Can you think of a more fun thing for kids to do
than go on a camping trip? How many of your own memories
revolve around sitting at the campfire singing songs and toasting
marshmallows?
Go Swimming
Make sure your campground has a pool or a swimming area such as
an ocean before you head out. Swimming is one of the main
activities that is enjoyable for everyone, so it's real
important to have this facility available to you.
Something in nature is best, like a lake. Some parks will
also have a boat rental service where you can rent boats or
canoes. Your kids will love this but make sure the little
ones are wearing floaties at all times.
Biking and Hiking
Most camping sites have biking trails for you and your family to
explore. Be adventurous and make sure you get hiking maps of the
area before you go anywhere.
Plan your time properly, so that you would be able to make
the whole trip and back to your camp before it gets dark.
Bird or Animal Watching
Most forest parks and camping sites have brochures or leaflets
about the different types of animals that can be found around
the area. A fun thing to do is to buy books on wild animals
before your camping trip and play a game with your children and
see who can spot the animals first. Just be sure that you keep
your children at a safe distance.
Outdoor Games
Learn how to play tug-o-war or the classic sack race or just
plain tag together. These are great bonding experiences
for the entire family and children love these games.
Make sure that you are playing in a clear area to avoid
unwanted accidents and also avoid making loud noises that might
disturb other campers and especially the wildlife.
Scavenger Hunt
Who doesn't love to go on a scavenger hunt? But it takes
planning ahead of time to be successful, so this is something
you can do at home before you arrive at your campsite.
You'll need to bring some stuff with you and can probably find
other stuff to scavenge for when you get there.
Learn to Read a Map and Compass
Educate your kids on the importance of navigation and explore
the forest with them using the maps and compasses. Show them the
location that they are at now on the map and where you guys are
going.
Build a Campfire
This is a must to every camper including your children.
You will build fond memories of sitting around the campfire,
talking and maybe even singing. It's loads of fun.
Watch the Stars
This is both fun and educational. Get everyone to lie on an open
field and appreciate the free light show in the sky. You
can buy a kind of telescope that will tell you exactly what type
of star you are looking at. This is endless fun and education
for everyone.
Stand in the Rain
If you get lucky enough to be camping in the rain - go out and
play for heaven's sake! This is so much fun for kids and
adults alike. Get wet and just enjoy Mother Nature. Sit in
the mud puddles and make stuff. Do avoid sitting under big
trees if there is lightning.
Deep Breathing and Yoga
This is a great time to do some deep breathing together.
Children don't usually need to learn it - they do it naturally.
But probably adults could be reminded and you could all do some
relaxing postures together. Spend some time in the
silence, just listening. Then encourage everyone to talk
about how they feel.
Going on a camping trip doesn’t offer the conveniences of a modern home but will offer you one of the best experiences of your life.
