Camping at Home: What You’ll Need

Backyard camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without going far. It’s a simple way to try camping for the first time, especially with kids. Start by picking a clear, flat area for your tent. Make sure it’s free of sharp sticks, rocks, or ant hills. If you don’t have a tent, you can build a simple fort with blankets and ropes. Bring sleeping bags, pillows, and extra blankets in case it gets cold. Keep flashlights or lanterns nearby for when the sun goes down. Set up before it gets dark so you’re not rushing. Have a backup plan in case the weather changes. Being close to home makes everything easier.

Plan a few activities to make it feel like a real camping trip. You can tell stories, play card games, or look at the stars. Bring a small speaker for music or nature sounds. Toast marshmallows or cook hot dogs over a small fire pit, if it’s safe to do so. You can also use a grill or microwave to prepare food before heading out. Make s’mores even if you don’t have a fire — a microwave works too. Bring a cooler with drinks and snacks to avoid going inside often. Keep things simple so you can enjoy the moment. Leave phones inside unless needed for safety. Focus on being present.

Safety is still important, even just a few steps from your house. Keep a first aid kit handy and watch for bugs or animals. Make sure your fire setup follows local rules. If kids are joining, give them flashlights and go over basic rules. Keep pets inside or on a leash to avoid surprises. Check the weather and have a rain plan if needed. Let your neighbors know if you're staying outside so they’re not surprised. Keep the tent zipped to avoid insects getting inside. Pack as if you were going on a real trip — it helps with the experience. Staying close doesn’t mean skipping preparation.

After your backyard campout, take time to clean everything up. Shake out blankets and air out your tent. Store gear properly so it’s ready for next time. Talk with your group about what they liked and what could be better. Backyard camping is an easy way to practice before going farther from home. It can also become a fun tradition for weekends or school breaks. Try adding a theme next time, like a movie night or nature scavenger hunt. The more often you do it, the more confident and creative you’ll become. Outdoor memories can start right in your own backyard. You don’t have to travel to enjoy something new.