Camping with kids can be a great way to spend time outdoors and have a wonderful family experience but it is important to make sure you have age appropriate activities planned for everyone in the family to enjoy. From exciting outdoor adventures to cozy campground activities there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some age appropriate activities to do while camping with kids.
Toddlers
For toddlers camping can be a fun and exciting experience. Gather some buckets, sand and shovels and let the little ones make their own sandcastles at the beach or by the campfire. If there is a lake or river nearby bring some fishing supplies and help them reel in a trophy fish. Just make sure to purchase some kid friendly hooks. Toddlers also love games like Hunt for Treasure where you hide small trinkets and let them search for them. You can also take them to explore nearby nature trails where they can spot wildlife like rabbits, birds and other animals.
Elementary Aged Kids
For elementary aged children the possibilities are endless when it comes to camping activities. Depending on the season, you can take them out to pick ripe berries or honeysuckle. Or turn a peaceful afternoon into a high energy game of tag.
At night, you can have some more age appropriate fun. Have a group story time around the campfire and let everyone pick their favorite tale. Also you can take flashlights and play a game of hide and seek. It is a classic activity that never disappoints.
Older Kid Activities
Hiking is one of the best activities for older kids when camping. Hiking provides plenty of exercise as well as the opportunity to explore and observe nature. You can choose trails of varying difficulty from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking excursions. Bring a map, compass and other navigational equipment to ensure you stay on the right path. Be sure to bring plenty of snacks, water and dress appropriately for changes in the weather.
Fishing is also big fun no matter if you are near a lake, river or pond. Fishing can be one of the most enjoyable activities for older kids when camping. Choose lures and bait that are appropriate for the type of fish you’re trying to catch and remember to leave the area better than you found it by cleaning up any litter that you may come across on your fishing trip.
Nature photography is yet another activity that you might not think about. Bring a digital camera or disposable film camera and encourage your older kids to take pictures while they’re on your camping trip. This is a great way for them to document the trip and the images can be used to create a photo album or scrapbook when you get home.
Finally, you have crafts. Camping can be a great time to get creative with arts and crafts. Whether your older kids are interested in making friendship bracelets, weaving dream catchers or creating a nature inspired painting there are tons of possibilities for camp related crafts. Make sure to stock up on supplies at home before you go.
Wrapping Up
With some careful planning and a few age appropriate activities camping with kids can be a wonderful experience for the entire family. From little ones to teens there are plenty of ways for everyone to have a safe and exciting time outdoors. So don’t let the fear of not having enough activities keep you from having the family camping adventure you’ve been dreaming of. Grab your camping gear and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!
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