How to Have a Backyard Camping Staycation with Your Family

With summer fast approaching, it may seem overwhelming to get away as a family for focused time together. Backyard camping strengthens the imagination and creates a wonderful staycation with your family. It’s also used as a test run to see how camping will go for you and your kids if you are thinking of taking a camping trip for the first time. Turning your backyard into a campsite is a fun and easy way to experience the outdoors. Plus, you still have access to whatever you need or want in your home!

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a few tips to make backyard camping fun for the whole family:

  • Prep and gather food and supplies ahead of time. Make sure that what you are using is easily portable so set up and clean up is easy. 

  • Bring some card games, board games, and stories to read. 

  • Have plenty of bug repellent as well as a comfortable sleeping area. 

  • When planning for backyard camping, consider your child’s/children’s age. What activities would keep them engaged for the evening? Is it better to do a late evening in the backyard and they sleep inside, or are they old enough to enjoy a full night outside? 

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Supplies you need: 

  • Nice weather and either a tent, a teepee, or a comfortable spot to settle in when it’s time for bed. You could get creative and imaginative here with sheets, poles, whatever you have!

  • Air mattresses or yoga/floor mats, sleeping bags/blankets, and pillows

  • Bug repellent 

  • A fire pit or a small terra cotta pot with sterno to make s'mores and camping treats. Click here for a DIY s’mores maker. 

  • Some string lights or any decorations you make for fun

  • Flashlights for after sunset and stories

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Food Suggestions:

  • Grill or pre-make some burgers, chicken, or hotdogs 

  • S’mores

  • Trail Mix

  • Pre-made breakfast sandwiches or doughnuts for the morning

  • Choose an easy meal to make ahead of time here!

We hope these tips help you create a mini backyard staycation with your family. Whether you are stuck at home or preparing for your first camping trip, memories can be made anywhere. Share this with families you know, give it a try, and tell us about your backyard family adventure!