How to Plan a Backyard Camp Out

When the idea of stargazing, s’more toasting and campfire singalongs beckons, but time and money are in short supply, consider a backyard camp out. Before the long, lazy days of summer are over, plan for a memorable evening out in your own backyard by using the following ideas.For best results, plan at least a week ahead so that you can have your gear ready to go, menu prepared and games at the ready.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Resurrect your tent from the garage. If you don’t have one, ask neighbors, friends or family instead of purchasing one, or check at the local Goodwill. Have the kids help you set the tent up to air out for a day or two prior to your camp out to banish any musty odors. Check for mildew and give the tent a quick once-over with all purpose cleaner followed by a rinse from the garden hose, if needed.

2. Drag out your ice chest (the bigger, the better) and wash it out. Then swish some baking soda around after it’s dried to freshen the interior. Pack your ice chest the day of the camp out.

3. Next, plan what you’ll have to eat for dinnertime and the following morning for breakfast. Keep the menu simple: hot dogs, baked beans and s’mores for dinner, and cereals for breakfast. Don’t forget plastic containers of ketchup, mustard and relish, paper plates, napkins and utensils.

4. If you’re lucky enough to have a built-in backyard barbecue or fire pit, your campfire will be even better. Again, make sure an adult is around to light and supervise cooking of hot dogs, burgers, marshmallows, and s’mores.Otherwise, haul the backyard barbecue out of the garage and check your supply of charcoal and lighter fluid. You’ll use this as a “campfire.” Make sure an adult is supervising the fire at all times.

5. Have each child pack a pillow and blanket if you don’t have a sleeping bag. You can pitch the tent on backyard grass, or if you only have cement, consider using an air mattress. Remind everyone that electronic devices (cell phones, iPods, laptops, video games) are a no-no on a camp out. Instead, bring a couple of board games and a pack of cards for amusement. When the sun goes down, tell stories and watch the moon and stars.

6. Provide everyone with flashlights and declare lights out after game and story times are over.

7. In the morning, have something simple on hand like juice boxes and granola bars for breakfast. Then have the kids help break down the tent and store it back in the garage for the next "camp out."

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a big enough tent, ask the kids to invite a friend for a backyard sleepover.
• Be careful with family pets around the fire, and if you live in an area with mosquitoes be sure to bring mosquito repellent.