Take a Summer Vacation in the Backyard

Let me first confess that my idea of camping is a long, luxurious stay at a five-star hotel with a spa and a Michelin-rated restaurant. But when my two sons were growing up they had an entirely different perspective. They actually liked sleeping on rocks and eating food covered with gnats.

Backyard camping is a great compromise. The kids get s’mores over a campfire at night, and I get my latte in the morning. It’s a win/win, and a winning way to bring families together.

Even I can appreciate this backyard setup. My grandchildren would think I was the baddest grandpa if this were part of our property. Unfortunately, we only have a back patio. But if you have the space, this playhouse/play space combo is a wonderful spot for children. Toss in a Tempur-Pedic and a down comforter, and even I could sleep here.


Tepees are an ancient idea, but a completely modern backyard concept.

Of course, anyone can buy a tepee, but why not make it extra-memorable and create one yourself? If you’re so inclined, there are online resources that can show you how.


Add a campfire (being sure to check on any local burning restrictions first).


Create a trio of tepees, and the whole family can build memories without pulling out of the driveway.


Or find a bunch of recycled timbers and build this wonderful Hobbit-esque dwelling. Forget occasional camping: The kids could sleep here every night!

Kids can sleep on just about anything, so cots and a sleeping bag will usually suffice. But if you want adults (including yourself) to use a structure like this, make sure to include a comfortable mattress (a real one for temporary use, or an air mattress if you want to leave it outside long term).

The more trouble you go to with good-quality sheets and a down comforter, the more hospitable the experience will be. After all, Bilbo and Frodo would care about such things — and would appreciate a squishy armchair to linger over a pipe and a good book.


I love this backyard cabin. Ecologically friendly, with walls that open for ventilation, this would be perfect guest quarters for your mother-in-law.

Add a chest full of board games and a good coffee pot and mugs, and you’ve got all the ingredients to lure you and your kids out of the house and into the backyard — even after the novelty wears off.

See more of this outdoor hideout


Or park an Airstream in the back 40! Put all of your decorative fantasies to work and create an environment for guests, family or five-star camping.


This art deco–style trailer has been fantastically retrofitted. This would be a great retreat when I’m in the dog house.

Certainly not everyone will be able to refurbish a fantastic old Airstream, but how about just renting one for the weekend? The kids would think you’re really awesome, and it would be a great way to not have to “rough it” while camping in the backyard. Since Airstreams are well-equipped with all the modern amenities, try Googling “rent an Airstream” to see what’s available to you locally. I found them readily available in my locale.


If there were a seven-star rating, this tree house would merit it. Its lofty perch with stunning views is perfect for summer slumber parties.


And, if you really want to be a hero to your kids, encourage them from time to time to invite a bunch of friends to stay overnight. Make sure they’re well equipped with all the makings for s’mores before lights out. And then regale them in the morning with a delicious pancake, scrambled egg and bacon breakfast. (It could even be a reward for a great report card. A little bribery can go a long way!)


Bell Tent - GBP 485A classic British Out of Africa tent appeals to me. Don’t you love the little cookstove? All that’s missing is a pair of director’s chairs and a folding wooden table covered with a white tablecloth, and silver for an afternoon tea or a romantic tȇte-à-tȇte. (Don’t forget a vase of pretty flowers.)

For a truly authentic experience, I guess you’d need a butler, too, but it would be a fun idea for a special anniversary or birthday celebration. (I once played the role of a butler for a young college kid in my church who wanted to impress his girlfriend with a nice picnic.)


For the person who does not want to venture too far afield, there is always the screened porch. There’s still an air of adventure there — as well as that vital (if you’re my wife) protection from raccoons and snakes, and a short route to the bathroom. Comfortable, pretty beds will up the hospitality quotient. I’d sleep here all summer.


I realize that for many of you, and for many of my friends, real, honest camping in the wilderness is the bee’s knees. But for me, outdoor camping at its most civilized is eating s’mores around a gas-fired pit seated on benches artistically lit by Smith & Hawken … while everyone is busy texting about the challenges of roughing it. This is what family memories are made of.

More: Take It Outside! Inspiring Ideas for Outdoor Dining

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