1. Geocaching

Geocaching is like a real-world treasure hunt. Families use GPS coordinates to search for hidden containers called caches. Some caches hold small toys or treasures, while others only have a log sheet to sign. After finding one, log your discovery online and look for the next adventure.

2. Test Your Survival Skills

Challenge campers to practice useful outdoor skills. Try reading a compass, identifying safe plants with an adult, building a pretend shelter, tying knots, or explaining how to safely build a fire. Give small prizes to everyone who completes the challenge.

3. Hunt for Treasure

Look for interesting natural treasures such as unusual rocks, leaves, feathers, pinecones, or animal tracks. If using a metal detector, follow campground rules and avoid digging in protected areas. Teach kids to observe, not disturb, nature.

4. Make Camp Ice Cream

Homemade ice cream is a fun camping treat. Use an ice cream ball, baggie ice cream method, or portable ice cream maker. Kids can shake, roll, or toss the container until the mixture turns into a frozen dessert. For more ideas, visit our homemade ice cream recipes.

5. Marshmallow Toss

Give each player a marshmallow and see who can toss it the farthest. You can also line marshmallows on a picnic table and have players blow them across a finish line. Use a marker to decorate each marshmallow so players can tell them apart.

6. Glow Stick Tag

Give each player one glow stick. The person who is "it" carries several glow sticks together as a wand. If the wand touches another player, that person becomes the new "it." Play in a safe, open area with clear boundaries.

7. Hobo Hike

Wrap simple picnic foods in a bandanna lined with plastic wrap or parchment. Tie the bundle to a stick and let each camper carry their own snack. After the hike, enjoy hot dogs, fruit, doughnuts, or marshmallows around the campfire with adult supervision.

8. Scout's Nose Game

Place strong-smelling items in paper bags, such as onion, cheese, cinnamon, pine needles, lemon peel, mint, or coffee. Line the bags up and let players sniff each one for a few seconds. At the end, each player writes down the items in order. The most correct answers wins.