Are you looking for outdoor camping games and activities for your next or current adventure? Here are the top 20 best outdoor camping games and activities that my family and I love. We always try different things when camping but these are always on the top of the list.
We have done all of these camping games and activities across many camping trips. Some require more than 2 people, and others are mainly kids’ games or activities. Nonetheless, there are options for all sizes and ages.
Make sure you pack your games and activity supplies for a fun outdoor camping experience.
Beach Tennis
This is basically a tennis game, but without the net and without the ball touching the ground. It’s a must-try if you are spending some time at the beach.
Bite the Arnotts Biscuit into Aussie Shape
Grab a packet of Arnott’s milk arrowroot biscuits and find out who can nibble their way through the biscuit to the closest shape of Australia. Just make sure you have enough on the package, as the kids might want to try more than once!
Cards
So many options with this one that you could spend the whole day playing cards, right? You just need a table, or a picnic rug, and a frostie. Some games require 2 people or more, but others can be done fun by yourself.
Fishing
This one can be a relaxing activity or perhaps a game of patience. either way, it can be rewarding if you can catch a fish. But if you don’t, than at least you tried.
Football (or Cricket, Soccer, Volleyball, etc.)
Playing with a ball can entertain kids and adults so it is a great activity to get everyone together. And you may consider inviting campsite neighbours to play, after all, more people mean more fun.
Frisbee
A simple game that can be lot of. It’s not as easy as it looks, at least for me. Either way, this can be fun, and another way to get those extra steps. Just remember to pack your frisbee.
Go Kayaking
Probably one of the hardest activities to do while camping, due to the size of the kayak. But have you ever heard about inflatable kayaks? This is a great option for those with space restrictions. The inflatable kayak is also much lighter and easier to carry, so no excuse. Some holiday parks might have Kayaks to hire as well.
Go Bushwalking or Beach Walking
Sometimes a nice walk at the beach, bushwalking or hiking can be amazing for your mind and body. It brings that connection with nature and helps us to disconnect from our thoughts and busy schedules.
Jenga
Probably one of the most popular games that will certainly entertain the whole family. Although it can be a fun solo game. How many blocks can you remove without collapsing the tower?
Play Ring Toss
The rules are to throw the rings and make them land on the stick. Whoever gets the most points is the winner! This one can be challenging for kids and adults.
Puzzle
Perfect for a camping rainy day, you just need to find an available table for your quiet pizzle time. Puzzle is an activity to do by yourself, but you can certainly have some help depending on the number of pieces of your puzzle.
Sandplay
This is a must if you have kids and if you are camping on the beach (or next to it). This one is by far my son’s favorite and probably one of the favorites for every toddler. You may consider bringing some sand buckets and tools for their enjoyment.
Scavenger Hunt
Most kids love to play in nature and discover new things, so this game is perfect for them. You just need to write down a list of things that they can find around your campsite. After everything is collected, they can make an art project. Let me know if you like this idea and I can create a template for your next camping trip.
Catch or Don’t Catch
Everyone stands in a circle except for one player who is in the middle with a ball. The player in the middle goes around the circle saying “catch” or “don’t catch” and throwing the ball. If a player catches the ball when told not to or the other way around, that player is out. Adults can have fun with this game, especially after a few drinks.
Stand-Up Paddle Board
An inflatable stand-up doesn’t take much room in the car and it is a pretty cool thing to do. I love doing it and highly recommend it. It’s a combination of exercise and a relaxing time in the water.
Take a nap in a hammock
It may not sound like a camping game and activity but you will probably agree that this is the most relaxing activity. Sometimes our holidays are so busy that you just realize it when your holiday is over. So, allow yourself to relax, have a nap and enjoy the Outdoor Aussie moment.
Sandboard
If there are sand dunes where you go camping like on Fraser Island, make sure you have a sandboard with you, or you can try to use cardboard. For sure it will be lots of fun for the whole family.
Toss and Catch Ball
Probably the best game for young kiddos who are still learning how to throw a ball. Of course, they want to be part of the activities but sometimes is just not possible. So, this is a great option to entertain the little ones.
UNO
I grew up playing UNO and I guess most people played UNO at least once in their life, so there is not much to say here. Just make sure you pack the cards for your camping trip.
Waterslide
A waterslide can be fun for kids and adults. And if you don’t have a proper waterslide, you can use a tarp. Have some soapy water and have loads of fun.
So what do you think?
I hope you got some cool ideas from this list. Let me know if I forgot any game or activity that you think should be on this list.
What to do next?
Make sure to not forget to pack your games and activities tools for your next camping trip. And if you are reading this post while camping and looking for some ideas, then try to be creative and do something with the “tools” that you might have.
Check out our camping checklist and include your games on the list for a super fun Outdoor Aussie Experience!
Happy Camping, Happy days!