How to pass time while camping: Discover 18 great ways to keep yourself entertained
Last updated on May 30th, 2023 at 05:33 am
Camping is one of the best ways to relax and pass the time, whether young or old. Here are a few of our tips on how to pass time while camping and get the most out of that camping experience.
1. Go for a hike and explore the surrounding area:
For those looking to be one with nature, nothing beats a good hike! Put on your best shoes and bring plenty of water for the journey ahead. Doing some research beforehand will help you stay safe by knowing which trails are designated for hiking or ask park rangers if in doubt. To take it up a notch, why not invest in an awesome fitness tracker like Fitbit Inspire 2 or Garmin Forerunner 45S? Then track your progress while marveling at all that natural beauty!
2. Set up a campfire and roast marshmallows:
A campfire is a classic camping activity that is perfect for roasting marshmallows or making s’mores. Make sure to follow local fire regulations and use designated fire rings or pits. You’ll need some basic supplies like firewood, matches or a lighter, and marshmallows. You might also consider investing in a telescoping marshmallow roasting stick like the MalloMe Premium Marshmallow Roasting Sticks to make the process a bit easier.
3. Play card games or board games with your camping buddies:
Make time spent with your camping buddies even more enjoyable by bringing along a game or two. From the classic travel version of Monopoly to Exploding Kittens, there’s something for everyone! Challenge each other to friendly games it could be just what you need after all that fresh air and adventure.
Take a swim in a nearby lake or river:
Swimming is a refreshing and fun way to cool off on a hot day. Make sure to check local water conditions and follow any posted warnings or advisories. You’ll also need a swimsuit and a towel. If you’re worried about the sun, consider waterproof and sweatproof sunscreen like the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen.
4. Read a book or listen to an audiobook:
Take a break from your screens and enjoy some peace and quiet with the perfect book! Whether you prefer paperbacks or audiobooks, why not try The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides an enthralling best-selling thriller guaranteed to keep you on edge until the dramatic conclusion.
5. Watch the stars at night and try to identify constellations:
Stargazing is magical, awe-inspiring, and especially enjoyable on clear nights. You’ll need a clear view of the sky and, ideally a star map or guide. You might consider the National Geographic Backyard Guide to the Night Sky, which includes detailed information about constellations, planets, and other celestial objects.
6. Bring a musical instrument and play some music around the campfire:
Spice up your camping experience with some live music! Grab a guitar, ukulele or other portable instrument and impress everyone by strumming away at all their favourite tunes. For those just starting out on the musical journey, high-quality beginner guitars aren’t better than Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar; great fun for an amazing price.
7. Go on a nature scavenger hunt and collect interesting items from the area:
A scavenger hunt is a fun and educational way to explore the natural surroundings of your campsite. You’ll need a list of items to find, like pinecones, rocks, and leaves. You might consider the Ultimate Explorer Field Guide: Night Sky, which includes scavenger hunt ideas and other outdoor activities for kids.
8. Take a guided nature walk and learn about the flora and fauna in the area:
Let nature be your teacher with a guided tour through the local parks! See firsthand how diverse and vibrant ecosystems combine to create abundant natural beauty. You won’t regret taking this educational journey in exploring what’s right outside our doorsteps.
Cook a gourmet meal over the campfire using fresh ingredients:
Cooking a meal over the campfire is a fun and rewarding activity that allows you to enjoy fresh, delicious food in the great outdoors. You’ll need a camp stove or grill, some basic cooking utensils, and fresh ingredients like vegetables, meat, and fish. If you’re looking for recipe ideas, you might consider the book The Campout Cookbook by Marnie Hanel and Jen Stevenson.
9. Try your hand at fishing in a nearby stream or lake:
Fishing can be an invigorating and soothing way to connect with nature – even if it’s just a peaceful morning on your favorite spot. With the right equipment, you’ll be enjoying some quality time outdoors in no time! The Zebco 33 Micro Spincast Reel is ideal for beginners, offering all the features of other reels without breaking the bank. Don’t forget to check local regulations though before heading out as there may have been changes recently that need consideration first.
10. Build a shelter out of natural materials like sticks and leaves:
Building a shelter is a fun and challenging activity that allows you to practice your survival skills and connect with nature. You’ll need some basic materials like sticks, branches, and leaves. Look for resources online or in survival guides for tips on how to build a shelter that is sturdy and waterproof. You might consider the book Bushcraft 101 by Dave Canterbury, which includes step-by-step instructions for building shelters and other survival skills.
11. Practice your photography skills and take pictures of the beautiful scenery:
Capturing the stunning moments of your camping trip doesn’t have to remain a dream! All you need for beautiful photography is a camera, or better yet some smartphone savvy and an app. Online resources will provide helpful tips on composition and lighting, but why not take it one step further? Check out Digital Photography Complete Course by David Taylor if you really want to make sure those memories last forever. Get ready for pro-shots in no time!
12. Play outdoor games like frisbee, badminton, or volleyball:
Playing outdoor games is a fun and active way to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. You’ll need some basic equipment like a frisbee, badminton set, or volleyball. Look for open spaces near your campsite or designated recreation areas in local parks. You might consider the Baden Champions Volleyball Set, which includes everything you need for a competitive game of volleyball.
13. Take a nap in a hammock or under a shady tree:
Rejuvenate and enjoy the serenity of nature with a relaxing nap in an ENO DoubleNest Hammock. Set up your hammock beneath shaded trees for maximum comfort as you take some much-needed time to recharge in the great outdoors!
14. Write in a journal and reflect on your camping experience:
Journaling is a great way to reflect on your experiences and process your thoughts and feelings. Bring a notebook or journal and write down your observations, memories, and insights. You might consider using a guided journal like the 52 Lists for Happiness by Moorea Seal, which includes prompts and exercises for cultivating happiness and gratitude.
15. Take a bike ride or go mountain biking on nearby trails:
Looking for an adventurous way to explore the outdoors? Biking is a thrilling activity that lets you take your explorations at whatever speed suits you best. You’ll need some high-quality gear, like a bike or mountain bike and safety equipment such as helmets and biking shorts. To get started with ease, check out Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike it’s perfect for both novice bikers and seasoned riders! Explore local trails or scenic parks near you; let the journey begin now!
16. Try geocaching, a treasure hunt using GPS coordinates:
Geocaching is an exciting blend of outdoor exploration and modern technology. Search for hidden treasures in nature spots near your campsite, or use the official Geocaching app to join a worldwide community! Track your adventures using GPS devices or apps on smartphones. You never know what amazing discoveries lie ahead!
17. Go birdwatching and identify different bird species:
Birdwatching is a peaceful and educational activity that allows you to observe the diverse bird species that inhabit the great outdoors. You’ll need a pair of binoculars, a field guide to bird species, and some basic knowledge of bird behavior and habitats. Look for birdwatching sites near your campsite or in nearby parks. You might consider the book The Sibley Guide to Birds by David Allen Sibley, which includes detailed illustrations and descriptions of over 800 North American bird species.
18. Tell stories around the campfire or stargaze under the night sky:
The last thing on our how to pass time while camping list is to gather your friends, grab a star chart or astronomy app, and head outside to appreciate the beauty of nature through stargazing! Look out for constellations, shooting stars, and planets. Even take inspiration from The Classic Treasury of Aesop’s Fables. Create everlasting memories under the night sky with an intimate campfire gathering full of stories that could last until sunrise. Relax as you connect with each other while experiencing what life has to offer beyond our everyday lives it truly is magical!