How to Camp in Your Own Backyard

Camping in your own back yard can be fun. It's convenient, easy to get to and there's less to clean up after the camp. Besides, the bathroom is much cleaner and within a few steps of your tent. And, if it happens to rain heavily, you can quickly find shelter. Here are some ideas to make your backyard camping experience exciting and fun.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Set a time and day that everyone can camp and invite some friends over to join you. Remember to check the weather forecast.

2. Find a flat, even spot in the backyard and set up your tent. Get the kids to help with the set up; they will be excited to get into the tent.

3. Bring a portable TV into the tent. Connect it with an extension cord.

4. Throw in enough blankets, pillows and sleeping bags. If you have an air mattress, inflate it and put it in the tent for additional comfort.

5. Buy some glow in the dark sticks for the kids to explore in their tent when it's dark. Kids love those.

6. Get a small battery operated lantern and hang it in the tent for some light when needed.

7. Spray everyone with some insect repellent to be safe from mosquito bites. Light citronella candles to keep the bugs away.

8. Grill some hot dogs for dinner that night. Have cold watermelon to finish off.

9. Buy some yummy snacks and drinks that everyone loves. Don't forget the marshmallow toast for the late night, or to make Smores. You can use a little portable charcoal stove to do that.

10. Play some games if you like and tell stories to the kids. They love to hear stories about your childhood.

11. End off with a movie in the tent. If it gets too warm, you can hook up a small table fan in the tent as well. Popcorn would be great during movie time as well.

12. Fall asleep watching the movie or simply talking until the wee hours of the night.

13. Enjoy your very own backyard camp!