Are you planning a camping trip and looking for ways to have fun even after the sun is gone? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 20 games that will entertain you and your family or friends!
From classic favorites to more recent ones, these games will make sure your children know what teamwork is, will improve your problem-solving skills, and, most importantly, will ensure that everyone has a blast.
Without further ado, let’s get started with the camping games.
1) Capture the Flag
We’re sure you remember Capture the Flag.
This is a timeless classic that combines strategy, teamwork, and stealth, and is a game perfect for large groups, creating an atmosphere of friendly competition.
Here’s how to play:
Divide all campers into two teams;
Each team hides their flag in their territory and tries to capture the opponent’s flag;
Tagging opponents in their territory sends them to “jail” until a teammate frees them.
2) Nature Scavenger Hunt
The Nature Scavenger Hunt is a great way to connect with nature around you while having a lot of fun.
How to play:
Create a list of items in the nature for campers to find (e.g., pinecone, wildflower, feather, etc. – the sky is the limit!);
Provide a bag that teams can use to collect the items;
The first team to find all the items wins.
3) Campfire Charades
Campfire Charades is another great game to play when you go camping. Take a look
How to play:
Write down camping-related words or phrases on different pieces of paper;
Campers take turns acting out the word without speaking while others guess;
The first person to guess correctly, wins.
4) Sardines
Sardines is a twist on the classic game of Hide and Seek.
In this version, while one person hides, the rest of the campers try to find that person. However, when a camper finds the hidden person, they must quietly join them in their hiding spot. This continues until everyone is packed into the hiding place like sardines in a can.
How to play:
One camper is designated as “it” and hides;
The other campers count to a specific number (normally 20), then start searching for the hidden camper;
When someone finds the hidden camper, they quietly join the person in the spot;
The game continues until everyone has found the hiding spot;
The last person to find the hiding spot loses.
5) Ghost Stories by the Campfire
Are you really camping if you or someone else in your group does not tell a good old-fashioned ghost story? We don’t think so.
Gather around the campfire, and take turns sharing spooky stories that will send shivers down your spine. You can also bring marshmallows to sweeten your experience!
How to play:
Sit in a circle around the campfire;
Each camper takes turns telling a ghost story;
Encourage creativity and suspense to make the stories more thrilling;
While there’s no winner, the person with the scariest story wins.
6) Water Balloon Toss
If you’re camping near a lake or river, the Water Balloon Toss is a fantastic way to cool off and have some fun. It’s a game of coordination, balance, and, most importantly, staying dry!
How to play:
Pair campers up;
Each pair gets a water balloon and stands facing each other;
Take a step back with each successful toss without breaking the balloon;
The last pair with an unbroken balloon wins.
7) Flashlight Tag
Flashlight Tag is a variation of tag that can be played in the dark.
How to play:
Choose one camper to be “it” (the “finder”) with a flashlight;
The other campers scatter in the dark;
The “finder” searches for the others and tags them by shining the flashlight on them;
Once tagged, campers must return to a designated base before they can resume hiding.
8) Rock Painting
Get in touch with your artistic side and create masterpieces on rocks found in nature.
The Rock Painting game allows campers to express themselves and leaves a positive mark on the environment. Goes without saying, always respect the “Leave No Trace” guidelines!
How to play:
Collect smooth rocks from your camping area;
Provide paint, brushes, and other art supplies to the campers that want to play;
Campers paint their rocks with creative designs;
Leave the painted rocks around the campsite for others to find and enjoy.
Don’t destroy anything around you!
9) Stump the Stars
We can all agree that stargazing is a mesmerizing camping activity.
In “Stump the Stars,” campers take turns challenging each other to identify constellations and celestial objects in the night sky.
How to play:
Lie on a blanket or sit on camping chairs while gazing at the stars;
Take turns pointing out constellations or stars and challenging you group to identify them;
Use a stargazing app or guidebook to confirm answers.
Bonus points if you know the stars by memory and don’t need to use a guidebook!
10) Campfire Cooking Challenge
Turning your camping adventure into a culinary adventure with a Campfire Cooking Challenge is always a great idea.
There are few better ideas to socialize and meet people than working together to prepare delicious meals over the campfire.
How to play:
Divide campers into teams, each responsible for one meal (e.g., breakfast, lunch, dinner);
Provide a variety of ingredients and cooking equipment;
Campers must create a tasty meal using the campfire;
Whoever cooks the best meal wins!
11) Blindfolded Nature Walk
This game heightens campers’ sensory awareness while allowing them to connect with the environment in a different way.
Here’s how to play:
Blindfold one camper at a time;
Guide the blindfolded camper on a nature walk;
Encourage them to touch, smell, and listen to their surroundings;
After the walk, discuss their experiences and observations.
12) Tug of War
Tug of War is a classic strength and teamwork game that can also be enjoyed by groups when camping. No one said it’s limite to the beach!
If you don’t remember this classic, it’s a test of strength and strategy as two teams battle it out to pull the rope to their side.
How to play:
Divide campers into two teams;
Mark a line on the ground and place a rope in the center;
Each team grabs one end of the rope;
Pulling the rope across the line on your side to win is the goal.
13) Leaf Art Contest
Let campers unleash their creativity by participating in a Leaf Art Contest. This game combines the beauty of the natural world with artistic expression.
How to Play:
Campers collect leaves, sticks, and other natural materials.
Provide glue, paper, and markers.
Campers create unique artworks using their found materials.
14) Camouflage
Test your campers’ blending skills with a good game of Camouflage.
This is a game of hide and seek with a twist, where campers try to blend in with their surroundings.
How to play:
One camper is designated as “it” and covers their eyes;
Others find hiding spots and camouflage themselves with natural materials;
“It” tries to spot hidden campers, who freeze when spotted;
The last hidden camper wins.
15) Watermelon Eating Contest
A Watermelon Eating Contest is a refreshing way to bring some friendly competition to your camping trip. Try it out!
How to play:
Give each camper a slice of watermelon;
Campers must eat the watermelon without using their hands;
The first camper to finish its slice wins.
16) Campsite Olympics
Create your own Campsite Olympics by setting up a series of fun challenges and games in your campsite where everyone can compete. This is a great way to teach your children lessons of teamwork and sportsmanship!
How to play:
Plan a variety of games, such as sack races, frisbee golf, or three-legged races;
Campers compete in these games, earning points for their teams if they win;
Award medals or prizes to the winning team at the end of the competition.
17) Animal Tracking
By Animal Tracking, campers can learn about local wildlife and animal habits while searching for tracks and signs.
How to play:
Give guides and information on local animals and their tracks;
You and your group explores the area, looking for tracks, scat, and other signs of animals;
People should then identify and document their findings.
It goes without saying, don’t do this if there’s a risk of seeing dangerous animals like wolves and boars!
18) Campfire Karaoke
This is pretty self-explanatory: gather around the campfire, leave shame to the side and sing your favorite songs! Don’t be shy and let your friends enjoy your voice.
How to play:
Set up a karaoke area near the campfire;
Bring a karaoke machine or a smartphone with a karaoke app;
Campers take turns choosing songs and performing for the group;
Whoever doesn’t sing the worst, wins!
19) Storytelling Contest
How to play:
Each camper takes turns telling a short story;
Don’t be afraid to be creative, humorous, and suspenseful;
After each story, the group can vote for their favorite storyteller.
20) Glow-in-the-Dark Bowling
How to play:
Set up empty plastic bottles at one end of your campsite;
Fill the bottles with a small amount of water and insert glow sticks;
Use a glow-in-the-dark ball or a regular ball with glow sticks attached;
Take turns rolling the ball to knock down the glowing pins.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re camping with friends, family, or even just looking for a solo adventure, these games are your ticket to an unforgettable time. No more excuses: gather your camping gear, call your friends, and let the games begin!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you recommend fun camping activities for adults on our next camping trip?
Absolutely! Adults can enjoy activities like hiking expeditions, campfire cooking challenges, and even campfire cocktails. You’ll have a great time doing these.
How should I plan my camping trips for maximum enjoyment?
Research your destination, pack appropriate gear, plan activities in advance, and ensure you have essential supplies like food, water, and first aid kits.
Are there any camping drinking games we can enjoy responsibly?
Yes, you can enjoy the good old Beer Pong or Campfire Cocktails. Just remember to drink in moderation, be mindful of your limits, and have a designated driver if needed.
What are some really fun games for younger kids during camping trips?
Younger kids can have a blast with activities like Nature Scavenger Hunts, Rock Painting, and Leaf Art Contests. These activities are creative and age-appropriate.
How can we make the most of our picnic table during camping trips?
You can use picnic tables for a lot of things: group meals, as a workspace for camping cooking, or even for playing card or other board games in the evenings.
Can you recommend a card game suitable for camping with a large group?
“Cards Against Humanity” is a popular card game that can be played in large groups. It’s easy to carry and provides hours of entertainment.
What should we consider when playing drinking games during camping trips?
When playing drinking games, remember to stay hydrated (drink water!), consume alcohol in moderation, and follow any local alcohol regulations. Always prioritize safety.
What are some exciting camping activities that don’t require special equipment?
Exciting activities like animal tracking, nature photography, and storytelling don’t require special equipment and can be enjoyed using basic camping gear.
Could you recommend a few camping activities that are both entertaining and a bit silly?
Sure! Camping activities such as a Silly Hat Parade or a Dance-Off Competition can provide hours of laughter and silliness.