Your kids are begging you to take them camping, but you just can’t find the time to take them on a camping trip? Or would you like to introduce your kids to the fun of camping for the first time, but are not sure if they will enjoy it or freak out? Either way, camping in your backyard will be a fun way to spend an afternoon and evening with your kids.

Get the kids involved in setting up a camp in your backyard. Ask them to help you set up the tent. Put them in charge of carrying their sleeping bags, flashlights, and whatever else they might need inside the tent. If it’s an option for you, you might even want to build a fire pit in your backyard. Check with your fire department beforehand if this is an option in your area. If not, just remove the charcoal or gas grill. Grill some hot dogs and make some foil fries for dinner and of course you’ll need some s’mores for dessert. If you are roasting marshmallows on the grill, place some aluminum foil on the rack to prevent the melted marshmallow from dripping onto the grill.

Don’t have a tent, not even a backyard? That is no reason not to camp. Just spread out your sleeping bags, or even a blanket in the living room. Turn off the television, radio, and video games. If you have a fireplace, build a fire. Otherwise, order pizza and popcorn and you can even make s’mores in the microwave.

No matter where you decide to have your camping trip close to home, take some time to sit down together and talk. Telling stories, whether there is a campfire or not, is always fun. Your children’s imaginations in creating new stories may surprise you. Don’t forget to tell some inherited family stories.

Above all, think about your favorite camping memories and recreate them with your children. Do you remember any good scary stories? Is there a game that you liked to play? What is your favorite card game?

Have fun with this, enjoy your kids and make some memories.