How to Host a Backyard Campout

It's camping season! Check out these food ideas when hosting your backyard campout

By: Kaylin Johnson, Editor, RecipeLion

Many people see the coming of summer as the beginning of another season; camping season. Living in nature amongst the trees, animals, and, of course, bugs. Better not forget the bug spray. But if a weekend in the wilderness isn’t quite your style, an overnight campout in the backyard can be just as fun!

Whether you’re a camping newbie or don’t have the time to commit to a full camping trip, a backyard campout can be the perfect experience. It’s also a fun outdoor activity the kids will love. It may even get them off their phones for a bit. You can have a fun family adventure without leaving the backyard.

Wherever you’ll be camping, though, the food is obviously the most important part. Cooking over the fire, grilling, and, for the adults, a little bit of drinking gives the camping trip a bit of flavor. So sit back, roast some s’mores, grill some burgers, and check out our list for the best backyard campout foods.

Campfire Cooking

A bonfire is the most quintessential part of camping. If you have a firepit, starting up a campfire is one of the easiest ways to give your backyard campout the right ambiance. The crackling fire is so peaceful to sit around, and it keeps you warm once the night gets chilly. Also, s’mores are pretty much a must for any camping trip. If you’re in need of some more ideas though, here’s a list of ten foods to make over a fire.

Roasting Stick
S’mores
Hot Dogs
Cinnamon Rolls

Tinfoil
Hobo Dinners
Banana Boats
Nachos
Sliders

Cast Iron
French Toast
Pudgie Pies
Veggies

Grilling Ideas

Another easy way to cook food outdoors is on a grill. One of the benefits of being in your backyard is that you aren’t limited to what you can cook over a fire. The list of food you can cook on a grill is almost endless, but this list will just cover the basics with a couple more interesting options sprinkled in. Get that grill out and cook the family up a delicious dinner while keeping everyone outdoors enjoying the time together.

Snack Ideas

Chances are, you’re going to get hungry in between your larger meals so make sure to pack some snacks for your backyard campout, too. When you’re in your backyard, you don’t have to worry quite as much about the animals stealing your food, but still keep an eye out. These snacks are so delicious they may not be able to resist a taste. Grab some from the store or try a few of our best homemade snack recipes. These will tide you over and stop the kids from asking when dinner is.

For the Adults

Once you’ve sent the kids to bed, it’s time for the adults to gather around the campfire and visit. Nothing goes better with a starry night and a bonfire than a few drinks and some laughs. Sure, you could always go for a classic beer but why not try something new. Here’s a list of the best cocktails to make on your camping trip.