15 Must-Try Camping Activities for Students

Camping is a fun and exciting way to get out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and it can be a great way for students to connect with nature, learn new skills, and have a memorable experience with their friends.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that camping activities can vary greatly depending on the location, season, and the level of expertise of the students involved.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of 15 creative camping activities for students that can be enjoyed by beginners and experienced campers alike.

  1. Hiking

Hiking is a classic camping activity that offers a great opportunity to explore the natural environment and get some exercise. Before you set out on a hike, make sure to plan your route and check the weather forecast. Bring along plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, and wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

You may also want to bring a map and compass or GPS device for navigation. Depending on the location, you may need to be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife, steep or slippery terrain, or sudden weather changes.

  1. Campfire cooking

Cooking over a campfire can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it does require some preparation and planning. Before you start cooking, make sure you have a safe and well-ventilated fire pit or grill, and follow any local regulations or guidelines for campfire use.

Choose simple and easy-to-prepare meals, and bring along the necessary cooking utensils and equipment. Some popular campfire meals include hot dogs, burgers, foil-wrapped vegetables, and s’mores.

  1. Nature scavenger hunt

A nature scavenger hunt is a great way to engage students in exploring the natural environment and learning about the local flora and fauna. You can create a list of items for students to find, such as different types of leaves, rocks, or animal tracks, and provide them with some basic field guides or identification tools.

Make sure to emphasize the importance of leaving the environment undisturbed and respecting any protected or endangered species.

  1. Stargazing

Camping provides an excellent opportunity for stargazing, away from the light pollution of the city. Before you start stargazing, make sure to choose a clear night with minimal cloud cover and plan your viewing location away from any bright lights.

You can bring along a telescope or binoculars for a closer view, or simply enjoy the view with the naked eye. Consider bringing along some stargazing apps or guides to help identify constellations and other celestial objects. This activity also qualifies as one of the most romantic activities for any outdoorsy couples out there.

  1. Campfire storytelling

Campfire storytelling is a classic camping activity that can be enjoyed by students of all ages. Encourage students to share their favorite stories or legends, or create their own spooky or funny tales. Make sure to emphasize the importance of respect and inclusion, and create a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.

  1. Orienteering

Orienteering is a fun and challenging activity that involves using a map and compass to navigate a course through the wilderness. Before you start orienteering, make sure to choose a suitable course that matches your group’s skill level, and provide them with some basic instruction on map and compass use. You can also create some fun challenges or checkpoints along the way to keep students engaged and motivated.

  1. Wildlife observation

Camping provides a great opportunity for wildlife observation, from birds and insects to larger animals such as deer or bears. Make sure to emphasize the importance of respectful and non-intrusive observation, and provide students with some basic information on the local wildlife and their habitats. You may also want to bring along some binoculars or a spotting scope for a closer view.

Related: 20 Must-Try Camping Games For Adults At Night

  1. Nature crafts

Nature crafts can be a fun and creative way to engage students with the natural environment and create some memorable souvenirs. You can collect materials such as leaves, twigs, or flowers, and use them to create a variety of crafts such as pressed flowers, leaf rubbings, or nature collages. Make sure to emphasize the importance of leaving the environment undisturbed and avoiding any protected or endangered species.

  1. Campsite games

Campsite games can be a fun and social way to pass the time and connect with fellow campers. Some popular campsite games include card games, board games, and outdoor games such as frisbee, cornhole, or horseshoes.

Make sure to choose games that are appropriate for the group’s age and skill level, and create a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.

  1. Swimming

Swimming is a refreshing and enjoyable activity that can be enjoyed at many campsites near lakes, rivers, or pools. Before you start swimming, make sure to check the water quality and any potential hazards such as currents or underwater obstacles. Encourage students to wear appropriate swimwear and flotation devices if necessary, and provide some basic instruction on swimming safety.

  1. Birdwatching

Birdwatching is a fun and educational activity that can be enjoyed by students of all ages. You can provide students with some basic information on local bird species and their habitats, and bring along some binoculars or a spotting scope for a closer view.

Encourage students to listen for bird calls and observe their behavior, and make sure to respect any protected or endangered species.

  1. Photography

Photography is a creative and rewarding activity that can help students capture and preserve their camping memories.

You can provide students with some basic instruction on photography techniques and composition, and encourage them to experiment with different angles and lighting conditions. Make sure to emphasize the importance of respecting the environment and avoiding any protected or endangered species.

  1. Nature journaling

Nature journaling is a reflective and educational activity that can help students develop their observation and writing skills. Encourage students to observe and record their experiences in nature, from the sights and sounds to the smells and textures.

You can provide some basic prompts or writing exercises to help guide their observations, and make sure to emphasize the importance of respect and appreciation for the natural environment.

  1. Geocaching

Geocaching is a fun and interactive activity that involves using a GPS device or smartphone to search for hidden caches or treasures in the wilderness. You can create some fun challenges or puzzles to solve along the way, and provide some basic instruction on GPS use and geocaching etiquette. Make sure to respect any protected or endangered areas, and leave the environment undisturbed.

  1. Night hikes

Night hikes can be a thrilling and adventurous activity that offers a unique perspective on the natural environment. Before you start hiking, make sure to choose a safe and well-marked route, and bring along plenty of flashlights and extra batteries. Encourage students to use their senses to observe the environment in the dark, from the sounds of nocturnal animals to the scents of night-blooming flowers.

Final Thoughts

Camping provides a wonderful opportunity for students to explore and appreciate the natural environment, and engage in a variety of fun and educational activities. From hiking and campfire cooking to stargazing and wildlife observation, there are many ways to enjoy the great outdoors and create lasting memories.

By planning ahead and emphasizing respect and appreciation for the environment, you can help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camping experience for all.

Related: What Foods Can You Reheat And Cook Over An Open Campfire?

Leave a Comment

%d bloggers like this: