Backyard Campout Idea Guide

Camping is a source of contention in my home. I love the muck and mud, the lazy afternoons, even the uncomfortable sleeping arrangements. Unfortunately, my view of camping is not shared with my spouse. He grew up "camping" in luxurious, by any standard, cabins, complete with a dishwasher, shower, clean linens delivered every morning and full course meals prepared by his mother and aunts.

While compromise is king, the truth is the schedule rules. This summer is a whirlwind of activity from graduations and several weddings to an untold number of sporting events. Add in work, and camping in any capacity is out. Or is it?

Setting up a backyard camp out is a great way to get the very best of both worlds; no need to pack, or spend a dime on gas, access to clean bathrooms, stocked fridge and your own bed (for those among us who refuse to go the distance in a sleeping bag.)

Keep the backyard camp out fun and special, by using the time to really connect with your family. Quality family time is after all the main reason we torture ourselves with camping in the first place. Make the most of your evening in the great outdoors with the following fun ideas that can easily be adjusted to accommodate a variety of age groups.

Camp games. Set yourself up for an evening of fun by planning a few games. Encourage everyone to participate, if even for a short time, in classic games of tag, hide and go seek or treasure hunts.

Sky gazing. Take advantage of the natural show of lights in the night time sky. Place old blankets or sleeping bags on the grass and spend some time just enjoying the stars. Make up your own constellations, or teach your kids what you know. If you want to take it a step further, look up what is going to be most visible before heading out side.

Sing-a-long. Even if your camp fire is contained in a small metal fire pit purchased from Walmart, the effect is the same. Teach your children songs from your scouting days, or their favorite songs. Due to the close proximity to the house, we often set up a radio to enhance the backyard sing along.

Storytelling. There is nothing like a good story told around a campfire. Use the focused attention to relate an interesting story from your past or make one up as you go along. Good campfire stories include a strong beginning, middle and a surprising ending. Make it even better by telling exciting true stories about your children's relatives.

When your backyard camp out include playing games, connecting with stories and song, eating and relaxing, tents are optional. By the time bedtime rolls around, heading back in to the house is a viable option for those with little ones, or teens and adults who have to be up early for work!

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