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10 Great Camping Activities for Kids

Published on 29th July 2025 by Club Hub Support

Camping is a fantastic way for children to explore the outdoors, learn new skills, and create lasting memories. From adventurous bushcraft to peaceful stargazing, there are so many camping activities for kids that combine fun with learning.

Whether you’re planning a family camping trip or looking for outdoor inspiration, these activities will help children connect with nature while developing confidence, creativity, and teamwork.

If you’re looking for outdoor kids activities near you, Club Hub UK can help you find local forest schools and nature-based clubs.


Quick List: Camping Activities for Kids

  1. Campfire starting and cooking
  2. Bushcraft and nature skills
  3. Fishing and outdoor learning
  4. Bird watching
  5. Animal tracking
  6. Plant identification
  7. Navigation and map reading
  8. Shelter building challenges
  9. Bug hunting
  10. Stargazing

1. Campfire Starting

Fire Starting

Learning how to start a campfire is an exciting and practical life skill. Children can explore different methods such as matches, fire steels, or natural techniques (with supervision).

Campfires also open the door to:

  • Cooking outdoors
  • Toasting marshmallows
  • Storytelling and songs
  • Learning about fire safety

2. Bushcraft

Bushcraft - camping activities for Kids

Bushcraft teaches children how to use natural materials like sticks, leaves, and stones to create useful items.

Kids can:

  • Build simple tools
  • Make feather sticks
  • Experiment with natural resources

This encourages creativity, problem-solving, and independence.


3. Fishing

Fishing

Fishing is a calm and rewarding activity that teaches patience and perseverance. It also helps children understand nature and where food comes from.

It’s a great opportunity for:

  • Family bonding
  • Learning responsibility
  • Enjoying quiet outdoor time

4. Bird Watching

Bird Watching

Bird watching is a peaceful activity that helps children develop focus and observation skills.

Children can:

  • Spot different bird species
  • Learn about habitats
  • Keep a simple bird diary

It’s also a great way to introduce wildlife conservation.


5. Animal Tracking

Tracking - Camping Activities For Kids

Turn your camping trip into an adventure by tracking animal footprints and signs.

Children will learn to:

  • Identify tracks and clues
  • Understand animal behaviour
  • Develop critical thinking skills

It’s like a real-life treasure hunt in nature.


6. Plant Identification

Plant Identification

Teach children to recognise different plants, trees, and flowers during your trip.

This activity helps:

  • Build curiosity about nature
  • Develop observation skills
  • Encourage environmental awareness

You can turn it into a game by seeing how many plants they can identify.


7. Navigational Skills

Navigational Skills - Camping Activities for Kids

Learning how to use a map and compass is a valuable outdoor skill.

Children can:

  • Follow simple routes
  • Identify landmarks
  • Build confidence exploring new areas

It’s a fun way to combine adventure with learning.


8. Shelter building competition or Speedrun

Shelter Building

Challenge children to build their own shelter using natural materials.

This activity encourages:

  • Teamwork
  • Creativity
  • Problem-solving

Adding a timed challenge can make it even more exciting.


9. Bug Hunting

Bug Hunting

Bug hunting is always a favourite with younger children. Exploring insects helps them understand the ecosystem and builds curiosity.

Children can:

  • Search for insects
  • Compare different species
  • Learn about habitats

It’s a simple but highly engaging outdoor activity.


10. Stargazing

Stargazing - Camping Activities for Kids

End the day with a calm and magical activity—stargazing.

Children can:

  • Spot constellations
  • Learn about space
  • Enjoy quiet time outdoors

It’s a perfect way to relax and reflect after a busy day.


Why Camping Activities Are Great for Kids

Camping activities offer a wide range of benefits. They help children:

  • Build confidence and independence
  • Develop teamwork and communication skills
  • Improve problem-solving abilities
  • Connect with nature
  • Create lasting memories

Find Outdoor Activities Near You with Club Hub UK

If your children love the outdoors, there are plenty of forest schools, clubs, and outdoor activities near you to explore.

Club Hub UK makes it easy to discover local opportunities that keep children active, learning, and engaged with nature.

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