Here’s the truth: camping with kids is the ultimate adventure… until they burn through *all* the snacks, get bored of “collecting sticks,” and start poking each other with marshmallow skewers. 
But don’t panic! We’ve got a whole lineup of camping activities for kids that’ll keep your little campers entertained from sun-up to s’mores. No screens. No whining. Just happy, busy kids getting their fill of fresh air, fun, and that sweet, sweet childhood magic. 
This isn’t just a list of “go on a hike” and “count clouds” (although, honestly, both are solid). These are the high-energy, creative, and super-fun games, challenges, and adventures your kids will actually be excited about. And yep—we’ve even sprinkled in a few easy gear recs to help make it all happen.
So let’s zip up those sleeping bags, lace up the boots, and dive into the good stuff. Because bored kids in the wild? Not on your watch. 
Kid-Approved Camping Gear for Maximum Fun
Binoculars for Kids – Great for wildlife spotting, bird games, and spy missions 
Shop Kids Binoculars- Headlamps – Turn any night into an epic after-dark adventure (or spooky story time) Shop Kids Headlamps
- Bug Catcher Kits – Perfect for science-y kids who want to explore the tiny wild Shop Bug Kits
- Portable Hammocks – A kid-safe hangout spot for reading, swinging, or stargazing Shop Hammocks
- Walkie Talkies – Bring instant giggles and make any activity 10x more fun Shop Walkie Talkies
Outdoor Adventure Games
1. Nature Bingo
Print or draw a bingo card filled with items like pinecones, birds, bugs, or a red leaf. First one to spot a full row wins a snack or “stay up late” token!
2. Scavenger Hunt Challenge
Send them off with a list of finds—something smooth, something green, something that smells good. Add challenges like “Take a selfie with a squirrel” for big laughs.
3. Animal Track Detective
Give kids a magnifying glass or binoculars and challenge them to find animal prints, trails, or nests. Bonus: they learn while they play, and you look like a genius. 
Campfire Fun & Nighttime Adventures
4. Glow Stick Ring Toss
Crack some glow sticks, make rings, and toss them onto a water bottle “target.” Play in teams or challenge mode. Instant nighttime magic.
5. Campfire Charades
No prep, all laughs. Act out camping-themed clues like “burnt marshmallow,” “raccoon,” or “mosquito attack.” Even better when everyone’s bundled up with cocoa.
6. Stargazing Storytelling
Lay on blankets and take turns inventing stories about the stars—“That one’s a dragon spaceship!” is 100% valid. Add a stargazing app if you wanna sneak in some science.
High-Energy Outdoor Activities
7. Water Sponge Tag
Soak sponges, toss them like water balloons, and play a no-tears version of tag. Perfect for hot days and campsites near water.
8. Obstacle Course Challenge
Use what you’ve got—logs, tents, coolers—and create a timed obstacle course. Kids can race solo or in teams. Add silly tasks for extra giggles.
9. Hike-and-Seek
It’s hide-and-seek meets trail walk. Designate safe zones and hiding spots near your site. Great for burning off energy while keeping things contained.
Chill but Fun Camp Activities
10. Nature Journaling
Encourage kids to sketch bugs, press flowers, or write about the weather. Pro tip: Let them decorate the covers with leaves and stickers!
11. Would You Rather: Camp Edition
Would you rather eat 100 marshmallows or sleep in a raccoon’s tent? The sillier, the better. Great for winding down before bed or around the fire.
12. Nature Tic-Tac-Toe
Use sticks to make the board and acorns or pinecones for pieces. Set it up anywhere—campsite floor, picnic table, even on a tree stump.
Got a kid-approved camping activity we should try next? Share it in the comments—we’re always looking to level up the fun. 
