Fun activities that liven up a camp: recreational games
When you go camping, you set up the tent, have a barbecue, and then…
Huh? What should we do next? There’s actually a lot of time until sunset—this situation happens more often than you’d think.
So in this article, we’ll introduce fun activities, games, and recreational ideas for times like that.
They’re enjoyable for everyone from kids to adults, so be sure to check them out before you head out! Whether it’s an adults-only trip, a camp with a bunch of kids, or a family outing, if you know activities that anyone can enjoy regardless of age, you’ll be set even when there’s downtime during your camp!
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Fun games to liven up your camp: Recreation games (81–90)
tree climbing
Some of you might have done this often as kids, right? A campground should have plenty of trees.
Try enjoying the scenery from a different vantage point than usual.
There are also places where you can use equipment to climb, so you can have an extraordinary experience!
Toasted marshmallow
If you’re camping outdoors, you’ll probably have a campfire going or be burning charcoal on a BBQ grill, right? How about using that fire to make roasted marshmallows? There’s something blissful about eating soft, gooey marshmallows outside—it’s an experience you don’t get every day.
They’re delicious with crackers or chocolate, too.
With a bit of creativity, there are all kinds of ways to enjoy them.
Stone Stacking Game
If there’s a river near the campsite, how about trying a “stone stacking game”? Riverbanks are full of stones of all sizes and shapes.
Just stack those stones, then compete with everyone on height and form.
Recently, “rock balancing” has become popular worldwide as an art form that involves stacking stones using only their delicate natural balance—no glue or props.
You could also judge each other’s creations not only on height but on visual artistry, treating them as works of art.
Eat the fish you caught over a campfire
Grilling and eating the fish you just caught on the spot—hasn’t everyone dreamed of doing that at least once? It doesn’t even start unless you catch a fish, and you also have to make a fire out in nature, but I think that whole process itself becomes a great experience and memory.
For kids who think fish are something you buy at the supermarket, you’d love to let them try it at least once, right?
fishing
If you’re near the sea, try rock fishing; if you’re near a river, go for stream fishing—finding a campsite where you can’t fish is actually rare.
Many people camp specifically to enjoy fishing.
During your free time at camp, whether you’re an old hand or a beginner, have fun casting a line.
As long as it’s not a no-fishing zone, you can even eat your catch on the spot—two birds with one stone.
If you’re not keen on cleaning fish, practice catch and release instead.
If you’re new to it, give fly fishing or lure fishing a try!
Sharks & Castaways
Draw one large circle and three small circles on the ground, and divide the group into one shark and the rest as castaways.
The large circle is an island; the small circles are rescue boats.
The castaways start running from the island, aiming for the rescue boats.
The shark tries to catch the castaways.
Anyone caught becomes a shark.
Repeat several times; when only one castaway remains, that last person is the winner!
Fun activities that liven up a camp: Recreation games (91–100)
slacklining
Slacklining is a pastime where you enjoy balancing on a narrow, belt-like line.
It has spread worldwide, with events like the Slackline World Cup held in the United States.
It’s hard at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a lot of fun—highly recommended.
You can set it up between two trees and enjoy it, making it perfect for camping! Start low to the ground so you won’t get hurt if you fall.