{"id":17729,"date":"2021-03-26T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-26T12:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/?p=17729"},"modified":"2021-12-27T17:51:40","modified_gmt":"2021-12-27T22:51:40","slug":"backyard-camping","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/backyard-camping","title":{"rendered":"Backyard Camping Ideas for Family-Friendly Fun"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n<p>Are you itching for a fresh air adventure? You don\u2019t have to escape <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/vancouver-real-estate\">the city<\/a> to enjoy the great outdoors. Backyard camping lets you get cozy near the comforts of home, and it\u2019s an affordable vacation alternative that is made for social distancing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pitching a tent in the backyard gets you and the family a change of scenery without all the heavy lifting of a traditional camping trip \u2014 after all, you\u2019re only lugging supplies so far. This easy \u201cweekend trip\u201d is also a chance to teach kids <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/homesteading-lessons\">lessons<\/a> about the value of hard work and the importance of preserving nature, set to the backdrop of a crackling fire.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below, we\u2019ve included a checklist of packing essentials, along with free activities for families to enjoy camping in the backyard. Whether it\u2019s stargazing charts, campfire story ideas or outdoor activities for adults, we\u2019ve got you covered with our ultimate guide.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-prepare-your-backyard-campsite\">How to Prepare Your Backyard Campsite<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Camping is all about enjoying simple moments and creating lasting memories, free from the stresses of modern life. As you set up camp and transform your backyard into a forest waiting to be explored, the city lights and neighbourhood noise will melt away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how to optimize your DIY camping trip for family-fun.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pack-for-your-trip\">Pack for Your \u201cTrip\u201d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Make the weekend feel authentic by packing for your backyard camping trip the same as you would a weekend in the woods. Remember that the basics are important for a fun and comfortable stay, but that camping at its core is all about minimalism. You\u2019ll want to reduce your footprint by only packing items you\u2019ll need and disposing of all trash, safely away from where animal paws can get to it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our packing checklist makes preparing for your backyard camping trip easy. We also include things to leave at home, such as valuables that could get ruined or scented items that could attract insects or wildlife.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Items to pack:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>A tent that can hold the whole family&nbsp;<\/li><li>Sleeping bags&nbsp;<\/li><li>Pillows and extra blankets<\/li><li>A first aid kit&nbsp;<\/li><li>Flashlights and batteries<\/li><li>White or coloured string lights<\/li><li>Foldable table&nbsp;<\/li><li>Lawn chairs<\/li><li>Firelogs&nbsp;<\/li><li>Matches and\/or a lighter<\/li><li>Sunscreen and bug spray<\/li><li>Food and drinks<\/li><li>Cooler&nbsp;<\/li><li>Recyclable plates and utensils&nbsp;<\/li><li>S&#8217;mores supplies and other sweets&nbsp;<\/li><li>Cards and other board games&nbsp;<\/li><li>Trash bags&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Items to skip:&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Phone or technology<\/li><li>A mirror&nbsp;<\/li><li>Cologne or perfume<\/li><li>Jewelry&nbsp;<\/li><li>Scented lotion&nbsp;<\/li><li>Glass bottles<\/li><li>Clothes that can\u2019t get dirty&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/camping-checklist-mock-up-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"backyard camping checklist for famlies\" class=\"wp-image-17737\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons aligncenter is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/backyard-camping-checklist-1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download Backyard Camping Checklist<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-plan-meals-to-cook-outside\">Plan Meals to Cook Outside<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To create a backyard camping party that feels far from home, you should pack everything you need \u2014 including food. Running inside to grab the salt and pepper is technically cheating, so you\u2019ll want to plan out your recipes ahead of time and pack all the ingredients you need.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Items that are easy to transport, such as homemade <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/beginner-guide-canning\">canned tomato sauce<\/a>, make meal prep and cleaning up a breeze. You\u2019ll also need a grill or campfire to cook your food, as well as recyclable or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/how-to-compost-in-an-apartment\">compostable<\/a> plates and utensils.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some classic campfire recipes to get you started:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/camper-s-breakfast-hash\/\">Camper\u2019s breakfast hash<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.scatteredthoughtsofacraftymom.com\/skillet-barbecue-and-bacon-baked-beans-recipe\/\">Skillet barbecue baked beans<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.delish.com\/cooking\/recipe-ideas\/recipes\/a54638\/campfire-pigs-in-a-blanket-recipe\/\">Campfire pigs in a blanket&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cupcakediariesblog.com\/camping-quesadillas\/\">Camping quesadillas&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-lay-some-campground-rules\">Lay Some Campground Rules<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Every campsite needs to set ground rules. Before your trip, get together with family members to agree upon camp bylaws, such as \u201cno cell phones\u201d or \u201cno wifi use.\u201d This will help set expectations for the trip and let people know what to pack and what to leave inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All of the rules of nature should also apply, such as never feeding the animals and leaving no trace. Furry friends may creep up to your tent site, so display the printable sign below as a reminder to all campers. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-set-up-camp\">Set up Camp<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/setting-up-tent-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"son and father setting up tent in their back yard while wearing blue t shirts shorts and flipflops\" class=\"wp-image-17734\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Now it\u2019s time to set up! When you get your supplies to the campsite, enlist your little one\u2019s help in unpacking sleeping bags, blankets and games. Adults should focus on setting up larger items, such as the tent, first.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Store extra food at least 200 feet away from the tents in case curious animals wander towards the smell. You\u2019ll also want to consider wind direction when setting up the campfire to reduce fire risks. The flames should always be at least 15 feet away from anything flammable. Here are more <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/learn\/expert-advice\/campsite-organization.html\">campsite organization tips<\/a> from Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"backyard-camping-ideas-for-kids\">Backyard Camping Ideas for Kids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No escape from the city is complete without classic camp activities. This list of fun things to do outside in the backyard will keep your kids entertained throughout the trip, giving you a chance to kick back, relax and enjoy the fresh air.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-host-a-neighbourhood-nature-hunt\">Host a Neighbourhood Nature Hunt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you set up camp, it\u2019s time to explore the grounds! Help your kids see the backyard with a different perspective by sending them on a nature scavenger hunt.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rather than collecting the items on the list, have kids snap a photo of them on a disposable camera. This will teach your kids how to discover without disrupting living creatures and things in their natural environment. Plus, you can print the photos later as a keepsake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/scavenger-hunt-mock-up-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"printable nature scavenger hunt activity for kids to do while backyard camping\" class=\"wp-image-17740\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons aligncenter is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/nature-scavenger-hunt-1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download Nature Scavenger Hunt<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-coordinate-arts-and-crafts\">Coordinate Arts and Crafts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Pass the time by getting crafty at the campsite. Mindful activities such as colouring keep kids engaged in the present moment while also providing you with some quiet and relief.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This colouring sheet identifies furry critters that may make a campsite appearance. All you need to do is print it, pack some crayons or markers and set it up at the picnic area.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/coloring-page-mock-up-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"printable camping critters colouring sheet with an owl mountains and other camping illustrations\" class=\"wp-image-17738\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons aligncenter is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/camping-critters-colouring-sheet-1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download Camping Critters Colouring Sheet<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-go-stargazing\">Go Stargazing\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you\u2019re camping, there\u2019s nature all around \u2014 including up above. On a clear evening, look up at the night sky to spot constellations and planets.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During warm summer months, the Big Dipper lights up the Northern Sky. Below, the connect-the-dot craft highlights other visible constellations to be on the lookout for, such as Hercules and Lyra.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/constellations-mock-up-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"printable constellation connect the dot activity sheet for kids to do while backyard camping\" class=\"wp-image-17739\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons aligncenter is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/dot-to-dot-constellations-1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download Dot-to-Dot Constellations<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tell-campfire-stories\">Tell Campfire Stories<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Without TVs and phones around, there\u2019s plenty of time for engaging in conversation. Gathering around the fire for storytime is a great way to entertain and inspire imagination. Spooky stories go down better with s\u2019mores, so don\u2019t forget to heat this gooey marshmallow and chocolate treat as you swap tales fireside.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our S\u2019mores Stories activity turns storytelling into a game. To play, all you\u2019ll need is a die, printed copies of the worksheet below and a crayon or marker.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/storyboard-mock-up-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"backyard camping storyboard\" class=\"wp-image-17741\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons aligncenter is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/campfire-storyboard-1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download Campfire Storyboard<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-camping-books-for-children\">Camping Books for Children<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Reading gives you a lens into other worlds and experiences. To get kids excited for their backyard camping trip, encourage them to turn to book pages for insight into the upcoming adventure. You can also bring some of these recommendations along and read them together in the tent.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some of our favourite books about camping for kids:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodreads.com\/book\/show\/49130159-the-canadian-kids-guide-to-outdoor-fun\">The Canadian Kids\u2019 Guide to Outdoor Fun by Helaine Becker&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodreads.com\/book\/show\/164150.A_Camping_Spree_with_Mr_Magee\">A Camping Spree with Mr. McGee by Chris Van Dusen<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodreads.com\/book\/show\/16278030-scaredy-squirrel-goes-camping\">Scaredy Squirrel: Goes Camping by M\u00e9lanie Watt<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodreads.com\/book\/show\/23281685-night-animals\">Night animals by by Gianna Marino<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodreads.com\/book\/show\/10819950-into-the-outdoors\">Into the Outdoors by Susan Gal<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"backyard-camping-ideas-for-adults\">Backyard Camping Ideas for Adults<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/camping-for-couples-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"couple roasting marshmallows by a fire while backyard camping\" class=\"wp-image-17733\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Unplugging for a backyard camping adventure isn\u2019t just for the little ones \u2014 enjoy this activity as a date night activity, with friends or solo. Here are some activities for adults to enjoy while camping:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-read-a-book\">Read a Book\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A weekend in nature is the perfect time to turn the pages of an adventure novel or spooky story. Fresh air and the quiet sounds of rustling leaves will help transport you to another world. Consider hanging up a hammock to lounge in as you read, and don\u2019t forget to pack candles or a reading light for nighttime reading.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-meditate\">Meditate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Camping is supposed to be all about relaxation, but an unexpected storm or tent malfunction can quickly turn the weekend upside down. Luckily, meditation lets you quickly regain control of the weekend by redirecting stressful thoughts.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many health <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/meditation-room\">benefits to meditation<\/a>, such as reducing stress and anxiety. This controlled breathing method also enhances self-awareness, allowing you to truly experience the present stillness of the outside world.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-make-it-a-date-night\">Make It a Date Night<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For couples, doing a new activity together is a great way to reignite romance or connect deeper with one another. Many camping activities also double as date ideas, such as campfire cooking and nature walks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Set up a glamping date night in the backyard, complete with twinkling string lights, soft textures and intimate activity ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"benefits-of-backyard-camping\">Benefits of Backyard Camping<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/benefits-of-camping-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"family surrounding a campfire father blowing on marshmallow while backyard camping\" class=\"wp-image-17732\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many<strong> <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sharp.com\/health-news\/5-ways-being-outdoors-can-make-you-healthier-and-happier.cfm\">health benefits<\/a> to fresh air and sunshine (especially during COVID-19). Spending time near trees means your body is taking in more oxygen, and it can also help lower your blood pressure, reduce stress and improve your mood.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond being good for your health, camping activities can also strengthen your family bond. Rather than spending a weekend glued to screens, you and the kids will learn survival skills and spend time exploring the natural world around you.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Camping at home is fully customizable, making it a much more affordable option when compared to other summer vacations. Plus, it gets the social-distancing seal of approval.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re yearning to get your family <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/what-is-a-homestead\">back to the basics<\/a>, this guide is full of activities and ideas for an inspiring weekend. The best part? To enjoy all that this DIY camping experience has to offer, all you really need is a backyard. If you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/edmonton-real-estate\">own your home<\/a>, building a campsite won\u2019t require any special permissions or permits, making this a turnkey weekend activity full of family fun.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to camp in your own backyard with our guide<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":17730,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"guide":[],"class_list":["post-17729","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lifestyle"],"acf":[],"zolo_excerpt":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17729","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17729"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17729\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22792,"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17729\/revisions\/22792"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17730"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17729"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17729"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17729"},{"taxonomy":"guide","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.zolo.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/guide?post=17729"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}