Camping is all about fresh air, freedom, and making memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re setting up by a lake, deep in the woods, or on a family-friendly campsite, there’s no shortage of ways to keep the kids entertained. From action-packed games to nature-based adventures, here are some top family camping activities to get everyone outdoors and loving every second.
Camping games to encourage activity
There are plenty of outdoor games perfect for camping trips with the kids. They’ll encourage your little ones to be active, stop your tents from getting messy, and wear the kids out after a marshmallow sugar rush!
1. Outdoor games
Nothing beats the simplicity of good old-fashioned outdoor games, examples include:
- A game of ring toss.
- A frisbee match.
- Tug of war.
- General ball games like rounders or football.
Easy to pack for and guaranteed fun for all ages, these games are campsite essentials.
2. Hide and seek & scavenger hunts
The ultimate adventure challenge!
- A game of hide and seek takes on a whole new level of excitement when played in the trees, behind tents, or around campfire spots.
- Or why not turn your surroundings into a treasure trove with a scavenger hunt? Create a list of things to find… think pinecones, animal tracks, different types of leaves and let the kids explore!
3. Glowstick games after dark
When the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop. Pack some glowsticks and turn classic games into night time adventures! Try glow-in-the-dark hide and seek, set up a glowing ring toss, or just have fun making bright patterns in the air.
Activities to explore the great outdoors
To take advantage of your unique settings and teach your kids something new, take a look at some activities that revolve around nature.
1. Wildlife spotting & nature listening
Camping is a perfect time to slow down and listen.
- Challenge the kids to identify different bird calls, rustling leaves, or animal sound.
- Grab a pair of binoculars and see what you can spot.
- Or, get up close with nature with a magnifying glass to help young explorers discover the world around them.
2. Build a mini den
Got some spare branches and leaves lying around? Perfect! Encourage the kids to get creative and build a mini den or fairy house, great for imaginative play and learning about nature at the same time.
Want to take it up a notch? Bring along some plastic plates, snacks, and their favourite stuffed animal so they have a special “guest” for their new woodland hideout!
3. Stargazing
The best part of camping? No city lights, just a sky full of stars!
Lay back on a cosy blanket and see who can spot constellations, shooting stars, or even satellites moving across the sky.
- Bring a telescope along for some truly wonderous sights.
- Remember to check the weather to avoid stargazing on a cloudy night.
- Don’t forget plenty of hot chocolate in a sturdy flask is a must!
Camping adventures by foot or bike
1. Cycling & scootering
No camping trip is complete without a bit of adventure on wheels. If your campsite has paved roads or trails, bring the bikes or scooters along and explore your surroundings at speed. It’s great exercise, brilliant fun, and perfect for little explorers who love to zoom around.
From balance bikes to speedy scooters, we have everything to keep the kids rolling on their camping adventure.
2. Hiking & nature walks
Pack some snacks, grab a map, and set off on a family-friendly hike. Whether it’s a gentle woodland walk or a more challenging trail, hiking is a brilliant way to take in the scenery, breathe in that fresh air, and let the kids burn off some energy.
Keep an eye out for interesting plants, hidden streams, or even a great picnic spot along the way! Be sure to stay hydrated and prepared with refillable water bottles.
3. Water fun
Who says water fun is only for the seaside or pool? Water balloons, spray bottles, or a simple bucket and sponge can turn any campsite into a splash zone.
- Set up a water relay race.
- Challenge the kids to a target splash game.
- Cool off on a hot day – endless giggles guaranteed!
Evening camping activities
At the end of action-packed days, it’s important to wind down properly (or risk fighting your little ones into their sleeping bags)! Here are our cosy evening activities to help you settle everyone down for the night and maximise your time together.
1. Campfire storytelling
A classic for a reason – gather around your campfire and exchange stories. You could:
- Pick some classic campfire stories.
- Make a game out of it and think of stories together, creating them up as you go along.
- Tell stories with a creepy twist if you’ve managed to bring your teenagers!
This is also great for encouraging creativity and confidence in children.
2. Marshmallow roasting
Although this is an activity for before you’ve brushed your teeth, roasting marshmallows over a campfire is a great activity for a few reasons:
- It’s an opportunity to remind little ones of fire safety.
- Everyone can go on a hunt to find the perfect stick.
- Waiting for your marshmallow to cook enforces patience.
- It’s a delicious camping must-have treat!
3. Card games and board games
Although you’ll need a reliable torch, card games and board games are a great way to entertain the whole family.
They’re also very useful to have if you’re caught camping during bad weather, as simple activities you can enjoy within the comfort of your tent are essential.
Adventure starts with Halfords
From cycling adventures to starlit scavenger hunts, camping is all about making memories, exploring the outdoors, and having as much fun as possible.
Whether you’re heading off for a weekend or planning a big family road trip, Halfords has everything you need – from bikes and scooters to camping essentials, making your next adventure one to remember.
