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When children find it hard to realize the wonderful benefits of being outdoors, it is often a challenge to keep them entertained! So, we’ve written up our ultimate list of fun camping activities for kids to help create a more memorable family adventure.
First things first. Before you start any family camping trips, it’s important to prepare. Research your camping area for any possible restrictions, consider what activity is most appropriate for your kids, and pack everything you might need in advance.
A family bike ride is a fun activity and it wears the kids out. Check for bike tracks or trails in your area. You’d be surprised how far your kids can ride when you’re all together.
Keep the kids occupied with a list of items or print off some pictures. A ladybug, bird, koala, fish, and even types of plants, leaves and trees are all great examples. The hunt can be done within your campground or out on a hike with your family.
What is it with kids and a torch? They just have so much fun, especially in the dark. Torch Tiggy is basically hide and seek played in the dark. This will keep them entertained for hours while you relax by the campfire. Just make sure they stay close by.
Kids love to use a map. They can find and discover an area using the map as a guide. It helps them explore a bit more of their natural surroundings. If you’re feeling creative, set up a treasure hunt in your campground with some clues or a hand-drawn map of the site.
This is not only a kid’s favourite pastime, but ours too! We love to start up a campfire, eat dinner, and toast marshmallows. Not only will the kids get a treat, but it’s also a great opportunity to teach them the importance of fire safety. Get the kids to grab a long stick and toast away. Your kids will love this experience. Just don’t forget the marshmallows!
Bring some nerf guns or water guns! If you’re experiencing a hot day, water guns are a great way to cool down and have loads of fun around the campsite, lake, or beach. Or for the bigger kids, grab a nerf gun and a few toilet rolls to use for target practice!
Beach camping has got to be a highlight. You can go to and from the campsite to the beach without any fuss. Do some research and camp in a location that is close to a reef or consists of amazing clear blue waters, this will make snorkelling worth it!
There’s a different world under the water and kids love it. Get the older kids to try free diving down deeper to spot bigger fish or even turtles! Or just bob around on the top to observe the beautiful reef fish and marine life. Hours of fun!
Who doesn’t love a good sleeping bag race? Much the same as a potato sack race you may have done at school …but with a sleeping bag. Line the kids up and jump to the finish line! Plenty of laughter with this camping activity. It’s also a great way to get the kids ready for bed – they’re halfway there when they are already in their sleeping bag!
Geocaching is an outdoor activity in which participants use a GPS or mobile device to find and hide geocaches around the world via coordinates.
Swimming holes are truly magnificent and there are plenty to be found (especially in Australia). Many have rapids and waterfalls so don’t forget to pack your swimmers and your runners. Often there is a little hike to them but it’s worth it.
Catching and cooking crabs is a fantastic camping activity. You can pick up crab pots in just about any fishing store. Boil them up, crack them open and enjoy! Before you do, make sure you check the regulations around crabbing in your area.
Find a sand dune and head for the top. Take some boogie boards and fly down the dunes for an activity that is loads of fun. Running up and down the dunes will most certainly have the kids sleeping through the night.
You don’t need to be a musician to pack a guitar. It’s a chance to have a sing-a-long around the campfire and teach the kids how to play a few chords.
Older kids love to cook, especially on a campfire. Get them involved (with your supervision) by making damper or simply throwing a BBQ plate on the fire to cook your dinner. They do love to get in there and use the tongs to turn the sausages. A simple pleasure for your children that will help grow their independence and confidence.
Pack the fishing rods for a great family outing. Not only can you catch some dinner, but it teaches your kids the art of patience. It’s also an excellent teaching tool for kids to learn about where food comes from and how it goes from ocean to plate.
A favourite in most households and a great way to get the whole family involved. Take your Connect Four, Uno, Monopoly or any family favourite. Also, these are great to have on hand if the weather turns to rain. You can also bring bigger games such as ring toss or bocci which are very entertaining for the kids.
Hiking is not only great exercise but you’ll be amazed at how much fun it can be with your kids. Take it slow and enjoy the sights along the way, the kids seem to find the littlest of creatures or footprints and watch how excited they get when they find something really cool!
Take the chance to cool off at a waterfall or explore a cave. Kids like to smell the roses, so take your time, take plenty of snacks and water and enjoy your family time.
On a clear night away from all the light pollution, the night skies are absolutely beautiful and a great way for you and the kids to unwind from the day.
Catching and identifying bugs will keep your children entertained for hours and help them learn about the local bug species. Purchase a bug catcher with a removable lid and good ventilation. Make sure you safely dispose of them so that you don’t find any creepy crawlies in your bed!
A simple activity, but the kids love this one-on-one time. Kicking the footy, soccer ball, or playing catch with mum or dad is important to our little ones. Consider even packing a Totem Tennis game to set up at the campsite, these create endless fun.
Try integrating these family friendly activities into your next camping trip. You’ll be camping as a family for many years to come.