Exciting Water Activities for Kids During Camping Trips
One of the highlights of any camping trip with kids is the chance to engage in outdoor activities that bring both fun and learning opportunities. Whether it’s exploring nature trails, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, or jumping into crystal-clear lakes, there’s nothing quite like the freedom and adventure of the great outdoors. However, if you’re looking to keep your kids engaged and entertained during a camping trip, water-based activities can be the perfect solution. Not only do they provide endless fun, but they also allow kids to connect with nature in a way that is both active and enriching.
In this article, I’m going to share some of the best water activities for kids on camping trips that I’ve personally tried and loved. From relaxing activities to thrilling water games, these ideas will ensure that your kids stay cool, happy, and entertained throughout your entire camping adventure. Whether you’re camping near a river, lake, or beach, there are plenty of water activities to suit all ages and energy levels. Let’s dive in!
1. River and Lake Swimming
One of the most obvious yet enjoyable water activities for kids on a camping trip is swimming. If you’re camping near a lake, river, or other bodies of water, this is a great way to cool off on a hot day. I’ve had countless experiences with my kids splashing around in a peaceful lake, feeling completely immersed in nature. The excitement of jumping in the water, floating on inflatable rafts, and swimming across the lake can keep kids entertained for hours.
Safety is always a priority, of course. Before allowing kids to swim, make sure to check the water’s depth, currents, and any potential hazards. It’s also a good idea to ensure that everyone wears a life vest if they’re not strong swimmers. I’ve found that it’s always best to supervise kids closely in open water and ensure that they swim in designated safe areas, especially if the lake or river has a strong current or deep sections.
As an added bonus, if the campsite provides a shallow area for swimming, younger kids can enjoy wading in the water with their parents, allowing for a calmer, more relaxed experience while still having fun in the water.
2. Water Balloon Toss and Water Gun Fights
If you’re looking for a fun way to get kids moving and laughing, water balloon tosses and water gun fights are a must-try. These activities have been an absolute hit with my kids during our camping trips. A good old-fashioned water balloon toss can turn into a lively competition where kids can team up and try to catch or throw the balloons without bursting them. The excitement of trying to keep the balloon intact while dodging a splash of water creates a thrilling and hilarious moment for everyone involved.
Water gun fights are another popular choice. Armed with squirt guns, kids (and adults!) can spend hours running around and trying to soak each other. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep kids entertained while staying cool. If you’re worried about too much mess, you can always play near a lake or river so the kids can rinse off in the water afterward. These activities also encourage teamwork and physical activity while allowing for a lot of fun and friendly competition.
3. Fishing with Kids
While not exactly an intense water activity, fishing is a relaxing and rewarding way to enjoy the water while teaching kids patience and focus. During one of our camping trips, we set up a small fishing station near a quiet lake, where my kids and I spent the afternoon casting lines into the water. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the occasional thrill of catching a fish, made for a memorable experience. Even if your kids don’t catch anything, they’ll enjoy the process of fishing and spending time near the water.
Fishing is also a great way to teach kids about nature, aquatic ecosystems, and the importance of conservation. I’ve used fishing trips to explain how different fish species live in lakes or rivers and why it’s essential to practice sustainable fishing. If you’re camping in an area with easy access to fishing, be sure to bring lightweight fishing rods, bait, and some snacks to keep the kids happy while they wait for a bite!
4. Water Obstacle Course
For kids who love challenges and physical activity, creating a water-based obstacle course is one of the most entertaining water activities on a camping trip. I’ve set up simple courses that involve kids running through sprinklers, jumping over puddles, and crawling through wet tunnels. You can even get creative with floating obstacles in a shallow part of the lake or river. The best part is that these courses can be adjusted to fit the available space and the kids’ energy levels.
To create a water obstacle course, gather a few supplies like hula hoops, cones, or pool noodles, and set up different stations that kids have to navigate through. You can make the course as easy or as challenging as you like, depending on the age and abilities of the children. If you’re camping by a river or lake, you can also incorporate swimming or floating elements, where the kids have to paddle across an area before continuing with the rest of the course. It’s a fantastic way to combine fitness, fun, and water play all in one activity.
5. Kayaking or Canoeing
If you’re camping near a lake or river that is calm enough for paddling, kayaking or canoeing can be a fantastic water activity for kids. My children love the experience of paddling across the water, exploring nearby coves, or racing each other on a peaceful lake. You can rent tandem kayaks or canoes that are perfect for families with kids, allowing everyone to get involved in the adventure. Even if you’re not experienced paddlers, many campsites offer guided kayaking tours, which are perfect for beginners.
Kayaking or canoeing is a wonderful way to introduce kids to water sports and offer them a new experience. Plus, it teaches them about teamwork, balance, and the importance of respecting the environment. When we went on our first kayaking trip, my kids were thrilled by the chance to see fish, birds, and other wildlife up close while paddling on the lake. The calm waters make it easy to enjoy the scenery while engaging in some physical exercise.
6. Sandcastle Building and Water Play
If your camping destination includes a beach or sandy shoreline, water play doesn’t have to be limited to just swimming and water games. One of the most relaxing and creative activities for kids is building sandcastles. This classic activity is perfect for children of all ages. While my kids enjoy the challenge of building elaborate sandcastles, they also love adding water to their designs, creating moats, rivers, and lakes around their castles. The combination of water and sand allows for hours of imaginative play and creativity, making it one of the best water activities for younger children.
Sandcastle competitions can be even more exciting when you add a competitive element. You can break the kids into teams and challenge them to create the most elaborate sand structure or design. Water can be used to smooth out the sand and make the creations more durable. I’ve seen my kids get fully immersed in this activity, getting creative with their sandcastles and even making intricate sculptures that stretch along the beach.
Whether they’re racing to build the tallest tower or simply enjoying the tactile experience of playing with sand and water, this activity never fails to bring joy to children on a camping trip.
Water-based activities provide the perfect opportunity to keep kids entertained and engaged during a camping trip. From swimming and water balloon fights to kayaking and sandcastle building, these activities offer something for every child. By mixing water with fun and adventure, your kids will have unforgettable experiences that connect them to nature and foster both physical and mental growth. If you’re planning your next camping trip, be sure to add some of these fun water activities to your itinerary for a splash-filled adventure.
For the best camping locations and water-based activities, check out our website Pine Cliff Resort, where you can find the perfect spot for your next family camping adventure.
