Summer is quickly approaching; kids are bored and moms are racking their brains trying to think of ways to keep them busy. Because here in the Northstate, we have the privilege of living in an area where most residents have large lots with plenty of room between neighbors, one great activity is a campout in your own backyard.
Campout vs. Glamp-out
No need to leave the comforts of home. Bring out your lanterns, flashlights, and a little imagination. Pitch some tents, start up the fire pit, stock up on marshmallows, and you are on your way to an unforgettable experience. How many kids you will be hosting will determine how many tents you will need. Each child should bring a sleeping bag with them. Of course one tent should be for an adult to oversee the campout fun. Let the kids help put the tents up. Part of the fun will be laughing at each other’s final product. Be sure to take a lot of pictures and video’s for belly laughs later.
Everyone has a scary story to tell after dark and around the fire pit. The stories should be age appropriate and not so scary that the adult has all the kids sleeping in their tent with them. Hermit’s Hut is a great pace to go in Redding to replenish your outdoor campout gear.
Leave Them Asking for S’more
A camp out would not be complete without S’mores. All of your supplies can be purchased at Tops Market in West Redding. Stuff waffle cones with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips and wrap them in aluminum foil. These can be prepared ahead of time and, when ready, place them on the grill for about seven minutes turning occasionally.
You can also make nachos with the same method using tortilla chips, cheese sauce, and whatever toppings they would like. Wrap it in aluminum foil and put it on the grill to warm it up. Don’t be too concerned about the menu. Kids will eat anything they cook for themselves on the grill. The morning after can be as simple as cold cereal, depending on how you feel at this point (and if you had your tent to yourself). If you’re still game, there’s nothing like cowboy “Flap Jacks” to complete the campout experience.
No matter how you play it, though, you will be creating memories that will last for years to come and right in your own backyard.
Image Source: StockSnap.io
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