Memorial Day weekend traditionally marks the start of the camping season, and with campgrounds in high demand right now, it might be time to pack up the tent and trek to the backyard instead. Here are some fun ideas for your camping trip to the Great Backyard.
Pitch a tent in your backyard
What would camping be without a place to stay?! Set up your tent in your backyard or get crafty by creating your own tent with a tarp and rope.
Go on a nature walk
Exploring around your campsite is always fun, but you may not have a walking trail in your backyard. If you have kids, take some stuffed animals and place them around your backyard during the day to point out on the "hike". If you want to create more of a trail, mark a path with sticks.
Make a campfire
One of the best things about camping is warming up by the campfire and toasting s’mores. Do it in the comfort of your backyard by building one yourself! If you need some helpful tips, you can watch this video.
Make your favorite camping meal
Camping food may not be gourmet, but it definitely gives you a nice homey feel. Try one of these tinfoil meals that you can make over a campfire!
Make your own water playground
Camping near rivers or lakes is always an added bonus. Create your own water playground by setting up a kiddy pool to splash around in or bringing out the squirt guns!
Play some campground games
Camping is really all about having fun together. Create some laughs by playing charades, set up the cornhole or make your own ring toss.
Climb a tree
Enjoying nature is one of the best perks of camping. If you have a tree in your backyard try climbing it and get a new perspective on your house!
Whip out your deck of cards
How many memories are made with a deck of cards or set of dice at a picnic table in a campground? Both are great ways to pass the time and bond with your fellow campers. Try one of these card games to involve the whole family.
Share your favorite scary story
Wait for the sun to set, grab a flashlight, and tell everyone one of your favorite scary stories. If you don’t have a favorite – now is the time to get creative and make one up (or Google one)!
Explore nature in your backyard
Camping is all about getting dirty! Grab the kids and search for worms, bugs and other critters or make mud pies!
Have a scavenger hunt
Write a few clues and put them on numbered envelopes. Attach the envelopes to the items you're going to hide and hide them throughout the backyard. Whoever wins gets an extra s'more! Here are some helpful tips if you need help planning.
Stargaze
As you unwind before curling up in your sleeping bag, take a moment (or an hour) to gaze upward and watch the sky. Pick out your favorite constellations or see if a shooting star graces the night.
Really, camping is all about spending quality time together. So, let’s get creative and head out back to stargaze, snuggle and enjoy some good laughs!