Camping is one of those special family activities where laughter, stories, and memories come alive under the stars. To make the most of our outdoor time, we’ve gathered a fun list of 10 things to do as a family when camping that’ll keep everyone engaged and entertained. From exciting camping games to creative campfire activities, there’s something for all ages to enjoy together in nature. Let’s spice up our campsite with laughter and creativity!
Guided Nature Walks
Guided nature walks are a fantastic way for us to connect with the great outdoors. Many campgrounds and parks offer ranger-led tours or self-guided trail maps. These walks help us learn about local plants, trees, and wildlife, turning a casual stroll into an educational adventure. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch our legs after setting up camp!
Family-Friendly Camping Games
Nothing brings laughter like a good game at camp! Camping is a great time to bond with family, and playing games makes it even better! Classic options, such as frisbee, bean bag toss, or card games, are always a hit. We love setting up a small area for a friendly game of ring toss or glow-in-the-dark capture the flag. These activities keep everyone engaged and create lasting memories.
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Adventure
We love kicking off our camping trips with an outdoor scavenger hunt! Print or create a custom checklist of nature items like pinecones, animal tracks, or certain leaves. It keeps kids engaged, encourages exploration, and lets them learn about the environment. Plus, it’s a fun way to bond as a family and discover all the little treasures the outdoors has to offer
Campfire Storytelling Sessions
Gathering around the campfire is a perfect way for us to bond as a family. Campfires are the heart of any camping trip. After dinner, we love gathering with cozy blankets and s’mores to swap spooky, silly, or heartfelt stories. This simple activity not only entertains but also creates lasting memories we’ll cherish forever. Don’t forget to pass the flashlight around to spotlight the storyteller!
Creative Nature Crafts
Getting crafty in nature is a blast! We can gather leaves, twigs, and stones to create fun art projects (like collages, painted rocks, or even pinecone creatures). It’s a great way for us to bond and make memories while camping. These crafts become great keepsakes and give the kids a calming, creative outlet.
Star Gazing with a Twist
Once the sun sets, the night sky offers a magical show. We like to lay out a blanket, bring out a telescope, or use a stargazing app to identify constellations. Sometimes we make it a game to see who can find the Big Dipper first!
Cooking Together Under the Stars
One of our favorite ways to bond is by cooking dinner together at camp. Whether we’re making foil packet meals or roasting hot dogs over the fire, it’s about more than food—it’s about time spent together. Let each family member take part, from chopping veggies to stirring the pot.
Nature Bingo Challenge
Nature Bingo is a fun way to explore the outdoors together. We can create a bingo card filled with items like pine cones, different leaves, or even animal tracks. As we hike, we’ll check off what we find, making our camping experience even more exciting!
Campground Karaoke Nights
Yes, karaoke while camping! We love bringing a small Bluetooth speaker and taking turns singing our favorite songs around the campfire. It’s silly, fun, and totally memorable.
Exploring Local Wildlife
When we go camping, spotting local wildlife can be a thrilling experience for the whole family. With binoculars in hand, we can watch birds, deer, and other critters in their natural habitat. It’s a fun way to connect with nature and learn about the animals that call the area home! Encourage kids to take notes or draw what they see in a nature journal. It’s a fun mix of learning and exploring.
Lisa