Backyard Camp-Out: An Unforgettable Summer Experience!

You don't have to go far to give your child the outdoor experience. Have a vacation in your very own backyard! Sometimes the most relaxing and most memorable moments, happen in your own backyard. Camping out, roasting marshmallows and spending the night under the stars can make for an unforgettable summer experience for kids and adults alike.

Camping in your own backyard is a great way to introduce your kids to the fun of camping for the first time, if there aren't too sure if they will enjoy it, or might get scared.

Pick a nice summer night (or the scouts like to camp during the winter to earn their polar bear patches) set up your tent in your own backyard.

Pitch a tent or two or three! This is a great time to invite friends over for a spend the night party.

One of the great things about camping in your own back yard is the limited amount of gear you need. But don't forget the tents, the sleeping bags and compass for fun!

Get the kids involved in setting up camp in your backyard. Have them help you set up the tent. Put them in charge of getting their sleeping bags, flashlights and anything else they may need into the tent.

Set up a real (or a pretend) campfire and enjoy some traditional camp activities you remember as a child.

If a backyard fire is not allowed in your neighborhood, have a snack and sing-along with flashlights before calling it a night. Either way, around the campfire is a good time to teach kids about fire safety.

For children, there is something almost magical about walking in the dark. Go for a walk around your yard or even the block. Listen to night noises and look at the stars. There's nothing quite like seeing the world under the cover of night.

Don't forget the insect repellent and citronella candles and a couple of flashlights for the kids.

This is a great time to tell stories. Keep them child friendly for the little ones. Telling stories (around the campfire or not) is always fun. Let your kids' imaginations be your guide.

And don't forget the camp fire songs! Think back to your favorite camping memories and recreate them with your kids.

Have some fun with this adventure, enjoy your kids and peaceful time outdoors and create some wonderful memories.

I am off to enjoy our night under the stars!