backyard camping

Confession time people.

I hate camping.

I don’t like the bugs or the dirt or that whole sleeping-on-the-ground component, it’s just not my jam. But you know what? I have three boys at home who love every single thing that grosses me out about camping and so I needed some sort of compromise. Am I going to load them up and take them out in the woods? No way, I’ll save that for their aunts and uncles who are more outdoorsy than I am!

But, I WILL set up something for them in the safety of our backyard. This means we can play camp: roast marshmallows, make s’mores, play games, etc. It also means that I can sneak back inside for the comfort of my own bed when all that backyard camping is over. See what I did below! ~Rachel

How to Set Up a Sheet Tent

I feel the need to point out that while this sheet tent is the cutest ever, it’s not going to keep out rain or bugs or coyotes (obviously). This is something fun to do with your kids not any kind of real structure so please don’t send me angry emails if you try and make a real go in the wilderness with your sheet tent. 😉

boys camping ideas

back yard camping ideas

Some ideas on what to include in your own backyard camping expereince?

1. A Tent… extra credit if you use adorable sheets like I did!

Tent Made out of Sheets

2. Throw pillows make it easier to snuggle up and read books, have a pillow fight or lay your head down in style

3. A mini S’more station or just a bunch of fun camping snacks!

camping party ideas

4. Fun Games to Play like our DIY Family Trivia

free printable camping

5. Your own “Campfire” – I just used a camping stove and some outdoor cushions covered in the pillow cases that match the tent.

6. Some sort of light source – These were just candles in old mason jars

backyard camping ideas

rachel hollis blogger

LA mommy blogger