Best Camping Activities for Kids
Camping with kids is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had as a parent. Watching my children explore the great outdoors, play in nature, and learn new skills is truly a joy. Over the years, I’ve discovered countless fun and educational activities to keep my kids entertained while camping. These activities not only make the experience more enjoyable but also help children connect with nature in meaningful ways. Whether you're camping in a national park or just in your local woods, here are some of the best camping activities for kids that I’ve tried and loved over the years.
1. Nature Scavenger Hunt
One of my favorite activities to do with my kids is a nature scavenger hunt. It’s a simple and exciting way to get them outdoors and engaged with their surroundings. I create a list of things they need to find, such as certain types of leaves, rocks, or animals. Sometimes, I add a fun twist like finding a specific type of bird or tree. This activity not only keeps them entertained, but it also helps them develop observation skills and learn more about the ecosystem around them.
On one memorable camping trip in Yosemite National Park, we set up a scavenger hunt in the nearby woods. My kids had a blast running around, searching for pinecones, animal tracks, and the perfect leaves. They learned about different types of trees and the animals that inhabit the area. It was an experience that kept them active, learning, and exploring for hours.
2. Campfire Storytelling
What’s camping without a cozy campfire? Campfire storytelling is a classic camping activity, and it’s one of the best ways to wind down after a day of hiking and exploring. I love gathering my kids around the campfire and telling fun stories, or even making up silly ones as we go along. Sometimes, they take turns creating their own stories, using their imagination to come up with wild adventures.
One of my kids' favorite campfire traditions is telling “ghost stories.” But since they’re too young for anything truly spooky, we stick to playful and creative tales about friendly ghosts or mischievous forest creatures. This activity sparks creativity and allows kids to share their thoughts and ideas in a relaxed, fun setting. It’s a great way to bond as a family under the stars.
3. Nature Crafts
If your kids enjoy arts and crafts, nature crafting is a fantastic activity to do while camping. I always bring a small craft kit to create simple projects using natural materials. My kids have made leaf prints, pinecone creatures, and even flower crowns. This activity not only encourages creativity but also teaches them how to appreciate the materials provided by nature.
During a camping trip in the Great Smoky Mountains, we spent a rainy afternoon crafting with leaves, sticks, and stones we found around the campsite. They made beautiful nature-themed bookmarks and used fallen branches to create little stick frames for the nature prints they collected. It was a relaxing and productive way to spend a quiet afternoon in the woods.
4. Hiking and Wildlife Watching
One of the best things about camping is the opportunity to get outdoors and hike through beautiful landscapes. I’ve found that kids enjoy hiking much more when it feels like a fun adventure rather than just a walk. We always choose shorter, easier trails that offer plenty of opportunities to stop, explore, and observe wildlife along the way. We’ve spotted birds, squirrels, deer, and even a few bears from a safe distance!
On a recent trip to the Rocky Mountain National Park, we hiked the Bear Lake Trail, which is a short, easy hike that’s perfect for kids. Along the trail, we stopped to watch a family of birds and even spotted a deer drinking from the lake. The kids loved having their binoculars and field guides, identifying different species of birds and plants. It’s amazing how excited they get when they spot wildlife in its natural habitat.
5. Fishing
Fishing is another great outdoor activity that kids can enjoy while camping. It’s an excellent way to teach patience and the basics of nature conservation. I introduced my kids to fishing when they were young, and it’s now one of their favorite camping pastimes. Even if they don’t catch anything, they love the excitement of casting the line and waiting for a bite.
During a trip to a lakeside campground in California, we spent an entire afternoon fishing from the shore. I brought along a simple fishing kit, and we taught the kids how to cast and reel in. Although we didn’t catch much, they were fascinated by the experience. It turned into an educational opportunity, as I explained the importance of respecting wildlife and releasing fish back into the water. It was a wonderful way to bond with my children while teaching them about outdoor activities.
6. Stargazing
After a long day of hiking, exploring, and playing, stargazing is a relaxing way to wind down and enjoy the night sky. I always bring a star map or download an astronomy app on my phone to help identify constellations and planets. The kids are always amazed when they spot the Big Dipper or the North Star for the first time.
On one camping trip to the Grand Canyon, we were treated to an exceptionally clear night sky. We laid on our backs on a blanket and spent hours watching shooting stars and learning about different constellations. My kids even made up their own stories about the stars. It’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience that helps kids connect with the wonders of the universe.
7. Obstacle Course and Games
Kids have tons of energy, and camping is the perfect opportunity to let them run around and burn it off. One of the most fun activities we do is create an outdoor obstacle course. I use the natural features of the campsite, like fallen logs, rocks, and trees, to design a challenging but safe course for the kids. They love racing through the course, testing their agility and balance, and it keeps them entertained for hours.
Another fun game we play is the “nature scavenger race,” where the kids race to find items from a list of things like a pinecone, a certain type of leaf, or a rock of a specific color. It’s a simple activity, but it helps them explore the area and get moving in a fun, competitive way. Plus, it’s a great way to keep everyone engaged while giving them a good workout!
8. Campfire Cooking
Cooking over a campfire is an activity that kids of all ages enjoy. I always involve my children in preparing meals, whether it’s roasting marshmallows for s’mores or cooking foil packets filled with veggies and meats. Kids love being a part of the cooking process, and it gives them a sense of accomplishment when they help prepare the food that everyone enjoys.
On a recent trip, we made homemade pizza over the campfire. My kids helped roll out the dough, add the toppings, and place the pizzas on a grill over the fire. It was a fun way to spend time together, and the pizzas turned out delicious. The whole process taught them valuable skills and made the meal even more enjoyable.
9. Campfire Music and Sing-Alongs
Campfires are the perfect setting for singing songs and making music. Whether it’s playing simple instruments like a guitar or tambourine or just singing along to a favorite tune, campfire sing-alongs are always a hit with my kids. It’s a great way to bond as a family, create lasting memories, and share some of our favorite tunes under the stars.
During one camping trip in the Smoky Mountains, we sang songs around the fire, while the kids played with tambourines and maracas. Their laughter and joy filled the air, and it made for a special moment that we still talk about. Music at the campfire always seems to bring everyone closer together.
Camping with kids offers endless opportunities for fun, learning, and bonding. By incorporating these kid-friendly activities into your camping trips, you can ensure that everyone stays entertained and engaged. Whether it’s exploring nature, creating art, or simply relaxing under the stars, the activities I’ve shared here can turn any camping trip into a memorable adventure for the whole family. The best part is that these activities help kids develop a love for nature and a deeper connection with the world around them, making camping not just fun but also educational.
