If you’re cooped up inside the house and ready for something fun to do with the kids- your next adventure is closer than you think. It’s right in your backyard! That’s right. You don’t need to pile in the car and hit the road to have a great vacation. 

Every kid -and parent- love a good backyard campout. If you’re new to the idea, here are some things you will need to get you on your way. 

Tent

If you already have camp gear hanging around, you’re halfway there. Dust it off and roll it out in the backyard. If not- don’t fret. You can get creative and set up your own with the help of everyday household materials like a clothing line and some sheets. You might be surprised at how easily you can create a blanket fort or teepee.  

Blankets, blankets, and more blankets 

Once you have your tent set up, it’s time to fix up the inside. If you don’t have sleeping bags, just drag in every kind of comforter, quilt, and blanket you can find. If you have any yoga mats handy, you can lay them down as the foundation for a little added cushion and a better night’s sleep. 

Light it up 

Light up the outside with a string of outdoor lights, LED lanterns or Christmas lights. Someone might need to get up and use the restroom in the middle of the night. Plus, it adds to the ambiance. 

Camp Food

It wouldn’t be a true campout without campfire foodie favorites like hamburgers, hotdogs or pizza. Fire up the grill and get them going. Oh, and don’t forget the popcorn and S’mores for a late-night treat.

If you aren’t down with all the sticky-mess, you could always bake an easy finger dessert in the house before you head out for the night. 

Entertainment

Now, for the fun!

• Create a treasure map 
• Go for a scavenger hunt 
• Bring out the board games 
• Set up an outdoor movie (Google how to make an easy projector at home) 
• Build a fire 
• Play instruments 
• Sing songs 
• Tell ghost stories