep them out of. backyard fun anyway, so best to set them up for a cozy night with the fam.
Campfire (Optional)
Check your local regulations regarding backyard fires. If allowed, you can set up a small campfire in a fire pit or designated area. Remember to have a bucket of water or a hose nearby for safety.
Campsite Ambiance
Hang battery-powered lanterns or fairy lights around the campsite to create a cozy atmosphere. Bring portable speakers for music or nature sounds, if desired.
Activities
Plan outdoor activities like stargazing, storytelling, board games, or card games. Consider setting up a scavenger hunt or nature exploration. See below for more ideas on activities to do with the family while camping.
Cooking and Dining
Use a portable camping stove or grill to cook your meals. Set up a picnic table or blanket for outdoor dining.
Stay Hydrated
Have a supply of water easily accessible. Bring reusable water bottles for each camper.
Bathroom Facilities
Depending on the duration of your backyard camping, you might need to use your indoor bathroom facilities. Alternatively, consider renting a portable camping toilet.
Disconnect from Technology
Embrace the camping experience by disconnecting from screens and digital devices. Enjoy quality time with family and friends.
Safety First
Make sure you have a first aid kit on hand. Be cautious of potential hazards in your backyard, such as uneven terrain or low-hanging branches.
Respect Your Neighbors
Keep noise levels reasonable and be mindful of your neighbors, especially if you’re planning activities late into the night.
Winter Camping
Who says you can only camp in the warm weather? Break out the cold weather gear if you’d like to try a little winter fun with the kids. Make sure everyone’s dressed appropriately. Heaters are kept a safe distance outside the tent and come inside if it’s too cold or your sleeping bags aren’t meant for cold weather. You don’t have to do an overnighter, just having a little winter haven in your backyard, and being able to reclaim some. of outdoor space with a nice hot cup of chocolate, can be plenty of fun.
Activities For Backyard Camping
Stargazing
Lay out blankets and pillows to comfortably gaze at the stars. Download a stargazing app to help identify constellations and planets.
Here are some great apps from Space.com to help you know what stars you are seeing. Check out Space.com’s Best Stargazing apps
Storytelling
Sit around a pretend campfire (real or simulated) and take turns telling spooky or funny stories. You can also use a flashlight to add a theatrical touch.
Campfire Cooking
If you have a fire pit, roast marshmallows for s’mores or cook hot dogs on sticks. Just ensure safety measures are in place, and adult supervision is provided.
Outdoor Movie Night
Set up a projector and screen to watch a family-friendly movie under the stars. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Campfire Songs
Sing traditional campfire songs or make up your own silly campfire tunes. Use musical instruments if you have them.
Tent Decoration
Let the kids decorate the inside of the tent with blankets, cushions, and their favorite stuffed animals or toys.
Camping Games
Play classic camping games like flashlight tag, capture the flag, or hide-and-seek in the dark.
Outdoor Cooking
Involve the kids in preparing simple camping-friendly meals, like DIY mini pizzas, foil packet meals, or DIY trail mix.
Nature Exploration
Go on a nature walk around the backyard. Have the kids observe different plants, insects, and birds, and teach them about the local wildlife.
Tent Adventure
Let the kids imagine the tent as a spaceship, a castle, or an explorer’s hideout, fostering their creativity and imaginative play.
Camping Bingo
Create bingo cards with outdoor-themed items (bird, flower, cloud, etc.), and see who can find all the items first.
Sleeping Under the Stars
If weather permits, consider sleeping without the tent, just using sleeping bags and mats. This can be an exciting experience for kids.
Thanks to Dan and Kitty and the fam for the great shots of their awesome tent and backyard!
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash