Fun Activities To Do While Camping

Here are a few canoeing and kayaking tips to help you get started

• Get a canoe or kayak that suits your needs. If you’re planning on camping with family or friends, get a boat that can accommodate everyone. We have an inflatable tandem fishing kayak Aquaglide – Blackfoot Angler 130. It is an AMAZING boat! Or check out the bigger Aquaglide – Blackfoot Angler 160.

• Check the weather conditions before you go out. Canoeing and kayaking can be dangerous in rough waters, so it’s important to take a look at the forecast before you head out. 

• Wear life jackets or PFD’s (personal floatation device). This is a must, even if you know how to swim. Click here for a good explanation about the differences between life jackets and personal flotation devices (PFD’s).

• Pack plenty of food and water. Canoeing and kayaking can be strenuous, so it’s important to stay hydrated and fueled up.

Both canoeing and kayaking are great activities to do while camping, but it’s important to be safe and prepared before you head out.

Bike Riding 

One easy way to explore the area around your campsite is by bike. Pack a picnic lunch and head out on two wheels to find a nearby lake or stream for a swim, or just cruise through the woods and take in the sights and sounds of nature.

You’ll be pleasantly surprised as to how much ground you can cover and just how much you can see when you’re bike riding. If you’re camping with kids, look for family-friendly biking trails that everyone can enjoy. Just be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, and to dress for the weather.

Climbing trees

Climbing trees is a great way to set your inner child free, get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. If you’re camping in an area with tall trees, take some time to climb one.

Just be sure to wear proper footwear and clothing, and to use caution when climbing. Climbing trees is a wonderful way to get a different perspective of the area around you, and to see some amazing views.

Scavenger hunt 

A scavenger hunt is a great way to get everyone up and moving. You can either make your own list of items to find in the park, or use one of the many printable ones available online. This is a great activity for both kids and adults.

Fun things to do in the evening

Campfire songs 

One of the best things about camping is sitting around the campfire at night, telling stories and singing songs. Both young and old singing by the campfire never gets old. If you’re lucky enough someone in your group will even bring their guitar!

Campfire scary stories

On the flip side, telling scary stories doesn’t get old either. This is a classic camping activity that is sure to make those hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

Prepare to get the kids and adults in camp feeling spooky with your own stories or if you want to keep the kids entertained you can purchase the audiobook Scary Campfire Stories from Amazon’s Audible.

Stargazing

Another fantastic camping activity is stargazing. It’s a perfect way to spend a clear night. You can lay on your back and look up at the stars for hours. You don’t realize how magnificent the universe is until you look up on a clear night while camping.

It’s also a great opportunity to teach kids about the solar system. If you have binoculars or a telescope, bring them along for an even better experience.

Looking up at the stars is another personal favourite of mine. If stargazing is new to you then click here for Astronomy for Beginners.

Roasting marshmallows

This is a camping classic for a reason. Roasting marshmallows by the campfire is one of the best things about camping. It’s a simple activity that always brings people together.

Don’t forget to make s’mores! If you’ve never had a s’more, it’s basically roasted marshmallows and chocolate that are sandwiched between graham crackers.

Playing cards 

Playing cards is another great camping activity. It’s a perfect way to enjoy your time with family and friends. There are so many different games you can play with a deck of cards, so you’re sure to find one that everyone enjoys.

Plus, it’s a great way to pass the time on a rainy day.

Drinking around the campfire 

Last but not least, drinking around the campfire is a great way to kick back and enjoy the company of friends and family. It’s also a great way to keep warm on a cold night. So whether you’re enjoying a beer or sipping on some hot cocoa, camping is sure to be a good time. Cheers!

Rainy day activities while camping

Don’t let the rain get you down. There are several fun camping activities to do while Mother Nature shares the rain water with the flora and fauna of the park. Sitting under a tarp or in your tent on a rainy day can be just as enjoyable as camping on a sunny day.

The pitter patter of the rain is both hypnotic and comforting. There are several activities to keep everyone entertained on a wet day.

There’s also something special about listening to the rain while snuggled up in a sleeping bag in your dry tent. So next time you’re camping and the forecast calls for rain, don’t let it ruin your trip.

Embrace it and enjoy some of these rainy day camping activities.

Fun board games or card games

One great way to spend a rainy day camping is by playing board games. There are so many different games to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that everyone will enjoy.

From games for the entire family like Monopoly and Exploding Kittens to adult games such as Cards Against Humanity, board games are a great way to pass the time.

Reading 

If you’re looking for a more low-key activity, reading is always a great option. Curl up in your sleeping bag or in your hammock under a tarp with a good book and relax.

If you don’t have any books with you, most campground stores sell new and used books. Some campgrounds will even lend out books for free for you to enjoy.

Listen to Music 

Listening to music is another great way to spend a rainy day camping. Whether you’re jamming out to your favorite tunes or listening to a podcast, it’s a wonderfully relaxing way to pass the time.

If you don’t have any music with you, there are plenty of free apps that provide music and radio programs. That is if you have cell phone service lol.

Write in your Journal 

Writing in a journal is a great way to document your camping trip and capture the exact moment in time. You can write about the things you’ve done, the people you’ve met, and the places you’ve been.

It’s also a great way to remember all the details of your trip. If you don’t have a journal with you, most camping stores sell them or you can click here and order one that we created just for you here. 

Crafting 

Another fun way to spend a rainy day camping is by crafting. This is great activity to keep creative kids busy while the rain is falling.

There are so many different things you can make, from dream catchers to friendship bracelets. You can also use this time to teach kids how to knit or crochet.

Check out the Visitor Center 

If you’re car camping in a provincial, state, or national park, there’s a good chance there is a visitor center nearby. Visitor centers are great places to learn about the area you’re camping in and to find out about any hikes or activities that are available once the weather clears up.

Even if you’re not planning on doing any hiking, the visitor center is still worth checking out. One of my Dad’s camping hacks was to travel to the visitor center or any nearby buildings within Algonquin Park when he needed some air conditioning on those really hot days.

Get out there and have fun

There you have it! These are just some of the many fun activities you can enjoy while camping with friends and family. So next time you’re looking at planning a vacation, don’t forget to set aside some time for camping fun.

And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do. Just get creative and make the most of your experience. 

Don’t forget to check out the Big Camping Checklist to ensure that you have packed all your camping gear. Always remember to be safe and have fun!

Camping is a great way to unplug from your gadgets, relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are many different activities that you can do while camping, so find the perfect one just for you. And don’t forget to pack plenty of food and water!

Camping will always be a a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and to connect with nature. 

What are some of your favorite things to do while camping? Let me know in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this post with your fellow campers.

Until next time, happy camping!