6 Tips For Creating a Camping Experience in Your Backyard

We’ve seen a lot of creativity come from months of staying home. From bread making to TikTok dances – our favorite trend has to be camping at home. After all, the healthy perspective gained from reconnecting with open, outdoor spaces can provide a nice break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

Even as things start to open back up, there are many reasons you may try camping at home. It’s a great way to connect with the family, test out camping gear, and for novice campers –  it’s like breaking in new shoes: best to start with small walks before planning long hikes. 

STEP 1: BUILD YOUR TENT OR FORT

Whether you want to pitch an actual tent in your backyard (or living room) or you’d rather build a comfy fort out of pillows and blankets, your shelter is essential for a “camping” getaway! Make sure to check the weather, and plan your camping gear accordingly. 

STEP 2: GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR SPACE

Grab an outdoor rug, a small table for snacks, and cozy camp chairs to make the perfect patio. Complete the space with string lights, music, and decorative throw pillows. If you want to invest in your outdoor space, get supplies for an outdoor movie night – you’ll need a projector, and white bedsheets to create a big screen! 

STEP 3: MAKE A FIRE

It wouldn’t be camping without a campfire! If you’re unable to light a real fire outside because you don’t have the equipment or because of restrictions in your area, set up your TV, iPad or phone to stream an ongoing campfire. 

STEP 4: STEP UP YOUR CAMPFIRE RECIPES

It’s easy to get creative with camp recipes when the pantry is nearby. Make dinner over the fire to test out meals you want to prepare when camping! Check out our Camp Recipes Pinterest board for inspiration. You can also step up your s’more game by adding additional toppings like peanut butter, strawberries, or salted caramel.

STEP 5: PLAY A CAMPING GAME

Keep it simple with a deck of cards, bring out the board games, or really recreate a camping experience with yard games! Keep yourselves occupied and have a family game night from the comfort of your outdoor oasis. 

STEP 6: FACETIME SOMEONE YOU WISH YOU WERE WITH

Social distancing has made us all miss our friends and family a little extra! Give your loved ones a call and pretend like you’re all camping together again – bonus points if they’re also camping from home! 

Camping doesn’t have to mean trekking cross-country. Start small before going big! There are many options out there for every kind of camper, including camping in your own backyard! If you’re looking to take the next step, Campspot allows you to discover the many wonderful campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping destinations near you. By making this information available at your fingertips, we’re working to make spontaneous local camping trips easier than ever. 

GIVEAWAY

Whenever you’re ready to get back out there, we have a ton of options to choose from. That’s why we’ve teamed up with @juliederu, @stuffhannahdoes, and @daddy_papa_and_me_make3 to GIVEAWAY two complimentary stays (1st prize up to $500, 2nd prize up to $250) at any of our campsites. Head to their Instagram to learn how to enter!⁠ For more information, see our terms & conditions.