The great outdoors can seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think to go camping with kids. Once you’ve managed to gather up all your gear and actually get to your campsite, the fun can start! Plan ahead, and prepare a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, to ensure you and your kids have a great time, no matter the weather.
Fun Camping Activities for Kids & Families
Once you’ve picked your camping spot, it’s a good idea to do some research to learn about the area and activities available. Depending on where you are camping, there could be a variety of hikes or nature walks to explore, fishing, boating, or beaches. One of the best parts about camping is getting to spend time together. Planning fun camping games and science activities ahead of time will ensure that your kids love their camping experience, and will be begging you to return!
Camping Games for Kids
Camping is a good way to disconnect from the outside world and put away your technology for a few days. The downside is that your kids might not know what to do with themselves when they find out they can’t watch their favorite Youtube videos from the tent. Having some camping game ideas on hand can be helpful, especially on a day where the weather isn’t cooperating with your plans.
Try out camping yoga! It’s a fun way to get your blood flowing while also enjoying the outdoors. Have your kids try out different nature themed poses, like tree pose, butterfly pose, and cobra pose. Check out these easy camping kids yoga cards.
Camping is a great time to teach your kids how to play card games! Make sure to bring a few different decks. Take the opportunity to teach them how to play Solitaire and all of your other favorite games.
Adventurous Outdoor Camping Activities
Are your kids daredevils who love to be a part of the action? If so, make sure they will get their fill of outdoor time while camping- this is their opportunity to go wild and let it all out! Encourage climbing trees, making mud pies, take them on nature scavenger hunts, or go on long walks or hikes. By the end of the trip, they’ll have gotten out all of their wiggles and will be sleeping so soundly!
Science Activities
There’s no better time for a science lesson for kids than while you are in the midst of nature itself! Kids will love the hands-on interactive experience, and will walk away having learned a ton.
Stargazing
Camp sites often are perfect for stargazing, as there is less light pollution. This is a great opportunity to teach your kids about some of the most important astrological sights- including the North Star and the Big Dipper.
Symmetry Activity
Have a brief lesson with your kids on symmetry, and then head out for a nature walk, telling your kids to look for examples of symmetry in nature. They should be able to find lots of plants, trees, and leaves that make great examples.
Ecosystems
There’s no better opportunity for a science lesson about ecosystem then while you are surrounded by one! Spend time teaching your kids about the five major types of ecosystems, then head out into the wilderness to explore your ecosystem and see it at work. If you need a refresher course yourself, Generation Genius has great resources.
Once you return back home, try out our other Science Experiments for Kids.
Campfire Stories for Kids
A staple of camping is sitting around the fire telling stories. This is the perfect setting to roast some s’mores, get comfortable, and tell some fun or scary stories. If you are looking for inspiration, check out this list of awesome campfire stories.
Camping with Kids Checklist
Before you set out on your camping adventure, make sure you don’t leave home before you pack the essentials.
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray
- Tennis shoes
- Pillow
- Extra blankets
- Nightlight
- Snacks
- Rain jackets
- First aid kit
- Medications
- Paper towels
- Sleeping bags
- S’mores Supplies