23 Camping Activities Ideas | Things To Do With Friends Outside

23 Camping Activities Ideas For Family And Friends

Things To Do While Camping. There are times when we want to take a relaxing camping vacation. However, at other times, we want to get out there and explore the natural world in an active way. You can make your camping vacation even more memorable by participating in a few adult group activities. Here are 20 camping activities ideas and games that you and your family will enjoy. 

Related Articles: Things You Need For Camping

1. Fishing

Fishing is a great camping activity for all ages. It is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your fishing trip:

Choose the right location. When choosing a campsite, be sure to ask about fishing opportunities nearby. Some campgrounds have lakes or ponds on-site, while others may be located near rivers or streams.

• Get a fishing license. In most states, you need a fishing license to fish in public waters. You can usually purchase a license at a local bait and tackle shop or online.

• Choose the right bait. The type of bait you use will depend on the type of fish you are trying to catch. Common bait options include worms, minnows, and artificial lures.

• Be patient. Fishing takes patience and perseverance. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything right away.

• Enjoy the process. Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Take your time and savor the experience.

Once you have all of your supplies, you’re ready to start fishing. If you’re fishing from the shore, look for a spot where there are some fish. Once you’ve found a good spot, cast your line into the water and wait for a fish to bite. If you’re fishing from a boat, you can either troll for fish or anchor the boat and fish from there.

2. Swimming

Swimming is a great way to cool off while camping, but there are a few things to keep in mind to stay safe.

• First, always check for signs posted at the swimming area that list any hazards, such as currents or drop-offs.

• Second, Bring safety gear, such as a life jacket with you when swimming.

• Third, be aware of your surroundings and avoid swimming near objects that could pose a danger, such as rocks or logs.

• Finally, always swim with a buddy so someone is there to help if you get into trouble.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience while camping.

3. Snorkeling

Snorkeling is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get up close and personal with the underwater world. But, before you dive in, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your snorkeling adventure.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Choose the right spot. When you’re snorkeling, you’ll want to look for a spot where the water is clear and there is plenty of marine life to see.

• Get fitted for a mask and snorkel. A well-fitting mask is key to a comfortable snorkeling experience. Make sure the mask fits snugly around your face and doesn’t leak.

• Don’t touch anything. When you’re snorkeling, resist the urge to touch the fish, coral, or other marine life. Some creatures can be poisonous or cause an allergic reaction.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for dangerous animals, such as jellyfish or sharks.

• Don’t exhaust yourself. Take breaks as needed and don’t swim too far from shore.

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a great time snorkeling. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the underwater world!

4. Canoeing

Canoeing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise, but it’s important to be safe when you’re out on the water. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while canoeing:

• Wear the proper safety gear: Wearing the proper safety gear is essential for staying safe while canoeing. This includes a life jacket, of course. But it also includes other items such as a whistle, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Make sure you are familiar with how to use all of this gear before you head out on the water.

Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings at all times while canoeing. This means being aware of what is happening both on and in the water around you. Pay attention to the weather conditions and be prepared for them. Be aware of the current and any obstacles in the water. And finally, be aware of the people around you, both in and out of the water.

• Be prepared: As with any outdoor activity, it is important to be prepared before heading out on a canoe trip. This means having the proper gear, as well as food and water. But it also means being mentally and emotionally prepared for the trip. Know your own capabilities and limits, and be sure to plan accordingly.

• Know your limits: It is important to know your limits when canoeing. This means knowing your own physical limits as well as the limits of your canoe. Be sure to paddle within your own abilities and within the abilities of your canoe. If you are not sure about something, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a more experienced canoeist.

Follow these tips and you’ll be able to enjoy a safe and fun canoeing trip.

5. Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise, but it’s important to be safe when you’re out on the water. Here are some kayaking tips to help you stay safe and have a great time:

• Wear a life jacket: A life jacket is the most important piece of safety gear for kayakers. Make sure you choose a life jacket that fits properly and is comfortable to wear.

• Paddle with a partner: Kayaking with a friend or family member is more fun and it’s also safer. If you’re paddling alone, be sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

• Be aware of the weather: Before heading out on your kayaking adventure, check the weather forecast. If the weather is bad, it’s best to stay off the water.

• Know your limits: Don’t try to paddle too far from shore or in waters that are too rough for your skill level. It’s important to know your limits and paddle within them.

• Have fun: Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. Be sure to paddle safely and have a great time!

Kayaking is a great way to explore and get up close to nature. It’s a great way to see nature from a different perspective. So get out there and explore!

6. Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Looking to add a little excitement to your camping trip? Why not try stand-up paddleboarding? Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Choose the right board. If you’re a beginner, look for a board that is wider and more stable. You can also find inflatable paddleboards, which are easier to transport.

• Get the right paddle. Again, if you’re a beginner, look for a paddle that is shorter and lighter. This will make it easier to control your board.

• Dress for success. Wear a swimsuit or shorts so that you can get wet. You’ll also want to wear a life jacket and sunscreen.

• Start in shallow water. Find a spot where the water is waist-deep. This will help you feel more comfortable as you get used to paddleboarding.

• Get on your board. Carefully step onto your paddleboard, making sure to distribute your weight evenly. Once you’re on the board, you can start paddling.

• Enjoy the ride! Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to explore your surroundings and get a workout. Just be sure to stay safe and have fun.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore by stand-up paddleboarding!

7. Rafting

Rafting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your rafting camping trip:

• Choose a good location. Look for a spot that is away from any potential hazards, such as trees or rocks.

• Set up your camp near the water. This will make it easier to get in and out of your raft.

• Bring plenty of food and water. Rafting can be strenuous, so you will need to stay hydrated and fueled up.

• Be prepared for the weather. Check the forecast in advance and dress appropriately.

• Don’t forget your safety gear. A life jacket and helmet are essential.

With a little planning and preparation, rafting can be a safe and enjoyable activity for the whole family.

8. Capture The Flag

One of the best camping activities around is Capture the Flag. It’s a great way to get everyone involved in some friendly competition. Here are a few tips to make your game of Capture the Flag even more enjoyable:

• Choose a large playing area so that there is plenty of room for running and hiding.

• Make sure the teams are evenly matched in terms of numbers and ability.

• Hide the flags in difficult-to-reach places so that they can’t be easily found.

• Give each team a different color of clothing to wear so that they can be easily distinguished from each other.

• Set some simple rules so that everyone knows what they can and can’t do. For example, no physical contact and no hiding in trees or bushes.

• Keep an eye on the game and intervene if necessary to make sure that everyone is playing fair.

With these tips in mind, This is a great activity for all ages, and it can be played in a large backyard or even at a campground.

9. Slacklining

Slacklining is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise, but it’s important to know how to do it safely. Here are some tips for camping and slacklining:

• Choose a safe location. Look for a flat, level area with no obstacles nearby.

• Set up your slackline. Anchor the slackline to two trees or other sturdy objects.

• Make sure the slackline is tight and secure before you start.

• Start slow. Don’t try to walk the entire length of the slackline right away. Take your time and build up your strength and balance.

• Practice falling. It’s inevitable that you’ll fall off the slackline at some point. When you do, try to land safely. Bend your knees and roll when you hit the ground to help absorb the impact.

With these tips in mind, Grab a slackline and head to your nearest national park for some fun in the sun!

10. Ax Throwing

Throwing an ax can be a great way to relieve stress, have some fun, or even just pass the time. But, like with any activity, it’s important to be safe and know what you’re doing. Here are some tips to help you get started with ax throwing:

• Choose the right ax. The weight and size of the ax you use will depend on your strength and experience. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a lighter ax.

• Stand in the proper position. When you’re ready to throw, make sure you’re standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your dominant foot slightly in front of the other.

• Grip the ax correctly. Hold the ax handle with your dominant hand in the middle, and your other hand about halfway up. Your grip should be firm but not too tight.

• Aim for the target. When you’re ready to throw, raise the ax over your head and aim for the center of the target.

• Follow through. As you release the ax, make sure to follow through with your throw. This will help ensure that the ax hits the target.

Ax throwing is a great way to relieve stress, have some fun, and test your aim. So next time you’re planning a camping trip, be sure to give it a try!

11. Cornhole Board Game

Camping is a great opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy some quality time with family and friends. One popular camping activity is playing cornhole, also known as bean bag toss. This game is easy to learn and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Here are some tips for playing cornhole:

• The game is played with two teams of two players each.

• The object of the game is to score points by throwing bean bags at a raised platform with a hole in the center.

• Points are scored by either getting the bean bag through the hole or by having the bean bag land on the platform.

• The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

• There are a few different ways to keep score, but the most common is to award three points for a bean bag that goes through the hole and one point for a bean bag that lands on the platform.

With these tips in mind, playing cornhole on your next camping trip is sure to be a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

12. Whittling

Whittling is a great way to pass the time while camping. Not only is it a relaxing activity, but it can also be used to create useful items like utensils and kindling. If you’re new to whittling, here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Choose the right knife. A small, sharp knife is best for whittling. Avoid using a large knife or a knife with a serrated blade, as these can be difficult to control.

• Start with softwood. Softwoods like pine or basswood are easier to carve than hardwoods. As you become more experienced, you can try carving harder wood.

• Don’t force the knife. Let the knife do the work and be careful not to apply too much pressure.

• Use a sawing motion. When carving curves, use a sawing motion with the knife rather than trying to make sharp turns.

• Keep your fingers safe. Wrap your fingers in a cloth or wear gloves to protect them from the knife.

Whittling is a great way to relax and unwind. It can also be a great way to bond with friends and family. If you are looking for a new hobby, whittling is a great option.

13. Swing In A Hammock

Swinging in a hammock is one of the best ways to relax while camping. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your hammock camping experience:

• Choose the right location. When selecting a spot to set up your hammock, look for two trees that are about 10-15 feet apart. Make sure the trees are strong and sturdy enough to support your weight.

• Set up your hammock. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, it’s time to set up your hammock. If you’re using a hammock with a built-in stand, simply attach the hammock to the stand and you’re ready to go. If you’re using a traditional hammock, you’ll need to tie the hammock to the trees using rope or straps.

• Get comfortable. Now it’s time to relax and enjoy the sway of the hammock. You can lie down or sit up, whichever is more comfortable for you. If you’re lying down, be sure to use a pillow or sleeping pad to support your head and neck.

• Stay safe. When swinging in a hammock, it’s important to be safe. Always stay within arm’s reach of the ground and be sure to get out of the hammock slowly and carefully.

So, next time you’re planning a camping trip, be sure to bring along a hammock and give it a try.

14. Biking

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, biking is a great way to explore the great outdoors. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your camping trip:

• Plan your route in advance. This will help you avoid getting lost and will also allow you to see what kind of terrain you’ll be dealing with.

• Pack light. You don’t want to be lugging a heavy bike around all day.

• Bring a repair kit. Flat tires and broken chains are all too common when biking, so it’s always good to be prepared.

• Wear comfortable clothing. You’ll be doing a lot of pedaling, so make sure you’re wearing clothes that won’t rub you the wrong way.

• Stay hydrated. Bring plenty of water with you, and take breaks often to drink and rest.

• Enjoy the scenery. Take some time to stop and smell the roses, or in this case, the pine trees.

Biking is a great activity for families and people of all ages. Kids can ride in trailers or on their own, and there are trails of all levels. It’s a great way to see the sights and get some exercise at the same time.

15. Clouds Watching

One of the best things about camping is getting to spend time outdoors enjoying nature. One great way to do this is by spending some time cloud-watching. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of this activity:

• Find a comfortable spot to sit or lie down in. You may want to bring a blanket or pillow to make yourself more comfortable.

• Look up at the sky and see what shapes the clouds are making.

• See if you can find any animals or other objects in the clouds.

• If you have binoculars, you may want to use them to get a closer look at the clouds.

• Spend some time just relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the clouds.

Cloud watching is a great activity for all ages. It’s a great way to spend time with family and friends, and it’s a great way to learn about the different types of clouds.

16. Hit The Hiking Trails

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, hitting the hiking trails is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:

• Choose the right trail. There are trails of all different difficulty levels, so be sure to pick one that’s appropriate for your skill level.

• Come prepared. Make sure you have the proper gear, including a GPS watch and compass (if you’re not familiar with the area), and plenty of food and water.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to your surroundings and be on the lookout for potential hazards, such as wildlife, steep drop-offs, and slippery conditions.

• Follow the Leave No Trace principles. These principles are designed to help minimize your impact on the environment.

By following these tips, you’re sure to have a great time hiking and enjoying all that nature has to offer.

17. Yoga

Whether you are an experienced camper or are just getting started, incorporating yoga into your camping activities can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your camping yoga experience:

• Find a comfortable spot. When you are setting up your campsite, take a few minutes to find a spot that feels comfortable and secluded. If you are camping with others, let them know that you are going to be doing yoga so they can give you some space.

• Use a yoga mat or towel. If you have a yoga mat, bring it along to use during your practice. If not, a towel or blanket will work just as well.

• Dress comfortably. You want to be able to move freely, so choose clothing that is loose and comfortable.

• Start with some basic stretches. Once you are in your chosen spot, take a few minutes to do some basic stretches. This will help you warm up and get into the yoga mindset.

• Try some basic yoga poses. If you are new to yoga, there are plenty of easy poses that you can try. Start with something simple like a mountain pose or child’s pose and work your way up to more challenging poses.

• Take your time. There is no rush when you are doing yoga. Take your time and focus on your breath. If you find your mind wandering, simply bring your focus back to your breath.

• End with some relaxation. Once you have finished your yoga practice, take a few minutes to relax. You can try lying down in savasana or sitting in meditation. Let all your muscles relax and simply breathe.

So, next time you’re planning a camping trip, be sure to add yoga to your list of activities. It’s a great way to connect with nature and de-stress from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

18. Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is a great camping activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. If you’re new to rock climbing, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

• First, be sure to choose a route that is appropriate for your skill level. There are many different routes available, so it’s important to pick one that won’t be too challenging or too easy.

• Second, be sure to wear the proper clothing and equipment. This includes comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that won’t restrict your movement, as well as closed-toe shoes with good traction. You’ll also need a helmet, gloves, and a harness.

• Third, be sure to warm up before you start climbing. A few simple stretches will help to prepare your muscles for physical activity.

• Finally, be sure to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. If you start to feel tired or dizzy, it’s important to take a break and rest before continuing.

By following these simple tips, No matter what type of rock climbing you choose, you’re sure to have a great time! So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start climbing!

19. Photography

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there are always ways to improve your camping photography skills. Here are a few tips to help you capture those perfect memories:

• Get up early. The best light for photography is usually in the early morning or late evening.

• Use a tripod. This will help you keep your camera steady and avoid blurry photos.

• Use a polarizing filter. This will help reduce glare and improve the overall quality of your photos.

• Experiment with different angles. Get creative and try different perspectives to add interest to your photos.

• Take advantage of natural light. Use the sun, moon, and stars to your advantage to create unique lighting effects.

By following these tips, you’ll be sure to capture some amazing camping memories that will last a lifetime.

20. Birdwatchers

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced camper, birdwatching is a great activity to enjoy while camping. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your birdwatching experience:

• Bring a pair of binoculars and a bird identification book. This will help you get a closer look at the birds you see and identify them more easily.

• Look for birds in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. You’re likely to see different kinds of birds in each type of habitat.

• Be patient and quiet while birdwatching. The birds will be more likely to come close if they don’t feel threatened by your presence.

• Keep an eye out for birds that are nesting or feeding their young. These are especially interesting to watch.

Birdwatching is a great activity for all ages. It is a great way to get outside and enjoy the beauty of nature. It is also a great way to learn about different types of birds and their habits. So, get out there and start birdwatching today!

21. Plants Identification

One of the best things about camping is that it gives you the opportunity to learn about the plants that grow in the area.

There are many different types of plants that can be found in national parks. Some of these plants are native to the area, while others are non-native. Learning to identify the different types of plants can be a fun and educational activity for the whole family.

There are a few different ways that you can go about learning to identify plants. One way is to purchase a field guide that covers the plants in the area. Another way is to take a plant identification class offered by the park service.

Once you have learned how to identify the different types of plants, you can start to look for them on your next camping trip. This can be a fun way to spend time with your family and learn more about the plants that grow in the area.

22. Skipping Stones

Skipping stones is a classic camping activity that is enjoyed by people of all ages. If you’ve never tried it before, it’s actually quite easy to do. All you need is a flat, smooth stone and a body of water to skip it across.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Look for stones that are about the size of your palm and have a smooth, flat surface.

• Avoid stones with sharp edges, as these are more likely to break when you skip them.

• The key to skipping stones is to throw them at a low angle and give them a good spin. This will help them skip across the water’s surface.

• Practice makes perfect! The more you skip stones, the better you’ll get at it.

So, next time you’re out camping, be sure to give skipping stones a try. It’s a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy.

23. Water Balloon Fight

Looking for a fun and unique activity to do with your friends or family while camping? Why not have a water balloon fight? This activity is great for all ages and is sure to get everyone laughing and having a good time.

Here are a few tips to make sure your water balloon fight is a success:

• Make sure to fill the balloons up with water before you start the fight. You don’t want anyone to get hurt!

• Use a bucket or pitcher to fill up your water balloons so you don’t have to keep running back to the tap.

• Choose a safe area to have the fight. Make sure there are no sharp objects or obstacles that could cause someone to trip and fall.

• Divide into teams or have everyone for themselves! This will make the game more fair and fun for everyone.

• Protect your valuables! Water balloons can break, so make sure to keep your phones and other electronics safe.

• Have fun and stay safe!

So what are you waiting for? Grab some water balloons and start your next camping trip off with a bang!

Final Thoughts

Here are some of my final thoughts about camping activities:

One of the best things about camping activities is that they can be done at any time of year. Whether you want to go camping in the summer or winter, there are activities that will suit your needs. Camping in the summertime is a great way to enjoy the warm weather and the outdoors while camping in the wintertime can be a great way to get away from the cold and enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

Another great thing about camping activities is that they can be tailored to any group size. Whether you are looking for activities for a small group of friends or a large family, there are options available that will suit your needs. There are also many activities that can be done solo, so if you are looking for a way to get away from it all and enjoy some time for yourself, camping is a great option.

Finally, camping activities are a great way to get exercise and fresh air. If you are looking for a way to get away from the couch and get some exercise, camping is a great option. There are many activities that will get you moving and help you burn calories, and you can also enjoy the scenery and fresh air while you are at it.