Wirecutter: Create Your Own Backyard Campground

Being stuck at home doesn’t mean you can’t have an adventure, especially if you’re fortunate enough to have some outdoor space. Unlike the appeal of a long-distance hiking trip—which relies, of course, on seeing new landscapes—the magic of backyard camping, especially with children, is creating a fantasy in an otherwise familiar environment. It’s theater that you invent for yourself. And as with all good theater, no matter how minimal, the illusion is sustained in the details.

After combing through all of Wirecutter’s recommendations for camping gear, we’ve come up with a collection of equipment and ideas for building a perfect backyard camping scenario without spending a fortune. However, all our picks are versatile enough that you can one day use them on family camping trips in the wider outdoors.

See the full article from Kit Dillon on Wirecutter's website here.

LAST UPDATED

January 6, 2025

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

Wirecutter Staff

Staff

Staff picks for Wirecutter.

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

The Sawyer Mini is super lightweight, fits in your pocket, and filters up to 100,000 gallons of water.

Menachem Kossowsky
Writer

Media Mentions

Sawyer’s picaridin spray works up to 12 hours, and the company’s picaridin lotion is effective up to 14.

Bruce Ingram
Contributing Writer

Media Mentions

The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter earns our top pick for its unbeatable mix of weight, longevity and versatility.

Meg Carney
Contributing Writer