Few activities or excursions are as synonymous with summertime as a family camping trip. But you don’t always need to venture to a campsite in order to get the most out of the experience. This year, consider turning your backyard into the ultimate staycation destination. Our Summer Backyard Camping Guide has everything your family needs to create the perfect campsite a bit closer to home. From classic camping pastimes —  spooky stories around the campfire and, of course, s’mores — to fun activities that you can only do in the comfort of your backyard (hello, backyard movie night), we’ve got you covered.

Here you’ll find inspiring (and perhaps most importantly, mom-approved) ways to keep the kiddos busy both day and night and online classes that that will help them discover new interests. When it comes to ways to occupy yourselves in your backyard campsite, we’ve got you covered with the best family-friendly games and activities. And speaking of s’mores — you’ll make the best ones on the block with our surprising ingredients and editor-approved supplies to roast the perfect marshmallow. All you have to do is clear your calendar.