Fun Outdoor Activities to Enjoy with Kids During Camping Trips
As a parent, taking your kids on a camping trip can be one of the most rewarding experiences. The chance to explore the great outdoors, teach them about nature, and spend quality time together away from screens is priceless. Over the years, I’ve discovered that the best way to keep kids engaged and excited during a camping trip is by introducing a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re staying at a campground or venturing into the wilderness, there’s no shortage of activities to keep kids entertained. Here are some of my favorite outdoor activities that are perfect for family camping trips with kids.
1. Nature Scavenger Hunts: Learning Through Exploration
One of the easiest and most fun ways to introduce kids to the wonders of nature is through a nature scavenger hunt. I remember the first time I did this with my kids on a camping trip. We created a simple list of items for them to find: a pinecone, a feather, a specific type of leaf, and even signs of animal tracks. This not only kept them busy, but it also sparked their curiosity about the environment around them. What I love most about this activity is how it encourages kids to observe their surroundings more closely and helps them develop a deeper connection to nature.
For younger children, you can make the scavenger hunt even more fun by incorporating pictures of the items instead of written descriptions. You can also tailor the hunt to the specific environment where you're camping. If you're near a lake, for instance, you can include things like "a smooth rock" or "an insect near water." It's an easy activity that requires little preparation and can be adapted for different ages.
2. Family Hiking Adventures: Explore New Trails Together
Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the outdoors, and it’s an activity that everyone can enjoy, no matter the skill level. My kids and I have taken countless hikes during our camping trips, and every time it’s a new adventure. Whether it’s a short, easy hike to a scenic overlook or a longer trek to a waterfall, hiking is a wonderful opportunity to bond as a family while getting some exercise. Plus, kids love the sense of adventure that comes with exploring new trails.
If you’re camping with young children, it’s important to pick a trail that’s suitable for their age and energy level. Look for shorter, well-marked trails that don’t have too many steep inclines. A trail that leads to a destination, such as a cool rock formation or a beautiful viewpoint, is always a hit with kids. Make sure to bring plenty of snacks, water, and a first-aid kit for emergencies.
For an extra fun twist, we sometimes turn our hikes into "nature photo hunts." Each child gets a camera (or a smartphone) and is tasked with taking pictures of certain things along the trail, like a bird, a flower, or a unique rock. It’s a great way to keep them engaged and teach them about the beauty of the natural world through photography.
3. Campfire Games and Storytelling
After a long day of outdoor activities, gathering around the campfire to relax and share stories is a classic camping tradition. But the campfire isn’t just for roasting marshmallows – it’s also a great place to play games and tell stories. One of the most memorable moments from my own camping trips with kids was when we played “I Spy” around the campfire. It was a simple game, but it kept everyone entertained and helped us notice the sounds of the forest around us as night fell.
Storytelling is another campfire tradition that’s perfect for kids. On one camping trip, we had a "story-building" game where one person would start a story, and then each person around the fire would add a sentence to continue it. The result was always hilarious and creative, with each person adding their own twists. If your kids are into spooky stories, you can also tell them campfire tales of forest creatures and adventures.
4. Fishing: Patience and Adventure by the Water
If your campsite is near a lake, river, or stream, fishing can be a fantastic outdoor activity for kids. I’ve taken my kids fishing on several camping trips, and while we didn’t always catch anything, the experience was always rewarding. Fishing teaches kids patience, the importance of quiet observation, and respect for nature. My kids loved learning how to cast their lines and waiting for a bite while soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
For beginners, it’s best to start with a simple setup: a lightweight fishing pole, some bait (worms or artificial lures), and a nearby, calm body of water. Make sure your kids are wearing life jackets if they’re near the water’s edge, and be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to keep them hydrated. Even if the fish aren’t biting, it’s a great time to talk, relax, and enjoy the natural environment.
5. Wildlife Watching: Discovering Nature’s Creatures
One of the highlights of any camping trip is spotting wildlife. Whether it’s a deer grazing in a meadow, a bird of prey soaring above, or a rabbit hopping through the underbrush, there’s always something fascinating to see. I remember the first time my kids saw a deer up close while we were walking near our campsite. Their eyes lit up with excitement, and it sparked a whole conversation about different animals that live in the area.
Wildlife watching can be both educational and thrilling. Equip your kids with a pair of binoculars and a wildlife guidebook so they can identify different animals and birds. It’s a great way to teach them about the local fauna and how to observe nature without disturbing it. Encourage your kids to be quiet and patient, and remind them that animals are more likely to appear if they feel safe.
6. Outdoor Sports and Games: Fun for the Whole Family
If your family loves sports, camping trips are a great time to enjoy some outdoor games. On many of our camping trips, we’ve had impromptu games of frisbee, soccer, or tag in the open fields. These games are simple, require minimal equipment, and are a great way to get everyone moving and having fun.
One of our favorite camping games is a modified version of “capture the flag,” where we create a small course with natural obstacles like trees and rocks. The kids love the excitement of trying to “capture” the flag while avoiding being tagged by the other team. You can also play classic games like sack races or tug-of-war. Not only does this encourage teamwork and friendly competition, but it also helps burn off some energy after a day of hiking and exploring.
7. Arts and Crafts with Nature: Creative Fun
Sometimes, after a day of outdoor adventures, it’s nice to slow things down with some arts and crafts. I’ve introduced my kids to the joy of crafting with natural materials we find around the campsite. We’ve made leaf rubbings, pinecone animals, and even nature-inspired jewelry from twigs and flowers. These activities are perfect for rainy days or quiet afternoons when you need a break from the more active pursuits.
Gathering materials for these crafts also serves as an excellent learning opportunity. Kids can practice their observation skills as they search for specific leaves, flowers, or stones. And the best part is that these crafts make for great souvenirs to remember your camping trip by!
Camping with kids is an experience like no other, and there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re hiking through the woods, fishing by the lake, or simply playing games around the campfire, the memories you create will last a lifetime. If you’re planning a family camping trip, I highly recommend checking out Pine Cliff Resort. With its beautiful scenery and range of outdoor activities, it’s an ideal place to enjoy all these fun activities with your kids!
