By Julie Leibach, Audubon

Have you planned your summer vacation yet?

With recession fallout still falling, and high gas prices still rising, the task may seem daunting. Here’s an easy idea for a mini-vacay: Join nature-lovers across the country on June 25 by participating in the Great American Backyard Campout.

Part of the National Wildlife Federation’s “Be Out There” campaign, the event encourages campers from all generations to find a site anywhere—backyards, balconies, parks—where they can connect with nature and each other. Judging by a few testimonials on NWF’s website, it sounds like a good time: “It was the most fun night of my life. All of my friends and family became closer and got to know each other a lot better. I’m so glad we were all together, it was the best night ever!”

If slumbering in your own yard isn’t “wild” enough, and you’ve got the traveling means, search for a park using the US Forest Service’s kid-friendly site, DiscovertheForest.org. (Register to camp as an individual or team here. If the 25th doesn’t work, you can still sign up and camp on a different day.)

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