Family Camping Activities

Warm spring and summer nights are the perfect time to get away from the chaos of hectic daily life and take a family camping trip. Whether you're sitting around a cozy campfire in the woods or setting up a small tent in your backyard for a "glamping" staycation, here are some fun ideas to keep the whole family entertained.

Play Games
Outdoor games can be fun for the whole family. Toss a glow-in-the-dark Frisbee, or set up an obstacle course with hula hoops, jump ropes or whatever you have lying around. You can also purchase life-sized versions of your favorite games, like Yahtzee or Jenga. Once the sun starts to set, break out the flashlights for flashlight tag, or gather around the campfire for a game of charades. Be sure to have hot dogs, buns and s'mores ingredients handy for a tasty meal, and prepare some spooky ghost stories for your group.

Embrace Nature
To really experience the great outdoors, use your surroundings as a backdrop for different activities. Some families might prefer a leisurely stroll to view the scenery and enjoy conversation. Others may choose a longer, more intensive hike. Be sure to keep the weather and your family's skill levels in mind when deciding on activities. You may want to create your own scavenger hunt lists based on local trees, plants and landmarks. These items can also be used to make bingo cards. Substitute sleeping bags for burlap sacks and have a good old-fashioned potato sack race. And when the sun finally sets, be sure to fit in some stargazing.