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Backyard Summer Camp: Camping Theme

This camping theme backyard summer camp is just what you need this summer. The last time we set our tent up, the wind overnight blew it into the bushes on us. Yes, we could, possibly go to a campground this summer, but I think we’ll still be staying home with a bathroom nearby.

Backyard Summer Camp: camping

Backyard Summer Camp: Camping!

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Go camping in the backyard. This one kinda goes without saying right? But I still wanted to add it here. Set up the tent or camper in the yard and spend a night or two out there.

Kids really enjoy it. Personally, I enjoy it too because I stay in the house and my husband spends the night outside with the kids.

I don’t believe that we should have our kids scheduled for every minute of every day. My kids don’t expect me to entertain them.

I’m pretty sure that the only time they tell me that they are bored and expect me to entertain them is because I am doing something very exciting, like cleaning a toilet. Yes, apparently that is my kids’ idea of a fun time.

Camping Activities

Write Silly Campfire Songs – Write silly songs, whether on paper or sitting around a campfire – real, paper, or these amazing campfire cookies.

Paper Plate Sundial – Summer is the perfect time to explore shadows and sunshine with your children. The days are bright and the kids need something productive to do. Why not pack a little learning into the summer schedule with a fun sun activity?

Sponge Toss – Think Bean Bag Toss, but wet sponges. Use chalk to draw circles on the pavement, and toss soaking wet sponges into the circles. A fun way to cool down while camping in the backyard.

Solar Still – The great thing about this project is that it would be useful to know how to do in nature if you had no fresh water to drink or in an emergency situation.

Marshmallow Fight – Have a marshmallow fight! They can throw them or get a marshmallow shooter. How fun does that sound?

Star Glazing – Grab a blanket, stay up late with your kids and watch the stars. Look for shapes, look for constellations, listen to peepers, and other nighttime critters.

Solar Oven – Make some s’mores outside in the sunshine without fire, or electricity. Learn how we did it here. They were delicious.

S’More Snacks!

S’more Snacks – Not everyone can have a bonfire, or have a fire pit/place in their backyard to have actual s’mores. There are so many fun and different ways to enjoy a s’more snack. You can make a solar oven to melt your marshmallows and chocolate.

S’More Snack Mix – Mix together 1 cup of golden grahams cereal, 1 cup of mini marshmallows, 1 cup of chocolate chips into a mixing bowl. Stir to combine. Scoop into baggies.

S’More in a Mug – A sweet treat, a dessert that you don’t have to share with the little people that control your life, a single-serve dessert. This S’More cake is perfect!

More Summer Camp Ideas

Nature Theme
Animals Theme
Science Lab

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