Autumn is the ideal season for camping in Southern California — the temperatures are comfortable and the crowds thin out. This year, many campgrounds remain closed or partially restricted because of nearby wildfires, so instead of letting our gear gather dust, we decided to set up camp at home. Backyard camping delivers the same sense of adventure with less travel and fewer restrictions.
Below are some of our favorite pieces of gear that transition effortlessly from the garage to the backyard, making home camping cozy, convenient, and fun.
Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill
The Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill is built from durable stainless steel and crafted in Japan for years of use. Packable, portable, and modular, it quickly becomes the focal point of any campsite — whether you’re out in nature or cooking dinner in the yard. It’s ideal for gathering, grilling, and creating a campfire atmosphere safely at home.
Vasque Clarion 88′ GTX
The Vasque Clarion ’88 GORE-TEX blends retro styling with modern waterproof protection and comfort. These boots perform on hikes, handle damp conditions around the yard, and are comfortable enough for everyday wear. They’re a versatile choice when you want durability and classic looks.
BioLite Headlamp 200
Weighing in at roughly 50 grams, the BioLite HeadLamp 200 is a lightweight, straightforward lighting solution. It’s perfect for hands-free tasks while camping, for evening runs, for emergency kits during power outages, or for navigating your yard after dark. Its compact form and reliable illumination make it a practical accessory for any outdoor setup.
YETI Lowlands Blanket
The YETI Lowlands Blanket transforms your backyard into a comfortable campsite for kids, pets, and adults alike. A waterproof utility layer shields you from damp grass while the insulated, soft interior keeps you warm. It’s rugged enough for outdoor use and cozy enough for lounging around the fire.
Glerup Shoes
Glerup slippers are ideal for indoor comfort but also practical for quick trips to a backyard campsite. Their natural wool construction keeps feet warm, while the black rubber sole offers traction and protection for short outdoor walks. They’re a cozy, dependable option for relaxed camp evenings.
Dometic CFX3
The Dometic CFX3 35 is an electric cooler engineered to keep food and beverages fresh around the clock. Its rugged ExoFrame provides extra protection during transport, and sturdy spring-loaded aluminum handles make carrying easier. Whether for backyard entertaining or a more rugged excursion, this cooler keeps perishables at the right temperature.
Light My Fire Lunch Kit BIO
Sweden’s Light My Fire LunchKit BIO is built for meals on the go. Made from bioplastics, all components are dishwasher- and microwave-safe. Compact and lightweight, the kit is convenient for packing picnic-style meals, snacks, or packed lunches for backyard adventures.
Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler
The Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler carries food and drinks from the kitchen to your backyard or campsite with ease. It includes distinct wet and dry compartments, a small pocket for quick-access items such as utensils, cushioned backpack straps for comfortable carrying, a breathable mesh back panel, and extra grab handles for convenience.
Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Front Range Print Crew Sock
Whether you’re exploring a trail or relaxing in your yard, the Smartwool PhD® Outdoor Light Front Range Print Crew provides dependable comfort and technical performance. These socks blend durability and cushioning with vibrant patterns, making them a practical and stylish choice for outdoor activities.
Osprey Archeon 25
A well-fitting pack makes time outside more enjoyable. The Osprey Archeon 25 is a minimalist, versatile pack built with sustainable materials and technical construction. It delivers reliable performance for day trips and small adventures, and it’s available in gender-specific fits for men and women.
BioLite CampStove 2 Bundle CN
The BioLite CampStove 2 is more than a simple camp stove: it generates heat and electricity while aiming to reduce carbon impact. Bundled options often include a portable grill, a kettlepot, and a flexible light, providing a compact, multifunctional cooking setup. The product’s environmental initiatives and energy-generating features make it a smart choice for eco-conscious campers.
Helinox Swivel Chair
The Helinox Swivel Chair offers a dynamic seat with full 360-degree rotation, letting you take in your surroundings without standing up. Lightweight and comfortable, it’s a great chair for relaxing around the fire pit or enjoying an evening under the stars in your backyard campsite.