There’s something magical about sleeping under the stars, even if it’s just in your own backyard. In fact, backyard camping can be even more fun than camping in the middle of nowhere, owing to the close proximity of clean bathrooms and medical treatment for the “too-many-smores-itis” that someone always gets after being allowed an unlimited supply of marshmallows.

On June 27, the National Wildlife Federation is sponsoring the Great American Backyard Campout. Visit their site, register your camping site (backyards are encouraged!) and download some camping songs, organize some fun activities and get your kids excited about spending time with nature. The more time families spend outside, the more likely they are to protect nature and wildlife.

Camp with family in your own backyard, or get together with community members in a group camping event. In previous years, campers have ranged in age from 3 months to 99 years and have come from all areas of the US.

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