Introduction to Camping Games

As someone who camps a lot, I know firsthand how much fun camping trips can be. However, they can also be the perfect opportunity for boredom to set in, especially when you’re with a group. That’s why I’m here to help you out with some fantastic camping game suggestions for your next camping trip. These camping games will not only keep you entertained but also help you bond with your fellow campers. So, let’s dive in and explore the top 10 camping games that are a must for your next outing!

Top 10 Camping Games

1. Capture the Flag

Capture the Flag is a classic team game that’s perfect for campers of all ages. Split your group into two teams and designate a flag for each side. Hide the flags within a predetermined boundary and have each team try to capture the other team’s flag without getting tagged. The first team to bring the opposing team’s flag back to their base wins!

2. Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is a fun way to explore the great outdoors and challenge your camping companions. Create a list of items for your group to find, like pine cones, smooth rocks, or animal tracks. You can customize the hunt to suit your campsite and make it as challenging or as easy as you’d like.

3. Campfire Stories

Nothing beats gathering around a campfire and sharing spooky or funny stories. Take turns telling stories, or if you’re feeling creative, create a group story where each person contributes a sentence or two before passing it on to the next person. This game is perfect for sparking conversations and creating lasting memories.

4. Waterproof Playing Cards

Playing cards is a classic camping pastime, and waterproof cards ensure that your game can continue, rain or shine. Play traditional games like poker, rummy, or euchre, or try out new games with your group. The possibilities are endless!

5. Charades

Charades is a classic game that’s perfect for all ages. Divide your group into two teams, and have each person take turns acting out a word or phrase while their team tries to guess what it is. You can create a list of camping-themed words and phrases to make it even more fun!

6. Werewolf

This is a fantastic game for larger groups and can be played around the campfire. Each player is assigned a role as a villager or a werewolf, and the goal is to identify the werewolves before they eliminate all the villagers. It’s a game of deception and strategy that’s perfect for camping trips.

7. Flashlight Tag

When the sun goes down, grab some flashlights and play a game of flashlight tag. Designate one person as “it,” and have them try to “tag” the other players by shining their flashlight on them. Once a player is tagged, they become “it” and try to catch the other players. It’s a fun and exhilarating way to burn off some energy after a long day of camping.

8. Ladder Toss

Also known as ladder golf, this game involves tossing bolas (two balls connected by a string) onto a ladder-like structure. Each rung of the ladder is worth a different point value. The first team to reach a predetermined number of points wins. It’s a fun and competitive game that’s perfect for outdoor play.

9. S’mores Contest

Who doesn’t love a good s’more? Hold a contest to see who can create the most unique and delicious s’more using different types of chocolate, marshmallows, and other toppings. It’s a tasty and fun activity that everyone will enjoy.

10. Collapsible Cornhole Boards

Cornhole is a fan-favorite tailgating game that can easily be brought to the campsite with collapsible boards. Teams take turns tossing bean bags at the cornhole board, aiming for the hole in the center. Points are scored for each bag that lands on the board or makes it into the hole, making it a game of both precision and strategy.

11. Bonus

Okay, I know I was giving the Top 10 Games, but it does go without saying that you should never forget the games you already play outside at home. Bring your soccer ball, football (I suggest Nerf if you are in a campground), badminton and other catch-and-throw games. The little ones always love making bubbles and big squirt guns are always a hit with the young and old!

Preparing for Camping Games

Choose Age-Appropriate Camping Games

• When planning your camping activities, consider a mix of games that will entertain children and adults alike! We always plan games that we can play with the children and games that the children can just play on their own and give the adults some of their own time. Also, packing games for adults in the evening with the little ones tucked into their sleeping bags to add to the enjoyment of the evening. But be aware, no closed doors so little ears are still listening! For extra ideas for keeping kids entertained, pack a arts and crafts kit to bring along and let them create nature-based art, this is really handy when the weather turns and you may be stuck inside for the day.

Pack Essential Items

• Depending on your game choices, you may need to bring along specific items. Waterproof playing cards are great for any weather conditions and are versatile enough for a multitude of games. Check out Travel board games and other portable games. Our trick is to put all the pieces in a Ziploc bag and mark the bag with the name of the game. This will help to keep all the pieces together that are easy to lose. Don’t forget those extra batteries for flashlights or camping lamps if you’re planning on any nighttime games.

Establish Ground Rules

• We kick off every family camping adventure with some ground rules for times when we are playing games. These are really about being respectful to other campers close by or to nature. This can also extend to ground rules for when the adults are playing their own games and being respectful. The trick is that there are no walls or rooms that are, out of sight and out of mind, so the kids are a little more interactive than when you are at home. This requires a few more ground rules to make sure expectations are understood and can be enforced when needed giving adults and children much-needed boundaries.

Conclusion

Camping trips are all about creating memories and enjoying the great outdoors with your friends and family. Adding fun games to your camping itinerary is a surefire way to keep everyone entertained and make your trip even more enjoyable. One more suggestion that we love as a family and is free – Stargazing! Pick up a book and have fun finding the constellations and planets or simply download a stargazing app. So, give these top 10 camping games and other ideas a try during your next outing, and have a blast!

FAQs

1. How do I choose the best camping games for my group?

Consider the age range, interests, and physical abilities of your group when selecting games. Make sure everyone can participate and have fun.

2. Can I modify these camping games for smaller groups?

Absolutely! Many of these games can be easily modified to suit smaller groups, or you can take turns playing if there aren’t enough participants.

3. What if we have bad weather during our camping trip?

Some games can be adapted for indoor play or under a shelter. Be prepared with a few backup options in case of inclement weather.

4. How can I ensure everyone stays safe during our camping games?

Establish ground rules, emphasize good sportsmanship, and always be mindful of the surrounding environment and potential hazards.

5. Do I need to bring any special equipment for these games?

Some games may require specific items, like waterproof playing cards or collapsible cornhole boards. Be sure to pack the essentials for your chosen games before leaving for your camping trip.