Going Back to Basics with Camping

As the kids go back to school and the weather starts cooling off (hopefully!), weekends become a perfect way to escape the stresses of our every day lives. While the economy remains in the recovery phase, people are still trying to tighten their pursestrings. One way to still enjoy the outdoors is camping.

This doesn't just mean finding a camp site or packing up your RV, but thinking outside-the-box. Why not camp in your own backyard?

It's cheap and easy and most of all, you're still enjoying that sense of freedom and oneness with nature. Simply grab your tent, a couple of sleeping bags, and then head outside! It might be a little dangerous to start a campfire, but there are ways to get around it. Try a camping stove or invest in a small charcoal grill that is easily accessible. Head to your local grocery store and purchase all the s'mores necessities: Hershey's chocolate, marshmallows, graham crackers, and even peanut butter (that's right, it's good).

Use this time to look at the stars, tell ghost stories, and enjoy your family's company. The best thing is if someone gets a little too scared or complains about the hard floor, you can always go inside and get a good night's rest.

When times get tough, that's when people realize what really matters in life. It's not how much money you have or what new electronics you've purchased, but the actual time you spend with your loved ones. These are the moments you'll never forget.