Effortlessly Transform Your Backyard Into a Family-Camping Getaway

POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff
POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff

Summer always seems to fly by when you have kids, but don't skip out on a family camping trip. The thought of packing every single thing your child must have in the car is exhausting, which makes turning your backyard into a mini vacation an effortless solution. If you don't have an outdoor area for popping a tent, get creative and use your living room or basement instead. Let the excitement ensue!

01
Make It Fun
POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff

Make It Fun

Set up is so simple thanks to a basic pop-up tent, sleeping bags, and pillows that make it feel like you’re really on a camping adventure while in the comfort of your own backyard. Have the kids be in charge of campfire duty thanks to rocks, leaves, and twigs, making it feel like a true campground. Even the littlest hands can get involved with putting everything together.

02
Pack Lots of Snacks
POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff

Pack Lots of Snacks

Make it feel like you're on a real camping trip by getting out coolers and picnic baskets to load up with noshes and fun eats. Pop Mashups® applesauce pouches in the freezer the night before your outdoor adventure — they double as ice packs and a refreshing afternoon snack.

03
Bring On the Games!
POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff

Bring On the Games!

Let's be honest — it's not only the kids who need to take a break from technology. Turn off your phone, hide it in the house, and bring out fun board games that you can play outdoors. It's a great way to get everyone involved in a healthy dose of family-friendly competition. Instead of digging out small pieces that might get lost in nature, use the tops from snack pouches as makeshift game pieces along with pretty rocks.

04
Create a Cozy Nest
POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff

Create a Cozy Nest

Turn the base of your tent into one big cozy bed for the whole family to snuggle. Create a soft layer underneath sleeping bags by piling up yoga mats, blankets, or even a foam mattress pad and you'll be set for a good night's rest. You'll love knowing that if things don't work out it's only a short trek back to the house instead of hours and hours of driving.

05
Have Dinner Al Fresco
POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff

Have Dinner Al Fresco

When it’s time for dinner, invite campers to help set a colorful outdoor table. Your child can be in charge of gathering natural elements, like leaves or twigs, to adorn the tablecloth. Turn meatballs into fun, bite-size sliders and serve with Summer staples like corn on the cob and potato salad. Load up plates and have a dinner picnic.

06
Make a Cool Twist on Basic S'Mores
POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff

Make a Cool Twist on Basic S'Mores

It isn't a camping trip without s'mores! Instead of using traditional graham crackers, sandwich toasted marshmallows and melty chocolate in between Plum Organics Jammy Sammy® bars for a sweet twist on the classic dessert. I'm not gonna lie — these are so good you might find yourself tossing a few back too.

07
Bring On the Night
POPSUGAR Photography | Dean Lipoff

Bring On the Night

Sleeping under the stars is always a treat, but we all know little ones might need a bit of extra comfort once the sun goes down. Break out lanterns and glow lights along with your child's favorite stuffed animals when it's time to read bedtime books under the stars. Stock the tent with glow sticks, which sparkle just like fireflies at night. You can even create glowing pathways around your backyard "campsite," leading the way to late-night snacks or the house. Happy camping!

More From Plum Organics
Plum Organics

More From Plum Organics

Recognized for unique, culinary-inspired recipes, sophisticated ingredients, and a modern approach to family nutrition, Plum Organics® offers a complete line of premium snacks and meals for babies, toddlers, and big kids too! Explore more snacks for your kids to love at PlumOrganics.com.