Camping is a great way to get your kids out of the house and into the great outdoors. It’s a chance for them to unplug, explore, and have fun. But sometimes, kids need a little encouragement to engage with the natural world around them. Here are 20 ideas of what kids can do while camping to stay entertained and engaged while you as a parent might get some much needed downtime in your relaxing in your camp chair.
- Build a fort: Gather sticks, logs, and branches to build a fort or teepee.
- Go on a nature scavenger hunt: Make a list of items to find in nature, such as leaves, rocks, and flowers.
- Make a nature craft: Use items found in nature to make a craft, such as a leaf rubbing or a pinecone bird feeder.
- Tell stories around the campfire: Sit in their kids camping chairs and share ghost stories, fairy tales, or stories of past camping trips.
- Play flashlight tag: Play tag in the dark using flashlights to tag players.
- Stargaze: Lie on a blanket and look up at the stars.
- Play board games or card games: Bring some games to play in the tent or under a canopy.
- Go on a hike: Take a hike on a nearby trail and explore the surrounding area.
- Fish: Teach kids how to fish and let them try to catch their own dinner.
- Learn about plants and animals: Teach kids about the different plants and animals that live in the area.
- Play outdoor games: Play classic games like tag, capture the flag or kickball.
- Make s’mores: Roast marshmallows and make s’mores around the campfire.
- Play with bubbles: Bring along some bubble solution and wands for a fun outdoor activity.
- Go for a bike ride: Bring bikes and helmets and explore the area on two wheels.
- Fly a kite: Bring along a kite and fly it in an open area.
- Play in the water: Go swimming, kayaking, or paddle boarding if a body of water is nearby.
- Take photos: Give kids a camera or a smartphone and let them take pictures of the scenery and wildlife.
- Go on a picnic: Pack a lunch and have a picnic in a scenic spot.
- Play with toy cars or trucks: Bring along small toy cars or trucks for kids to play with in the dirt or sand.
- Practice survival skills: Teach kids basic survival skills, such as how to build a fire, find water, and make a shelter.
There are plenty of things for kids to do while camping. Please encourage them to explore the natural world around them, play games, and learn new skills. With a bit of creativity, camping can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.