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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- A simple and fun co-op game that enhances teamwork
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- Team-based recreational activities for adults that are fun even with large groups
Fun games that liven up a camp: Recreation games (41–50)
9-square tag
“Nine-Square Tag” is a quirky variation of tag played in an area divided into nine squares.
At a signal, everyone on the grid moves one square simultaneously.
If the tagger enters the same square as someone else, that person is out.
If the tagger can’t catch anyone within ten moves, the tagger loses.
It can be played in a small space.
Both kids and adults can enjoy it, and although simple, it engages both mind and body—great fun and a brain workout at the same time.
Give it a try!
Fun games that liven up a camp: Recreation Games (51–60)
Puzzle-solving game
When it comes to campfires, songs and dancing are classics, but another great option is a “puzzle-solving game.” It’s an intellectual recreation you can enjoy even in the dark.
For example, there are wordplay-style puzzles like figuring out what a string of hiragana represents, or cipher-like problems that use arrows and kanji—ranging from simple ones to those that require a flash of insight.
People of all ages, from kids to adults, can think them through together, and you can adjust the difficulty to suit the group size and age range.
You can tackle them individually or play in teams—there are many ways to have fun.
Give it a try!
Loud Voice Showdown
How about trying a loud-voice contest? It’s literally a game where you compete on how loud you can be.
One representative steps up near the fire and shouts in a loud voice.
Then the other members of the same team repeat the same phrase loudly.
Repeat this as a team competition and see which side is louder.
Try using an easy-to-shout phrase like “Rassera! Rassera!” Since you’ll be raising your voice, it can help relieve stress and leave you feeling refreshed.
Quiz: Let’s Aim for the Sweet Spot!
Instead of answering with the correct answer, you give the median in the party game “Quiz Ii Sen Ikimasho!” For example, suppose the question is “How many new species were discovered in a year?” If there are five participants and their answers are 10, 50, 100, 500, and 1000, the person who answered 100—the median—wins.
You can create your own version of this game with any question that can be answered with a number, and since you don’t need a correct answer prepared, you can play right away without any materials.
If you make it a points system and set a rule where the highest and lowest answers lose points, it’ll add tension and make the game more exciting!
Snack Golf
SNAG golf, also known as a simplified version of golf.
It allows children, beginners, and seniors to hit the ball easily, and because it’s safe and can be played almost anywhere, it’s perfect for camp activities, too.
The basic rules are almost the same as golf, but it’s characterized by the lack of complicated rules.
It’s great not only for kids who are interested in golf, but also for anyone who wants to try it as a casual sport.
You can also rent SNAG golf equipment as a set, so if you want to give it a try, be sure to check it out!
Samurai sword-fighting (chambara) battle
Prepare toy swords and balls to strap onto your arm.
If you target the ball with your sword and knock it off, you win.
It’s an easy, fun outdoor activity for kids too.
Best played with a big group! It’s sure to get everyone fired up!
Nanjamonja
The “Nanjamonja Game” is guaranteed to get everyone excited, from kids to adults.
Packed with adorable monsters, this charming card game is perfect for playing with children! Players draw one card at a time from the deck, and when a new monster appears, you give it a name.
If a card that’s already appeared comes up, quickly say its name.
The first person to say the correct name gets the card, and the player who collects the most cards wins! It’s a game that makes you think—what funny names will you come up with, and can you remember them?