Summer camps provide an excellent opportunity for kids to explore new activities, make friends, and build confidence. However, as the sun sets, the excitement doesn’t have to end. Night activities add a fun twist to the camp experience, and here are 15 creative summer camp night activity ideas.
15 Summer Camp Night Activities
We’ll just jump right in and look at the first (and my personal favorite) night camping activity.
1. Campfire Storytelling
Campfire storytelling is a classic summer camp night activity that has been around for generations. Gather around the campfire and take turns sharing scary stories, funny anecdotes, or personal experiences.
Encourage campers to get creative and use their imagination to spin their own tales. This activity is a great way to build camaraderie among campers and create lasting memories.
2. Night Hike
A night hike is a fun and adventurous activity that can be enjoyed by campers of all ages. Led by a knowledgeable guide, campers can explore the wilderness and observe nocturnal wildlife.
Make sure to bring flashlights or headlamps for safety and to watch out for uneven terrain. This activity is a great way to learn about nature and connect with the great outdoors.
3. Astronomy Night
Astronomy night is a unique summer camp activity that allows campers to stargaze and learn about the night sky. Set up telescopes or binoculars and teach campers about constellations, planets, and other celestial bodies. This activity is a great way to teach campers about science and inspire an interest in astronomy.
4. Pool Games
Pool games are a great way to cool off on a hot summer night. Set up games like water volleyball, Marco Polo, or pool basketball for campers to play. Make sure to have lifeguards present for safety and to remind campers of pool rules. This activity is a fun way to build teamwork and friendly competition among campers.
5. Capture the Flag
Capture the flag is a classic game that can be played during the day or at night. In a night version of the game, use glow-in-the-dark materials to make the flags and play in a well-lit area.
Split campers into two teams and have them try to capture the other team’s flag while avoiding capture themselves. This activity is a great way to build teamwork and strategic thinking skills.
6. Glow Stick Dance Party
A glow stick dance party is a fun and unique summer camp activity that can be enjoyed by campers of all ages. Set up an area with black lights and hand out glow sticks to campers. Play music and encourage campers to dance and have fun. This activity is a great way to build camaraderie among campers and get everyone moving.
7. Movie Night
Movie night is a classic summer camp activity that can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors. Set up a projector and screen and choose a family-friendly movie that everyone will enjoy. Serve popcorn and snacks and encourage campers to get cozy and settle in for the night. This activity is a great way to wind down after a long day of activities.
8. Campfire Cooking
Campfire cooking is a fun and interactive summer camp activity that allows campers to learn about cooking and try new foods. Set up a campfire and teach campers how to cook over an open flame.
From s’mores to hot dogs to campfire pizzas, there are plenty of delicious campfire recipes to try. This activity is a great way to teach campers about outdoor cooking and food preparation.
9. Talent Show
A talent show is a fun and creative summer camp activity that allows campers to show off their unique skills and talents. Encourage campers to sing, dance, play an instrument, or showcase any other special abilities they may have. This activity is a great way to build confidence and encourage campers to step out of their comfort zones.
10. Flashlight Tag
Flashlight tag is a fun and active summer camp activity that can be played at night. Split campers into two teams and give each player a flashlight. The object of the game is to shine your flashlight on the other team’s players to tag them out. This activity is a great way to build teamwork, communication skills, and physical coordination.
Related: 15 Unique Outdoor Camp Games For Large Groups
11. Campfire Sing-Along
A campfire sing-along is a classic summer camp activity that can be enjoyed by campers of all ages. Gather around the campfire and sing traditional campfire songs or popular songs that everyone knows.
Encourage campers to join in and have fun. This activity is a great way to build camaraderie among campers and create a fun and memorable atmosphere.
12. Night Photography
Night photography is a creative summer camp activity that allows campers to learn about photography and experiment with different techniques. Teach campers about the exposure triangle, composition, and using natural and artificial light to create stunning images.
This activity is a great way to teach campers about the art of photography and allow them to express their creativity.
13. Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is a fun and interactive summer camp activity that can be played during the day or at night. Create a list of items for campers to find and set them loose on a mission to locate everything on the list. This activity is a great way to build teamwork, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
14. Ghost Stories by Flashlight
Ghost stories by flashlight is a spooky summer camp activity that is sure to get campers’ hearts racing. Turn off all the lights and use only flashlights to illuminate the storytelling area.
Encourage campers to share their scariest ghost stories, and make sure to have a few jump scares up your sleeve to keep everyone on edge. This activity is a great way to build courage and allow campers to confront their fears.
15. Water Balloon Fight
A water balloon fight is a fun and refreshing summer camp activity that can be played during the day or at night. Fill up water balloons and divide campers into two teams.
The object of the game is to get as many water balloons as possible onto the other team’s side of the playing area. This activity is a great way to cool off on a hot summer night and build teamwork and strategic thinking skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What should I bring to a summer camp night activity?
Depending on the activity, you may need to bring a few items with you. For outdoor activities like night hikes and campfire storytelling, it’s a good idea to bring a flashlight or headlamp. For pool games and water balloon fights, bring a swimsuit and towel. Check with your camp for specific recommendations.
Q. What if I’m not good at the activity?
Don’t worry! Summer camp is all about trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone. Even if you’re not good at an activity, give it a try and have fun with it. Remember, the point of summer camp is to have fun and make memories.
Q. Can I suggest an activity for the group?
Absolutely! Summer camp is a collaborative experience, and everyone’s ideas and input are valued. If you have an activity you’d like to suggest, talk to your camp counselor or activity coordinator and see if it’s something that can be added to the schedule.
Q. What if I’m scared of the dark?
It’s completely normal to be scared of the dark, and there’s no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed. Talk to your camp counselor or activity coordinator about your concerns, and they can help you find an activity that you’re comfortable with.
Remember, summer camp is a safe and supportive environment, and everyone is there to have fun and support each other.
Q: Can these activities be adapted for different age groups?
Absolutely. Some activities, such as flashlight tag or scavenger hunts, can be adapted for younger campers by making them simpler and easier to understand. Conversely, older campers might enjoy more complex games and challenges, such as an astronomy night or night hike.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, summer camp night activities are a fun and exciting way to add a unique twist to the camp experience. From stargazing to campfire cooking, there’s an activity for everyone. With proper supervision and safety precautions, these activities can be enjoyed by campers of all ages and skill levels.