You don’t need to drive for hours to feel like you’ve gone on an epic adventure. With a little creativity, backyard camping can feel just as exciting! Here’s how to turn a night in your own yard into an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Take a Hike — to Your Backyard

Don’t just walk out the back door—gear up and go on a family hike around the block. Pretend you’re trekking to a hidden forest. Play nature bingo or collect interesting leaves along the way.

Pick Your Campsite Like a Pro

Once you “arrive,” let everyone help pick the best campsite. Look for level ground that drains well. Let kids help set up the tent and roll out their sleeping bags.

Create a Storytelling Circle

After dinner, gather around a lantern, fire pit, or even a few candles in jars. Take turns telling spooky, silly, or made-up stories. Invite a grandparent or neighbor to come by and share a story too.

Stargazing Magic

Print a few constellation charts or use a free stargazing app. Lay back, look up, and try to spot Orion’s Belt or the Big Dipper. Add hot cocoa for an extra cozy touch.

Backyard camping can be more than a novelty—it can be a night your kids remember for years.